TRUNK(HOTEL) CAT STREET

TRUNK(HOTEL) sits on Cat Street, the pedestrian lane of independent shops and cafés that links Shibuya and Harajuku, and it was conceived around the idea of socialising: a hotel where locals and guests mix rather than a sealed-off retreat. The hotel describes its aim as helping people live true to themselves with a life-sized social purpose, and that philosophy shapes everything from the sourcing of materials to the busy ground floor. This was the first TRUNK(HOTEL), and the group has since opened a second hotel near Yoyogi Park.

The ground floor is the heart of the place. TRUNK(LOUNGE), with its bar and a room known as ROOM101, is designed as a third place for the neighbourhood, so it buzzes with people working, meeting and drinking from morning to late evening. TRUNK(STORE) sells a curated selection of goods made by local producers and designers, and many of the furnishings and amenities in the hotel use recycled or locally made materials.

Dining is a strength. TRUNK(KITCHEN) serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as an all-day restaurant, while TRUNK(KUSHI), which the hotel calls Shibuya soul food, focuses on yakitori and grilled skewers. Both have their own reservation lines and are popular with non-residents, so book ahead for dinner. The guest rooms upstairs are calmer, with warm wood, natural textures and a relaxed, residential feel across a range of room types.

Rates are higher than standard mid-range options, reflecting the design and location, so it suits couples, creative professionals and travellers who want to be part of the neighbourhood rather than watching it from a distance. Light sleepers should note that the lounge and street can be lively in the evening, although the rooms are well insulated. It is a good base for shopping, cafés and nightlife, and the lounge makes a useful meeting point even if you are staying elsewhere.

The hotel is at 5-31 Jingumae, about ten minutes' walk from Shibuya Station and a similar distance from Meiji-jingumae Station on the Chiyoda and Fukutoshin lines. Omotesando, Harajuku, Meiji Jingu and Yoyogi Park are all within walking distance, and the bars of Shibuya, including The SG Club, are a short walk south.