Tokyo's hotel pools 2014

The summer issue of our magazine introduced you to Tokyo staycations like horseback riding and urban camping, but if you're someone who mainly associates the word 'vacation' with a relaxing day by the pool, then there's no beating the many swimming spots found in hotel gardens all over our beloved city. These mini-resorts provide everything from gorgeous views to nighttime light-ups and cocktail service, and are open to both hotel guests and visitors. If you have time and some extra cash, why not take this opportunity to swim in the heart of Tokyo?

Keio Plaza Hotel Sky Pool

Jun 28-Sep 15 | Keio Plaza Hotel
Take a break and swim in the midst of Shinjuku's concrete jungle. Prices vary by the hour - it's a bargain to come on weekdays after 5pm and enjoy the seventh-floor Sky Pool for only ¥1,200. Ladies get half off (¥2,000) and a free mini bottle of body lotion from L'Occitane every Tuesday (except for Aug 12).
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ANA InterContinental Tokyo Garden Pool

Jun 28-Sep 30 | ANA InterContinental Tokyo
The ANA InterContinental Hotel at Roppongi's Ark Hills opens up its luxury garden pool for the summer months, providing a rare opportunity for aquatic entertainment with views of Tokyo Tower and the surrounding skyscrapers. The 20x13m pool is spacious on Tokyo standards, while the surrounding deck area is great for hanging out and enjoying a few drinks in the sun. Finally, the nighttime light-up is a worthy combo of big-city aesthetics and a resort atmosphere.
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Tokyo Prince Hotel Swimming Pool

Jul 1-Sep 7 | Tokyo Prince Hotel
Fancy a dip in the shadow of Tokyo Tower? The Prince Hotel's 25m outdoor pool is your destination, as it's appropriate for both serious swimmers and those looking for a more laid-back spot. When you're done with the two-lane pool, spread out over the spacious lawn and soak up the sun.
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Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa Outdoor Pool

Jul 5-Aug 31 | Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa
Shinagawa's Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa boasts two outdoor pools, with the spacious Sky Pool perfect for family fun and the relaxed Diamond Pool catering to more mature tastes. The latter is located inside the hotel's exquisite Japanese garden, making for a unique urban swimming experience.
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Hotel Okura Green Oasis

Jul 5-Sep 15 | Hotel Okura Tokyo
The agelessly classy Hotel Okura's pool is equipped with stylish wooden deck chairs, making it a nice spot for some exclusive book-reading or other relaxing activities. The prices are steep to say the least, but become slightly more reasonable after 3pm. Regular visitors can sign up for 'membership' as well.
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Hotel East 21Tokyo Garden Pool

Jul 11-Aug 31 | Hotel East 21Tokyo
Swim like royalty in one of the most gorgeous garden pools in Tokyo. On top of the two open-air pools, you can also dip in a warm jacuzzi and enjoy nibbles and cocktails at the garden café.
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Grand Pacific Le Daiba Terrace Pool/Grand Pool

Jul 12-Aug 31 | Grand Pacific Le Daiba
Swim while marvelling at the Rainbow Bridge – this Odaiba pool is one of the most luxurious in Tokyo. It's equipped with food and drink stalls, and provides gorgeous views of the entire Odaiba area and Tokyo Bay.
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Tokyo Dome Hotel Garden Pool

Jul 19-Aug 31 | Tokyo Dome Hotel
Feel like a relaxing swim before the baseball game? Head up to the rooftop of the Tokyo Dome Hotel, which opens up its outdoor pool for the summer. The shiny white poolside should provide for a few laid-back moments in the sun, too.
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Hotel New Otani Garden Pool

Jul 19-Sep 7 | Hotel New Otani
Forget you’re in the big city at the New Otani’s expansive (and expensive) outdoor pool, decorated like a tropical resort and featuring a fun poolside restaurant serving West Coast-style burgers and fruity cocktails.
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Pool by Night / The O Lounge

Jul 25-Sep 6 | Hotel New Otani
If you're not too excited about swimming with a bunch of noisy kids but still want to experience the New Otani's Garden Pool, then this nighttime event should prove satisfactory. The pool will be lit up, while bossa nova and DJ gigs will take place from Monday to Friday. There's also a bar and restaurant by the pool, so you'll be able to spend all evening here if you like.
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