Tokyo Bay Exclusive Gourmet Cruise: Wagyu Edition

When most people picture a Tokyo Bay cruise, they think of sunset views and champagne toasts. But the Tokyo Bay Exclusive Gourmet Cruise - coordinated by TOKI and supported by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau - takes things to another level entirely. This is not just a sightseeing trip; it’s a semi-private floating fine dining experience aboard a refined yakatabune (traditional Japanese houseboat) reimagined with contemporary elegance.

Elegant counter seating aboard a luxury yakatabune for Tokyo Bay Exclusive Gourmet Cruise, where skilled chefs prepare fresh seasonal dishes as guests enjoy serene waterfront views

A Line-Up of Culinary Legends

Across three exclusive editions, this intimate cruise has welcomed some of Japan’s most celebrated chefs:

• Ginza Shinohara - Exquisite, artfully crafted kaiseki

• Sushi Namba - Masterful sushi precision

• Nikuya Tanaka - Legendary Wagyu craftsmanship

For the latest voyage, I joined the Wagyu Edition helmed by Satoru Tanaka, a titan in Japan’s beef world. On board, the spotlight shone on two exceptional long-raised cattle: 60-month female Matsuzaka beef and 48-month female Kobe beef - both revered for their marbling, depth of flavour, and melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Standout Dishes on the Water

The line-up was a testament to Tanaka’s artistry, paired with the shimmering backdrop of Tokyo’s night skyline:

• Wagyu Roll: Raw Matsuzaka beef marinated in kelp, wrapped with flounder sashimi from Aomori.

• Chateaubriand Sukiyaki: Unbelievably tender, luxuriously rich, and perfectly balanced.

• Matsuzaka Beef Stick Sushi: A decadent reinterpretation of sushi.

• Matsuzaka Beef Tempura: Crisp on the outside, juicy within.

Each dish celebrated premium Japanese ingredients with meticulous preparation and an attention to detail that rivalled any Michelin-starred dining room - only here, the city’s glittering skyline floated past your window.

City lights meet moonlit waters aboard a glowing yakatabune on Tokyo Bay

One-of-a-Kind Experience at Tokyo Bay Exclusive Gourmet Cruise

This is a by-inquiry-only event with limited seating, designed for those seeking one-of-a-kind culinary moments in Tokyo. Whether you are a devoted gourmet traveller or a Wagyu aficionado, this cruise delivers not just flavour, but a memory you will carry long after the plates are cleared.

Available by request → @toki.tokyo

Numazu Club: A Hidden Gem by Suruga Bay, Shizuoka

Located near the tranquil shores of Suruga Bay in Shizuoka, Numazu Club offers an unparalleled retreat where heritage meets contemporary luxury. This intimate hideaway, recognised with One Michelin Key, seamlessly blends history and modern comfort, making it a perfect escape for those seeking serenity and refinement.

A Historic Experience & Exclusive Accommodations

With only eight exclusive rooms, Numazu Club ensures an intimate experience surrounded by towering pines and an immaculately kept Japanese garden. The property is anchored by a beautifully preserved Meiji-era sukiya-style teahouse, which has been thoughtfully restored to retain its historical charm, while a modern annex provides sleek and understated accommodation. Every detail has been meticulously curated to evoke a sense of calm, from the traditional wooden architecture to the lush green surroundings.

The tranquil gardens within Numazu Club

Relax & Rejuvinate at the Refined Retreat

For those seeking relaxation, the outdoor bath and stone sauna offer a therapeutic escape, with open-air soaking experiences that allow guests to unwind amidst nature. The bath facilities at Numazu Club receive high praise, making it a destination worth visiting for those who appreciate the art of bathing.

The relaxing outdoor bath with an open roof

Gastronomic Delights at Chatei

Dining at Chatei, the hotel’s Chinese-inspired restaurant, is a highlight of the stay. Overseen by Ichirin-Hanare, a celebrated restaurant from Kamakura, the menu features a thoughtfully curated selection of seasonal delicacies. The dinner experience includes specialties such as drunken Shanghai crab, spicy "yodaredori" steamed chicken and delicately spiced mapo tofu, showcasing refined flavours with an elegant presentation. Breakfast continues this theme of sophistication, offering an array of local seafood, dim sum, and finely prepared small dishes, making each meal an experience to remember.

