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Where to Stay in Tokyo (Best Places & Areas in 2026)
👉 Jump to: Best Places to Stay in Tokyo | Where to Avoid | Neighborhoods & Areas | Tips | FAQ
I scouted the best areas and hotels in Tokyo to create this epic guide for Travel Lemming readers like you.
First time in Tokyo? Stay in Shibuya. It’s the most popular area for visitors, well-connected to transit, and filled with dining, nightlife, and attractions.
My #1 Tokyo hotel is here: the Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya. It’s a modern, clean, and perfectly located 5-star hotel. Some rooms have views of the famous Shibuya Scramble crossing (scroll for a timelapse from my room). If that’s out of your price range, however, lyf Shibuya Tokyo has an unbeatable location nearby and reasonable rates.
Another popular area is the iconic Ginza neighborhood. Ginza is ideal for short visits, as it’s located near Tokyo Station. I stayed at the karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza and loved its excellent location. It’s a great mid-range option that offers touches of luxury (like a lounge with free food and drinks).
Celebrating something on your trip? Spoil yourself with the epic Tokyo Tower views pictured above, which you can find at the Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel in Shiba Park.
You have more options, though! Read on for a detailed breakdown of the areas I think most Tokyo visitors should stay in. For each, I’ll give pros & cons, a map, hotel suggestions, and an area mini guide. Stay through the end for my best Tokyo tips and tricks.
First up, a quick summary for readers in a rush:
Best Places to Stay in Tokyo (Quick Version)
Clara in our room at the Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya, my #1 hotel because of the prime location, stunning views, and plush rooms 
We will never forget the Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel’s amazing views 
Clara in our room at the karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza (pro tip: all guests get to use the included lounge!) 
Clara in her pajamas at the karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza (where they serve breakfast in a box delivered to your room!) 
We could see the famous Shibuya crossing from our bed at the Hotel Indigo (scroll to the Shibuya section for a cool timelapse I took)
Are you just looking for a quick answer on the best places to stay in Tokyo? Here are my top picks:
- 🏆 My #1 Overall Pick: Hotel Indigo Shibuya
- 🗺️ Best Location: lyf Shibuya Tokyo (Shibuya) or karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza (Ginza)
- 📷 Most Photogenic: Prince Park Tower Tokyo
- 👨👩👦 For Families: Tokyu Stay Shibuya
- ❤️ For Couples: Prince Park Tower Tokyo
- 💎 For Luxury Travelers: Imperial Hotel Tokyo
- 🍜 In Shinjuku: APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower
- 🏨 Hostel (capsule-style): The Millennials
- 🛏️ Best Budget: Akihabara Washington Hotel or Asakusa Kokono Club Hotel
Next, we’ll deep dive into Tokyo’s best areas and neighborhoods.
👉 Traveling around Japan? We also have guides to where to stay in Kyoto and where to stay in Osaka that you’ll love if you found this guide helpful.
Where to Avoid Staying in Tokyo
Tokyo is a very safe city, and you should feel safe in any of the above top-pick hotels or areas I recommend below. However, do be aware that Roppongi is a nightlife district with some red-light establishments. It’s not unsafe in my opinion, but you can’t deny that it attracts a party crowd. If that’s not you, I’d avoid staying there.
Also, realize Tokyo is sprawling. It’s truly massive. So, simply for convenience’s sake, I’d avoid staying anywhere too far outside the center (I wouldn’t go further out than Shinjuku or Sumida City). Stick to staying in the areas I recommend in this guide, learn how to navigate Tokyo’s transit system, and you’ll be fine.
11 Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo (Detailed Guide)
Tokyo is a massive metropolis and each district provides a distinct atmosphere. So, although you can get around easily via public transit, it’s still crucial to choose your Tokyo neighborhood wisely.
Below is our epic guide to Tokyo’s essential neighborhoods. For each one, I’ve put pros and cons, hotel suggestions, and a “mini-guide” for each neighborhood. It’s comprehensive and a lot to digest, so click the neighborhood names of this map to jump around:
Shibuya
Best Area For First-Timers | 👉 Browse Shibuya hotels on Booking
I loved the wrap-around views from our corner Scramble-view room at the Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya 
Me looking out over Shibuya from the Hotel Indigo terrace 
The Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya was the best breakfast buffet we had in Japan 
Dinner with friends at Hakuritabai Hanbey Shibuya Dogenzaka, one of many fun and colorful restaurants in Shibuya 
Us making the famous “Shibuya Scramble” crossing 
Stay in Shibuya to experience Tokyo’s nighttime energy 
The Hotel Indigo’s terrace is an oasis from the chaos of the streets below
✨ Best Shibuya Hotels: Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya • lyf Shibuya Tokyo • Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel • Tokyu Stay Shibuya • The Millennials
If it’s your first visit to Tokyo, you can’t go wrong staying in Shibuya. It’s one of the busiest areas of Tokyo. If you are like most Tokyo visitors, you’ll want to spend a lot of time in Shibuya to experience its attractions, shopping, dining, and nightlife scene.
