Hotel New Grand

Hotel New Grand is one of the top classic hotels in Japan and a landmark of the Motomachi area in Yokohama, set directly across from Yamashita Park, the famous park that overlooks the ocean. The main building was opened in 1927 as a symbol of a new start after the Great Kanto Earthquake, but the hotel has also welcomed the addition of the 18-story tower building in 1991, with swooping views of the area below.

Take just one step inside the front door of the main building and prepare to have your breath stolen away. The tan-tiled staircase towers before your eyes, enrobed with the vibrant blue carpet that’s as shiny and grand as the name “New Grand” would have it. Above the staircase sits a clock arch and elevator hall with its unforgettable textile decoration of an angel. There’s even the former lobbyk complete with stylish “Yokohama Kagu” furniture that fuses the best of western design with Japanese courtesan style carpentry.

The hotel has welcomed countless worldwide celebrities including the imperial family, Charlie Chaplin, Babe Ruth and more. You can even stay in room 315, the same room that was used by former General Douglas MacArthur. There’s also a restaurant that’s reared a number of famous chefs, all while serving up some of Japan’s first ever doria, napolitan and pudding alamode.