Where to Stay in Tokyo 🇯🇵: Best Areas, Neighborhoods & Hotels in Tokyo

Updated on April 13, 2024
by Alex Miller

Tokyo offers seemingly endless options when it comes to choosing where to stay during your visit. As one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the world, determining the perfect neighborhood, hotel, or particular spot in the metropolis that matches your interests and budget can feel overwhelming. However, if you focus on a few key areas and lodging types, you’re likely to find the ideal place to rest your head each night.

Our pick of the best hotels in Tokyo 🔝

When deciding on Tokyo lodging, you’ll want to consider what you intend to do. For example, do you plan to explore ancient temples and serene gardens or check out the hottest clubs and shops? Are you traveling with family or backpacking solo? Getting a feel for the vibe of the different neighborhoods will help you zero in on where to stay.

The good news is that Tokyo’s efficient public transportation system means getting around from any hotel or Airbnb location you choose is generally a breeze.

In this article, we’ll take you through the top Tokyo neighborhoods for travelers, highlighting whether they cater more to history buffs, nightlife seekers, families, or budget backpackers. We’ll also recommend some of the best hotels, hostels, capsules, and Airbnbs in each area. With these insights, you’re sure to find the Tokyo abode ideal for your travel style. So let your Japan journey begin!

Quick Guide to the Best Neighborhoods in Tokyo 📋

1. Marunouchi – Stay near Tokyo Station 🚇

🚉 Transportation hub: Located in central Tokyo, Marunouchi is a must-visit neighborhood for first-time visitors to Japan’s bustling capital.

🌳 Calm oasis: Despite being at the center of the city, Marunouchi’s calmness is not affected by the cohabitation of many tall buildings, hotels, and shopping malls. Avenues with trees on both sides create shadows under which people are moving about going to their offices or having fun. Izakaya bars that are alive and busy with customers light up the streets in the evening hours.

🚕 Getting around: Transportation around the area could not be easier. Tokyo Station offers connections to rail lines across Japan including the Shinkansen bullet train. Taxis are easy to hail, providing a comfortable option to get around.

🏯 Some key attractions and amenities in Marunouchi:

  • Imperial Palace – A short walk to the residence of Japan’s emperor surrounded by gardens.
  • Character Street – Underground shopping and dining in Tokyo Station styled after different prefectures.
  • Marunouchi Brick Square – Open-air plaza with restaurants and shops in a peaceful courtyard.

I also recommend visiting the Tokyo International Forum, a major venue for concerts and conferences.

Imperial Palace
Imperial Palace
Character Street
Character Street
Character Street
Character Street
Character Street
Character Street
Marunouchi Brick Square
Marunouchi Brick Square
Marunouchi Brick Square
Marunouchi Brick Square

Marunouchi’s central location, abundance of amenities, and energetic ambience make it a perfect place to anchor a Tokyo vacation.

All hotels in Marunouchi →

Best Tokyo Station hotels 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

  • Shangri-La Tokyo – a luxury hotel with exquisite interiors, panoramic views of Tokyo and a prime location near the Imperial Palace.
  • Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi – an upscale hotel with chic rooms, high level of service and a convenient location in the business center of Marunouchi.

Medium price category:

Budget Hotels:

2. Ginza – Best Area to Stay in Tokyo for Luxury 💎

Ginza is one of the city’s most famous and vibrant neighbourhoods.

🚉 Well-connected: Ginza is conveniently located near Tokyo’s major railway stations such as Tokyo and Yurakucho, making it easily accessible. From here, you can walk or take a short train ride to visit top attractions like the Imperial Palace, Sensoji Temple, and Ueno Park.

🛍 Shoppers’ paradise: Luxury shopping district lies at the heart of Ginza with departmental stores such as Mitsukoshi, Wako and Matsuya housing renowned brand name boutiques. The area is recognized all over Japan as well as globally for its upscale shopping. Nevertheless, Ginza is not only about high fashion brands.

  • Kabukiza Theater – Watch a captivating Kabuki performance at Japan’s principal Kabuki theater.
  • Shiseido Gallery – View rotating exhibits focused on art and beauty at this gallery sponsored by the global cosmetics company.
  • Sony Park Mini – Discover the latest Sony technology and products at their showcase building.

🌃 Vibrant nights: In the evenings, Ginza transforms into a dazzling neon-lit district, with billboards and signage lighting up. Bars and restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining draw locals and visitors late into the night.

A mixture of modern structures alongside older brick Victorian-style buildings reflecting European influences delights architecture enthusiasts. This is where fashion meets culture, history, innovation thus making Ginza an essential Tokyo neighbourhood.