We loved the views from the modern Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya. Our room overlooked the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the world’s busiest intersection. Every 2 minutes, we could watch as up to 2,000 pedestrians did “the scramble.” The Scramble-view rooms book up quickly, so snag one if they’re available!
Beyond the view, the Hotel Indigo is perfectly located, super clean, offers a fantastic breakfast, and has a massive terrace perfect for escaping the bustle of Shibuya. I’d stay at the Hotel Indigo again in a heartbeat, which is why it’s my #1 overall recommendation in Tokyo. If it’s booked during your stay, you could also try the highly-rated luxury hotel Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel.
For something more affordable, the nearby lyf Shibuya Tokyo is a new hotel with one of the best locations in Shibuya. Rooms are a bit small, but if all you need is a clean bed and a central base, it’ll work perfectly.
For families, Tokyu Stay Shibuya offers several room types with multiple beds (some with bunk beds!) as well as family-friendly features like in-room washers.
For budget travelers, The Millennials is a super cool option in Shibuya. It is one of those “pod-style” hotels, which is a unique experience in Japan. And the common spaces look swanky too.
While in Shibuya, try conveyor belt sushi at Uobei, have a drink at Moon Walk Shibuya Center-Gai, sip cocktails from BAR Legacy, and check out the 360-degree city views from Shibuya Sky.
Pros of Staying in Shibuya Neighborhood:
- Well-located near other neighborhoods
- Hotels at a variety of price points
- Tons of restaurants
- Diverse nightlife scene
Cons of Staying in Shibuya Neighborhood:
- Extremely busy
- Lots of tourists (though that also means lots of English)
📚 Shibuya Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for First-Timers
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya • lyf Shibuya Tokyo • Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel • Tokyu Stay Shibuya • The Millennials
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Shibuya
🍽️ Where to Eat – Hakuritabai Hanbey ($$), Shabu Zen Shibuya ($$$), Kaikaya by the Sea ($$), Gyukatsu Motomura Ueno ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – moon walk Shibuya Center-Gai, OLIM Bar, BAR Legacy
🎟️ Top Attractions – Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Sky, Yoyogi Park
Shiba Park (Minato City)
For Epic Views & Special Occasions | 👉 Browse Shiba Park Hotels on Booking
Clara and I in our tower-view room at the Prince Park Tower Tokyo 
Can’t snag a tower view room? You can still see it from the breakfast restaurant! 
My bathtub view looked even cooler at night, but I couldn’t photograph it well due to the reflection 
With views like this, I just had to break out the tux! 
I loved the teamlab Borderless digital art room
✨ Best Shiba Park Hotels: Prince Park Tower Tokyo • Shiba Park Hotel • Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba
Located in the Minato City ward, the Shiba Park area is a quiet but central place to stay. It’s home to the Tokyo Tower and within walking distance to the teamlab Borderless digital art room. I highly recommend a visit to both, even if staying elsewhere.
My personal favorite stay in Tokyo was definitely at the Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel, one of a handful of hotels bordering Shiba Park.
The views of the Tokyo Tower from our room were just dreamy. We could also see the tower from the breakfast restaurant, the glitzy rooftop bar, and the lounge for premium rooms.
The hotel had so many resort-style amenities: multiple restaurants, multiple pools, a massive gym, tons of shopping, and even a bowling alley. It felt like a vacation within a vacation!
In this area, you’ll find a lot of greenery, but you won’t find a lot of commercial areas. It was by far the most relaxed Tokyo area we stayed in. Shiba Park felt like an oasis within the bustle of Tokyo.
Other top-rated hotels in this area include the Shiba Park Hotel and Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba.
Overall, Shiba Park is perfect if you want to ensure you leave Tokyo with a camera roll of Instagram-perfect pictures. It’s also a good choice for couples, families, or groups looking for a quiet but still central stay.