Drunken Shanghai crab, marinated in sweet Shaoxing wine

For a refined and tranquil retreat combining historical charm with modern luxury, Numazu Club stands as an exceptional hidden gem. Whether soaking in an outdoor bath, strolling through the pristine gardens, or indulging in an exquisite dining experience, every moment here is designed to be savoured.

Janu Tokyo: A Luxury Retreat in the Heart of Azabudai Hills

Located in the vibrant Azabudai Hills, Janu Tokyo offers an exquisite blend of modern luxury and personalised hospitality. Known for its sophisticated design and unparalleled service, Janu Tokyo has quickly become one of the top hotels in Tokyo for refined travellers.

An Unforgettable Birthday at Janu Tokyo

What began as a routine visit to the hotel for an article I was working on soon turned into an unforgettable birthday celebration, thanks to the incredible coordination between my husband and the Janu team. Navigating a long-distance marriage with my husband in Hong Kong, my expectations for a birthday celebration this year were modest. Yet, Janu Tokyo surprised me with an intimate birthday escape that felt like a dream come true.

A birthday surprise prepared by the Janu hotel staff

A Personalised Experience Like No Other

After a delightful tasting session at Janu Patisserie, the hotel manager casually offered a room tour, leading us through a discreet entrance into a beautifully appointed corner suite. To my astonishment, the room was adorned with delicate flower petals, setting the perfect tone for a serene birthday getaway.

The personalised hospitality at Janu Tokyo was evident from the seamless check-in process to the impeccable in-room dining experience. I spent the day relaxing by the expansive pool and massage treatments at their Wellness Centre, followed by a private dinner and leisurely breakfast.

A rose petal filled bath tub

Aperitifs at Janu Bar: A Sip of Luxury

At Janu Bar, located within Janu Tokyo, we experienced a masterclass in mixology. The menu, curated by Shuzo Nagumo, features cocktails inspired by Tokyo’s diverse neighbourhoods. We sampled the non-alcoholic Well-Scent, a refreshing blend of Assam tea, chardonnay, and wellness clarified green air, as well as the vibrant Giverny, a complex mix of Nema absinthe, coconut water, kiwi, and passion fruit.

Dinner at Hu Jing: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Dinner at Hu Jing, the signature Chinese restaurant at Janu Tokyo, offered a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. A standout dish was the Sichuan-inspired Yodaredori, poached chicken with a spicy sauce, now enhanced with a nutty dukkah spice kick. The chef’s skillful use of high-quality ingredients and bold flavours made it a memorable culinary experience, complementing the hotel’s refined atmosphere.

Sushi at Iigura: Elevated Edomae Omakase

Iigura offers a refined yet approachable take on omakase, led by Chef Shinohara, whose chance encounter with a sushi master in his teens set him on a lifelong path in the craft. The multi-course experience highlights seasonal seafood with flair - standout bites include the truffle and abalone hand-roll - all served in an elegant, high-ceilinged space.

Breakfast at Janu Mercato: A Perfect Start to the Day

We enjoyed a relaxing breakfast at Janu Mercato, with our pooch, Qoo the Pomchi, joining us on the dog-friendly terrace. The Focaccia Sandwich, filled with caponata, chicken breast, genovese sauce, and raclette, was a hearty delight, while the Avocado Toast, topped with red cabbage rapee, poached egg, roasted cumin seed, and lime, offered a refreshing twist.

Janu Patisserie: Sweet Moments of Connection

At Janu Patisserie, the Januron steals the show - a decadent macaron nearly four times the size of a typical one, crafted for sharing and connection. Available in four pastel-hued flavours, the matcha variation features a delicately aromatic matcha white chocolate ganache, making it the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with loved ones.

Why Janu Tokyo is a Must-Visit

For anyone seeking a luxurious and personalised experience in Tokyo, Janu Tokyo is truly a destination that stands out. The hotel’s commitment to creating meaningful, effortless experiences makes it the perfect choice for those looking to unwind and connect, whether for a special occasion or simply to escape the demands of daily life.

Stunning view of Tokyo Tower from the lounge area

This unforgettable birthday experience was a true reflection of the magic Janu Tokyo brings to life - from the heartfelt gestures of the team to the personalised touches throughout the weekend, it’s clear that this hotel is setting a new standard for modern luxury hospitality.