THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku

THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku: A Modern Oasis with Michelin Key Recognition

THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku, a Michelin Key selected property, is largely praised as a stylish and functional urban boutique hotel offering an "affordable luxury" experience in one of Tokyo's most vibrant districts. Opened in August 2018, the hotel boasts a contemporary design, welcoming atmosphere, and a strong focus on culinary delights, making it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing their stays as "wonderful," "great," and "exceptional." Review scores for cleanliness, comfort, staff, and location are consistently high, often ranging from 8.2 to 9.1 out of 10. The sentiment leans towards appreciating the hotel's modern design, excellent food options, and helpful staff, despite typical Tokyo room sizes.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud several aspects of THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku:

• Design & Ambience: The hotel features a modern and warm design with beautiful lobby and restaurant facilities that create a welcoming, home-like feeling. The spacious atrium design connects the restaurant, bar, lounge, and lobby, fostering a relaxed atmosphere.
• Dining: The on-site bakery and diverse breakfast options are frequently highlighted as major positives. The hotel also offers a daily happy hour in the bar, which is a popular amenity.
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. Guests appreciate the free access to a fitness room equipped with Technogym machines. Other convenient amenities include laundry machines, vending machines (for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), and a designated smoking room. Rental bicycles are also available.
• Service: The staff are consistently praised for being friendly, helpful, and polite.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku are generally described as modern, clean, and well-designed, with a minimalist and sober aesthetic using a palette of deep blues and grays. While many guests find the rooms to be "standard Tokyo size" – meaning compact – they are still comfortable and functional. For instance, Superior Single rooms are around 16 sqm, while Deluxe Twin rooms are 20 sqm and Deluxe Triple rooms are 21 sqm. The Terrace Suite is a notable exception, offering a much larger space (246 square meters) with a working kitchen, spacious living area, and a 137-square-meter terrace overlooking Shinjuku Central Park, suitable for groups.

Rooms typically include a flat-screen TV, electric kettle, desk, fridge, and a private bathroom with a bathtub and bidet-fitted toilet, along with daily necessities like tea, coffee, and soap. Some rooms offer park views, including those on the top floor.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience is a significant highlight for many guests. THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku features three main dining venues:

• MORETHAN BAKERY (1F): Offers freshly baked bread and is a popular spot for an easy and delicious breakfast or lunch.
• MORETHAN TAPAS LOUNGE (1F): Serves breakfast, lunch buffets (described as "super Insta-famous"), cafe items, and dinner with modern Italian & Spanish cuisine, including sushi-inspired pinchos and tapas. It also features inspired cocktails and occasionally a DJ in the evenings.
• MORETHAN GRILL (2F): Offers lunch and dinner, pairing continental standbys with carefully prepared Japanese specialties.

The breakfast buffet, in particular, receives rave reviews for its amazing variety and quality.

5. Service & Staff

The staff at THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku consistently receives high praise for their hospitality. Guests describe them as "super friendly," "helpful," and "polite." The multilingual staff is noted for being on point and providing high-quality service, contributing to a pleasant and comfortable stay.

6. Location & Accessibility

THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku is situated on the western edge of Shinjuku ward, right next to Shinjuku Central Park. This location offers a quieter retreat while still providing excellent access to key areas.

• Public Transport: It's a 4-minute walk from Toei Oedo Line Tochomae Station (A5 Exit) and about a 14-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station West Exit. The Subway Marunouchi Line Nishi-shinjuku Station (Exit #2) is also a 12-minute walk away.
• Attractions: The hotel is close to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office Building (0.25 miles northeast), Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (1.25 miles east), and provides easy access to other attractions like Meiji Shrine.
• Airport Access: It's approximately 30 minutes by car from Haneda Airport and about an hour and 35 minutes from Narita International Airport. Limousine buses are also an option from both airports to Shinjuku Station.

While some reviews mention the walk to Shinjuku Station being a bit of a distance (15-20 minutes or approximately 30 minutes through parklands), most consider the location convenient with easy access to public transport and nearby shops (Family Mart, 7-11) and restaurants.

7. Value & Pricing

THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku is often perceived as offering "affordable luxury" and good value for money in Tokyo. Room rates can start from around JPY 11,428. The average price per room is approximately $152, which is slightly lower than the average hotel room price in Tokyo ($157), suggesting it provides a good balance of quality and cost-effectiveness. KAYAK users have seen prices range from $167 to $230 within a two-week period.

8. Common Complaints

While generally well-received, some recurring issues or criticisms include:

• Room Size: As is common in Tokyo, the standard rooms are on the smaller side, which can be challenging for guests with multiple large suitcases.
• Noise: A few guests have reported issues with soundproofing, hearing noise from hallways or rooms above.
• Firm Beds/Pillows: Some guests found the beds and pillows to be "extremely hard," although reception was able to provide mattress toppers and new pillows upon request.
• Walk to Shinjuku Station: While accessible, the walk to the main Shinjuku Station can be perceived as a bit far for some.

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