Pros of Staying near Shiba Park:
- Fantastic Tokyo Tower views
- Lots of greenery
- Quiet & relaxed vibe
- Walkable to Ginza and Roppongi
Cons of Staying near Shiba Park:
- Only a handful of dining and nightlife options (most within the hotels)
📚 Shiba Park Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Epic Views
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – Prince Park Tower Tokyo • Shiba Park Hotel • Hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Minato City
🍽️ Where to Eat – Wagyu Creative Cuisine ($$$$), Restaurant de Nouilles ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Sky Lounge Stellar Garden (epic views from top of Prince Park Tower Tokyo Hotel)
🎟️ Top Attractions – Tokyo Tower, teamLab Borderless: Mori Building Digital Art Museum
Ginza
Best Area For Short Stays | 👉 Browse Ginza Hotels on Booking
View from our lovely room at karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza 
I loved the karaksa hotel premier’s free lounge, which has earned it a cult following in Japan 
The iconic streets of Ginza light up at night 
The ramen at Kyūshū Jangara Ginza is worth waiting in the line 
Ginza Corridor Street has the area’s largest concentration of bars
✨ Best Ginza Hotels: karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza • Imperial Hotel Tokyo • Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tokyo Kyobashi PREMIER • MUJI Hotel Ginza
The iconic Ginza neighborhood offers a prime location right in the middle of Tokyo’s shopping and business district.
The nearbyTokyo station is where you can catch the Shinkansen bullet train to destinations like Kyoto and Osaka, so stay here if you want to maximize every minute of your Japan trip.
We stayed in Ginza just to check out the highly-rated karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza (pictured above). The hotel chain has an almost cult-like following in Japan, and I wanted to see why.
The coolest thing about the “karaksa premier” brand? All guests get access to a lounge with free food and drinks! I also loved the sparkling clean rooms and the location near Ginza Corridor Street’s trendy sushi spots and cocktail bars.
Looking for a large hotel with amenities? The Imperial Hotel Tokyo is the best I could find in this area. You could also check out Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tokyo Kyobashi PREMIER or the tastefully designed MUJI Hotel Ginza.
Overall, Ginza is probably the single most convenient district to stay in Tokyo. So what’s the reason why I don’t rank it at the top of my list? Well, honestly, to me it feels a little too glitzy and, arguably, too “business-y” if that makes sense. Nothing wrong with that: I just personally enjoyed the character of Shibuya and the views of Shiba Park more. But, if you only have a short visit and need to maximize your time, Ginza’s a great choice.
Pros of Staying in Ginza Neighborhood:
- Central location
- Shinkansen bullet trains go to Tokyo Station
- Luxury shopping scene
- Gorgeous hotels
Cons of Staying in Ginza Neighborhood:
- Higher-end prices
- A very busy area
📚 Ginza Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Central Location
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza • Imperial Hotel Tokyo • The Tokyo Station Hotel • Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tokyo Kyobashi PREMIER • MUJI Hotel Ginza
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Ginza
🍽️ Where to Eat – Kyūshū Jangara Ginza ($), Sakai ($$), Dazzle ($$), Magic Restaurant ($$$), Air ($$$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – High Five, Ginza 300 Bar, Orchard Ginza, Bar Landscape
🎟️ Top Attractions – Ginza Corridor Street, Chuo-dori Avenue, Godzilla Statue
Shinjuku
Best Area for Long Stay | 👉 Browse Shinjuku Hotels on Booking
✨ Best Shinjuku Hotels: APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower • WPU Shinjuku • Sakura Cross Hotel • Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower • UNPLAN Kagurazaka
Shinjuku is one of the most hectic areas of Tokyo, which comes with both benefits and potential problems depending on who you are. The neighborhood is home to one of Tokyo’s largest train stations. This makes it easy to embark on day trips from Shinjuku.
It’s a good place to stay if you’re planning a longer visit to Tokyo and want to have lots of dining and nightlife options nearby, but don’t mind traveling for sightseeing.
You also have lots of hotel options here. APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower offers a great location just a short walk from dining and attractions. It’s a good choice if you want to try a classic Japanese-style hotel.
Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower is another convenient option. It’s a larger property with much more spacious rooms than is typical in space-constrained Tokyo.
There are also places to meet fellow travelers in Shinjuku, such as the cozy, social bar scene around Omoide Yokocho and Golden-Gai. Although there is a lot going on, it is still a very safe area.
