- Luxury Apartments in Tokyo
- MORI LIVING Diary
- A Footbath in the Sky
MORI LIVING Diary
A Footbath in the Sky
February 10, 2010
On one end of the rooftop terrace is a traditional Japanese ashiyu, or footbath.
The entire balcony area around the footbath can also be reserved by residents for private parties or barbecues.
The 24-story tower is surrounded by government buildings, including the National Diet building, the Supreme Court, the National Library, and the Imperial Palace.
The area around Hirakawacho is not necessarily one of the first places that comes to mind when thinking of where to build a new luxury high-rise apartment and office building in Tokyo. But MORI LIVING did just that with Hirakawacho Mori Tower Residence, completed last December.
The 24-story tower is surrounded by government buildings, including the National Diet building, the Supreme Court, the National Library, and the Imperial Palace. All of these buildings, plus the Tokyo Sky Tree (due to be completed in 2012), are visible from the Sky Lounge and rooftop terrace on the top floor of Hirakawacho Mori Tower.
"There is a rule in Tokyo that says you can't build tall buildings near the palace, because you're not allowed to have a view of the palace," says residence manager Ippei Fujieda. "This building fall just barely within the guidelines."
But a great view isn't the only thing this building has to offer. There are also several health benefits that are unique amongst residential properties in the city. On one end of the rooftop terrace is a traditional Japanese ashiyu, or footbath. It had snowed in Tokyo the day before we tried the footbath, and the warm temperature of the water was perfect for fighting off the chill in the air.
Sitting on a high rooftop with a wonderful view of the city while enjoying a traditional Japanese onsen-style experience was truly surreal! Mr. Fujieda explained that the water temperature can be adjusted depending on the air temperature and time of year, so it will always offer comfort and relief. Also, the entire balcony area around the footbath can also be reserved by residents for private parties or barbecues--an impressive way to show off your new digs!
Kelly