Opened in April 2020 in Tokyo's Takeshiba area, the luxury hotel "mesm Tokyo, Autograph Collection" (hereafter, mesm Tokyo) is a member of the "Autograph Collection," a brand by Marriott International that bestows its name upon unique hotels possessing distinctiveness, high quality, and exceptional hospitality. mesm Tokyo embraces the concept of "TOKYO WAVES," offering services and content based on the ever-changing "now" of Tokyo. Particularly noteworthy is the CASIO digital piano "Privia PX-S1000," provided in all 265 rooms of the hotel. This time, actress MEGUMI experiences the allure of Privia × mesm Tokyo.

“What I seek in a hotel is not just the space itself, but the hospitality. When you experience that moment of being pleasantly surprised by their attentiveness, you want to visit again. The foundation for this is the operation, and it's difficult to convey that care to guests. Knowing how challenging that is makes it all the more wonderful.”

MEGUMI experienced such "operation" at mesm Tokyo.

“The valet attendant recognized my car and handled it so smoothly. Afterwards, they guided me to my room (Chapter 4) without a hitch. Everything flowed so seamlessly, it made me happy.”

Another aspect that moved MEGUMI was the view.

“It reminded me of a condominium in Hawaii. The biggest appeal is the sense of openness. While high-rise hotels offer this, it's rare to find such a luxurious, open space at a height of only 26 floors in Tokyo. It's a peculiar place that makes you feel like you're in Tokyo, but not quite.”

She had thought Tokyo lacked places where adults could enjoy themselves with sophistication, but she rediscovered the answer with this hotel.

“mesm Tokyo doesn't overdo the luxury; that balance is truly stylish. There are surprisingly few places like this for adults in Tokyo. The views from the bar (16th floor) and lounge (25th floor) are also beautiful. I never considered hotel bars in Tokyo as options for going out before, but I realized again how wonderful they are.”

MEGUMI also believes that mesm Tokyo resonates well with many creators.

“Tokyo is a hub for people engaged in interesting endeavors, those who create what didn't exist before. Their influence spreads like waves over time, and this hotel can be a place that disseminates culture within that. Just as many literary masters secluded themselves in inns to focus on their work, perhaps creators need to immerse themselves in spaces like this. Inspiration from encounters here might lead to new creations. That would be wonderful.”

During the pandemic, when spirits tend to be low, MEGUMI reflects on how to maintain a positive outlook, emphasizing the importance of clothing, shoes, and makeup for women.

“Carefully choosing clothes, wearing something vibrant, or meticulously applying makeup. Even when just staying home, these deliberate actions can completely change your mood. So, when I want to lift my spirits, I do all sorts of 'deliberate' things (laughs).”

She also states that "the most powerful weapon to achieve a state of 'nothingness' is a musical instrument."

“In daily life, my mind is constantly jumping between the past and future – 'What should I do tomorrow?' 'I have to make dinner,' 'I need to follow up on yesterday's matter.' I'm thinking about so many things simultaneously, leaving no room to empty my mind. However, only when playing an instrument can I focus on the 'now.' Instruments are wonderful tools for reaching a state of 'nothingness.' And when I produce a beautiful sound, I feel myself becoming more relaxed.”

In front of the Privia, MEGUMI transformed from a poised subject into a softer version of herself, as if a tension had released. This change was perhaps what she described as "myself becoming more relaxed."

“Privia is minimal and stylish, isn't it? It's chic as an interior piece and easy to fit in a home. Yet, it still has the presence of a piano, which is nice. Most importantly, I love the warm, wood-like feel of the keys. Anyone can press a key and produce a sound on the piano. While other instruments have a high barrier to entry for producing sound, the piano is accessible and gentle, allowing sound to be made even without advanced skill. In that sense, the piano might be the ultimate instrument.”

Recently, she realized anew that she has a disposition that "cannot stand still."

“During the pandemic, I honestly thought I might just drift along, but it turned out to be the opposite. I did major cleaning, fasting, filmed an Instagram drama, made masks – I was constantly on the move within my home. Recognizing this restless side of myself, I've resolved to embrace it going forward (laughs).”

MEGUMI is currently 39 years old. She recalls that she and the generation above her were taught that "an actress's job is to wait for offers." However, seeing YouTubers, Instagrammers, and TikTokers proposing various forms of expression made her question, "Is this really the way?" This led her to starther website "+Collaborate".

“In an era where even the smallest cafe has a website, surprisingly, many celebrities don't have their own.”

Started four years ago, "+Collaborate" is not just for showcasing her own work but also intended as a platform for young creators to share their talents. She provides her "MEGUMI" persona to creators for their projects. Furthermore, these works can be used freely without needing her permission or worrying about secondary usage rights – a remarkably generous initiative.

“Initially, I was hurt by negative comments like, 'What's the point of doing that?' But then I realized that in Japan, criticism often precedes acceptance. Now, even when faced with negativity, I can reframe it as, 'So, nobody else is doing this!' and move forward positively.”

She also publishes a free magazine, manages a cafe in Kanazawa, and directs cosmetics. These ventures also faced initial skepticism. Now, all of them are successful. MEGUMI smiles as she mentions that "+Collaborate" has even begun connecting creators with companies.

Last year, she ventured into producing short dramas and films. While many actresses overseas are involved in production, it remains a minority in Japan. She is currently working diligently to carve out her own niche in this field.

“Everything is new and exciting, making me quite nervous. However, this year marks my 20th anniversary since my debut. After discussing with my manager, I've decided this is the year to go all out, do everything, and give it my all.”

“It's all about sheer determination,” MEGUMI says with a refreshing smile. She, too, is at the center of the TOKYO WAVES.