#Japan #Shibuya #Tokyu Hotels #Masato Horiuchi #Shibuya Hotel

New Leadership at Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu

Masato Horiuchi has officially taken on the role of General Manager at Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu and Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel starting June 1, 2025. This marks a significant moment for Horiuchi, who returns to Shibuya after several years to lead the operations of these pivotal hotels in the heart of Tokyo.

A Bartender at Heart

Horiuchi began his journey in the hotel industry in 1990 at the Akasaka Tokyu Hotel. After spending half a year in the restaurant department, he honed his bartending skills at Bar Gondola and Bar Marco Polo. By 1998, he took his expertise to Ginza Tokyu Hotel, working at Bar Higashi, and later moved to Capitol Tokyu Hotel’s Li Hai Bar in 2000, where he crafted cocktails for various distinguished guests. He found joy in providing guests with delightful experiences and a soothing environment, which fueled his passion for the hotel industry. Over his years, Horiuchi advanced through various positions, including food service manager at Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel, and restaurant manager at Kyoto Tokyu Hotel. His most recent role before returning to Shibuya was the General Manager of Hakuba Tokyu Hotel in April 2022.

The Responsibilities of Hotel Management

"Taking on the role of General Manager at these two Shibuya hotels is a significant responsibility," Horiuchi stated. He aims to welcome guests from around the world in a safe and reassuring manner. Besides, he aspires for them to feel the excitement of being in the heart of Shibuya. Horiuchi emphasizes the importance of caring for his team, the associates, believing a good work environment and open communication foster a better service culture.

One of his favorite expressions is "Banjō Tettei" which means to master the basics thoroughly. He underscores that in the hospitality sector, repeating the same tasks is a standard, but providing a warm service that ensures guests leave with smiles is crucial. With technology and times evolving, he believes adaptability in service techniques will adequately cater to the diverse clientele expected in the future.

The Future of Shibuya and Its Hotels

According to Japan Travel Bureau, Japan is expected to welcome a record-breaking 40.2 million international visitors by 2025. Meanwhile, significant redevelopment in the Shibuya area around the station is anticipated to change pedestrian traffic patterns by 2034, further emphasizing the role of hospitality in the area. Horiuchi envisions Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu and Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel as vital links to this vibrant, growing community.

"Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, while Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel is entering its 46th year." Horiuchi emphasizes the hotels' commitment to evolving with Shibuya rather than being static entities. He plans to welcome internal and external feedback to inspire change, embodying the principles of 'Banjō Tettei' and 'Onko Chishin,' which encourage embracing the new while respecting the old.

In conclusion, with Horiuchi at the helm, both hotels are poised for a promising future as they commit to growing alongside the dynamic city of Shibuya, focusing on providing both high-quality service and innovative experiences.

Overview of Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu

• - Directly connected to Shibuya Station with access to nine train lines.
• - Opened on April 7, 2000.
• - Features 408 guest rooms, three restaurants, and four banquet halls.
• - Located at 1-12-2 Dogenzaka, Shibuya, Tokyo.
• - Contact: +81 3-5457-0109.
• - Official Website

Overview of Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel

• - Just steps away from Shibuya Station's B2 exit, served by multiple train lines.
• - Opened on January 20, 1979.
• - Houses 225 guest rooms, one restaurant, and three banquet halls.
• - Located at 1-24-10 Shibuya, Shibuya, Tokyo.
• - Contact: +81 3-3498-0109.
• - Official Website

Horiuchi’s innovative leadership is sure to influence both the staff and guests positively as Shibuya evolves into an even more vibrant destination.