머큐어 도쿄 히비야

I used to stay at Mercure quite often overseas, but since I travel less these days, this was my first stay in a while. The location is very convenient—just a short walk from Shimbashi Station and Uchisaiwaicho Subway Station. I believe it was originally an office building, later converted into an annex of a neighboring Hotel, and then rebranded as Mercure. Since the property is scheduled to close soon for renovations, I was grateful to be able to stay at a very reasonable rate.Perhaps because of the location and the brand, most guests were international, and many of the front desk staff were as well (they assisted me in flawless Japanese). With an interior design inspired by a “theater,” the whole place feels even more international.The Room design was also quite bold. There is a couch-like platform near the window where you can lie down and watch trains passing by (Shinkansen, Tokaido Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, etc.). However, getting up onto it takes some effort, and opinions may differ on how practical it really is.Aside from the décor and these design choices, it felt like a slightly upscale Business Hotel. I’m looking forward to seeing what concept it will adopt after the renovation.

The staff at check-in were kind and friendly, making for a pleasant start to my stay. The interior design of the Hotel and Room was charming, giving the feeling of staying abroad. I personally appreciated the standard King Bed, as I prefer larger beds. During my stay, both the restaurant and bar operated until 9 PM; it would have been nice if the bar stayed open a bit later. However, there are plenty of dining options nearby, so finding food was not an issue. For tourists, this Hotel seems ideal as a base for exploring Ginza or Nihonbashi and enjoying the dining streets under the elevated tracks from Yurakucho to Shimbashi. I would love to stay at this Hotel again if I have another opportunity!