Discover the Best Area to Stay in Tokyo Japan

One of the most overwhelming choices when I was planning my first trip to Tokyo was, “where do I stay”. With those struggles, I made it my mission to put my knowledge from previous research and personal experiences to good use – and help you find the best area to stay in Tokyo.

Despite being referred to as a city, Tokyo is actually a metropolitan prefecture that houses 23 special wards, 26 cities, and so much more. I mean, with those numbers, you may as well be looking at a small country.😂

That said, this guide is here to help make the answers to your “where should I stay in Tokyo” clear, digestible, and accurate. Keep reading to discover which of these areas in Tokyo is best for YOU to stay in during your trip!

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Table of Contents

Here are the Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Tokyo + Hotels

As mentioned above, there is “one” best area to stay in Tokyo. However, based on your interests and what you want to see in Tokyo, there are some better and more convenient picks!

The most popular areas are Shinjuku and Shibuya – both of which I stayed in, and have lots to share about. As you keep reading, you’ll also discover the best interest-based areas, for those who love Japanese culture, Luxury, Nightlife, and for the foodies.

Without further ado, here is the best area for YOU to stay in Tokyo!😍

Shinjuku: Overall Best Area to Stay

Welcome to the heart of Tokyo!

Shinjuku is a beloved ward full of things to see and do, restaurants, local favorites, and a great vibrant nightlife. Most importantly, Shinjuku is the best-connected ward to all the other areas in Tokyo, setting you up for a successful trip!

Something that stands out is that once you’re out of Shinjuku’s hotspot, like Kabukicho, it becomes a very serene and quiet, residential area. In other words, it gives you the best of both worlds – allowing you to enjoy the nightlife and peacefulness.

Shinjuku is a very safe area, and I cannot recommend it enough!

Best Hotels in Shinjuku

1. Oakwood Apartments Nishi-Shinjuku ($$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9/10
📍 Location: 160-0023 Tokyo-to, 7-18-8 Nishi-Shinjuku Shinjuku-ku, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, Kabukicho, Golden Gai
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Kitche, Balcony, Washing Machine, and MORE

The Oakwood Apartments Nishi-Shinjuku is a beautiful and cozy stay. This is the perfect stay for anyone in need, or who prefers, of a kitchen and doesn’t need hotel amenities.

Sounds like your perfect stay? Book here!

2. Hotel Gracery Shinjuku | Godzilla Head ($$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 8.2/10
📍 Location: 160-0021 Tokyo-to, Shinjuku-ku Kabukicho 1-19-1, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, Kabukicho, Golden Gai
✨ Features: Godzilla Head, Free Wifi, Terrace, Laundry, Breakfast, and MORE

If you were looking for a quirky and memorable hotel, with a great location, this is it. Here, you’ll have the chance to come face to face with Shinjuku’s famous, and humongous, Godzilla Head!

Book your stay here. 🤩

3. Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand ($$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9.1/10
📍 Location: 160-8330 Tokyo-to, Shinjuku-ku, Nishishinjuku 2-2-1, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Shinjuku Chuo Park, Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, Kabukicho, Golden Gai
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Breakfast, Outdoor Swimming Pool, Room Service, and MORE

The Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand is a 4-star hotel and luxurious stay that allows you to pamper yourself. I mean, what better way to relax after 30,000-step-days than treating yourself to the spa or a swim in the seasonal outdoor pool?

This hotel is perfect for those looking for a more luxurious stay and great hotel amenities, all in a phenomenal stay! Book this your stay here.✨

4. BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel ($$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9.3/10
📍 Location: 160-0021 Tokyo Prefecture, 1-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Shinjuku SanPark Shopping Mall, Samurai Museum and Joenji Temple
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Spa and Wellness Center, Airport Transport (!!), Breakfast, and MORE

Are you looking for luxury, beautiful rooms with city views, and the chance to pamper yourself? Then look no further than this 5-Star hotel, Bellustar Tokyo!

