In a nutshell
- Tokyo is massive and can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll show you the 5 best neighborhoods in Tokyo to stay in and help you find the one that suits you best.
- All five districts are along the Yamanote Line, Tokyo’s most important train route, and every hotel we recommend is a short walk from a station.
- We recommend staying in Shinjuku. It’s one of the coolest places to stay in Tokyo for first-timers, packed with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Our hotel tip: Hotel Cen.
- Accommodation in Tokyo can be pricey, especially in the trendy western neighborhoods. In the eastern districts, you can often find more affordable options.
Where to Stay in Tokyo on a Map
We highly recommend booking a hotel in the heart of Tokyo. Trust us, you don’t want to spend your trip stuck in rush hour traffic.
All five neighborhoods we recommend are located along the Yamanote Line, the city’s most important train route. It loops around the center and stops at many top sights in Tokyo. Asakusa is slightly outside the loop, but you can easily reach a station on the line.
It really doesn’t matter which district you choose. Just pick the one that fits your vibe best. You’ll be taking the train a lot anyway.
The best neighborhoods to stay in Tokyo at a glance:
- Shibuya: young, vibrant and super central – Our hotel recommendation: lyf Shibuya Tokyo
- Shinjuku: shopping and nightlife hotspot – Our hotel recommendation: Hotel Cen
- Ueno: affordable, with temples, museums and a big park – Our hotel recommendation: Landabout Tokyo
- Asakusa: traditional, authentic and laid-back – Our hotel recommendation: Onyado Nono Asakusa
- Tokyo Station Area: elegant and perfectly connected – Our hotel recommendation: Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi
Where to Stay in Shibuya
Staying in Shibuya is perfect if you want to immerse yourself in the young, creative and colorful side of Tokyo.
Shibuya is one of the most famous districts in Tokyo, a true icon of the city. Here, you’ll find pop culture, fashion and shopping streets in every direction. The area is full of attractions, restaurants and shops of all kinds. Boredom doesn’t stand a chance here.
Shibuya is also home to the legendary Shibuya Crossing with its glowing neon signs, buzzing streets and endless energy.
Because it’s so popular, hotels in Shibuya are not exactly cheap. But almost all of them have excellent ratings and modern designs, making them a top pick among the best places to stay in Tokyo.
Pros of staying in Shibuya
- Super central location
- Many sights right on your doorstep (including the famous Shibuya Crossing)
- Plenty of restaurants, bars and shopping
Cons of staying in Shibuya
- Few budget options
- Very lively and noisy
- Can feel overwhelming for longer stays
The best places to stay in Shibuya
The lyf Shibuya Tokyo offers small but modern rooms with everything you need. The location is central, yet pleasantly quiet.
Where to Stay in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of the best places to stay in Tokyo if you want to dive right into the city vibe. It’s packed with shops, nightlife, and great connections to get around.
Shinjuku is the Tokyo you see in movies and TV: buzzing streets, futuristic lights, glittering towers, and endless places to shop.
The heart of the neighborhood is Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest train stations in the world. From here, you can reach every part of the city and even plan day trips, like to Mount Fuji.
Don’t miss Golden Gai, a maze of tiny alleyways filled with quirky bars and local eateries. It’s a great spot to experience Tokyo’s nightlife up close.
There’s also a huge variety of hotels in Shinjuku, making it one of the most popular districts in Tokyo to stay in, especially for first-time visitors.
Pros of staying in Shinjuku
- Huge range of hotels for every budget
- Plenty of restaurants, bars and nightlife
- Lots of viewpoints with amazing city views
- Great base for exploring Tokyo
- Shinjuku Station is one of Japan’s key transport hubs
Cons of staying in Shinjuku
- Very busy and crowded
- Still not the cheapest area
- Less traditional atmosphere
The best places to stay in Shinjuku
We can highly recommend Hotel Cen. It’s in a quiet street but still close to a subway station, with convenience stores just around the corner. The rooms are small but spotless, and you can store your luggage under the bed to save space.
Another great option is the Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku. This traditional ryokan blends classic Japanese design with a beautiful view of the Tokyo skyline.
Where to Stay in Ueno
Ueno is one of the best neighborhoods in Tokyo to stay in if you love culture, parks, and a calmer vibe. It’s usually much more affordable than the trendier areas in the west.
Ueno lies in the eastern part of Tokyo and comes with plenty of perks: lower hotel prices, a quieter atmosphere, and a lovely balance of nature and culture.
The district is home to Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s most famous green spaces, and several major museums like the Tokyo National Museum, the National Science Museum, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. Plus, there are over a hundred temples to discover. It’s the perfect neighborhood for peaceful walks and slow mornings.
Pros of staying in Ueno
- Much cheaper than Shibuya and Shinjuku
- Many museums, temples and the large Ueno Park
Cons of staying in Ueno
- Less trendy and modern
- Less nightlife than the other main districts
The best places to stay in Ueno
The Landabout Tokyo is excellent value for money. The rooms are cozy and modern, making you feel right at home. And a big plus for families: there are spacious family rooms with beds for up to three kids.
