You’ve likely heard of MUJI, the Japanese eco-minded minimalist brand that specializes in household goods, apparel & food that are modern, simplistic, and high-quality.

MUJI encapsulates an entire lifestyle philosophy so it’s only natural that they would expand into the world of hotels with MUJI Hotel. We had a chance to stay at their location in Tokyo’s posh Ginza district (an equivalent of sorts to New York’s Fifth Avenue or London’s Soho). This is MUJI’s third location, with two others located in China.

Watch the video and continue reading for a rundown of our experience.

IT MAKES SENSE IN GINZA

In Ginza, MUJI Hotel finds itself alongside some of the world’s premier luxury brands. Although MUJI products themselves do not necessarily connote the same luxury as Tiffany or Rolex, they are premium goods geared toward customers who value quality and brand name. Given its location — and price point — it’s clear that MUJI Hotel is targeting the more affluent traveller. You’re also able to get some shopping done as it’s connected directly to a 6-floor store with a few dining options on site (but little else in the way of hotel amenities — there’s no MUJI pool or fitness centre here).

INTERESTING LAYOUTS

Hotel real estate is valuable in a city like Tokyo, so at MUJI Hotel they’ve really optimized the available space. The room type we stayed in was actually just over 2m wide, and 25m deep. Long but not narrow, they managed to create a functional layout that felt bright and open, with enough storage and seating that you could be comfortable hunkering down to get work done, or spending a lazy morning in. MUJI’s signature Earth tones really helped to bring a sense of calm to the space.

FREEBIES

Don’t feel guilty about packing that hotel toothbrush! MUJI provides its guests with a list of items that they can take home. They’re all available at the MUJI store, so this is a great way to test-run essential items like combs and facial toners. At check-in, they even ask you for your preference of essential oil to use in the diffuser included in each room (though you aren’t allowed to take that one home, sorry!)

A NATURAL EXTENSION OF THE MUJI BRAND

If you’ve ever shopped at a MUJI store and dreamt of spending the night, MUJI Hotel offers you that sleep-over experience. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the MUJI lifestyle and surrounding upscale Ginza district. There are a ton of places to stay in Tokyo, and while this one wasn’t the cheapest, if you’re a fan of MUJI or just looking to get some design inspiration, the MUJI Hotel may be for you!