Axel's take: 8.8/10
Choose it for polished comfort and excellent rail connections, not resort-style facilities. a polished 5-star high-rise hotel beside Shinagawa Station, scored for what it is.
The Strings is a polished 5-star high-rise beside Shinagawa Station, and we'd choose it for a comfortable Tokyo base with exceptionally practical transport links. A covered walkway connects the hotel to the station for airport trains and Shinkansen departures. Recent Tripadvisor and Expedia guests repeatedly praise spotless rooms, helpful staff and the breakfast buffet. Comfortable beds and elevated city views strengthen the appeal, though the outlook depends on your room.
The trade-off is that this feels more like an upscale business base than a full-service urban resort: there's no pool or spa, and guests describe a small gym. Room sizes vary considerably, so check the exact category rather than assuming five-star means spacious. Shinagawa suits getting around better than nightlife on your doorstep. We'd skip it if extensive leisure facilities or a lively neighborhood are priorities.
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Best for: business travelers; travelers connecting to Shinkansen trains; couples prioritizing comfort and transport
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Watch out for: no pool or spa; small gym; room sizes and views vary
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Location: Covered station access makes airport transfers and onward rail journeys particularly convenient.
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Rooms: Comfortable and well maintained; IHG lists Classic rooms ranging from 23 to 38 square meters.
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Cleanliness: A consistent strength across recent guest reviews, with especially strong Expedia cleanliness ratings.
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Service: Helpful, professional staff earn repeated praise; occasional check-in complaints are not the dominant picture.
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Amenities: Restaurants, a bar, a 24-hour gym and a club lounge for eligible bookings; no pool or spa.
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Fees and surprises: Parking and extra beds cost extra; check whether breakfast and club access are included.
Axel's opinion of The Strings by InterContinental Tokyo by IHG, from the hotel's website and recent guest reviews. Sources: Hotel website · Tripadvisor · Expedia · Booking.com. Reviewed Oct 15, 2026.