In 1968, the world lost one of its greatest built masterpieces and earliest examples of Mayan revival architecture: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Imperial Hotel, Tokyo. The symmetrical concrete and oya building, which combined Eastern and Western architecture, was demolished in the late ’60s to make way for a high-rise building, leaving few physical remnants of the building. Originally built in 1923, the entrance and lobby were saved and reconstructed at the Meiji Mura architecture museum in Nagoya, though there are very few ways to truly experience what it was like inside the monumental complex. However, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Wright’s version of the hotel, Imperial Hotel, Tokyo, is offering guests the chance to do just that by opening the doors to another small piece of the original building: The Frank Lloyd Wright (R) Suite.
Located within the new high-rise structure, for $10,800 a night, guests can book the 2,303-square-feet room, which is outfitted in original designs and architectural motifs from the demolished structure. The suite overlooks Hibiya Park and Imperial Palace gardens and includes a living room, a dining room, and a bedroom. According to a press release, the apartment-like accommodations make use of original carpets, furniture, and lighting from Wright’s Imperial Hotel design while also taking inspiration from the architect’s private residence in the United States. Other Wright-specific details include his wall decorations, ceiling moldings, and furniture. Additionally, the suite was also designed to capture Wright’s specifications for the light and air flow throughout the space.
Though the room has existed since 2005, this is the first time the hotel is opening it up for an exclusive stay, which is available from January 24, 2023, until March 31, 2024. According to the Southeast Asia publication Travel Life Magazine, the accommodations have historically only been available on an as-request basis and few travelers are granted permission to book the room. In addition to the opportunity to stay in the one-of-a-kind suite, the package also includes a daily drink at Old Imperial Bar, another Wright tribute within the hotel, which features recreated design motifs from the original building. Those in Tokyo who still want to experience some of Wright’s genius without staying in the Frank Lloyd Wright (R) Suite can stop by the hotel’s exhibition space, where it is currently displaying The Wright Imperial; a Century and Beyond, featuring furniture, staff uniforms, and other memorabilia from Wright’s building.
