I am truly delighted that Tokyo is now widely recognized as one of the world’s most captivating destinations.
In a city of this scale, almost anything can be found online with a simple search.
Yet what I wish to share with you goes far beyond information, these are not places you simply visit, but encounters
you truly feel—experiences shaped by human connection.
Morning: The Markets
Tsukiji Outer Market and Toyosu Market are not merely districts within Tokyo; they form the very heartbeat of
Japan’s culinary culture.
While both areas can be explored independently, walking through the markets alongside Mr. Yoshinori Tezuka
(known as Yoshi-san), the fourth-generation of Matsunozushi offers a rare and privileged perspective.
As you move through the markets with him, they come alive with stories, accompanied by thoughtful explanations
of the ingredients selected along the way.
After the market visit, you are welcomed into Yoshi-san’s restaurant: Matsunozushi, a historic establishment
founded in 1910 and his grandparents’ former home, carefully preserved.
In this private setting, dressed in a chef’s coat, you will create your own sushi with ingredients chosen fresh that
very morning and exclusive access to the kitchen. This is not simply a meal, but a journey from ocean to table—
one that deepens your appreciation of Japanese cuisine. Guests with dietary restrictions are equally welcomed,
with refined alternatives prepared with the same devotion and care.
Trust me, through meeting Yoshi-san and visiting his restaurant, you will experience a truly authentic side of Japan.
Afternoon: The Art of Iaido
In the neighbor of Ningyocho, where old Tokyo meets the new, you will step into the world of Iaido (known as
Samurai Experience) at the Mugai-ryu Suimoukai Honbu Dojo. Guided by Master Shoun Uetsubara, over 60 years of
experience in Japanese martial arts, now in his 80s, this experience teaches not only technique, but patience,
respect, and presence.
Dressed in authentic attire, you practice with a real sword under the master’s calm and precise guidance.
Dinner: Roppongi Robataya
As evening falls, Roppongi comes alive.
Among its many attractions, Roppongi Robataya is one of the restaurants I love to introduce to our guests.
Known for its counter dining, chefs prepare carefully selected ingredients directly in front of you.
At the heart of Robataya is its owner, Mr. Kaoru Watanabe, whom I often describe as a Concierge himself.
Whether a guest wishes to enjoy beef tongue, or a child would like a simple bowl of Udon noodles—things not on
the menu—he simply says, “Leave it with me.” By the time guests arrive, everything is prepared seamlessly.
Again, Tokyo is a city I am deeply proud to share.
The above is an example of how a full day, from morning through evening, can be beautifully spent.
However, what makes it even more special is our extended family, the individuals like those introduced above, who
share the same spirit of creating meaningful journeys through heartfelt hospitality and human connection.
Shuta Takeuchi is a member of Les Clefs d’Or Japan. This article has been published in its original form.
Made in Japan Concierge – My name is Shuta Takeuchi.
I was raised in a very small hot spring town in rural Japan, Yamanaka Onsen in Ishikawa Prefecture. Surrounded by nature and tradition, my world was quiet, however, as a child and through my youth, my passion was ice hockey. That passion took me far from home, all the way to Canada, where I attended high school and trained at a local hockey academy in Penticton, British Columbia.
At that time, I never imagined a future in hospitality. I was actually extremely shy and lacked the confidence to communicate openly with others. After completing my studies, I returned to my hometown, where my journey began at Kayotei, a traditional Japanese Ryokan with only ten suites.
In August 2015, I had the opportunity to observe the UICH Les Clefs d’Or 9th Asian Congress in Tokyo. Over just two days, meeting the most inspiring Concierge leaders in the world, my life changed completely. Discovering this beautiful profession and the people who believed in me has brought me to where I stand today. I remain deeply grateful for this journey and the connections that continue to shape my life.
Set high above the energy of Japan’s capital, Aman Tokyo is a tranquil sanctuary where contemporary Tokyo meets timeless tradition. As Aman’s first urban retreat, the hotel offers a rare sense of calm in the heart of the city, complemented by world‑class dining and spa experiences. The hotel features 84 spacious suites, each offering sweeping views of the Imperial Palace Gardens and Tokyo’s iconic skyline, inviting guests to pause and reflect above the rhythm of the city below.
Aman Tokyo is also home to one of the city’s most distinguished dining collections. From the rustic Italian flavors of Arva, to Chef Musashi’s refined Edomae sushi, and Aman’s very first patisserie, each venue celebrates craftsmanship and authenticity.
At the foot of the hotel lies Otemachi Forest, a carefully curated natural oasis. Inside, the soaring 30‑meter lobby, inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, features an engawa, symbolizing harmony between indoors and nature.
One of my greatest pleasures is creating exclusive guest‑only experiences: Aman Tokyo Journey, such as rickshaw ride through the Imperial Palace neighborhood or rare behind‑the‑scenes access to a professional Sumo stable. I look forward to welcoming everyone to Aman Tokyo.
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