The 25 Best Venues for Events in Japan for 2019
Skift Take
Ancient traditions and modern amenities coexist in this timeless country. While Japan is at the forefront of many global innovations, its society preserves the customs, architecture, and folklore of its ancestors with beautiful precision. Japan’s event venues showcase this fusion, offering a range of contemporary conference venues, luxury resorts, and traditional Japanese rooms. If searching for venues for special events in Japan, consider these 25 top locations.
This post showcases the best event venues in Japan, including:
The Best Event Venues Tokyo
A quick search for ‘event space Tokyo’ will deliver hundreds of results inside Japan’s largest city. However, whether you’re organizing a business meeting or extravagant gala, these top Tokyo venues offer the perfect mix of configurable space and developed event services.
Tokyo International Forum, Chiyoda
Tokyo’s first convention and art center lies in a glass atrium with four separate buildings, each home to a different hall. Since its opening in 1997, it has served as Japan’s primary center for promoting and communicating culture and international exchanges.
WHY IS IT COOL? Every year, more than 20 million people visit Tokyo International Forum. The building is highly esteemed for its architecture, including a glass atrium made from 3,600 pieces of glass. More so, the design includes 134 pieces of artwork by 50 domestic and international artists, all under the theme “A Boat of Diversity”.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The site covers 27,000 square meters while the floor area extends 145,000 square meters. This includes eight halls, 34 conference rooms, an atrium, a ground-level plaza, an art museum, and a selection of shops and restaurants.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, ceremonies, exhibitions, concerts, product launches.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, WiFi.
SUSTAINABILITY: The facility engages in multiple practices to reduce its environmental impact. Key actions include educating employees on appropriate sustainability practices, using “green” products and services, implementing solar power generation and solar heat collection systems, and using a wastewater recycling system.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Yurakucho (Keihintohoku, Yamanote, Yurakucho). There is also a free shuttle service that operates between Yurakucho, Marunouchi, and Otemachi districts. Drop off is at Shin Kokusai-biru Mae.
TAGS: sustainability, forward thinking, in demand.
Tokyo Conference Center Shinagawa, Shinagawa
Opened in 2003, this conference center operates under Benchmark Hospitality International, the leading corporation in the market for U.S. off-premises meetings and the founder of the Conference Center Concept.
WHY IS IT COOL? Since Tokyo Conference Center Shinagawa was founded for conference purposes, every design element is tailored to corporate events, from the comfortable, ergonomic conference chairs and customized large tables to the pin-up tack-boards on the walls.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The facility is spread across three floors. This includes two halls, a foyer, a restaurant, and over five conference and boardrooms.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, seminars, workshops.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, WiFi.
CATERING: The venue has an on-site restaurant that prepares a range of sit-down and buffet meals. Every event receives a unique food and beverage menu, tailored to its specific demands.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Shinagawa (Akagi, Joban, Keikyu, Narita Express, Hitachi-Tokiwa, Keihintohoku, Keikyu-Kuko, Odoriko).
TAGS: corporate friendly, attention to planner, future proof.
ANA InterContinental Tokyo, Minato
Along with its developed event amenities, this InterContinental branch offers 12 restaurants, a few with Michelin stars or other awards, a spa, and a shopping arcade, lending to an all-encompassing luxury event experience.
WHY IS IT COOL? The hotel is famous for its Prominence Ballroom, one of the largest pillar-less ballrooms in Tokyo. The contemporary design is blended with Japanese accents to create an adaptable but elegant function hall. Other noteworthy spaces include the meeting rooms on the 37th floor with floor-to-ceiling windows and the modern Japanese event suites designed to promote tranquility.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel has 22 event spaces. The largest, Prominence Ballroom, is 1,565 square meters and holds 2,200 guests reception style or 870 guests banquet style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, product launches, exhibitions, galas, private parties.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, WiFi.
CATERING: Food and beverage are provided exclusively by Catering by ANA InterContinental Tokyo. Services are provided for a minimum of 25 guests.
