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Daniela Aroche
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Spicing it Up: MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA on How it Adds Artistic Flair to Your Japanese Journey

A contemporary oasis of modern comfort, a place to sample Shimokata’s true flavour – and a creative sanctuary for local talent. Welcome to MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA.

Right in the heart of Tokyo’s eclectic Shimokitazawa (‘Shimokita’) district, and based on a revolutionary concept where buzzing Tokyo city is a hot dog and MUSTARD™ HOTEL is the missing ingredient – this property is a new experience from the get-go. 

A contemporary haven unlike any other – envisioned by the acclaimed General Design – it’s a dynamic blend of sleek modernity and cosy warmth, and its distinctive approach to customer journeys sets it apart from the ordinary.

Opened in 2021 and set to celebrate its third anniversary in September 2024, MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA has quickly become a favourite amongst its guests, and a destination that’s not just a homey urban hub for those that arrive – but also a vibrant cultural hotspot where creativity and comfort converge. 

Without giving too much away – here are the basics – although you can barely call them that with all there is to offer. 

As you step into this artistic sanctuary, you're greeted by a fusion of stylish bunk beds and luxurious suites with private balconies, each crafted to enhance your stay with a touch of unique charm.

Making sure you’re in tune with your surroundings and whatever type of trip you’re on while you’re in Tokyo, every room is also equipped with a retro record player, complemented by a curated selection of over 300 vinyl records available for rent, transforming your stay into a personalised auditory adventure.

Sound good? There’s more. Throughout the hotel you’ll find that the spaces buzz with an ever-changing gallery of art exhibitions and live performances, reflecting the energetic pulse of Tokyo's creative scene, with each corner of the MUSTARD™ HOTEL wonderland thoughtfully designed to immerse you in a world where art and innovation are part of the daily rhythm.

Mornings at the hotel begin with artisanal coffee from The Sidewalk Coffee Roasters – one of the best and most well-known caffeine clubs in ‘Shimokita’ – setting you up perfectly for a day of exploration in one of Tokyo’s most dynamic neighbourhoods. 

Post outing, as the sun sets, its cool Bar Kurage offers a chilled atmosphere where craft beers and natural wines flow, creating the ideal backdrop for lively conversations with locals and newfound friends, or a nice spot to just unwind, reflecting on your day of exploration.

We could go on, but in essence, it’s this brilliant blend of sophisticated amenities, cutting-edge meets comfortable accomodations, and arty, engaging social spaces which all ensures that your experience at MUSTARD™ HOTEL is somehow relaxing, invigorating and enriching all in one.

Conveniently located just moments from Higashikitazawa and Shimokitazawa stations, this hotel also places you at the centre of a district known for its youthful energy, flair and creativity - which makes it an ideal base.

There’s more to love, and plenty to discover – particularly an exceptional and one-of-a-kind project called CREATORS IN MUSTARD™, which it runs like a hotel version of an artist-in-residence program. 

This fascinating feature is one of the many things that sets this property apart, but a signature and standout venture created by MUSTARD™ HOTEL giving exhibitors a unique stage for their works – and something that fits perfectly MUSTARD™ HOTEL’s artistic essence – as Shohei Yoshida, General Manager of MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA goes on to explain here to Locay. 

It’s also one of the key things that makes MUSTARD™ HOTEL Shimokitazawa a must-visit for those seeking to dive into Tokyo's avant-garde spirit, and looking for a little (or a lot) of something different on their Japanese escape. 

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The concept of the MUSTARD™ HOTEL is definitely different. Could you tell us a little bit more about it? How did the idea for this concept come about? 

The concept itself is that MUSTARD™ HOTEL was to become the secret ingredient of the city, and the MUSTARD™ HOTEL would be the so-called ‘mustard’.

Let me explain. If you compare the whole city to a hot dog, the ketchup and sausage will be the information that everyone wants and will be mainstream or essential, but ‘mustard’ is not necessary for those who do not need it, but for those who want it, it will feel that something is missing, if they don’t have it.

The MUSTARD™ HOTEL may not be able to become a landmark in the city in terms of scale, but it was born from the desire to aim for a kind of existence that creates a decisive factor in the taste of the city, which would add something special to the experience.

What is the history of MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA? 

We opened in September 2021 and will celebrate our third anniversary in September 2024.

The hotel suffered from the impact of the coronavirus for the first two years, but since then it has become an international hotel, with more than 80% inbound guests from abroad.

What can guests experience at MUSTARD™ HOTEL and what makes it unique?

One of the things that is unique about our hotel is that you can enjoy about 300 records at the front desk with a record player installed in all guest rooms.

There are many record shops scattered around Shimokitazawa, so there are many people who immediately listen to the records they purchased in their rooms.

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"The MUSTARD™ HOTEL may not be able to become a landmark in the city in terms of scale, but it was born from the desire to aim for a kind of existence that creates a decisive factor in the taste of the city, which would add something special to the experience."

MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA has an amazing artist-in-residence program, and constant, ongoing art exhibitions and live performances. Could you tell us more about this? 

At Mustard Hotel, there is a project called CREATORS IN MUSTARD™, which is like a hotel version of an artist-in-residence program.

In exchange for supporting accommodation expenses for people based in rural areas of Japan and overseas artists visiting Tokyo for work or production, they’ll provide works and designs, and live performances.

Who organises the artist-in-residence program?

This program is mainly planned by the person in charge, but the entire team of MUSTARD™ HOTEL and GREENING Co., Ltd., which operates MUSTARD™ Hotel, have various connections, so the planner is different each time.

How long does it take to create an artist-in-residence project, what is the process and how does it work?

It depends on the form of production, so it’s difficult to say, but the main production period is about three months to half a year.

While respecting the artist's style first, we carefully reconcile the affinity with the MUSTARD™ HOTEL.

After that, depending on the scale of the exhibition or event, we will produce goods and carry out various forms of publicity.

How do you select the artists to participate in the project?

Whether the artists are famous or unknown is not so important. We select artists who have an affinity with the MUSTARD™ HOTEL.

We often receive introductions to other artists from artists we have selected in the past and featured in the past. This is how our project develops and continues.

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What will guests be able to experience overall during their stay at MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA?

The neighbourhood we are in is a residential area, so by staying at MUSTARD™ HOTEL you can experience it like a local.

We also want guests to not only stay at the hotel but also enjoy the city to the fullest, so we are also implementing measures that allow guests to get discounts and other benefits at nearby shops and facilities by presenting it as part of their room key. 

How does the MUSTARD™ HOTEL artist-in-residence project affect the overall atmosphere and experience of the hotel?

The CREATORS IN MUSTARD™ artist-in-residence project, we believe brings in freshness, new discoveries and inspiration to our guests.

Hotels are more of a lodging facility, but we believe that good inspiration through art and creativity can make your memories of your trip more intense and vivid.

What are the best places to visit near MUSTARD™ HOTEL SHIMOKITAZAWA? Tell us about your favourite place. 

There are many attractive shops in the area, so I dare to introduce you to the cafes Sidewalk Coffee Roasters and Bar Kurage.

Needless to say, the quality of the products in both stores is high, and the atmosphere is outstanding.

Starting your day with the best coffee and breakfast at Sidewalk Coffee Roasters and closing with a drink at Bar Kurage is the ultimate luxury and makes your MUSTARD™ HOTEL experience even better.

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