This wonderful hotel is adapted for people with reduced mobility, is only for adults, and offers airport transportation! The Haneda and Narita airports are both so far away from the city, and honestly – now I would book a hotel solely on the fact they offer airport transportation.😂

This is the perfect stay if you want a luxurious comfort, a child-free hotel, or if you’re traveling with someone with reduced mobility. Book your Bellustar Tokyo stay here!

Shibuya: Most Fun and Iconic Area to Stay in | Best for Celiacs

Ohhh Shibuya, the ward that you are!😍

Shibuya is easily the most popular area of Tokyo, and the most fun and iconic one. Most importantly, for those with gluten allergies and celiacs, this is the area with the most amount of gluten free restaurants and cafes. For what I’ve seen, it’s the only gluten free friendly area.

Shibuya is home to some of Tokyo’s biggest icons, including the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Sky, and the beloved, Hachiko statue. It is also home to some of Tokyo’s most vibrant nightlife, youth culture, and fashion.

Being young and celiac, this was my absolute favorite area to stay in Tokyo. The nightlife is infectious and energetic, and there’s also something to do or admire – whether that’s the Mega Don Quijote shop, or going out. And don’t get me started on finally being able to eat proper (gluten free) meals!😂😍🥲

Best Hotels in Shibuya

1. Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower ($$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 8.8
📍 Location: 151-8583 Tokyo-to, Shibuya-ku, Yoyogi 2-2-1, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Meiji Jingu Shrine,
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Breakfast, 24hr front desk, 2 restaurants, and MORE

Welcome to one of the favorite hotels of families traveling with kids!

The Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower is a beautiful hotel that offers great views, amenities, and a perfect location.

Two great bonuses of staying here is that you will be right near Shinjuku Station, and the Airport Limousine bus stops right outside the hotel. With that said, this stay will make your navigating through the city easier and more convenient – which is extra important when with kids.

Book your stay today!

2. Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel ($$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 8.9
📍 Location: 150-8512 Tokyo Prefecture, Shibuya-ku, Sakuragaokacho 26-1, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Hachikō Statue, Shibuya Station, Shibuya Scramble Crossing
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Airport Transportation, Gym, Adapted for people with Reduced Mobility, and MORE

Welcome to one of the best located hotels in Shibuya!

At Cerulean Tower, you will be a 10-minute walk from the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and 9-minutes from the Shibuya Station. In other words, you will be right in the heart of the city – where a bright nightlife, endless things to do, and more, surround you.

Aside the unmatched location, this 5-Star hotel offers you amazing amenities and hotel views.

Book your Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel stay here!

3. TRUNK(HOTEL) YOYOGI PARK ($$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9.4
📍 Location: 151-0063 Tokyo-to, 1-15-2 Tomigaya, Shibuya-ku, Japan
🗺️ Nearby:
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Laundry, Breakfast, Outdoor Swimming Pool, and MORE

Welcome to one of Tokyo’s most beautiful and peaceful hotels!

Trunk Hotel Yoyogi Park is one of the best hotels in all of Shibuya, and one that offers “Urban Recharge”. Essentially, this hotel acts like a heavenly oasis in the midst of one of Tokyo’s busiest areas.

If you love the busy city life, but need to properly recharge, this is the PERFECT hotel for you!😍

Book your DREAMY stay at Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park here!

Which Area to Stay in Tokyo is Best For First Timers: Shinjuku or Shibuya? (Is it better to stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya?)

Overall, Shinjuku and Shibuya are both perfect areas to stay in – one is not better than the other. However, it is good to note these things when trying to pick between the two:

Shinjuku is more affordable and is best connected with public transportation.
Shibuya has a better nightlife and more things to do and see.
Both have amazing food, but Shibuya is the gluten free friendly one.
Shinjuku is great if you want to be in a more quiet, residential area. Shibuya is great if you want vibrant city nightlife.

Knowing this, which area are you leaning more toward? Let me know in the comments, or comment if you have any questions!

Asakusa: The Best Area to Stay in Tokyo For Culture

If you want to stay in a more traditional Japanese area, and one that is more relaxed and quiet – look no further!

Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most popular old town districts, where you can find the Senso-ji temple, Nakamise-dori street, Tokyo Skytree, and so much more.

This district is not as well-connected to Tokyo’s hot spots, but it is an area full of amazing things to do and see. That said, I recommend staying here if you want to experience a more traditional side of Tokyo, and you don’t care for Tokyo’s nightlife or visiting the hotspots – such as Shibuya. For example, Asakusa is a 1 hour subway ride from both Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Best Hotels in Asakusa

As an important reminder, by staying in Asakusa you will be at least an hour away from most of Tokyo’s main attractions – as the majority is in Shibuya and Shinjuku. Definitely consider what is more worth to you, a traditional and (more) relaxed Tokyo, or the beautifully-hectic-living-in-year-3000 Tokyo.

1. PROSTYLE RYOKAN TOKYO ASAKUSA ($)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 8.6/10
📍 Location: 111-0033 Tokyo Prefecture, Taito-ku Hanakawado 2-12-11, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Tokyo Skytree Tower, Tobacco & Salt Museum, Kaminarimon Gate
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Breakfast, Terrace, 2 Restaurants, and MORE

If you are staying in one of Tokyo’s old and traditional towns, there’s no better place than staying at a Prostyle Ryokan – a traditional Japanese inn.

Here you will be in the center of the beautiful Asakusa, and be near it’s main attractions and the famous Tokyo Skytree! This is the perfect stay if you’re looking for a traditional stay in Tokyo, and do not care for the main attractions in the big cities and wards!

Book your Traditional Japanese stay here!

2. Hotel Gracery Asakusa ($)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 8.7/10
📍 Location: 111-0034 Tokyo Prefecture, Taito-ku Kaminarimon 2-10-2, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Kaminarimon Gate, Hozomon Gate, Denboin Garden
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Breakfast, Laundry Service, Baggage storage, and MORE

Recognize the name? That’s because this 4-Star Hotel is also located in Shinjuku with the Godzilla head!

At Hotel Gracery Asakusa, you will be nearby all of Asakusa’s main attractions – from the Kaminarimon Gate to the World Bags and Luggage Museum, and more!

Book your stay here!

3. Onyado Nono Asakusa Bettei Hot Spring ($$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9.1/10
📍 Location: 111-0032 Tokyo-to, Taito-ku, Asakusa 2-7-26, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Asakusa Fujiasama Shrine, Nitenmon Gate, Hozomon Gate
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Facilities for Disabled Guests, Hot Spring Bath, Breakfast and MORE

Similarly to the wonderful options above, Onyado Nono Asakusa Bettei Hot Spring is in the heart of Asakusa and close to all the main attractions.

One of the features of this hotel that stands out is its wonderful Hot Spring. With this feature, this hotel is perfect for those who want to relax in the most peaceful way, after their daily Tokyo adventures.

Ready for a relaxing Hot Spring? Book your stay here!

Ginza: The Best Area to Stay in Tokyo For Luxury

Photo Credit: © Visualspace on Canva.com

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, Ginza is the perfect district for you!

Ginza is famous for it’s high-end shopping scene and Michelin-starred restaurants. This district is also known for it’s watchmaking history and tradition – including it’s world-renowned brand, Seiko. Some of the best things to do here, besides shopping and fine-dining, include the Ginza Six and the Kabuki-za Theatre.

Best Hotels in Ginza

Something nice about staying in the Ginza district is that it’s surrounded by amazing districts – Minato, Chuo, Tokyo City and so forth. This makes you pretty central to some of Tokyo’s main attractions, including teamLab Planets and Roppongi Hills.

