OKINAWA
Photos by Eddie Marczewski

Photos by Eddie Marczewski ()

To celebrate our wedding anniversary this year, my wife and I spent the night at the New Sanno Hotel in Tokyo.

The New Sanno is an MWR hotel near Hiro Station and you must show your military ID to enter the premises. The hotel features three restaurants, a Navy Exchange, a Navy Exchange Mini Mart and two retail stores selling gifts and souvenirs. There is also a small gym, swimming pool and jacuzzi perfect for relaxing after a long day in the city.

As you enter the main entrance there is a beautiful water fountain, which is lit up with multicolor lights at night. In the main lobby, a baby grand piano, fireplace and comfortable chairs greet guests. Don’t miss the beautiful Christmas tree display they put up every holiday season. The friendly staff at the hotel speak English and check-in is a breeze. Room rates are based on military rank, so check ahead online or with the reservation line when booking. Our twin suite was spacious and had a large TV with many stations, which reminded me of being home in the States. For dinner, we made our way to the Emporium restaurant just off the lobby. The American family-style restaurant has a vast menu with reasonable prices. My wife went with a delicious Italian meat lasagna. My daughter, who joined us, had babyback ribs. After dinner we enjoyed a cocktail at the Fairwinds Lounge. When it was finally time for bed, we were pleasantly surprised to find that the rooms are very quiet, despite being in the heart of Tokyo. We awoke in the morning refreshed and with time to enjoy the Emporium’s breakfast buffet, which starts at 6:30 a.m. and costs $12.95 per person.

The breakfast buffet had many options, including eggs, bacon, grits, sausage, pancakes, cereals, juices, an omelet station and more. We enjoyed our stay at the New Sanno and recommend it. This place brings back memories of the United States and makes you feel at home. You will be well taken care of at the New Sanno.

Book your stay Address: 4 Chome-12-20 Minamiazabu, Minato City, Tokyo 106-0047 Website Phone number: 229-8001(DSN), 03- 6868-2311 (local Japan number)

The best stories from the Pacific, in your inbox

Sign up for our weekly newsletter of articles from Japan, Korea, Guam, and Okinawa with travel tips, restaurant reviews, recipes, community and event news, and more.

Sign Up Now