HOTEL ROOMS: 844 rooms.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Roppongi-Itchome (Namboku). 24-hour parking service for up to 500 vehicles is provided by the hotel.
TAGS: bleisure friendly, the age of all-inclusive, corporate friendly.
Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Trade Center, Taito
This communication hub serves as both a base for numerous small and medium-sized Tokyo corporations to advertise their market growth as well as a corporate event venue.
WHY IS IT COOL? Since its construction in 1954, this trade center has supported the growth of local businesses, primarily smaller, expanding companies. It’s located in one of Tokyo’s top sightseeing spots, Asakusa, renowned as the birthplace of Edo culture. The trade center is close to ancient temples, Japan’s oldest amusement park, and Nakamise-dori, a popular shopping district.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The facility includes four exhibition halls and two convention centers with a conference room, management office, and restaurant. There are two additional conference rooms. The exhibition halls range between 1,383 and 1,495 square meters and hold a maximum of 600 guests. The conference rooms are 67 square meters each and hold a maximum of 35 guests.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Exhibitions, conferences, corporate meetings, trade fairs, seminars.
CATERING: The venue provides both banquet catering and boxed lunches upon request. There is also a casual on-site restaurant.
ACCESSIBILITY: The facility offers wheelchair rental, one handicap-accessible elevator, and wheelchair accessible toilets.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Asakusa (Ginza, Tobu Skytree). The facility does not provide parking for guests, but there are several nearby public parking lots.
TAGS: corporate friendly, human friendly, experience friendly.
The Best Venues for Special Events in Japan
The best Japanese events venues for special occasions offer noteworthy backdrops, from a seaside hotel to an exclusive French dining room. The impressive locations combined with extensive and professional service make them top choices for Japan events.
Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland, Kobe
This seaside venue was the first Japanese hotel to be included on the list of Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Many guestrooms and event spaces include large windows and broad terraces with views of Kobe Port.
WHY IS IT COOL? Events can be organized in a range of unique rooms. A few options include FLORA, a European style salon with crystal chandeliers, PLASIR, a banquet room with white Greek marble floors, and the open-air Garden Terrace- all of which include views of Kobe Port.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel has eight event spaces. The largest, Garden Terrace, is 376 square meters and holds 100 guests standing. The largest indoor space, FLORA, is 141 square meters and holds 120 guests theater style or 100 guests reception style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Private parties, receptions, conferences, corporate meetings, workshops, exhibitions.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, WiFi.
TRANSPORT: The hotel is a 15-minute walk from the JR Kobe Station. The hotel offers on-site parking, free for up to 5 hours.
TAGS: bleisure friendly, experience friendly, boutique.
Ciel Bleu, Swissotel Nankai Osaka, Osaka
Located on the 25th floor of Swissotel Nankai Osaka, Ciel Bleu was designed to host high-profile social gatherings and VIP meetings.
WHY IS IT COOL? While the venue’s design is simple and adaptable, the expansive views of Minami provide a noteworthy element. One full wall is outfitted with windows, making a particularly remarkable setting for night functions when the city skyline lights up.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The venue is 207 square meters and holds up to 100 guests buffet style or 80 guests dinner style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Dinner parties, cocktail parties, product launches.
CATERING: Food and beverage services are provided by the hotel.
HOTEL ROOMS: 546 rooms.
TRANSPORT: The nearest train station is Namba (Nankai, Nankai-Koya, Nankai-Limited Express). The hotel offers on-site paid parking.
TAGS: experience friendly, immersive, iconic.
Aichi Prefectural Arts Theater, Nagoya
The multiple stages of Aichi Prefectural Arts Theater were designed to showcase Japanese and Western performing arts, including opera, ballet, musicals, Japanese dance, and Kabuki. The venue’s theater capabilities facilitate the creation of immersive events.
