Tucked away on a hushed, tree-lined street in Marylebone, The Prince Akatoki is a chic and understated hideaway where you can decompress while staying conveniently central. The hotel imbues a sense of mindfulness that is synonymous with Japanese culture.
Featherlight interiors incorporating nature-inspired elements feel luxurious yet grounding. The service and hospitality embody a similar approach: discreet and unassuming with every experience and touchpoint cleverly considered.
An inconspicuous entrance leads to an unfussy, tranquil atmosphere, somewhat like walking into a spa (juice or a smoothie is offered on arrival, too). For a relatively new brand that’s still establishing itself in London, The Prince Akatoki seems quietly confident in its ethos and offering.
Gift giving is an art form in Japan and the London hotel adopts this treasured practice with unique treats that punctuate the beginning and end of your stay. Whether it’s a box of chikutan charcoal sticks to naturally filter water or a freshly pressed juice to go when you check out, these personalized touches make your experience that little bit more memorable.
- A pleasant, distinctive scent greets you upon walking into The Prince Akatoki. This is a customized fragrance made up of frankincense, bergamot, juniper and turmeric.
- If you’re into whisky, definitely pay The Malt Lounge a visit. The bar serves a selection of rare spirits (many of which are from Japan, of course) and holds a wall of lockers so that if you decide to indulge in a coveted bottle, you can safely lock it away and enjoy it throughout your stay.
- London’s top sights and attractions are all within easy reach of the Marylebone hotel. The buzzing West End, Hyde Park and Regent’s Park are all close by.
- In addition to the usual fluffy robe, you’re also provided with a beautifully crafted yukata to wear during your stay. The traditional Japanese kimonos are placed on your bed during turndown service along with a calming spray to aid relaxation and tea blends to promote healthy sleep.
- In keeping with the hotel’s affinity for mind-body wellness, you’ll find a yoga mat in every room. It’s helpful if you’re in need of a morning stretch.
- There’s a Prince Akatoki app that you can download and use to order room service or liaise with the concierge from wherever you are.
- While the London hotel does not have a spa, it works with local therapists who can provide in-room treatments. For those who prefer a more traditional spa setting, visits easily can be arranged.
- Tucked away in one corner of the lobby is a compact co-working space, which is handy for business travelers who don’t feel inspired working from their rooms and prefer a gentle buzz in the background.
- This is a dog-friendly hotel, so feel free to bring your pet along.
- Rooms are infused with elements of traditional Japanese interior design, such as low beds, timber furniture, delicately painted fusuma panels and an efficient use of space.
- Warm, ambient lighting and dimmer switches pay subtle homage to the meaning of “Akatoki,” which is “sunrise.”
- Despite not being the top-level room, the Executive Junior Suite has the most spacious and luxurious feel to it. Three large windows provide ample natural light and overlook the street below.
- Bathing is a ritual in Japan and at The Prince Akatoki. Malin + Goetz products and TVs built into the walls above the tub encourage you to take a long, relaxing soak.
- At seasonally inspired fusion restaurant TOKii, the sushi counter and robata grill are fun dinner options. (A few modern European dishes are available for those who want an alternative.)
- Dishes at TOKii are relatively simple but are presented in artistic ways that allow the quality of the ingredients to speak for themselves. Start with shareable plates like scallop ceviche with orange and chili or crispy ox cheek croquettes with wasabi mayo.
- Try the Akatoki Breakfast for a Japanese-inspired start to your day that includes warming miso soup and a tamagoyaki omelette.
- Sip on sencha green tea by day and rare Japanese whiskies and sparkling sake by night in The Malt Lounge — the ground-floor bar transitions seamlessly from tea lounge to late-night hideaway. Chic wood and leather seating, Japanese scripture detailing and sliding fusuma panels make up the sumptuous interiors.
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