Travel

a Quick and Easy Guide

Let’s jump right in: I visited Tokyo a while ago and loved my time there! Plus I came back with so many tips that I wished I knew before traveling there!

You are short on time? Book one of these well located and well rated hotels:

You have more time?
Here is a more detailed analysis of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo

Tokyo is huge, there are 14 million people in the city and 41(!!) million in the metropolitan area! I’ve picked out the 8 best areas that are perfect for tourists!

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

Which area should you choose?

To help you visualize all the areas, I made this map of Tokyo with all the neighborhoods I’ll be talking about in this post:

A colorful map highlighting the best areas to stay in Tokyo, with numbered locations and labels for easy navigation

Below you’ll find the top 8 areas in the city and my personalized recommendations for different types of travelers:

1. Shinjuku – where to stay in Tokyo for the first time

A vibrant Tokyo street at night crowded with pedestrians and adorned with neon signs and colorful billboards

Welcome to the heart and soul of Tokyo! Shinjuku is what you probably imagine Tokyo is because this is what you usually see in movies about Tokyo.

This lively area has countless restaurants, bars, and exciting attractions that will make it hard for you to go back to your hotel room and relax!

You’ll find a wide range of hotels here from super luxurious ones, to the famous Love hotels! There are not many budget options here, but I found some that you should book quickly, as the list is short!

Luxury (US$250 and up)

Park Hyatt Tokyo – if you want to stay in the hotel where Sofia Coppola’s famous movie Lost in Translation was filmed, then check out this hotel! Their rooms boast incredible city views and while here you can unwind in their fabulous spa center or do some yoga!
JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom – a fantastic 5-star hotel with rooms that have large windows located in the heart of the neighborhood, close to the Golden Gai, JR Shinjuku train station, and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building!

Mid-range (from US$150 – US$250)

Tokyu Stay – this simple yet modern hotel provides a delicious breakfast and pretty big rooms. It’s close to the well-known Golden Gai and within walking distance from Inari Kio Shrine and Shinjuku train station.
La’gent Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho – here’s another excellent mid-range hotel in Tokyo! The design is simple but charming, and it has an on-site restaurant, private parking, and a 24-hour front desk.

Budget (up to US$150)

Onsen Ryokan Yuen – ever wanted to stay in a traditional Japanese inn (also known as ryokan)? Then check out this one which has a hot spring bath, a restaurant and some rooms with city views.
Sotetsu Grand Fresa – if you want to stay in Tokyo Shinjuku on a tight budget but still have great facilities, here’s another excellent choice! This hotel is simple but cozy, close to many food places, bars, and a shopping street, and has an on-site restaurant!

2. Shibuya – best place to stay in Tokyo for the young vibe

Aerial view of Shibuya Crossing at night, showcasing dense crowds of pedestrians and surrounded by illuminated skyscrapers

Shibuya is pretty similar to Shinjuku in terms of atmosphere and location, so it’s also a very convenient place for all types of travelers, especially young people who want to discover Tokyo.

This is where you’ll find lots of Tokyo’s love hotels, especially in the Maruyamacho area also known as “geisha district” (check for the Love Hotel Hill there).

If you choose to stay here, you’ll be surrounded by many food and drink places, shopping malls, and countless interesting Japanese attractions that you should visit like the Meiji Jingu and its garden, Yoyogi Park!

Luxury (US$200 and up)

Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel – if you’re looking for a perfect, spoiled stay in Tokyo so you can feel like a queen/king, look no further than this hotel! It provides a 5-star service, and the hotel rooms have an amazing view over the city. You’ll also have access to the sauna, hot tub, and beauty salon.
Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu – here’s another perfect luxurious option with easy access to the Shibuya station and other public transportation options. This 4-star hotel has a restaurant, a fitness center, and a bar – so great!

Mid-range (from US$130 – US$200)

The Millennials Shibuya – this capsule hostel has Smart Pods as rooms that offer privacy, comfort, and convenience. It has common areas such as a workspace, kitchen, and lounge and is close to popular attractions and good restaurants.
Shibuya Creston Hotel – offering a convenient location this hotel boasts cozy rooms, a continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.

