The first overseas expansion of the Japanese Prince Hotel Group is located in the Marylebone area in the heart of London, not far from Marble Arch, Hyde Park, and the Oxford Street shopping district. Named “Akatoki,” which means “sunrise” in Japanese, the interior design incorporates soft colors reminiscent of dawn. In its minimalist decor, the most prominent features are the wooden furniture and Japanese paneling in both public areas and rooms.
The hotel regularly hosts a unique event called “Music Afternoon Tea,” featuring live performances with a thirteen-string Japanese koto. When the melancholic tones of traditional Japanese tunes are played by musician Keiko Kitamura in a kimono, it transports guests to the ambiance of an East Asian tavern. The afternoon tea menu is also distinctive, featuring savory items such as tuna rolls with wasabi and avocado sauce, Japanese curry chicken sandwiches, and sweet treats like matcha pistachio cake and yuzu caramel pudding. In comparison to the ubiquitous traditional English afternoon tea in London, the offerings here provide a broader range of flavors, presenting a creative culinary experience.
The hotel’s Tokii restaurant serves a Japanese breakfast during the morning hours, including a tray of rice, soy sauce, pickles, miso soup, and salmon. This is well-suited for those with an “East Asian palate,” but it contrasts with the traditionally sweet preferences of the British breakfast. Reportedly, not many guests opt for the Japanese breakfast here, perhaps due to the unique flavor profile not aligning with local tastes.
In summary, this Akatoki hotel in the heart of London not only serves as an accommodation venue but also functions as a cultural bridge, bringing a touch of Japan to the bustling city. Through themed events and innovative culinary choices, the hotel creates a unique space for cultural exchange, allowing guests to experience the warmth of home in a foreign land.