The nightlife in Shinjuku is a little more casual than places like Roppongi. It’s more like a place that locals go to decompress after work.
Shinjuku is very crowded. However, it doesn’t have many big attractions in the neighborhood itself. Additionally, it’s a bit removed from other major Tokyo neighborhoods.
Pros of Staying in Shinjuku Neighborhood:
- High-quality restaurants and fun bars
- Major train station in the district
- Easy to meet people
- Accommodation options from budget to luxury
Cons of Staying in Shinjuku Neighborhood:
- Extremely busy
- Few attractions
- Outside of the city center
📚 Shinjuku Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Long Stay
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower • WPU Shinjuku • Sakura Cross Hotel • Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower • UNPLAN Kagurazaka
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Shinjuku
🍽️ Where to Eat – Shinjuku Kappo NAKAJIMA ($$), Nabezo Shinjuku Sanchome Store ($$), Katsukura Shinjuku Takashimaya ($$), Mitsuya ($$), KABUKI Sushi ($$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Deathmatch in Hell, ARAKU, Zoetrope, BAR PSY, Shinjuku Whisky Salon
🎟️ Top Attractions – Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Omoide Yokocho, Tokyo City Hall, Golden-Gai
Chiyoda City
Best Area For Families | 👉 Browse Chiyoda City Hotels on Booking
✨ Best Chiyoda Hotels: The Tokyo Station Hotel • Hotel Niwa • Belken Hotel Kanda • Ascott Marunouchi
For families traveling with children, Chiyoda City is the place to stay. You’ll find family-friendly historical and cultural attractions here, such as the Imperial Palace, Hie Shrine, and the Science and Technology Museum.
The massive Tokyo Station is also located nearby, so it’s the perfect jumping-off point for day trips around the region or to continue your voyage around Japan.
The Tokyo Station Hotel sits on probably the single best location in the city, and the renovated rooms bring this historic property to life.
Ascott Marunouchi is another perfect family-friendly place in Chiyoda City to recharge after busy days exploring Tokyo. Their rooms can accommodate a family of five, there is a nice indoor swimming pool, and the hotel provides a top-notch buffet breakfast.
While there are lots of great things about Chiyoda, note that its central location tends to also come with prices that match the convenience.
Pros of Staying in Chiyoda Neighborhood:
- Convenient location
- Attractions in the neighborhood
- Access to Tokyo Station for day trips
- Range of restaurant options
Cons of Staying in Chiyoda Neighborhood:
- Less intense nightlife
- Pricey
📚 Chiyoda Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Families
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels –The Tokyo Station Hotel • Hotel Niwa • Belken Hotel Kanda • Ascott Marunouchi
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Chiyoda
🍽️ Where to Eat – Ninja Tokyo ($$$$), Karashibi Miso Ramen Kikanbō Kanda Honten ($$), Manten Sushi Marunouchi ($$), Kanda Matsuya ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Low-Non-Bar, BAR Kanbee, Royal Bar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Imperial Palace, Hie Shrine, Chidorigafuchi Moat, Science and Technology Museum
Asakusa
Best Budget Area | 👉 Browse Asakusa Hotels on Booking or Hostels on Hostelworld
✨ Best Asakusa Hotels: Hotel Gracery Asakusa • Hotel MONday • Asakusa Tobu Hotel • Asakusa Kokono Club Hotel
Asakusa is a charming area a bit outside the center. It’s home to some of the more affordable accommodations in Tokyo, so is a good area for budget travelers.
A stay at the sparkling clean and highly-rated Asakusa Kokono Club Hotel, for example, can cost as little as $113 a night depending on the season.
Stroll along Nakamise-dori to watch the vendors selling Japanese snacks and souvenirs. Take a photo under Hōzōmon Gate. Reach the stunning Senso-Ji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most famed cultural attractions. All of these are free things to do in Asakusa. It’s also close enough that you can walk to the Skytree in nearby Sumida.
The affordability of this area extends to the food scene as well. Restaurants like Kazu, Kura Sushi, and Gyoza Bar Keisuke are popular budget choices.
The biggest negative of staying in Asakusa is that it’s located a bit far from the main city center. Fortunately, Tokyo’s excellent public transit system makes that a fair enough trade for those looking to exchange a bit of convenience in exchange for cheaper accommodation.