Budget (up to US$130)

Shibuya Tobu Hotel – set a short walk away from the metro, this hotel offers rooms with a flat-screen Tv, free Wi-Fi and laundry services.
Himalaya Cloud Hotel – here’s an affordable place that comes with rooms that have city views, a garden where you can relax and a kitchen.

3. Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Area) – top area for shopping

Tokyo Station and its surrounding modern skyscrapers at twilight, with the glow of the setting sun in the background

As you might have guessed already, Tokyo Station is the main transportation hub of the city with many bullet trains and is one of the most convenient areas to stay, especially if you’re planning on doing some day trips to some other exciting cities in Japan!

From the Tokyo Station area you’ll have a great connection to the airports in the Tokyo Bay area, and other Japanese cities such as Yokohama, which is much cheaper than Tokyo and has the world’s biggest Chinatown (here’s a post with the best hotels there, if you want to spend the night)!

The area around JR Tokyo Station (Marunouchi Area) has a central location, so it’s an excellent choice as you’ll be close to the main attractions as well.

Luxury (US$300 and up)

Imperial Hotel Tokyo – this is one of the best luxury hotels in the Tokyo Station area. The property offers an indoor swimming pool, an on-site hair salon, a beauty massage salon, and many more services!
The Tokyo Station Hotel – one of the best business hotels that offers excellent service, 9 restaurants, a spa center and gorgeous rooms. It also is the perfect gate for day trips, as many trains go to Kyoto or Osaka from the station!

Mid-range (from US$100 – US$300)

Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi – sleep like a baby in the comfortable rooms of this hotel that offers a yummy buffet breakfast!
Nishitetsu Inn Nihonbashi – this hotel is close to the station, and near 4 subway stations/lines, including Tokyo Station – how great is that? You’ll also find rooms with tea makers and laundry facilities.

Budget (up to US$100)

APA Hotel Shintomicho-Ekikita – this is one the best budget hotels! It has free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, a flat-screen TV in each room, and more. If you want to visit Kyoto, you’re just a train ride away, plus it’s also located close to plenty of galleries and museum choices!
Belken Hotel Tokyo – simple yet well-equipped double rooms that have a Tv! This hotel also offers a hot tub and breakfast.

4. Roppongi & Akasaka – best for socializing

The iconic "Maman" spider sculpture by Louise Bourgeois in Roppongi Hills, Tokyo, with people walking around the plaza

These 2 neighboring areas are great for people who want to explore, socialize and grab a drink after a day out! They are conveniently located in between the East and West part of the city, so it is a short ride to any of the areas I mentioned above. Akasaka is actually part of the Minato City area (basically Downtown Tokyo) along with Azabu and Shiba.

Although you’re more likely to find bars and nightclubs in Roppongi rather than Akasaka, which is a business-oriented area where a lot of places are closed during the weeknd.

The fun spots here are frequented by locals and tourists alike, so it’s a great place to make friends or to see how young Japanese people like to spend the night. Burlesque Tokyo is a great spot to start the night!

Luxury (US$250 and up)

The Prince Park Tower – rising above Shiba Park, just a short walk to the Imperial Palace, this hotel offers incredible views of the Tokyo Tower, spacious rooms with skyline views, a hot spring bath and 9 restaurants. The hotel is set near train stations.
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo – this property in Roppongi has a sauna, a gym and even bike rentals. Wake-up to a stunning view of the city, order some room service and then go for a swim in the indoor pool.

Mid-range (US$130 – US$250)

Nihon Seinenkan – this 3-star hotel is super close to tons of clubs and pubs, so you’ll always be right in the middle of the action! It also comes with rooms that have city views and a restaurant.
Tokyo Prince Hotel – this hotel was recently renovated, and you’ll have an awesome view of Tokyo Tower from your room, which calls for some perfect photos! By the way, they even have an on-site shopping arcade!

