By Kim P. Alden
4 Star Hotels Near the Kinokuniya Bookstore
If you are looking for books about Japanese culture or history or a Japanese comic book or magazine, Kinokuniya Bookstore will have what you want. This international bookseller specializes in publications related to Japan, whether historic or modern. As you would expect, many are in Japanese, but there are plenty of titles in English. Kinokuniya has shops in several locations in the
United States and around the world. In
San Francisco, the large store is located at 1581 Webster Street, in the heart of the city's Japantown. Take your time browsing the shelves at Kinokuniya Bookstore and exploring Japantown; then return to the comfort of your four star hotel. There are several good ones nearby.
Hotel Nikko
This chic modern hotel provides a luxurious stay. Each of the 533 suites and guest rooms has Subarashee Yume luxury beds that were designed just for Hotel Nikko. Frette linens and down comforters complete the bedding ensemble. Rooms have flat screen television, wireless Internet access, CD players, large desks and spacious bathrooms. The top floor Imperial Club rooms offer special amenities: secure key access to the area, plush robes, a Vibe TV in the bathroom and use of the Imperial Club Lounge. Guests can enjoy the indoor pool and whirlpool in the solarium. The health club is free for guests in the Imperial Club rooms. Otherwise, there is a ten-dollar charge per day to enjoy this amenity. Anzu, the Nikko's acclaimed restaurant, offers EuroJapanese cuisine. The hotel's Rrazz Room is a stylish bar that serves cocktails and light dishes and often features entertainment.
Hotel Nikko
222 Mason St.
San Francisco, California 94102
(415) 394-1111
hotelnikkosf.com/
The Serrano Hotel
The Serrano is a lovely boutique hotel in a restored Spanish revival building. The 236 designer rooms and suites feature plush bedding, high ceilings, over-sized windows and cherry wood furnishings. Vibrantly colored and whimsical accents add to the charm. Amenities include Aveda bath products, complimentary wireless Internet access, iPod docking stations, cordless phones with voicemail, thick bathrobes, honor bars, flat screen televisions with Nintendo and on-demand movies and an in-room safe. Particularly delightful is the "Wicked Suite." Decorated in shades of purple and green, this suite was designed in honor of the musical play "Wicked" and overlooks San Francisco's theatre district. A variety of amenities are available especially for children. The Pet Palace package pampers dogs in royal style for an additional $189. Guests can visit the hotel's fitness center or enjoy in-room spa services. Ponzu Restaurant, adjacent to the hotel, serves Asian fusion cuisine. The Serrano Hotel is a non-smoking facility.
The Serrano Hotel
405 Taylor St.
San Francisco, California 94102
(415) 885-2500
serranohotel.com/
The Westin St. Francis
The venerable St. Francis has been a favorite San Francisco hotel since the beginning of the 20th century. It has hosted many notable dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II, Mother Teresa, the Shah of Iran and Emperor Hirohito of Japan. Almost all of the United States presidents since President Taft have stayed at the St. Francis. The service is, of course, impeccable. Westin has renovated the hotel without losing any of its historic elegance. Each of the 1195 suites and rooms has the Westin "Heavenly Bed," an array of amenities and is decorated in Empire style. Children get special attention and treats just for them, and babysitting services can be arranged. The Westin St. Francis has a spa and health club with in-room spa treatments available. This large hotel has plenty of dining opportunities with Michael Mina Restaurant, the famous Oak Room Restaurant and Lounge, Caruso's and the Clock Bar. The Westin St. Francis is a smoke-free hotel.
The Westin St. Francis
335 Powell Street
San Francisco, California 94102
(415) 397-7000
westinstfrancis.com/
Resources
About the Author:
A professional writer and editor for more than 25 years, Kim Alden is also a certified yoga therapist who has lectured in and traveled to many parts of the world. She combines her travel savvy with natural health and yoga expertise to write for various online publications. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX.
Photo Credits:
Rich Niewiroski Jr.