Pros of Staying in Asakusa Neighborhood:
- Cultural attractions nearby
- Many budget hotels
- Delicious, affordable food
- Fun, laidback nightlife scene
Cons of Staying in Asakusa Neighborhood:
- Far from Central Tokyo
- Limited clothing shopping
📚 Asakusa Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Budget Travelers
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – Hotel Gracery Asakusa • Hotel MONday • Asakusa Tobu Hotel • Asakusa Kokono Club Hotel
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Asakusa
🍽️ Where to Eat – Misojyu ($$), Sometarō ($$), Ichiran Asakusa ($$), Kudaka Tepannyaki Asakusa ($$$), Kazu ($), Gyoza Bar Keisuke ($), Kura Sushi Global Flagship Store Asakusa ($)
🍸 Where to Drink – Kamiya Bar, HUB Asakusa Shop, The Tavern in Asakusa
🎟️ Top Attractions – Senso-Ji Temple, Nakamise-dori Street, Asakusa Hanayashiki, Hōzōmon Gate
Harajuku
Tokyo’s “Hipster” Area | 👉 Browse Harajuku Hotels on Booking
Wandering the streets of Harajuku at night 
Sakura-tei is a fun okonomiyaki where you cook your own food! 
Harajuku is one of the more colorful areas of Tokyo
✨ Best Harajuku Hotels: Dormy Inn Premium • TRUNK (HOTEL)
Though it might offend some, I personally call Harajuku the “hipster area of Tokyo.” Technically, it’s a sub-area of Shibuya. Harajuku is the sort of place you’ll see someone wearing an intricate outfit that will make you stop and stare.
Harajuku is particularly renowned for its vintage and thrift shopping at stores like Chicago Harajuku and JAM Harajuku. Our team member Sky particularly loved the “kindal harajuku” second-hand store on her visit.
As the area caters to the youth crowd, that means you can find lots of reasonably-priced options for drink and dining. I had a memorable dinner with my local friend at Sakura-tei, an okonomiyaki restaurant where you barbeque your own food right there on the table!
Hotel options in Harajuku are a bit limited, but there are some good ones like Trunk Hotel Cat Street and the more affordable Dormy Inn Premium. Both hotels are also conveniently walkable to the nightlife and transport options of central Shibuya.
Pros of Staying in Harajuku Neighborhood:
- Quirky clothing/vintage shopping scene
- Unique attractions, including animal cafes
- Reasonably priced restaurants
- Near other neighborhoods
Cons of Staying in Harajuku Neighborhood:
- Very few hotels to choose from
- Not as many direct train connections
📚 Harajuku Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Vintage Shopping & Unique Fashion
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – Dormy Inn Premium • TRUNK (HOTEL)
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Harajuku
🍽️ Where to Eat – Sakura-tei ($$), Gyukatsu Motomura ($$), AFURI Harajuku ($$), YOGORO ($$), CENSU TOKYO ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Moch, Beer Brain, Bonobo
🎟️ Top Attractions – Takeshita Street Square, HARRY HARAJUKU terrace, Hedgehog Cafe & Pet Store HARRY Harajuku
🛍️ Best Stores – Chicago Harajuku, kindal harajuku second hand store, RAGTAG, Allsaints Harajuku Cat Street Store, JAM Harajuku
Akihabara
Anime & Arcades Area | 👉 Browse Akihabara Hotels on Booking
✨ Best Akihabara Hotels: Nohga Hotel • Akihabara Washington Hotel • remm Akihabara • Akihabara Bay Hotel (Female Only)
Akihabara is famous as Japan’s center of anime and gaming culture. The area has even earned the nickname “Electric Town” for being a technology and electronics hub for over 75 years.
When we visited, we loved playing the wacky games in Akihabara’s many arcades like GiGO Akihabara Building 3 and HEY (Hirose Entertainment Yard). There is also a big anime and game-related shopping scene around Akihabara at stores like Animate Akihabara and Mandarake Complex.
There are lots of hotels near Akhihabara. The Akihabara Washington Hotel and remm Akihabara are affordable budget options conveniently located right at Akihabara station. And the Akihabara Bay Hotel offers female-only capsules perfect for solo women travelers.
