Check into this cutting-edge hotel in Tokyo

The Kimpton Shinjuku opened in October 2020 (in the middle of, you know what) and was built for purpose following demolition of the building that previously stood on the site. This means everything is modern and functional - from soundproof windows to blackout blinds and rooms of various sizes and configurations to suit different needs and budgets.

The hotel is located on a busy intersection at the business end of Shinjuku. If you know Tokyo, the best reference point is the Park Hyatt, which is directly across the road (and has the New York Bar, made famous by Lost in Translation). Despite being surrounded by office buildings, the hotel is only an eight-minute walk (in a convenient straight line) from Shinjuku station and has plenty of places to eat, drink and shop within easy walking distance.

Each Kimpton hotel has its own personality and the Shinjuku channels Manhattan vibes with strong lines, earthy tones and timber detailing. Words like "cool", "trendy" and "polished" come to mind when describing the hotel, with the obliging and up-for-a-chat staff dressed in loose black suits with pushed-up sleeves and white sneakers, and well-groomed dogs trotting through the reception area wearing stylish puffer jackets and leather collars (it's pet friendly). Pop and indie tunes play in the background.

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Rooms are modern and spacious, with super fluffy towels, chic kimono-style robes designed by Japanese artist Takahashi Hiroko, rain shower heads and deep bathtubs. Our room had good natural light and the bed was comfortable after a long day exploring the city. Japanese hotels are known for providing everything you need for a stress-free stay - including pyjamas and a hairbrush - and the Kimpton is no different.

Shinjuku has no shortage of places to eat and drink, but if you can draw yourself away from the outside world for a night, the food at the Kimpton is excellent. The second-floor restaurant, the District, offers a la carte and set menus with a fusion of flavours drawn from America, Japan and other parts of Asia. Though the menu changes every three months, Japanese wagyu beef is a mainstay. My partner and I opted for the set menu and, though everything was delicious, when it came to the beef course, we both began eating very slowly because we didn't want the steak to end.

On top of the food (the multi-course breakfast is a winner, too, and there's a cafe on the ground floor), there's a complimentary social hour held on the 16th floor daily from 5pm-6pm. The city views from the terrace aren't quite on par with the New York Bar next door but they are still pretty darn good. Plus, there's no cover charge at the Kimpton. There's also a dim, moody bar on the 17th floor that serves a range of whisky and cocktails.

The Kimpton has a workout room that's bigger and better than your average hotel gym, plus bikes that can be borrowed at no cost. It's easy to explore the area on foot, however, and the famous Shibuya crossing is 3.5 kilometres away (we walked via the massive Yoyogi Park, but you can also take the subway). The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is fabulous too.

Nothing is too much trouble for the down-to-earth but professional staff. You'll always be greeted with a smile.

Where: Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo, 3 Chome-4-7 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo

How much: Prices start from $490 per night in a King Bed Essential room.

Explore more: kimptonshinjuku.com

Emily McAuliffe was a guest of Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo