Tokyo is a sprawling, dynamic city with countless neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, choosing where to stay can make or break your trip. From vibrant nightlife districts to peaceful traditional areas, this guide will help you navigate the best Tokyo hotels and areas based on your travel style.
Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time Travelers
If it’s your first visit to Tokyo, you’ll want to stay in a central, well-connected area with easy access to public transport and major Tokyo tourist attractions.
Shinjuku – Best for First-Timers & Nightlife Lovers
Shinjuku is the heart of modern Tokyo, known for its bright lights, towering skyscrapers, and unbeatable transport links. It’s home to the massive Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest in the world, making it easy to explore the city.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ Convenient transportation hub
✔ Exciting nightlife at Shinjuku Golden Gai
✔ Plenty of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment - Recommended Hotels:
- Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – Famous for its Godzilla-themed rooms
- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo – A luxury stay with stunning city views
- Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku – A popular mid-range choice with easy access to the station
Shibuya – Best for Young Travelers & Trendy Shopping
If you want to be in the middle of Tokyo’s youthful energy, Shibuya City is the place to be. Home to the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, this area is packed with trendy cafes, shopping streets, and nightlife spots.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ Iconic landmarks like Shibuya Scramble Crossing
✔ Trendy shopping at Shibuya 109 and Takeshita Street
✔ Great restaurants and nightlife - Recommended Hotels:
- Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu – Located right next to Shibuya Station
- All Day Place Shibuya – A stylish, modern boutique hotel
- Tokyu Stay Shibuya – Comfortable rooms with kitchenettes for longer stays
Tokyo Station & Marunouchi – Best for Luxury & Convenience
If you prefer a more refined experience, staying near Tokyo Station puts you close to high-end shopping, cultural landmarks, and easy access to bullet trains for day trips.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ Convenient for business travelers and those taking the Shinkansen
✔ Luxury hotels with top-tier service
✔ Close to the Imperial Palace and Ginza shopping district - Recommended Hotels:
- The Tokyo Station Hotel – A historic 5-star hotel inside Tokyo Station
- Palace Hotel Tokyo – Stunning views of the Imperial Palace Gardens
- Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Marunouchi – Great for those needing quick access to trains
Asakusa – Best for a Traditional & Cultural Experience
For those who want to experience Tokyo’s old-world charm, Asakusa is a great choice. It’s home to Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temple, and offers a slower-paced atmosphere.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ Close to historic sites like Senso-ji Temple
✔ More affordable hotels compared to central Tokyo
✔ Access to Tokyo Skytree and Sumida River cruises - Recommended Hotels:
- Asakusa View Hotel – Offers fantastic views of Tokyo Skytree
- Dormy Inn Tokyo Asakusa – A budget-friendly stay with an onsen
- Ryokan Tokyo Yuen Asakusa – A traditional-style inn for an authentic experience
Ginza – Best for Luxury Shopping & Fine Dining
If high-end shopping and fine dining are priorities, Ginza Tokyo is the place to be. This area is home to flagship stores of international brands, Michelin-star restaurants, and sleek skyscrapers.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ Best shopping in Tokyo, from luxury brands to local boutiques
✔ Some of the city’s finest restaurants and cocktail bars
✔ Elegant, quiet atmosphere compared to busier districts - Recommended Hotels:
- Imperial Hotel Tokyo – A legendary luxury hotel
- Park Hotel Tokyo – Art-themed rooms with incredible city views
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier – A stylish and modern option
Best Areas for Repeat Travelers Looking for Something Different
If you’ve already explored the major attractions, consider these neighborhoods for a different side of Tokyo.
Minato – Best for a Relaxing, Upscale Stay
inato City is home to beautiful parks, embassies, and upscale residential areas. It offers a more peaceful atmosphere while still being well-connected.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ Less crowded, more relaxed vibe
✔ Close to Tokyo Tower and Roppongi nightlife
✔ Beautiful waterfront views in Odaiba - Recommended Hotels:
- Hilton Tokyo Odaiba – Stunning views of Rainbow Bridge
- Shiba Park Hotel – A hidden gem near Tokyo Tower
- Conrad Tokyo – Ultimate luxury with amazing service
Ikebukuro – Best for Budget Travelers
For those looking for affordable hotels in Tokyo without sacrificing convenience, Ikebukuro is an underrated option.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ More budget-friendly accommodation options
✔ Plenty of entertainment, shopping, and gaming centers
✔ Well-connected via Shinjuku Station and the JR Yamanote Line - Recommended Hotels:
- Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro – Great value with spacious rooms
- Tokyu Stay Ikebukuro – Budget-friendly and comfortable
- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Ikebukuro – A solid mid-range choice
Akasaka – Best for Business Travelers & Food Lovers
Located between Roppongi and Tokyo Station, Akasaka is an underrated area with great restaurants, peaceful streets, and easy access to major business districts.
- Why Stay Here?
✔ Excellent dining options with many izakayas and ramen spots
✔ Quiet but well-connected to other parts of Tokyo
✔ Great for long-term stays and business travelers - Recommended Hotels:
- The Capitol Hotel Tokyu – A luxurious, modern hotel with a spa
- Akasaka Excel Hotel Tokyu – Affordable and well-located
- Akasaka Mitsuke Hotel – A budget-friendly choice with great amenities
Final Tips for Choosing the Best Place to Stay in Tokyo
✔ First-time visitors should stay in Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Tokyo Station for convenience.
✔ For luxury and fine dining, Ginza and Minato offer elegant accommodations.
✔ For culture and history, Asakusa is the best choice.
✔ For budget travelers, Ikebukuro and Akasaka provide great options.
✔ For something different, Odaiba and Roppongi offer unique experiences.
With countless Tokyo hotels to choose from, finding the right place can feel overwhelming. But whether you’re after budget inns, luxury stays, or long-term hotels, Tokyo has something for everyone.
So, where will you stay on your next trip?