WHY IS IT COOL? Since its primary purpose is showcasing various performing arts genres, Aichi Prefectural Arts Theater provides modern and comprehensive theater technology to outside events. The main theater’s stage is equipped with a proscenium arch, making it flexible enough to accommodate large and lavish sets.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The facility includes one main theater, a mini theater, a concert hall, and rehearsal rooms. The main theater seats 2,500 guests over five tiers, the concert hall seats 1,800 guests over three tiers, and the mini theater seats 330 guests. The rehearsal rooms range between 275 and 370 square meters.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Private parties, performances, receptions.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, state-of-the-art theater sound and lighting, WiFi.
ACCESSIBILITY: Both the theaters and concert hall offer wheelchair-accessible seats. Aichi Arts Center has rental wheelchairs and toilets for the disabled.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Sakae (Higashiyama). Guests can park at Art Park Tokai, an on-site paid lot holding 600 vehicles.
TAGS: theaters, future proof, immersive.
Le Blois, Noborioji Hotel Nara, Nara
The refined environment of Le Blois, a fine-dining French restaurant, is all the more exclusive in the adjacent private dining room.
WHY IS IT COOL? Wood furnishings and leather upholstered chairs make for a warm, refined space. With its built-in advanced technological features, the space can easily transform from a sophisticated evening of cocktails to a corporate meeting.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The room is 72 square meters and holds 40 people for dinner, 30 people for a party, or 30 people for a conference.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Corporate meetings, dinner parties, private parties.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: LCD monitor, Blu-ray, DVD and CD player, projector, screen, video conferencing system, sound system, WiFi.
CATERING: The kitchen provides a French-inspired menu.
TRANSPORT: The nearest train station is Kintetsu-Nara (Kintetsu-Kyoto, Kintetsu-Limited Express, Kintetsu-Nara). The hotel has an on-site parking lot.
TAGS: boutique, experience friendly, future proof.
The Best Japanese Traditional Events Venues
In a country that honors the preservation of its ancient culture, these venues offer event services and backdrops that immerse event delegates in local traditions.
Juhachiro, Gifu
Established 150 years ago, this traditional Japanese-style hotel is located on the banks of the Nagara River, just below Gifu Castle. A range of event spaces are complemented by authentic Japanese amenities, including a spa with natural hot springs.
WHY IS IT COOL? The hotel has multiple Japanese inspired meeting rooms that cater to a range of event types. Tokino-kura, one of the hotel’s restaurants, is a 120-year old renovated storehouse with an intimate, cozy atmosphere, while the hotel lobby is a light-filled lounge with views of Nagara River. More so, events can be organized in a karaoke room to balance work with leisure.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel provides various spaces for gatherings. The lobby is a spacious room with lounge furniture and beverage services. Kurara is an after-bath relaxation room with sofas, massage chairs, and herbal teas. Tokino-kura and Yuzen are the two on-site restaurants. There is a karaoke room for rent that holds up to 25 guests.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Dinner parties, cocktail parties, corporate retreats.
CATERING: Tokino-kura and Yuzen are the two on-site restaurants. The hotel also offers kaiseki, a traditional Japanese multi-course dinner or lunch traditionally served in one’s room.
TRANSPORT: The best ways to access the hotel are from JR Gifu Station or Meitetsu Gifu Station. Both stations are 15-minutes from Juhachiro by taxi. There is also an on-site parking lot.
TAGS: immersive, bleisure friendly, tapping into local intellectual capital.
Credit: Claire Hardy
Hidatei Hanaougi, Gifu
Guests of this traditional Japanese hotel are treated to a variety of local delicacies, including natural hot springs, local Hida beef, and private meals in a Sanmachi Komichi. The three event spaces provide an ideal balance of Japanese culture and corporate functionality.
WHY IS IT COOL? The hotel’s main banquet room features a high ceiling inspired by the steep-roofed houses of Shirakawa-go village, known as gassho-zukuri. The other banquet room is a traditional Japanese style tatami room, a room with mats instead of tables. However, tables are available upon request. There is also a night lounge for casual drinks and karaoke.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel includes two banquet rooms. The largest, Hida 220, holds a maximum of 200 guests. It can be divided into three parts if needed. The other, Norikura 96, holds a maximum of 30 guests. The Night Lounge Hanaougi, a bar and karaoke space, holds up to 40 guests.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Corporate meetings, corporate retreats, workshops.