All hotels in Ginza →

Where to stay in Ginza? 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

  • Hyatt Centric Ginza – a modern, premium hotel with a top-floor French restaurant and luxurious rooms overlooking Tokyo Bay.
  • Hotel GrandBach Tokyo Ginza – an elegant boutique hotel in the heart of the Ginza district, offering personalized service and Art Deco rooms.
  • Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel – a luxury hotel with a prime location opposite the Ginza Six shopping center, has an Italian restaurant.

Mid-range hotels:

  • GINZA HOTEL by GRANBELL – comfortable hotel a 5-minute walk from Ginza subway station, offers rooms with free Wi-Fi.
  • TSUKI Tokyo – a stylish, minimalist Japanese-style hotel with a private onsen bath and a restaurant with garden views.
  • Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel – a cozy hotel with a convenient location near Ginza shopping streets, has a fitness center and restaurant.

3. Shibuya – Best Place to Stay in Tokyo for Nightlife 🍸

🚥 Bustling hub: Famous for its Shibuya Crossing, this active neighborhood is rich in attractions and activities that can be reached on foot or a short subway ride away from each other.

Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya
Shibuya

Ⓜ Well-connected: It’s on more than one key subway and rail lines hence it’s possible to get to Shibuya Station from any place in Tokyo. Tokyo Station is a 10-15 minute ride on the JR Yamanote Line. In addition, there are airport limousine buses that stop at Shibuya Station from Haneda and Narita.

🔝 Top attractions and activities.

  • Shibuya Crossing: This iconic scramble crossing outside Shibuya Station sees up to 2,500 people traversing every time the light changes.
  • Shibuya Sky: For amazing city views, go up to the rooftop observatory on top of Shibuya Scramble Square.
  • Center Gai: Neon signs light up the main street with fashionable shops, restaurants and nightclubs.
  • Yoyogi Park: Take a ten-minute walk away to escape the concrete jungle and enjoy some green space and people-watching.

As a major fashion and shopping hub, Shibuya offers a huge array of stores and malls to explore:

  • Shibuya 109: A rite of passage for female fashionistas with multiple floors showcasing Japan’s latest styles and trends
  • Loft and Tokyu Hands: Creative paradises with everything you need for arts, crafts and home goods.

And Shibuya Marui – this multi-floor fashion spot houses a diverse range of domestic and international labels.

🏩 Accommodation: In terms of accommodation options, visitors can choose from luxurious hotels to cheap guesthouses or hostels in Shibuya. Unlike staying in central Tokyo, prices are moderate.

All hotels in Shibuya →

Where to stay in Shibuya? 🏨

Expensive hotels:

  • Hotel Indigo Tokyo – a modern high-tech hotel with panoramic views and a great location near Shibuya Station.
  • Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel – a luxury hotel with panoramic views of Tokyo, located in one of the tallest buildings in the area.
  • Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu – an elegant hotel with large rooms and a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city.

Medium price range:

Budget Hotels:

4. Shinjuku – Best Area in Tokyo for the First Time 👀

🌃 City that never sleeps: Known for its neon-lit skyscrapers, bustling streets, and iconic train station, Shinjuku offers a glimpse into the sheer energy and scale of Tokyo.

🔥 While in Shinjuku, be sure to experience:

  • The stunning panoramic views from the twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
  • The tranquil beauty of Shinjuku Gyoen’s vast gardens, with over 20,000 trees and blooming cherry blossoms in spring.
  • Robot Restaurant’s neon-lit cabaret shows with giant robots and dancers.

Shinjuku is also a shopper’s paradise, boasting huge department stores like Isetan, discount electronic shops, and luxury designers along Coen Street.

🍜 Foodie heaven: And when your feet get tired, stop at a local izakaya pub or cozy ramen joint – Shinjuku has flavors to suit every palate.

Its convenience and variety of attractions make it a must-visit neighborhood for both first timers and frequent visitors.

All hotels in Shinjuku →

Best hotels in Shinjuku 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

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Budget Hotels:

5. Roppongi – Best Place in Tokyo for Art Lovers 🖌

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo’s Minato ward, Roppongi is one of the most popular and vibrant neighborhoods for visitors to explore.

🚄 Convenient: In terms of location, Roppongi lies less than 5 kilometers south of major landmarks like the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station. Key stations like Roppongi and Nogizaka on the Hibiya and Chiyoda lines put you steps away from iconic sites like Roppongi Hills or the National Art Center Tokyo.