Budget (up to US$130)

remm Roppongi – grab some breakfast and then head out to explore the area! This hotel comes with a bar, laundry services and a 24h-front desk.
Sotetsu Fresa Inn – offering rooms for up to four adults, this hotel offers a great breakfast and massages!

5. Ginza & Hibiya – best to stay in Tokyo for luxury

Twilight view of the Ginza district in Tokyo, featuring the iconic FUJIYA sign and bustling street activity.

This neighborhood is famous for its upscale shopping malls and big international chain hotels! However, you’ll also find a few affordable places as well (I made sure of it)!

Ginza Shopping District is well connected to the rest of the city via JR Tarakucho station and Ginza metro station, so if you want to arrive in some other parts of the city, you’ll be able to do so in no time!

For street food, I highly recommend walking the stretch between Shimbashi and Yurakucho – it is under the elevated railway and it is hundreds of meters of eateries where locals usually eat.

Ginza is also close to Tsukiji Fish Market, the best place to try some fresh sushi and street food, and an unmissable spot during your Tokyo trip!

Luxury (US$300 and up)

The Peninsula Tokyo – honestly, I think this property is one of the best hotels in Tokyo! It has an excellent location, close to the Imperial Palace and train station, and has an on-site spa, pool, fitness center, and superb rooms with a view!
Hyatt Centric Ginza Tokyo – you want a luxurious hotel close to countless ramen restaurants and other traditional Japanese food, as well as bars and other entertainment options, then this one’s for you! It’s a 4-star hotel with super good service, a restaurant and a bar.

Mid-range (US$180 – US$300)

The Royal Park – if you don’t want to spend all your money on your Tokyo accommodation but still have all the benefits of a high-end stay, this is the best option! It’s right in the heart of Ginza, close to many bars and boutique shops, and the rooms have fantastic views over the city!
Henn na Hotel Tokyo Ginza – ever wanted to stay in a hotel where robots greet you? Then this is the place for you! This robot hotel is super modern and it offers easy access to the subway station.

Budget (up to US$180)

Hotel Monterey Ginza – this 4-star hotel has some economy rooms that are just perfect and the location is pretty ideal, close to many bars and ramen places!
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Ginza – here’s a great place in Ginza that comes with modern rooms and a restaurant! Grab some complimentary breakfast in the morning and then head out.

6. Ueno & Akihabara – best area in Tokyo for anime lovers

A lively pedestrian area in Akihabara, Tokyo, lit by the glow of anime and manga-related billboards and signs

Ueno and Akihabara are two areas that are not that big and are located an easy walking distance from each other, which is why I chose to talk about both of them in the same section.

If you’re into anime, manga, cosplay, games, and flashing lights, then Akihabara (also known as the “Electric Town”) is the perfect place! You definitely have to check out Namco Akihabara store which is an absolute heaven for anime lovers and the Kanda Myojin Shrine.

There are mainly business and capsule hotels here and moreover, there are lots of adult stores in this area so I wouldn’t really recommend this place to families.

Luxury (US$200 and up)

Artist Hotel – BnA Studio Akihabara – this one looks fantastic, trust me. It has a fabulous design, rooms filled with wall-drawings and a flat-screen Tv! It is also conveniently located near Ueno Train Station and Ueno Park so that you will be connected to the rest of the city!
Monday Apart Premium – offering a mix of traditional and Western designs, this hotel features rooms with a tea table, a lot of space and a flat-screen Tv.

Mid-range (US$100 – US$200)

Super Hotel Akihabara – start your morning with a free breakfast while staying at this hotel which offers a great location and city views.
Best Western Hotel – here, the entire space is spotless and it also has an on-site restaurant! It’s located near many museums, such as Tokyo National Museum, plus if you are traveling for business, this hotel even offers a business center!