TRANSPORT: The hotel is a seven-minute drive from JR Takayama Station. There is a free shuttle bus from the station to the hotel. Guests can also use on-site parking.
TAGS: immersive, bleisure friendly, tapping into local intellectual capital.
Asukasou, Nara
In the heart of Nara, with convenient access to historic tourists attractions, this traditional hotel is an ideal location for both business and leisure.
WHY IS IT COOL? This traditional Japanese inn offers several unique spaces for social gatherings, ideal for corporate retreats or networking. Guests can conduct business meetings in the banquet room followed by a dip in the outdoor baths with views of Kofukuji Temple’s five-story pagoda, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel includes a banquet room, restaurant, karaoke room, and baths (both indoor and open-air).
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Corporate retreats, corporate meetings, private parties.
CATERING: Meals are served either kaiseki style, in the privacy of one’s room, or in the modern Japanese-style restaurant.
TRANSPORT: The hotel is an eight-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station and an 18-minute walk from Nara Station (JR).
TAGS: immersive, bleisure friendly, tapping into local intellectual capital.
Iwaso, Itsukushima
The founder of Iwaso Inn originally opened the establishment as a teahouse for passerby crossing the Momiji River. Due to its popularity, the inn was rebuilt as a modern Japanese style hotel with a conference room.
WHY IS IT COOL? Nestled in lush greenery and boasting traditional Japanese architecture, Iwaso brings both relaxation and authentic local culture to event delegates. The banquet hall and conference room provide ample space for work, while the hot springs and local island attractions offer a leisurely escape.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel includes a conference room, banquet hall, and restaurant. The whole hotel can accommodate 100 guests.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Corporate retreats, corporate meetings, private parties.
CATERING: Kaiseki meals are provided by the in-house chef. They can be enjoyed in the restaurant or in the privacy of one’s room.
HOTEL ROOMS: 39 rooms.
TRANSPORT: There is free parking at the hotel. The hotel also provides free pickup from Miyajima port. Prior arrangement is required.
TAGS: bleisure friendly, tapping into local intellectual capital, boutique.
The Best Venues for Big Events in Japan
For large conferences or business meetings in Japan, these five venues for big events in Japan offer large spaces that are easily configurable for maximum customization. More so, event planners benefit from modern AV capabilities, catering services, and additional onsite assistance.
Fukuoka International Congress Center, Fukuoka
With direct links to the airport and a ten-minute drive from the city center, this progressive venue was designed to bring convenience and future-proof features to events.
WHY IS IT COOL? This congress center was originally founded to revitalize the local economy of Fukuoka City and establish the city as an economic and cultural destination. The facility includes multiple features that allow for ease of planning, including sliding walls in the conference rooms to adjust the space to the style and scale of each convention and a three-lane driveway with space for 12 buses.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The facility is five floors and includes an entrance hall, multi-purpose hall, main hall, multiple small to medium-size conference rooms, and one international conference room. The main hall is 1,300 square meters and holds 1,000 guests theater style. It can be combined with the multi-purpose hall to reach 2,700 square meters and hold 3,000 guests theater style. The conference rooms range between 45 and 420 square meters.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, seminars, workshops, exhibitions.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, simultaneous interpreter booths, WiFi.
TRANSPORT: The facility is a 12-minute walk from the subway station Gofukumachi (Hakozaki). There is a paid parking lot with 240 spaces next to the building. Since the lot fills up quickly during events, it is recommended to arrive via public transportation.
TAGS: corporate friendly, future proof, emerging.
Sapporo Convention Center, Sapporo
Multi-purpose, adaptable, and easily-accessible, this convention center is the primary corporate event venue in Sapporo- the largest city on Japan’s northern island.