1. The Blossom Hibiya ($$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9/10
📍 Location: 105-0004 Tokyo Prefecture, Shinbashi 1-1-13, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Sakurada Park, Karasumori Shrine, and Shimbashi Train Statio
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Laundry Service, Breakfast, and MORE

If you’re someone who enjoys parks, The Blossom Hibiya is right next to three beautiful parks, along with some main attractions, including the Imperial Palace.

A 5-minute walk from the Shimbashi Station, not only does this hotel have a great location, but makes traveling around Tokyo more accessible!

Book your stay at The Blossom Hibiya here.

2. Muji Hotel Ginza ($$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9.1/10
📍 Location: 104-0061 Tokyo-to, 3-3-5 6F Ginza, Chuo-ku, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Nissan Crossing, Godzilla Statue Hibiya, Panasonic Shiodome Museum Rouault Gallery
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Baggage Storage, Breakfast, Facilities for Disabled Guests, and MORE

If you’re familiar with the beloved Muji store, and are a fan, you’re in for a treat! Muji Hotel Ginza is a beautiful, 4-Star, Japanese-style hotel located in the Muji Flagship store. Just like the brand, this hotel offers a beautiful minimalist look.

The Muji Hotel is perfectly located with several train and subway stations nearby, making traveling accessible.

Book your Muji Hotel Ginza stay here!

3. Imperial Hotel Tokyo ($$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9/10
📍 Location: 100-8558 Tokyo-to, Chiyoda-ku Uchisaiwai-cho 1-1-1, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Nissan Crossing, Godzilla Statue Hibiya, Advertising Museum
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Indoor Swimming Pool, Facilities for Disabled Guests, and MORE

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in one of Tokyo’s most luxurious districts, Imperial Hotel Tokyo is for you!

This 5-Star Hotel offers world-class hospitality since 1890, and continues to do so. Here you will have the opportunity to receive the ultimate pampering after your long adventurous days. Some amenities you’ll find are Massages, Spa and Wellness center, a personal trainer, and more!

Similarly to the options above, Imperial Hotel Tokyo is perfectly located with various attractions near by and several train and metro stations.

Ready for a luxurious, 5-Star experience in Ginza? Book your stay at Imperial Hotel Tokyo today!

Roppongi: The Best Area to Stay in Tokyo For Nightlife

Similarly to Ginza, Roppongi is another perfect area for those who seek a luxurious and high-end experience in Japan!✨

Roppongi is known for it’s Michelin-starred restaurant scene, vibrant nightlife, and international scene. Some of the best things to do here are the famous Roppongi Hills and the Mori Art Museum.

When it comes to the cultural scene in Ginza vs. Roppongi, Ginza focuses more on the traditional Japanese arts and high culture. Roppongi, on the other hand, focuses more on Modern art, often times international, and contemporary culture.

Best Hotels in Roppongi

Something that is important to note is that Roppongi is about 40-50 minutes away from the famous Shibuya and Shinjuku. However, it is well connected to both places, and Roppongi itself has many attractions.

1. The Prince Park Tower Tokyo ($$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 8.8/10
📍 Location: 105-8563 Tokyo Prefecture, Minato-ku, Shiba Koen 4-8-1, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Tower Aquarium, Seaside Top Observatory, Shiba Park
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Indoor Pool, Adapted for people with reduced mobility, and MORE

Do you want to stay somewhere with direct access to a beautiful park, and the iconic Tokyo Tower? Then don’t look further than the Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel!

Here you’ll have the chance to pamper yourself with their amenities, including their Hot Spring Bath, and have great access to public transportation.

Book your stay here!

2. The Capitol Hotel Tokyu ($$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9.3/10
📍 Location: 100-0014 Tokyo-to, Chiyoda-ku Nagatacho 2-10-3 , Japan
🗺️ Nearby:
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Indoor Pool, Breakfast, Facilities for Disabled Guests, and MORE

If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll be happy to know that this hotel is very popular amongst families! Here’s you’ll find several amenities to treat yourself to – from spa facilities to hair treatments, and so much more.

