Every Tokyo neighborhood has its own unique vibe, which makes choosing the best place to stay in Tokyo an important part of planning your trip. The good news is that there’s no wrong choice; it all depends on the kind of experience you want.
If you prefer the accessible nightlife, cultural landmarks within walking distance, or a quieter area with easy transport links, there’s a Tokyo district that fits your style. Thanks to the city’s excellent rail system, getting around is simple and easy.
This guide highlights the best areas to stay in Tokyo, along with hotel recommendations for each district.
Shinjuku
Enjoy the calming nature views at the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden / Photo credit: Travel with Lenses on Pexels
If this is your first trip to Tokyo, Shinjuku is one of the easiest and most exciting places to stay. It’s built around Shinjuku Station, which means you’ll have quick access to JR lines, subways, private railways, and direct airport connections.
Aside from being convenient, Shinjuku is also known for its neon-lit streets, massive department stores, tiny yakitori alleys in Omoide Yokocho, and the exciting nightlife of Kabukicho.
Klook Tip: If you want to escape the city’s hustle, head to the peaceful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Hotel picks:
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi-Shinjuku
Cozy double beds at the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi-Shinjuku
Located just steps away from Higashi-Shinjuku Station, Sotetsu Fresa Inn gives you a reliable and budget-friendly accommodation. The rooms are compact but well-designed with modern amenities like air purifiers, central heating, and satellite TVs.
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku’s famous Godzilla
Instantly recognizable thanks to the giant Godzilla head sitting on its terrace, the Hotel Gracery Shinjuku is located right in the center of Kabukicho. Rooms here are modern and comfortable, with good soundproofing.
Shibuya
Crowds moving through the iconic Shibuya crossing / Photo credit: Jezael Melgoza on Unsplash
Shibuya is another lively Tokyo district, famous for one of the world's busiest pedestrian crossings. Every few minutes, you can watch thousands of people cross the Shibuya scramble crossing in an organized flow.
You can check out Shibuya Sky for city views and explore local izakayas for drinks. Harajuku’s colorful Takeshita Street and Omotesando’s designer avenues are also just a short stroll away.
Hotel picks:
Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
Direct views of Shibuya’s towering department stores from Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
Located directly above Shibuya Station, Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu is unbeatable for convenience and comfort. Some rooms overlook the scramble crossing, giving you one of the most iconic views in the city and making this hotel a fantastic mid-range hotel option.
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel’s mix of modern and traditional Japanese interior design
The luxury high-rise Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel lets you enjoy Shibuya’s prime location without the constant noise. Aside from upscale and spacious rooms with good views, you’ll have access to the hotel’s spa, gym, and indoor pool.
Ginza
The Seiko House Clock Tower in Ginza / Photo credit: Al Soot on Unsplash
If you want to explore Tokyo’s high-end district, head over to Ginza’s long, spotless streets lined with flagship designer boutiques, department stores, art galleries, and Michelin-starred restaurants.
While you’re there, we recommend visiting major attractions like the historic Kabuki-za Theater and the Art Aquarium Museum with illuminated goldfish displays.
Hotel picks:
The Peninsula Tokyo
A 5-star room at the Peninsula Tokyo
This famous hotel is a 5-star icon overlooking the Imperial Palace gardens. The Peninsula Tokyo’s rooms are among the largest in the city and feature stylish interiors and exceptional service. When you stay here, you can also look forward to gourmet dining and a world-class spa.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier
The well-lit facade of Mitsui Garden Hotel in Ginza
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier is a stylish four-star hotel that has modern, comfortable rooms with great views of Tokyo Bay. It’s close to Shinbashi Station and within walking distance of Ginza’s famous shopping, dining, and entertainment areas.
Asakusa
Visitors flocking to the red lantern located at Senso-ji Temple’s Thunder Gate / Photo credit: Tony Wu on Pexels
Asakusa has a completely different atmosphere from Tokyo’s skyscraper districts. Located around Senso-ji Temple, which is the city’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, the area is filled with traditional shops, street snacks, and historic sights.
Nakamise-dori Street, leading up to the temple, is filled with stalls selling souvenirs, sweets, and crafts. You’ll also see rickshaws rolling past wooden storefronts and views of the Sumida River and Tokyo Skytree.
Hotel picks:
Asakusa View Hotel
A stunning view of Tokyo Skytree from an Asakusa View Hotel room
Known for its big rooms and close-up views of Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree, Asakusa View Hotel is one of the more popular hotels in the area. Aside from a comfy stay, you’ll get to enjoy the nearby cultural sites.
Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International
A good view of Senso-ji from Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International
If you’re looking for a place that makes early morning temple visits convenient, check out the Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International. The rooms here are clean, modern, and cozy. Plus, you can find dining and shopping options all within walking distance.
Restaurants like Asakusa Imahan and Kobe Beef Wagyu Katana Asakusa, and shopping centers like Don Quixote and Asakusa Rox 3G Mall are just 2 minutes away.
Ikebukuro
Passengers traveling to and from Ikebukuro Station / Photo credit: Rochelle Lee on Unsplash
Ikebukuro is usually overlooked by first-time visitors, but it’s one of Tokyo’s most practical and affordable bases. Ikebukuro Station is another major transport hub, connecting multiple JR and subway lines.
The neighborhood has a strong pop culture presence, with anime stores, arcades, and themed cafés around the Sunshine City Aquarium and shopping complex.
Hotel picks:
Hotel Mystays Higashi-Ikebukuro
One of Hotel Mystays Higashi-Ikebukuro’s clean and simple rooms
If you’re looking for a practical and comfortable hotel on a budget, Hotel Mystays Higashi-Ikebukuro is a great choice! Their rooms are simple but functional, and some even include kitchenette facilities, suitable for longer stays.
Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
Spacious dining area at the Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro
If you’re looking for another excellent place to stay in the city, Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro can be a good choice! It’s directly connected to Ikebukuro Station and offers rooms that are larger than average for Tokyo. You can choose from the hotel’s multiple dining options.
Still not sure where to stay? Explore the best neighborhoods in Tokyo and book smarter with Klook!
FAQs
What area is best to stay in in Tokyo?
It depends on the kind of experience you prefer. Shinjuku is perfect for first-timers and nightlife lovers, Shibuya for trendsetters, Ginza for luxury and culture, Asakusa for history, and Ikebukuro for budget travelers.
Should I stay in Shibuya or Ginza?
Both are great but very different. Pick Shibuya for energetic nightlife and youth culture. Choose Ginza if you prefer refined streets, elegant shopping, and calm evenings.
Where to avoid staying in Tokyo?
If you can, avoid areas far from major train or subway lines. Tokyo is huge, and staying outside convenient transport hubs can mean spending more time commuting than exploring.
Where to stay in Tokyo for first-timers?
Shinjuku is a top pick for first-time visitors thanks to its unbeatable transport links, tons of dining and nightlife options, and a wide range of hotels.
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