The Claska Hotel in Meguro is a unique hotel dedicated to contemporary design. Known as Tokyo's first boutique hotel, it is perfectly situated along Meguro Dori amongst vintage furniture and design stores and far from the fast-paced urban feel of central Tokyo.
The rooms are stylish and Japanese minimalist design prevails, with no two rooms exactly alike. There are four separate room categories: Japanese Modern, Tatami, Contemporary, and Weekly Residence. Three of the rooms (DIY rooms) are specifically designed by local Japanese designers. Rates start from ¥12,600 for a single room but may be as expensive as ¥98,000 for the top floor double rooms which have accompanying terraces. Rooms contain a TV, CD/DVD player, Ipod dock and a minibar. CDs and DVDs are available for guests at the front desk. Wi-Fi access is free.
Design is key in all parts of the hotel. There is a gallery and a design shop (Gallery Do) as well as a rooftop terrace that is used as an event space. Other design floors include a studio (3F) and a gallery space for exhibitions (8F). A pet grooming salon (Dogman) is located on the first floor. Custom-made bicycles can be rented by guests to explore the nearby hip Nakameguro designer district.
The hotel restaurant "Kiokuh" serves Japanese/European food with an emphasis on organic ingredients and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Japanese breakfast set may include a grilled fish, rice, pickles and miso soup and costs ¥1,200. There is a bar in the lobby as well. Hours of the restaurant are from 7:30 a.m. to bar closing at 2 a.m.
Despite the inconvenience of being less accessible from the main JR Yamanote Line, for a more local neighborhood experience, it is well worth the stay. There are only 20 rooms, making a reservation somewhat difficult to obtain, so advanced planning is essential.