WHY IS IT COOL? This convention center includes multiple features that facilitate easy adaption to a wide range of conferences. For example, the moveable seats in the main hall allow the space to function both as an auditorium and an exhibition venue. More so, the simultaneous interpretation system for six languages in the conference hall accommodates both local and international meetings.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The facility includes an entrance hall, main hall, conference hall, small hall, mid-sized hall, and over 15 configurable meeting spaces. The main hall is 2,600 square meters and holds up to 2,500 guest theater style or 1,200 guests classroom style. The other halls range between 240 and 692 square meters. The smallest meeting room is 21 square meters, holding 12 guests classroom style, while the largest is 328 square meters, holding 360 guests theater style or 160 guests classroom style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, exhibitions, corporate meetings, seminars, workshops.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, simultaneous interpretation system, WiFi.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Higashi-Sapporo (Tozai). The convention center is a ten-minute taxi ride from Sapporo city center.
TAGS: human friendly, corporate friendly, forward thinking.
Kyoto International Conference Center, Kyoto
Kyoto’s primary conference center includes extensive conference support, catering, and lodging services, all of which cater to both Japanese and Western-style conferences.
WHY IS IT COOL? The center is staffed with university students and graduates who have passed an eligibility test to manage the venue’s services. These include secretarial support, reception, general guidance around the venue, assistance during event progression, and equipment support. Besides an extensive selection of conference space, the facility also includes a Japanese Garden surrounded by lush foliage and Lake Takaragaike.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The facility has three buildings- the six-story Main Building, Annex Hall, and Event Hall. All three are connected by indoor passages. The grounds cover 156,000 square meters and include a total of 70 meeting rooms, Japanese garden, and adjacent hotel. The Main Hall is 2,040 square meters and holds 1,840 guests theater style or 400 guests classroom style. The conference rooms range between 200 and 950 square meters while the meeting rooms range between 12 and 380 square meters. The Japanese Garden is 20,000 square meters and holds up to 3,000 guests.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, exhibitions, seminars, workshops.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities and WiFi throughout. The Main Hall includes two digital HD video cameras, two screens, 2HD projectors, and eight simultaneous interpretation booths.
CATERING: ICC Kyoto Catering Service provides food and beverage. They offer coffee breaks, lunch boxes, reception, banquet, and refreshment services. Menus can be vegan, vegetarian, Muslim, halal, and allergy-free.
ACCESSIBILITY: The venue offers six wheelchairs for rental, available from four different pick-up points. There are also handicapped parking spaces in the main lot.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Kokusaikaikan (Karasuma). From there, a covered walkway leads to the front entrance of the conference center. The venue also has a parking lot for exclusive use by event delegates.
TAGS: corporate friendly, attention to planner, future proof.
Osaka International Convention Center, Osaka
Located in Japan’s second largest city, this convention center has been planning, promoting, and hosting national and international corporate events since 1958.
WHY IS IT COOL? The Main Hall is a highly adaptable space for large-scale events. The moveable stage can be configured in an end, flat, or center arrangement while the floor level seating can be removed if needed. Besides the adaptable spaces, the convention center also includes Japanese design touches, like the Japanese-style drawings of Osaka festivals on the Conference Hall’s domed ceiling.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The center is 11 floors, including a plaza, event hall, main hall, Internet lounge, conference hall, self-service restaurant, and 28 meeting rooms. The Main Hall seats up to 2,754 people with a 20-meter wide stage. It can also be configured as a half hall to hold 328 guests seated.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, trainings, lectures, seminars, exhibitions, recitals.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities and WiFi throughout. The Main Hall includes a a fixed projector, front projection screen, and music, lighting, and simultaneous interpretation facilities.
CATERING: The venue offers catering services for formal dinners, buffet parties, and meetings. Lunch boxes can also be prepared.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway station is Awaza (Chuo, Sen-Nichimae) and the nearest train station is Nakanoshima (Keihan-Nakanoshima). There is an onsite paid parking lot with space for 304 vehicles.
TAGS: corporate friendly, future proof, attention to planner.
International Design Center, Nagoya
Combining design with business, this multi-purpose facility offers space for meetings, celebrations, design creation, and shopping all-in-one.