At Capitol Hotel Tokyu you’ll have easy access to public transportation, which is crucial for exploring around the immense Tokyo. It’s important to note that this hotel is in a great area but it is NOT a near-walk to any famous attractions.

Book your Capitol Hotel Tokyu stay today!

3. Grand Hyatt Tokyo ($$$$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 8.8/10
📍 Location: 106-0032 Tokyo Prefecture, Minato-ku Roppongi 6-10-3 , Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Tokyo City View, Mori Art Museum, National Art Center
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Airport Transportation(!!), Adapted for people with reduced mobility, and MORE

If you’re looking to experience luxury, while staying in one of Tokyo’s most luxurious area – the Grand Hyatt Tokyo is for you!

Here you will be right next to the famous Roppongi Hills, Mori Art Museum, and so much more. With a nearby subway station, you will be perfectly located amongst Roppongi’s main attractions and a quick ride from Tokyo’s other main attractions.

Book your Luxurious stay at Grand Hyatt Tokyo today!

Akihabara: The Best Area to Stay in Tokyo For Gamers

If you’re a gamer, or someone who loves anime and manga, Akihabara is about to be your dream come true!

Known as the Electric Town, Akihabara is the area of Tokyo where you find everything from anime, to retro games, electronics, and so forth. Here you’ll find the famous Maid Cafes and endless arcades to spend hours in – should that be your goal.

Akihabara is quite far away from Shinjuku and Shibuya. With that said, it’s up to you if you want to immerse yourself in this area, or treat it as a day trip!

Best Hotels in Akihabara

NOHGA HOTEL AKIHABARA TOKYO ($$)

⭐ Booking.com Rating: 9/10
📍 Location: 101-0021 Tokyo-to, Chiyoda-ku, Sotokanda 3-10-11, Japan
🗺️ Nearby: Yushima Seido, Fujisoft Akiba Plaza and EDO Culture Complex
✨ Features: Free Wifi, Fitness Center, Breakfast, Luggage Storage, and MORE

This hotel offers something that no other hotel (listed here) seems to have… the Gaming Cave!!

Given we’re in the heaven of anime, manga, and games – I couldn’t not mention this amenity. Nohga is a wonderful hotel for everyone, including families, but it is extra wonderful for those who love gaming!

Ready to experience a Japanese gaming cave? Book your room today!

Tip on Hotel Stays in Japan

One of the best things to know before going to Japan is that… you can SHIP your suitcases!

When you’re staying at hotels, Yamato allows you to travel hassle free, as it ships your suitcases from your first hotel to the next one. This program is a blessing, especially when considering the amount of stairs you take with public transportation – or rush hour…🤯

Where to Stay in Tokyo FAQ

Is 3 nights in Tokyo enough?

3 days in Tokyo is not enough to see all of this metropolitan prefecture, BUT it is enough to see some of the main attractions. My biggest tip and personal lesson is to split up your days and activities based on which ward or city they are in – for example, Shibuya one day and Shinjuku the next.

To help out, my 3 days in Tokyo itinerary goes through Tokyo’s main attractions, the best wards to visit with 3 days, and Tokyo essential tips.

Which area in Tokyo is best for tourists to stay?

As you’ve read, the best area to stay in Tokyo is subjective to tastes and interests. However, considering centrality, things to do, and public transportation – Shinjuku and Shibuya are the best areas for tourists to stay in.

What is the coolest neighborhood in Tokyo?

This is also subjective to tastes and preferences. I personally thought Shibuya was the coolest neighborhood, because I love the busy city life and vibrant night life.

Here are some other cool neighborhoods in Tokyo:

Akihabara Electric Town – Heaven for Anime, Manga, and Retro Game Lovers
Asakusa – Tokyo Old Town District
Roppongi – Best architecture

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I have to ask…

Which of these best neighborhoods to stay in Japan Tokyo are you leaning toward? Let me know in the comments!😍👇

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