👣 Walkable: Some top sites and areas to check out on foot include:

  • Roppongi Hills – sprawling office, shopping and entertainment complex
  • National Art Center Tokyo – renowned art museum
  • Nogi Shrine – tranquil Japanese shrine and gardens
  • Izumi Garden – modern 12-acre urban oasis
  • Ark Hills – office, dining and retail facilities

Also, don’t miss the Roppongi Art Triangle – 3 art museums grouped together.

🏩 Accommodating: Roppongi offers many accommodation choices for visitors to Tokyo. Luxury hotels exist alongside more economical business hotels, catering to a wide range of traveler budgets.

All hotels in Roppongi →

Where to stay in Roppongi? 🏨

Mid-range hotels:

Budget Hotels:

6. Akihabara (Electric Town) – Best Area for Anime Fans ㊗

The vibrant neighborhood of Akihabara has earned the nickname of “Electric Town” thanks to its countless electronics shops, gaming arcades and anime goods stores.

🚉 Well-connected: Accessing Akihabara couldn’t be easier when visiting Tokyo. It is centered around Akihabara Station on the JR Yamanote Line, Hibiya Subway Line and Tsukuba Express Line. Travel time is roughly 10 minutes from Tokyo Station to reach the area.

📍 Key landmarks and destinations located nearby include:

  • Akihabara Station
  • Kanda Shrine
  • Kanda River
  • Radio Kaikan Building
  • Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Megastore

🚶‍♂️ Walkable area: Akihabara stretches roughly from Kanda Station to the north down through Suehirocho Station along Chuo Dori Avenue. Most major shops, gaming centers, cafes and restaurants are found along this main drag and nearby side streets within a compact area.

🌐 English friendly: English is also commonly spoken and understood in the larger stores and restaurants within Electric Town, making it easy for foreign tourists to get assistance when needed. Certain major retailers like Yodobashi Camera even have dedicated foreign tourist services.

🚦 Mind the traffic: Like Harajuku, Akihabara is relatively safe to explore on foot. But you should still be mindful of bicycle and vehicle traffic when crossing busy intersections.

All hotels in Akihabara →

Where to stay in Akihabara? 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

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7. Ueno – Best Neighborhood to Stay in Tokyo with Family 👦🏻

One of the most famous places in Tokyo is the Ueno district – the one with Ueno Park, which has museums, shrines, temples, even a zoo.

🚈 Transport hub: Just on the other side of this park’s east end is Ueno Station, which happens to be one of Tokyo’s largest and busiest train stations. Narita Airport visitors can also catch Keisei Skyliner that goes straight to Ueno Station.

🏛️ Famous attractions: Ueno Park boasts several popular attractions among them being:

  • Tokyo National Museum: it is Japan’s largest art museum consisting of over 100,000 works from different periods in Japan’s history
  • Art Museum of the West: an extensive art museum that mainly focuses on European and North American artists and movements
  • Ueno Zoo: located within it are, giant pandas tigers and more
  • Shinobazu Pond: Scenic pond surrounded by peaceful walking paths with a variety of waterfowl

Additionally, there are also many attractions around Ueno station and Park such as the noisy open-air stalls in Ameya Yokocho Market.

Tokyo National Museum
Tokyo National Museum
Tokyo National Museum
Tokyo National Museum
Tokyo National Museum
Tokyo National Museum
Art Museum of the West
Art Museum of the West
Art Museum of the West
Art Museum of the West
Art Museum of the West
Art Museum of the West
Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo
Ueno Zoo
Shinobazu Pond
Shinobazu Pond

🛒 Crowded street: The Nakamise Shopping Street leading to Sensoji Temple is also crowded with people who come to buy souvenirs or look for some Japanese snacks and crafts.

All hotels in Ueno →

Where to stay in Ueno? 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

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8. Asakusa – Great Place to Stay in Tokyo for History 🏯

⛩️ Spiritual hub: Asakusa, found along the Sumida River, provides a historical chapter of Tokyo to its visitors. Centuries ago, Asakusa used to be an entertainment area where there were lots of theatres and temples; however, today it acts as a major attraction for tourists who are keen on getting a taste of Japanese way of life.

🚇 Easy access: From the Shinjuku station, it’s just a quick, direct 20 minute ride on the Ginza subway line to the Asakusa stop.

📝 Some top things for first-timers to experience:

  • Senso-ji Temple – Founded in 645 AD, the temple grounds buzz with worshippers and tourists exploring the towering Hozomon Gate, red lantern-lined central hall, and five-tiered pagoda.
  • Street eats – From skewered dango rice balls to melon pan sweet breads, the Nakamise street stalls offer scrumptious quick bites as you walk.
  • Dempoin Street – Just behind Senso-ji awaits this stone road lined with shops and restaurants in preserved early 1900s structures.

