Is This Design Oasis in a Steel Jungle Worth It?
MESM Tokyo, Autograph Collection
Just returned from Tokyo after staying at this viral hotel that's been blowing up on Xiaohongshu—**MESM Tokyo, Autograph Collection**. Is it all looks and no substance? Here’s my firsthand experience!
📍 **Location: Waterfront Vibes**
* Situated in the **Takeshiba Pier area**, a short 7-8 minute walk from **Hamamatsucho Station/Monorail Station**. Not a traditional downtown spot, but full of character!
* **Pros:** Peaceful yet central, with panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and Tokyo Tower! Walkable to the **World Trade Center Observatory** (amazing night views), just one metro stop to **Ginza**, and super convenient direct access to **Haneda Airport** (monorail to Hamamatsucho Station).
* **Cons:** A bit far from core shopping districts like **Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Harajuku** (~20 mins by metro). Fewer convenience stores and dining options nearby compared to downtown (though the hotel and pier area have decent restaurants).
🏨 **Design: Futuristic Steel Jungle**
* **First impression: Stunning!** Black metal frames and mirrored glass exteriors make it look like a futuristic spaceship docked at the pier—so cool!
* **Lobby:** High ceilings with massive metal art installations and dynamic lighting, creating a sci-fi vibe. Check-in was efficient.
* **Room:** I stayed in a **Deluxe Bay View Room**.
* **View to die for!** 270° floor-to-ceiling windows framing Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, and ferris wheels—especially magical at night, with glittering lights that make half the room rate worth it!
* **Design-forward:** Industrial-chic with dark tones, warm wood, and lighting—sleek and luxurious. Spacious by Tokyo standards, with smart layouts.
* **Tech-savvy touches:** Tablet-controlled lights/curtains (a bit complex, lol), BOSE speakers, **bathroom** with dual sinks, and a huge circular tub (soaking with night views = bliss!). Shower water pressure was strong and refreshing.
* **Minor gripes:** Mirrors everywhere (even the bathroom glass is transparent, with a privacy fogging button), which some might find too cold; watch out for sharp metal edges.
🍽️ **Dining:**
* **Whisk (Western Restaurant):** Breakfast is served here—semi-buffet + à la carte. The eggs Benedict and Japanese set meals were great; buffet selection is modest but high-quality, especially the fresh fruit. Dining with bay views = instant mood booster!
* **Theater (Bar/Lounge):** A must-visit! The 16th-floor **Theater** is the star—designed like a ship’s cabin with killer ambiance. Creative cocktails (a bit pricey), and the **terrace seats** offer prime views of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower at night (bring a jacket—it’s windy!).
* **KURA (Japanese Restaurant):** Didn’t get to try, but reviews praise its creative Japanese cuisine and ambiance.
🏋️ **Amenities & Service:**
* **Gym:** State-of-the-art equipment with bay views—perfect for a scenic run.
* **Service:** Staff speak fluent English and are professional/friendly. The concierge was efficient at booking restaurants.
📌 **Honest Verdict: Worth It?**
* **Design lovers and night-view enthusiasts will adore it!** The public spaces and room views are truly one-of-a-kind, with insane photo potential.
* **Weigh location if shopping is a priority.** Convenient for Ginza, but Shinjuku etc. require transfers/taxis.
* **Value:** Reasonable for a luxury design hotel in Tokyo (especially with early bookings/points). You’re paying for the design, views, and unique experience.
* **Ideal for:** Couples, friends trips, modern design/art fans, those seeking non-touristy areas, and travelers who prioritize vibes over ultra-convenience.
📝 **Pro Tips:**
1. **Room pick:** Splurge on at least a **Bay View Room**—city views aren’t worth it. Suites if budget allows.
2. **Bar reservations:** For **Theater’s terrace** (especially weekends), **book ahead!** Walk-ins are tough.
3. **Transport:** Use **Hamamatsucho Station** (JR Yamanote/Keihin-Tohoku Lines/Monorail)—easy access to Ginza (1 stop to Shinbashi), Tokyo Station, and Akihabara. For Haneda Airport, take the **monorail** (13 mins, ~¥500).
4. **Explore nearby:** Takeshiba Pier is serene for strolls; walk to **Hamarikyu Gardens** (traditional Japanese landscape) or the **World Trade Center Observatory** for underrated night views (less crowded, equally stunning!).
5. **Privacy note:** Remember to use the fogging function for the transparent bathroom glass!
💡 **Final Take:**
MESM isn’t your “traditional” luxury hotel—it’s a bold piece of art in Tokyo’s hospitality scene. If you’re tired of cookie-cutter stays and crave unique design, jaw-dropping Tokyo Bay/Rainbow Bridge vistas, and don’t mind a slightly off-center location, it’s 100% worth adding to your Tokyo bucket list!