WHY IS IT COOL? The design center is divided between a cultural facility, shopping zone, and office zone. The Atrium connects the two buildings, and can also be rented for gatherings or promotional events. Majority of the center’s meeting rooms are blank slates, allowing ample interpretation and adaptability for the designers that rent the space. This flexibility also works well for corporate meetings.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The venue includes a design lab, center, gallery, and hall along with seminar rooms, an atrium, and a shopping mall. One of the primary event spaces, The Design Hall, covers 676 square meters and holds up to 500 people with moveable seats.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, trade shows, exhibitions, product launches, lectures, seminars, private parties.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities, WiFi.
TRANSPORT: The nearest subway stations are Yabacho (Meijo) and Sakae (Higashiyama, Meijo). There is a three-story onsite parking garage with space for 440 vehicles.
TAGS: tapping into local intellectual capital, future proof, experience friendly.
The Best Hotels in Japan For Events and Conferences
These top choices for hotels have mastered the art of providing business-focused, easily configurable meeting spaces alongside extensive guest services for a leisurely event experience.
Nara Hotel, Nara
Founded over a century ago, Nara Hotel has hosted an impressive list of guests, including Albert Einstein, Duke of Gloucester, Helen Keller, and Richard Nixon. To this day, the hotel retains its dignified splendor throughout the seven banquet spaces.
WHY IS IT COOL? The seven banquet rooms of various sizes provide ample space for conferences and social gatherings alike. The kitchen offers both French and Japanese-Western cuisine as well as experienced sommeliers and bartenders to craft a fitting beverage menu. More so, the rooms can be easily configured theater or classroom style to host meetings instead of social gatherings.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel offers seven banquet rooms alongside two inhouse restaurants and a bar. The largest banquet room, YAMATO, is 452 square meters and holds 400 guests theater style or 240 guests banquet style. The smallest, MATSU or TAKE, both hold eight guests banquet style across 21 square meters. The hotel also has an open-air temple garden and terrace garden.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Dinner parties, private parties, receptions, corporate meetings, conferences.
CATERING: The in-house kitchen provides either a French or Japanese-Western buffet.
TRANSPORT: The nearest train station is Kintetsu-Nara (Kintetsu-Kyoto, Kintetsu-Limited Express, Kintetsu-Nara), a 15-minute walk from the hotel. The hotel has onsite parking with room for 100 cars.
TAGS: experience friendly, iconic, boutique.
Hotel New Otani Makuhari, Makuhari
Adjacent to Tokyo Bay, this resort hotel is conveniently located close to international convention center Makuhari Messe, Tokyo Disney Resort, and two international airports. However, with its extensive onsite conference spaces and services, event delegates find all they need without leaving the premises.
WHY IS IT COOL? Nine restaurants, a fitness center, a beauty salon, an outdoor pool, and a tennis court can all be found within the property. However, if event delegates choose to explore the area, the hotel offers a shuttle bus to Tokyo Disneyland as well as rental bicycles. On top of the 21 dedicated meeting spaces, the hotel offers private dining at four of its onsite restaurants.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel has 13 small and large banquet rooms, six meeting spaces, and two garden party spaces. The largest function room is 2,082 square meters and holds 1,786 guests theater style or 1,500 guests buffet style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, private parties, product launches, workshops, seminars.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV capabilities and WiFi throughout. The largest function room includes a simultaneous interpretation system, microphones, radio system, TV monitor, projector and screen, video camera, and advanced lighting and sound systems.
HOTEL ROOMS: 418 rooms.
TRANSPORT: The nearest train station is Kaihimmakuhari (Keiyo, Sazanami, Wakashio). The hotel has an outdoor parking lot with 300 spaces.
TAGS: bleisure friendly, corporate friendly, human friendly.
The Tokyo Station Hotel, Chiyoda
In the heart of Tokyo’s business district, Marunouchi, this conference hotel offers three elegantly designed event spaces with advanced amenities.