✔ Hassle-free: With English menus available and credit cards accepted, Asakusa makes for a hassle-free Tokyo experience.

🌉 Dazzling nights: After temple-hopping, sit back at an outdoor deck along the Sumida River with dumplings and sake as Tokyo glitters at night around you.

All hotels in Asakusa →

Where to stay in Asakusa? 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

Medium price category:

  • cyashitsu ryokan asakusa – traditional ryokan with Japanese-style rooms, located in the picturesque Asakusa neighborhood.
  • Dormy Inn EXPRESS – a modern mid-range hotel offering compact rooms and good value for money.
  • The Moto Hotel – a comfortable eclectic style hotel, conveniently located near the Asakusa subway station.

Budget Hotels:

  • TenTen Guesthouse in Asakusa – small cozy guesthouse with a friendly atmosphere, offers dorm rooms at a reasonable price.
  • Glamping Tokyo – glamping with tents, located in a quiet location close to Asakusa’s main attractions.
  • Hotel Sunroute Asakusa – a modern hotel with good value for money, conveniently located opposite Kaminarimon Gate.

9. Shinagawa – A Combination of History and Modern Conveniences ✔

Shinagawa offers visitors a convenient base to explore Tokyo’s top attractions as well as a glimpse into the city’s history and culture.

🏙 Old & new: Shinagawa retains a relaxed atmosphere and local charm. The neighborhood straddles a contrast between old and new Tokyo, with modern high-rise buildings and luxury hotels coexisting alongside historic shrines and temples.

🐬 Top attractions and activities include:

  • Sengakuji Temple – Historic temple housing the graves of the famous 47 Ronin warriors
  • Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa – Aquarium with dolphin shows and the largest tank in Japan
  • Shinagawa Aquarium – Another renowned aquarium showcasing Japanese sea life

🎆 Keepsake: Between the Higashi-Shinagawa and Kita-Shinagawa stations is the expansive Shinagawa Market food and flea market, selling fresh seafood, prepared foods, and souvenirs.

🛏 Luxury or value: Trendy luxury hotels offer stunning bay views right in the neighborhood. But you’ll also find business hotels and rental apartments at lower price points while still enjoying convenience.

All hotels in Shinagawa →

Where to stay in Shinagawa? 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

  • Mitsui Garden Hotel Gotanda – an elegant hotel with a prime location near Gotanda Station, offers modern rooms and upscale service.
  • Tokyo Marriott Hotel – a premium luxury hotel with panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, a gourmet restaurant and a spacious spa.
  • Ours Inn Hankyu – a stylish boutique hotel with individually designed rooms and a high level of service.

Medium price category:

  • Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tokyo Osaki – a modern hotel with a convenient location near Osaki Station, offers comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.
  • WIRES HOTEL James zaka – a hotel in a picturesque neighborhood with interesting design, friendly staff and good value for money.
  • THREE – a stylish hotel with minimalist design and excellent facilities, located in a quiet neighborhood next to a park.

Budget Hotels:

  • Guest House Shinagawa-shuku – simple and inexpensive guesthouse with basic amenities, suitable for budget travelers.
  • Ryokan Sansuiso – a traditional Japanese hotel with futons, public baths and authentic atmosphere.
  • TOGOSHI 568 STAY – economical apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, ideal for longer stays.

10. Odaiba (Tokyo Bay) – Where to Stay Away from the Hustle and Bustle 🌳

Nestled in Tokyo Bay area, Odaiba is a popular artificial island neighborhood connected to central Tokyo by the scenic Rainbow Bridge.

💡 Easy day trip: Located just a 15 minute ride away from the dazzling lights of Shinjuku, Odaiba makes for an easy and enjoyable day trip for first-time visitors.

👀 Must-see attractions are:

  • Odaiba Seaside Park – This popular seaside park offers respite from the city with sandy man-made beaches, an outdoor kids area, and beautiful views of the Rainbow Bridge.
  • DiverCity Tokyo Plaza – Go shopping for the latest Japanese pop culture trends before posing for iconic photos with the massive 19.7 meter tall Gundam statue out front.
  • Oedo Onsen Monogatari – After a long day exploring, relax at this traditional hot spring bathhouse and enjoy the numerous indoor and outdoor baths.

Also don’t miss VenusFort mall, with its futuristic decor.