Budget (up to US$100)

Ueno Touganeya Hotel – an affordable place in Ueno that’s within easy walking distance of the metro and that has rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen Tv.
Akihabara Bay Hotel – even wanted to stay in those cool capsule hotels? Now it’s your chance, as this cool place offers a capsule with a USB outlet, a shared bathroom and lockers.

7. Asakusa – where to stay in Tokyo on a budget

The historic red architecture of Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo, with visitors milling around the entrance

If Ginza is a luxury heaven, Asakusa is THE place to be for all people traveling on a budget to Tokyo as you will find a number of cheap lodging there.

This area used to be a samurai district, so there’s a rich history to discover while exploring the streets!

Asakusa (which is actually pronounced as “Asaksa”) has a more calm, traditional atmosphere – it’s like it’s been frozen in time, but in a good way!

So if you love temples, small and authentic streets, and traditional restaurants, I genuinely believe that Asakusa is your place!

Luxury (US$180 and up)

Cyashitsu Ryokan – if you want to splurge and be spoiled in one of the city’s most authentic neighborhoods, and experience a traditional tatami mat room, then you should opt for this place! It offers an on-site restaurant, and air-conditioned rooms. At this ryokan (one of the best traditional Japanese inns) you will have incredible city views and an open-air bath!
Onyado Nono Natural Hot Spring – set a short walk away from Sensoji Temple, this hotel is perfect for those who want to relax at the on-site hot spring bath and sauna! The hotel also features a restaurant.

Mid-range (from US$90 – US$180)

Kaika Tokyo – if one of your biggest wishes is to stay in a Tokyo neighborhood that resembles Kyoto, then Asakusa is a great choice, and this hotel will satisfy all your needs! The clean and cozy air-conditioned rooms have free Wi-Fi and an on-site restaurant!
Asakusa View Hotel – go for a swim in the indoor pool after a day of exploring this huge city, while staying at this hotel that boasts city views and wellness facilities.

Budget (up to US$90)

K’s House Tokyo Oasis – this hostel is close to many attractions and it comes with a super cute common area where you can relax or make new friends!
Apa Hotel Asakusa – a great and cheap place that offers comfy rooms with a flat-screen Tv, a hot tub and a continental breakfast.

8. Odaiba & Tokyo Bay – where to stay in Tokyo with family

Twilight scene of Tokyo Bay with Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower illuminated against the city's night skyline

Odaiba island and the area around Tokyo Bay are my recommendations for people traveling with kids. Why?

Well, even though it’s a bit far away from central Tokyo (it ain’t no Shinjuku for sure!) and it’s very different from the rest of the city, it’s located super close to many children’s entertainment spots such as Tokyo Disney (Tokyo Disney Resort), Tokyo Joypolis, Legoland, Fuji TV Building and plenty of museums (including Teamlab Planets which is not too far from here).

A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Odaiba & Tokyo Bay, Tokyo: A room with sleek, contemporary decor, a luxurious pool with landscaped surroundings, and a modern hotel facade with waterfront views.

Luxury (US$200 and up)

Hilton Tokyo Bay – here’s a great place to stay in Tokyo for families! This 5-star property offers swimming pools, rooms with fun decoration themes for kids, a spa center where parents can relax and a children’s playground.
Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba – this 5-star hotel boasts some incredible views from its family rooms and it’s close to famous landmarks such as Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo! You’ll find 6 on-site restaurants and a swimming pool too.

Mid-range (US$100 – US$200)

Lavista TokyoBay – a great hotel that has some spacious family rooms with amazing views of Tokyo Bay, an indoor pool where you can play with your little ones and a restaurant.
Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo – enjoy a quiet family movie night in the cozy rooms of this hotel that offers a hot spring bath, spa facilities and kids meals.

Budget (up to US$100)

APA Hotel & Resort Makuhari – if you’re on a budget instead, then let me help you choose something that will fit your pocket but also offer a super good service! This hotel looks incredible; it’s super modern and has laundry machines, souvenir shops, and more!
Far East Village – this modern hotel features a buffet breakfast, family rooms with a flat-screen Tv and a restaurant.