Junko Hama (浜 順子), hotel public relations

Back in 2012 I was working on a story about hotels and architecture or something. One of the buildings I wanted to focus on was the iconic Tokyo Station hotel so I got in contact, hoping to speak to the General Manager only to get fobbed off with teh PR lady, a Ms Junko Hama (浜 順子). After a flurry of emails, I sent her a few questions that I hoped with generate a few useable quotes. Here they are. Enjoy! (Note I haven't corrected her English).

Liddell: Why was it necessary to close the hotel for so long?

Hama: The Tokyo Station hotel is in the Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building. Due to preservation and restoration of Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building, our hotel was temporary closed since 2006.

Liddell: What is the biggest change made to the hotel?

Hama: Our hotel will be fully remodeled and reopen for business on October 3, 2012. Before hotel closed, hotel’s total area space are was 5,600 square meters, and will be 20,400 square meters since Oct 3. The hotel offers 150 rooms (before closing, 58 rooms) and 10 variety venue, fitness & spa, banquet rooms and others.

Liddell: What kind of market will the hotel be focusing on? Why?

Hama: We welcome serve not only Japan but also overseas. Tokyo Station Marunouchi building was opened in 1914. Over the century, Tokyo Station was designated by the Important Cultural property of Japan in 2006 and fully reservation and restoration since Oct 1. We aim that Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building will be very important sightseeing spot in Japan.

Liddell: The Hotel is very much part of the original "Iccho London" area. What is the appeal of British style and atmosphere for Japanese people? Why is it so popular?

Hama: Our hotel is not part of the original “Iccho London.” We aimed our hotel décor blends sophisticated elements of Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building. Interior design by the respected British firm Richmond International Ltd., hailed for numerous successful renovations of historic properties, honors the history of the station building while incorporating the functionality and facilities demanded of a modern hotel.

Liddell: How does the Hotel fit into the Otemachi-Marunouchi-Yurakucho Area Management Plan? Is it the centerpiece? What do you think of this area plan?

Hama: We will have a good relationship Marunouchi developer with our owner company, JR east railway company. The Tokyo Station Hotel is part of the hotel of Nippon Hotel corporation. Nippon Hotel corporation is associated company of JR east railway company.

Liddell: What makes this part of Tokyo special?

Hama: We aim our hotel and Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building will be important part of sightseeing spot and symbol of central city, Tokyo.