Dai Ichi Hotel Annex, Tokyo

I've stayed at my fair share of hotels in Tokyo; they're all roughly the same. Not much personality, but very clean, modern and efficient. That said, the Dai-Ichi Annex was quite a find for my and my boyfriend. First of all, the location is fabulous. Just a couple blocks from Shimbashi station which is on several major subway lines. Shimbashi is also fairly central, so it's easy to get to just about anywhere in Tokyo with one or two transfers.

The service was exceptional, with English speaking desk clerks who were happy to provide info about where to get a Citibank ATM (they gave us a xeroxed map), or the nearest noodle house. The rooms were spacious (for Tokyo, standard for U.S.) and modern, with curtains you could control from the bedside. We marveled at how little sound we heard from the train tracks below.

There is plenty within walking distance, including the best yakitori I've had in my life (underneath the Shimbashi Station train tracks...just follow your nose; you can't miss it). Don't miss the Tully's coffeeshop down the block either, it's a great stop for coffee and a little slice of home.

We happened to find a great price of about $150 a night (part of a package deal), but this hotel's prices seem to be very competitive for Tokyo in general. Even if you're an independent traveler, this is a great option for Americans staying in Tokyo!