The Kahala Hotel & Resort Yokohama

Yokohama is often overlooked when planning a luxurious stay near Tokyo. In doing so, people miss out on reasonably priced waterfront gems like The Kahala Hotel & Resort.

The Kahala brings a slice of Hawaii to Yokohama — and at a price much cheaper than its Tokyo counterparts.

What’s the hotel like?

The Kahala Hotel & Resort Yokohama stands out. It looks ready to leap into the bay, a large lapping wave inspired by Katsushika Hokusai’s Thirty-six views of Mount Fuji. The interior is just as impressive, with emblems of the ocean found everywhere from the lobby’s crystal chandeliers to the Italian Restaurant OZIO’s seashell seats.

Why so many references to the sea? The Kahala Hotel & Resort’s original location is on the island of O‘ahu in Hawaii, and it has seen the likes of celebrities, presidents, and royalty stay. References to Hawaii can be found in hanging photos and even in the air — the hotel had a fresh scent we couldn’t forget.

What facilities does the hotel have?

As with many five-star hotels, the Kahala is not lacking in facilities. It has three restaurants, a lounge, spa, gym, boutique, banquet room, and chapel.

The three restaurants include OZIO, serving Italian cuisine with a dynamic vista, and Hanagoyomi, which consists of two restaurants serving teppanyaki or traditional Japanese cuisine. In-room dining is also available. You can stop off at The Kahala Lounge for afternoon tea treats or late-night drinks.

Sweat it out at the gym — we took advantage of the rental shoes — or swim in the indoor pool. After that, treat yourself to a massage, hot bath, or sauna at the spa. Note that you must pay ¥3,000 to use the spa and, disappointingly, those with tattoos cannot use these facilities.

Is there anywhere to hang out in the hotel?

The Sky Lobby on the 14th floor has plush seats and floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto Yokohama, especially remarkable at night. But if you want to get stuck into some computer work, the desk in your room also faces the window — plus you’ve got your very own coffee machine with a generous helping of capsules.

What are the rooms like?

The hotel has 146 rooms, the majority of which are between 47 and 50 square meters. The suites go up to an impressive 119m²; however, the room we stayed in was a Premier Suite — around 75m².

Having only been built in 2020, the rooms are new and vibrant. The muted grays, creams, and hints of aquamarine evoke an airy and modern ambience. Each room comes with a neverending list of amenities and services, such as umbrellas, a capsule coffee machine, mini bar, yoga mat, TV with YouTube and mirroring capabilities, and speaker.

Are the rooms comfortable?

Yes. The rooms are designed to be a restful escape. Expect well-stocked amenities, cozy pajamas, fluffy pillows, and a turn-down service that gives the stay a luxurious edge. Each room also has a comfortable lounge sofa, and the bigger rooms (like ours) have plenty of other chairs to recline into.

What’s the view like?

Outstanding. The window shows a slightly different perspective from Yokohama than you may be used to — it’s further along the bay — but still includes all the favorites including the Ferris wheel, skyscrapers, and ships.

Should I order the breakfast?

The hotel offers two types of breakfasts — American/Hawaiian or Japanese. Both types can be ordered as in-room dining, or you can go to the restaurants OZIO or Hanagoyomi. Options start from ¥5,692.

Both breakfasts have copious dishes. We had the American-style breakfast in our room and it included salmon, ham, yogurt, scrambled egg, and various juices and coffee. If the Hawaiian breakfast is on offer, you can eat eggs Benedict, pancakes, and an acai bowl.

The Japanese-style breakfast was a more extraordinary experience as we had a private room in the restaurant. Some memorable dishes include the morning hot pot, grilled cod, and amazake dessert.

What’s the location like?

The hotel isn’t right in the center of Yokohama, but is close enough to walk or take a short bus ride to the main landmarks — plus, it’s away from the noise.

How is the access to trains and subway?

The closest station to The Kahala Hotel & Resort Yokohama is:

• Minatomirai Station (8-minute walk): Take the Minatomirai Line directly into Tokyo as it links with the Fukutoshin Line.

How do I get there from Tokyo’s airports?

• From Narita Airport: Take the Narita Express to Yokohama Station (90 minutes) and get a six-minute taxi or bus. Alternatively, take the Airport Limousine Bus to the center of Yokohama and walk.
• From Haneda Airport: Take a 30-minute taxi or direct Limousine Bus. Alternatively, take the Keikyū Main Line for around 30 minutes to Yokohama Station and take a bus or six-minute taxi.

What’s the surrounding neighborhood like?

The hotel is situated in front of the ocean and Rinko Park, a calm spot where you can unfurl a picnic blanket. If you want to be in the action, walk towards the station or further along the bay.

Are there many good places to eat nearby?

Apart from the restaurants inside the hotel and the Doutor Coffee across the road, the closest places to eat are around a 10-minute walk away, but when you arrive, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

What points of interest are within walking distance of the hotel?

The hotel has easy access to the main attractions of Yokohama, but some within walking distance are:

• Yokohama Anpanman Children’s Museum (eight-minute walk)
• Pacifico Yokohama (two-minute walk)
• Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse (20-minute walk)
• Cup Noodles Museum (15-minute walk)
• Yokohama Air Cabin (18-minute walk)

Who should stay here?

Kahala is perfect for those looking to venture into Tokyo occasionally, as well as those looking for beach day trips to nearby Kamakura and Enoshima. Also, visitors who want a luxurious experience but don’t want to fork out thousands at a central Tokyo hotel.

What sustainability measures do they have?

You can ask not to be given fresh linens and towels if staying more than one night, by placing a card on your bed.

Tips and tricks for the best stay

The hotel often has events and promotions, such as reserving an outdoor pool, afternoon tea deals, and special room makeovers.