The commencement of construction of The Peninsula Tokyo, which is scheduled to open in 2007, was celebrated today by a traditional Shinto ceremony at the site of the future hotel in the Marunouchi district. The planned 315-key property will be the eighth in The Peninsula Hotels’ portfolio of branded hotels.
Officiating at the event were the respective chairmen and board members of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited (HSH) and its partner in The Peninsula Tokyo project, Mitsubishi Estate Company Limited (MEC). The event was also attended by executives from the building architect, Mitsubishi Jisho Sekkei Inc., the general contractor, Taisei Corporation, the interior designer Brennan Beer Gorman Monk/Interiors, and by invited guests from Chiyoda Ward’s community.

Commenting at the groundbreaking, HSH chief executive officer, Clement Kwok said, “The development of The Peninsula Tokyo is an important and exciting step in the long term development of The Peninsula Hotels. We are delighted to be adding a top quality hotel in such a prime area of Marunouchi, to meet the demands of both local and international guests.”

The exterior design of the 24-storey hotel, to be built on a triangular site near the intersection of Hibiya-dori and Harumi-dori, will be classic in form, with views of some of the city’s notable landmarks. Thanks to the brand’s high recognition among Japanese consumers, The Peninsula Tokyo is expected to attract substantial domestic patronage as well as international corporate and leisure business.

MEC has been implementing a major revitalisation initiative to turn Marunouchi district into a sophisticated centre for retail and entertainment as well as commercial activities. Commenting on the development of The Peninsula on this prime site, MEC president and chief executive officer, Mr Shigeru Takagi said, “The Peninsula Tokyo plays an important role in the grand reform of Marunouchi. It will serve as the gateway to Yurakucho and Marunouchi, helping to create an axis of energy in the area.”

Among the facilities within the hotel will be: a signature Peninsula Lobby serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and afternoon tea; four further food and beverage outlets; a full complement of function rooms ranging from a main ballroom and extensive wedding suite to smaller meeting and banquet rooms; a swimming pool and spa including a Fitness Centre; retail; and a Peninsula Boutique.
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