Winners’ circle

The best hotels in Tokyo ahead of the Olympics.

Best for gourmands Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo

A sushi joint that only seats nine, a bar that focuses on molecular gastronomy, a French fine-diner with sweeping city views, a Cantonese restaurant that’ll happily accommodate families… the Mandarin Oriental (hotel.qantas.com.au/mandarinoriental tokyo) is the pick for those who let their tastebuds determine their destination. There are nine food and beverage spots on site but our money is on Sushi Shin by Miyakawa, where diners enjoy fresh produce at a counter made of 350-year-old hinoki cypress.

Best for wellness Aman Tokyo

If you don’t peek out the window, the serene rooms at Aman Tokyo (aman.com) – complete with washi-paper sliding doors and deep furo bathtubs – could trick you into believing you’re in a countryside ryokan rather than a city hotel. But wait until you step into the spa on the 33rd and 34th floors: the Zen factor is next level.

Best for luxury Palace Hotel Tokyo

As well as overlooking a palace, this regal establishment (hotel. qantas.com.au/palacetokyo) also offers soaring ceilings, gleaming floors and lavish suites that could give Japanese emperors a run for their money.

Best for families The Peninsula Tokyo

Whether you want to introduce your kids to karate or the art of making traditional Japanese wind chimes, families are pampered at this hotel (hotel.qantas.com.au/ peninsulatokyo). The apartmentstyle suites offer ample space and the 20-metre pool has set family hours. But it’s the Pokémonthemed amenities – bathrobes, dental kits – that’ll thrill the littlies.

Best for business Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills

With its spacious rooms and uncluttered design, Andaz (hotel. qantas.com.au/andaztokyo) has the corporate traveller covered. The hotel offers complimentary wine and canapés every evening and smartphones for domestic and international calls to six countries. Yes, Australia is one.