🍽 Foodie heaven: Odaiba offers no shortage of dining and drinking spots, from lively izakayas and family-friendly food courts, to cafes with unbeatable bay views.

All hotels in Odaiba →

Where to stay in Odaiba? 🏨

Expensive Hotels:

Medium price category:

11. Tokyo Disney – Best Place to Stay with Children 🎢

🏰 Magical place: In the western suburbs of Tokyo, about half an hour by train from the heart of the city, lies a fairyland called Tokyo Disneyland.

🎡 Two parks: Tokyo Disney Resort is made up of two main theme parks:

  • Tokyo Disneyland – This one is patterned after the original Disneyland in Anaheim that has places like the Cinderella’s Castle, Space Mountain and Splash Mountain among the famous ones.
  • Tokyo DisneySea – A unique Disney park with a nautical explorer theme and attractions based on places like the Mediterranean and Mysterious Island

In between these two parks, there is Ikspiari – a shopping mall with character shops, restaurants and live shows featuring Disney characters.

🚃 Convenient trains: The monorail system called “Disney Resort Line” connects all train stations located within the resort, parks, hotels and shopping centres making it easy for travellers to move around.

No matter which hotel you choose, staying right on the Disney property adds an extra level of magic, especially for new visitors looking to fully experience this world-class theme park destination.

All hotels in Tokyo Disney →

Best hotels in Tokyo Disney 🏩

Expensive Hotels:

  • Hilton Tokyo Bay – a luxury hotel with chic rooms, restaurants and bars located near Tokyo DisneySea.
  • Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay – an elegant premium hotel with excellent service, panoramic pool and views of Tokyo Bay.
  • Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay Maihama – an upscale hotel with exquisite design, restaurants, bars and direct beach access.

Mid-range hotels:

Where NOT to Stay in Tokyo ❌

Kabukichō is an area you’ll want to steer clear of. Located in Shinjuku, this red light district is known for aggressive touts trying to lure you into shady establishments. The neighborhood attracts yakuza gangsters, hustlers, and petty criminals who may make you feel unsafe or scam you.

For example, a “hostess” might coax you into an expensive bar with hidden fees or con artists could trick you into an illegal gambling parlor.

While fascinating in some respects, solo travelers in particular should avoid wandering this sketchy neighborhood.

Shibamata, nestled along the Arakawa River, seems quaint but is actually quite remote. Its lack of train access and isolation from central Tokyo makes it inconvenient to reach. And with limited dining and attraction options, it’s not worth the lengthy trek out. You’re better off visiting more vibrant and accessible neighborhoods.

Otodate-Dōri street, located between Ueno and Asakusa stations, is also one you may wish to avoid despite its proximity to popular sightseeing spots. It’s known as a hangout for jobless day laborers and homeless people. You’ll frequently see passed out drunks on the street or be hassled for money. Since Tokyo offers countless other areas to experience without the unsavory elements, Otodate-Dōri is simple not worth your time.

Best Areas in Tokyo on a Map

FAQs about Trip to Tokyo ❔

What is the best area of Tokyo to stay in?

When you’re considering the best part of Tokyo to stay in, many folks find that areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza offer a blend of convenience, entertainment, and cultural experiences. But hey, it really depends on what you’re looking for.

Is it better to stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya?

Now, this is a tough one because both Shinjuku and Shibuya have their own unique vibes. If you’re someone who loves being in the heart of action with countless dining and shopping options, Shibuya’s energy might captivate you. However, if you appreciate a mix of modern skyscrapers, traditional alleys, and a range of accommodations, Shinjuku might just steal your heart. Think of it like choosing between two exciting flavors of ice cream; both delicious, but it depends on your taste!

How many days should I spend in Tokyo?

Tokyo is a city that never truly sleeps, with endless things to see and do. However, for a first-time visit, aiming for about 5 to 7 days can give you a solid taste of what this mega-metropolis offers. This duration lets you explore popular spots like the Tsukiji Fish Market, experience the magic of Tokyo Disneyland, wander around historic Asakusa, and maybe even take a day trip to nearby places like Nikko or Hakone.

Where to stay in Tokyo for the first time?

For those stepping foot in Tokyo for the first time, you might want to consider areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya. These neighborhoods are bustling, well-connected, and packed with accommodations that cater to various budgets. Staying here ensures you’re right in the heart of the action, making it super convenient to explore and soak up the city’s essence.

Where do celebs stay in Tokyo?

When celebs jet off to Tokyo, you’ll often find them checking into luxury hotels in upscale areas like Roppongi or Aoyama. These areas are known for their posh vibes, high-end boutiques, and exclusive dining spots.