The box-like multi-story building housing the Shinjuku Granbell Hotel has an unremarkable exterior, but its interiors reveal a few surprises. The large floor-to-ceiling windows let in lots of natural light, and the high lobby ceilings create an impression of spaciousness. The dark-gray tiled floors and black reception counters contrast with the warm tones of the wood paneling of the upper walls. Colorful murals, and chic fashion prints on the walls provide vibrant accents, and the large navy-blue contemporary-style sofa and cozy high-backed armchairs add to the hip vibe. The trendy bar on the 13th floor draws many locals, as do the free DJ nights hosted at the cafe on the second floor. The hotel draws a young crowd, especially couples and friends traveling together. 

Shinjuku is the heart of Tokyo's nightlife, and the Kabukicho entertainment district with its many adult bars and clubs, is within a few minutes' walk. This area is also known for its many “love hotels," and there are several supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants in the immediate vicinity. Transportation links are excellent: Higashi-shinjuku subway station is about a five-minute walk away, and Shinjuku train station is a 10-minute walk  Many of the city's attractions can be easily reached by subway or train.

• Six-minute walk to Kabukicho entertainment district
• Seven-minute walk to Higashi-shinjuku Subway Station
• Nine-minute walk to Shinjuku San-Chome subway station
• 14-minute walk to Shinjuku train station
• 17-minute drive to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
• 25 minutes to Meiji Shrine by train
• 28 minutes to Yoyogi Park by public transportation
• 30 minutes to Tokyo Imperial Palace by public transportation
• 32-minute drive to Tokyo International Airport (49 minutes by public transit)

All of the 380 rooms and suites at Shinjuku Granbell Hotel show the influence of a different designer, but they all have the same contemporary vibe. The decor is minimalist and devoid of bright colors, with navy blue and black dominating. But the rooms are bright, and the vibrant mahogany wood floors add warmth and contrast well with the stylish mahogany furniture trimmed with black. Large flat-screen TVs are embedded in the walls, and all rooms come with electric kettles, mini-fridges (but no minibar snacks), iPod docks with speakers, and free Wi-Fi. 

The luxurious bathrooms are separated from the bedrooms by glass walls and are filled with light from the large windows. They include soaking bathtubs, separate shower stalls, rectangular vessel sinks, large mirrors, and electronically controlled toilets. Some rooms have Japanese-style bathrooms with separate wet-room-style spaces with both showers and full-size bathtubs enclosed in the same space.

More expensive rooms, such as the Luxury Designer Double with Kitchen and the Suites are equipped with kitchenettes that include stove tops, microwave ovens, sinks and even washing machines. Many rooms have scenic city views, and a few have unexpected extras, like an open-air shower enclosed in an inner courtyard, sleeping lofts, and added luxuries like Francis Francis coffee machines, and stereo systems. 

Lower-priced rooms can be cramped, while the much roomier suites include spacious living areas, and contemporary-style sofas and lamps. Triple rooms have lofts and are suitable for families (but have a maximum of three guests). Suites can accommodate up to two guests.

Some features usually expected of a four-pearl property are absent at Shinjuku Granbell Hotel, such as an on-site pool, spa, or fitness center. Breakfast, a buffet of Japanese and Western dishes, is not included in the room rate. G, the on-site restaurant, serves French and Italian fare, while the Live Cafe G serves beverages throughout the day, and is the venue of the weekly DJ nights. The rooftop bar, 13F, is a trendy local nightspot and offers scenic views of the Tokyo skyline. The hotel also has an art gallery featuring exhibitions of contemporary art. Guests staying in Executive Rooms or Suites have access to the exclusive Club Lounge, where free drinks and snacks are available, along with evening cocktails. Other handy services include a coin-operated laundry, and in-room massages which can be arranged for an extra fee. Free Wi-Fi  is available throughout the hotel.