WHY IS IT COOL? The Tokyo Station Hotel is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. Its meeting rooms were designed with earth tones, and then adorned with fine fabrics and crystal chandeliers. All of the spaces are walking distance to Tokyo International Forum, the city’s convention and art center.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: There are three meeting rooms in the hotel. The largest, Phoenix, is 288 square meters and holds 324 guests theater style or 200 guests reception style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, seminars, product launches, galas, private parties.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Projection mapping, LED lighting, simultaneous interpretation system, WiFi.
CATERING: The executive chef prepares a catering menu.
TRANSPORT: The nearest train station is Tokyo (Akagi, Chuo, Hitachi-Tokiwa, Joban, Akita Shinkansen, Chuo, Hokuriku-Shinka, Joetsu Shinkansen). There is a parking lot outside the hotel’s main entrance, in front of the visitor drop off.
TAGS: the age of all-inclusive, iconic, corporate friendly.
Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa, Hakone
This Hyatt branch is located in an area famous for its natural hot springs. Nestled in the green foothills of Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, the hotel attracts both vacationers and businesses travelers alike.
WHY IS IT COOL? The hotel’s two meeting spaces have a refined, elegant ambiance, with minimal but tasteful decoration. This allows the rooms to transfer seamlessly between social and corporate events. For leisurely enjoyment, the hotel offers a spa with natural hot spring baths and two onsite restaurants.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel has two function halls. The Hakone Room is 56 square meters and holds up to 42 guests theater style or 30 guests reception style. The Drawing Room is 50 square meters and holds up to 30 guests both theater and reception style.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, seminars, corporate retreats, private parties.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: AV equipment is available for rent at an additional cost. Options include a projector, screen, LCD flat screen wall-mounted TV, sound system, microphones, laser pointer, voicepoint IP, DVD players. There is WiFi throughout.
HOTEL ROOMS: 80 rooms.
TRANSPORT: The nearest cable car station is Kami-Gora (Hakonetozan). Onsite parking is available to guests. The hotel is 90 minutes from JR Tokyo station by car and train.
TAGS: bleisure friendly, immersive, conventions off the beaten track.
The Best 5 Star Hotels in Japan and Luxury Hotels Japan For Events
While Japan offers a large selection of 5-star hotels, these top luxury hotels for events in Japan standout for their beautiful design, well-connected locations, and large conference facilities.
Conrad Osaka, Osaka
This luxury hotel is situated in Osaka’s business and administrative center, on the highest floors of Nakanoshima Festival West Tower. Also known as ‘address in the sky’, the sleek and modern hotel offers noteworthy views from guest rooms and event spaces alike.
WHY IS IT COOL? Located 38 floors off the ground, all of the hotel’s function spaces offer expansive views of Osaka and the water. Each room is pillar-free, while floor-to-ceiling windows allow for ample natural daylight. The design is contemporary and minimalist.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel has two large ballrooms, a divisible meeting room, and one boardroom. The larger ballroom is 225 square meters and hosts 80 guests banquet style. The meeting room is 120 square meters and the boardroom is 40 square meters.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, private parties, galas.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Built-in projection screens, premium sound systems, audio and video conferencing, WiFi.
HOTEL ROOMS: 164 rooms.
TRANSPORT: The hotel is connected to both Higobashi (Yotsubashi) subway station and Watanabebashi (Keihan-Nakanoshima) train station. There is valet parking and paid self-parking onsite.
TAGS: experience friendly, iconic, in demand.
Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo, Chiyoda
From the 2,000 pieces of artwork that decorate the public spaces to the expansive windows offering unobstructed city views, no detail was overlooked in the creation of this luxury hotel. Events receive the same level of professionalism and care.