Where to Stay in Asakusa
Asakusa is one of the best places to stay in Tokyo if you want to experience the city’s traditional side and soak up an authentic atmosphere.
Located southeast of Ueno, Asakusa has kept its old Tokyo charm. Unlike the ultra-modern districts in the west, it has changed very little over the decades. The vibe here is relaxed, local and steeped in history, offering a slower pace than the buzzing city center.
You’ll find traditional Japanese ryokans, cozy guesthouses with futon beds, onsen baths, and classic Japanese cuisine. If you’re wondering where to stay in Tokyo to experience its cultural heart, Asakusa is perfect.
The neighborhood is a bit off the main loop – not directly on the Yamanote Line – but just a short ride away on the Ginza Line. And another plus: hotels here are often cheaper than in the trendier districts.
Pros of staying in Asakusa
- Many temples and shrines
- Often cheaper hotels than in the modern districts
Cons of staying in Asakusa
- Not directly on the Yamanote Line
- Less central
The best places to stay in Asakusa
The Onyado Nono Asakusa is a beautiful ryokan-style hotel. You’ll take off your shoes when you enter, unwind in the onsen, and enjoy bright, modern rooms. No need to sleep on a futon if that’s not your thing.
Where to Stay in Tokyo Station Area
Tokyo Station area is one of the best neighborhoods in Tokyo if you want to be in the center of it all and have an easy base for exploring the rest of Japan.
For many travelers, this area is their first impression of Tokyo. Tokyo Station is the main transportation hub in Japan, making it the ideal starting point for your round trip through Japan by train or bus.
It’s also easy to get around the city from here. You can even stroll to the Imperial Palace and its surrounding gardens. The district has lots of shops and restaurants, many right inside the station itself. It’s elegant, clean and polished. But that also means hotels here are usually on the pricier side. The upside: the quality is excellent.
Pros of staying in Tokyo Station Area
- Very good transport connections
- Many restaurants and shopping opportunities directly in the station
- Elegant, well-kept district
- Historic building
Cons of staying in Tokyo Station Area
- Hotels tend to be expensive
- Less lively than hip or traditional neighborhoods
- Not a typical Tokyo atmosphere
The best places to stay in Tokyo Station Area
The Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi is a great option. The rooms are bright and modern, and the breakfast is excellent. Two subway stations are just steps away, and Tokyo Station is an easy 15-minute walk.
Our Tips for Hotels in Tokyo
Finally, we’ll give you three tips for your hotel search in Tokyo.
Pay Attention to the Size and Price
Hotel rooms in Tokyo are usually compact, but they have everything you need. Most places in the city center offer between 9 and 14 square meters. If you want more space, you’ll have to spend a bit more.
And yes, hotels in Tokyo and across Japan aren’t cheap. The same goes for hotels in Kyoto or accommodation in Osaka.
The good news: you really get what you pay for. If you want a nice and comfortable hotel, expect to pay accordingly depending on the neighborhood. The best hotels are worth the extra money.
Don't Use the Cosmetic Products in Hotels
It might sound odd, but in Asia, cosmetic products often contain whitening agents.
To avoid any surprises, it’s best not to use the provided bath and skincare products, especially if you have sensitive skin or prefer to keep your natural tone.
Of course, international hotel chains are an exception. Their products are mostly tailored to international guests.
Make Sure You Get a Non-Smoking Room
This only applies if you prefer not to stay in a smoking room.
Japan still has a strong smoking culture, though this is slowly changing. Many hotels are now entirely smoke-free. Still, we recommend double-checking before booking. On booking.com, you can easily select a non-smoking room or filter for non-smoking accommodation.
FAQs When Looking for a Hotel in Tokyo
How many days should you plan for Tokyo?
Plan at least 5 days for your trip. Tokyo is huge and full of cool sights. You can actually compare it a bit to New York City. There’s something exciting around every corner.
If you want to explore Tokyo at a slower pace and really get a feel for the city, it’s best to stay for 7 to 10 days. That gives you enough time to experience the best neighborhoods in Tokyo without rushing.
Can you explore Tokyo on foot?
Many places are walkable once you’re in a neighborhood. But to get from one district to another, you’ll definitely need to take the train. It’s fast, reliable and super easy to use.
The easiest way to get around is with the Suica Card.
Where to avoid staying in Tokyo?
Tokyo is a very safe city, and there are no truly dangerous neighborhoods.
The only area that can feel a bit rough at night is Kabukicho, which is known as a red light district. Just stay aware of your surroundings and you’ll be fine.
These were our thotel recommendations for Tokyo
We hope these hotel tips help you find the perfect place to stay in Tokyo. Have you been to Tokyo before? Which neighborhood did you stay in and would you recommend it? We’d love to hear your tips in the comments!