WHY IS IT COOL? The hotel is well-connected to Tokyo and the rest of Japan with its location adjacent to Tokyo Station. The elegant atmosphere is complemented by views of downtown Tokyo, the Imperial Palace, and TOKYO SKYTREE. The focal point of the main ballroom, a stunning chandelier, sets the mood for the warm and elegant event spaces.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel’s main ballroom holds up to 270 guests theater style or 250 guests for cocktails across 366 square meters. Its adjacent foyer is 129 square meters. There are three additional function rooms ranging between 55 and 184 square meters and a 126 square meter pavillion.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, galas, dinner parties.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Plasma display unite, satellite and teleconferencing, simultaneous translation system, slide/overhead/LCD/direct projectors, WiFi.
CATERING: The in-house catering company is Catering’s Finest by Shangri-La. They provide a variety of customized menus, cutlery, and flower arrangements.
HOTEL ROOMS: 200 rooms.
TRANSPORT: The nearest train station is Tokyo (Akagi, Chuo, Hitachi-Tokiwa, Joban, Akita Shinkansen, Chuo, Hokuriku-Shinka, Joetsu Shinkansen) and the nearest subway station is Kyobashi (Ginza). The hotel offers parking facilities.
TAGS: experience friendly, corporate friendly, iconic.
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Chūō
This luxury hotel is spread across a historic landmark and modern tower, offering event planners the option of either a culturally significant or contemporary backdrop.
WHY IS IT COOL? Each event is assigned a manager to assist with venue details and concerns. To add a unique component, the hotel offers multiple event programs. For example, the Mindful Meetings program incorporates wellness components into the event schedule. This include the likes of energizer welcome shots upon guest arrival, 30-minute guided wellness activity, and wellness gifts for guests. There is also a cultural program complete with traditional Japanese activities like martial art lessons and tea ceremonies.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The modern tower of the hotel holds the grand ballroom and wedding chapel, while the Mitsui Main Building holds four banquet halls and six meeting rooms. The Grand Ballroom is 550 square meters and holds 500 guests theater style or 400 guests for cocktails.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, corporate meetings, presentations, private parties, galas.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: The ballroom has 36 projectors, enabling 360-degree projection of photo images and CG. All rooms include a screen, lighting system, TV conferencing facility, LAN cabling, and WiFi.
CATERING: The hotel offers a selection of banquet menus, but can also adapt the menu to personal requests. Hosting three Michelin star restaurants, the hotel maintains the same high caliber cuisine in their catering services.
TRANSPORT: The hotel has direct access to Shin-Nihombashi (Sobu) train station and Mitsukoshimae (Ginza, Hanzomon) subway station.
TAGS: experience friendly, future proof, attention to planner.
Hotel Springs Makuhari, Chiba
The fusion of European style and luxury amenities makes this 5-star hotel a popular destination for special events.
WHY IS IT COOL? The hotel is designed in Rococo style, with many furnishings sourced directly from France. These chairs, tables, and lamps are handcrafted by sculptors and metal-smiths to preserve old tradition. More so, the walls are carved by sand-blasting and then preserved in glass. The hotel’s theater, Springs Hall, is outfitted with advanced AV capabilities, allowing it to host both social gatherings and conferences.
GENERAL SPACE DESCRIPTION: The hotel’s Springs Hall holds 556 guests seated over two tiers. There is also an onsite chapel, therapeutic hot spring, costume room, and photo studio.
WHAT TYPES OF EVENTS IS IT MOST SUITABLE FOR? Conferences, presentations, private performances, receptions, private parties.
AV AND TECHNOLOGY: Springs Hall has simultaneous-translation booths and concert grade acoustic and lighting. The hotel offers WiFi.
TRANSPORT: The nearest train station is JR Kaihimmakuhari (Keiyo, Sazanami, Wakashio). From Tokyo, the hotel can be reached via JR Keiyo Line (Rapid Train).
TAGS: theaters, experience friendly, boutique.
IN CONCLUSION
Be it a party venue in Tokyo, a luxurious resort in the countryside, or a conference and meeting room in Tokyo, Japan caters to a wide range of events. Its age-old traditions work seamlessly alongside modern amenities, offering an array of choices for both national and international events. Nonetheless, these top 25 Japan events spaces stand above the rest, promising to host some of 2019’s most memorable occasions.
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