Pros of Staying in Akihabara Neighborhood:
- Big gaming, manga, and cosplay culture
- Enormous arcades
- Variety of accommodations
- Access to other Tokyo neighborhoods without being too close
Cons of Staying in Akihabara Neighborhood:
- Commercial atmosphere
- May be too busy / overwhelming for some
📚 Akihabara Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Arcades & Anime Culture
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – Nohga Hotel • Akihabara Washington Hotel • remm Akihabara • Akihabara Bay Hotel (Female Only)
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Akihabara
🍽️ Where to Eat – Jiromaru Akihabara ($$$), Tonkatsu Marugo ($$), Tsukada Nojo Akihabara Chuo Dori ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Game Bar A-Button, Alchemist, Akihabara Dear Stage
🎟️ Top Attractions – Animate Akihabara, GiGO Akihabara Building 3, HEY (Hirose Entertainment Yard) Taito
Roppongi
Party Area + Cheap Hotels | 👉 Browse Roppongi Hotels on Booking
✨ Best Roppongi Hotels: remm Roppongi • Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo • Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier
Roppongi is known for its affordable accommodations and party scene. It is conveniently situated between Shibuya and Ginza, so it’s easy to get around.
We walked through Roppongi a lot in the evenings when we were staying nearby at Shiba Park, and even went out here one evening with a friend. I can say Roppongi is definitely where Tokyo’s partiers hang out. If that’s not you, or if you find yourself uncomfortable in nightlife areas, you might avoid this area at night (though I felt safe, for what it’s worth).
remm Roppongi is an affordable place to stay in this neighborhood. Reviewers praise the pristinely clean room. Plus, it’s located right near a major metro station and offers soundproof rooms.
The flipside of this area being a fun, exciting neighborhood with endless bars is that there is a lot of activity around Roppongi in the evenings. It can get loud and crowded, with frankly a fair bit of intoxicated people around. Personally, I feel a bit too old to stay here, but I mention it in case all-night partying is more your vibe.
Pros of Staying in Roppongi Neighborhood:
- Range of different bars
- Budget-friendly hotels
- Excellent location
Cons of Staying in Roppongi Neighborhood:
- Noisy
- Big party crowds (and characters) at night
📚 Roppongi Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Partying & Cheap Hotels
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – remm Roppongi • Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo • Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Roppongi
🍽️ Where to Eat – Ukai-tei Roppongi ($$$), GYOPAO Gyoza Roppongi ($), Ippudo ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Bar Quest, Geronimo Shot Bar, BAUHAUS, Mogambo Tokyo
🎟️ Top Attractions – Roppongi Hills, Mohri Garden, Tokyo City View, Mori Art Museum
Bunkyō
Peaceful Area with Local Culture | 👉 Browse Bunkyō Hotels on Booking
✨ Best Bunkyō Hotels: Tokyo Dome Hotel • Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo • Annex Katsutaro Ryokan
Bunkyō can be nearly an hour away from central neighborhoods like Shibuya and Harajuku by train. It sounds inconvenient, but it can be quite nice to stay in an area that’s fully removed from the hustle and bustle in the heart of Tokyo.
It’s a lot quieter and less congested around this area. There are smaller traditional sites to visit, such as Nezu Shrine and Yushima Shrine. Here, you can appreciate the local culture without all the crowds pushing you around.
Bunkyō is an excellent place for foodies to get a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine as well. Tensen is a little-known crispy tempura joint and Watabe is the go-to spot for eating unagi.
One of Bunkyō’s shortcomings is that there aren’t many bars around the area. But, you won’t have to worry about that if you stay at Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo. They have a bar on-site as well as 6 different dining options including a kid-friendly buffet.
Pros of Staying in Bunkyō Neighborhood:
- Authentic, welcoming eateries
- Peaceful and quiet
- Several pretty temples
Cons of Staying in Bunkyō Neighborhood:
- Few bar choices
- Far from Tokyo center
📚 Bunkyō Ward Mini Guide 📚
Best Area to Stay for Authentic Food & Peaceful Vibe
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – Tokyo Dome Hotel • Hotel Metropolitan Edmont Tokyo • Annex Katsutaro Ryokan
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Bunkyo
🍽️ Where to Eat – Tensen ($$), Kisushi ($$), Watabe ($$$), Jojoen Tokyodomushitirakuaten ($$$)
🍸 Where to Drink – Bonjour Tokyo Bar, Rush International Shot Bar
🎟️ Top Attractions – Tokyo Dome, Nezu Shrine, Yushima Shrine, Rikugien Gardens
Sumida City
Tokyo Skytree Area | 👉 Browse Sumida City Hotels on Booking
✨ Best Sumida City Hotels: Smi:re Stay Oshiage • Jeffery Skytree Residence Tokyo • AET & o3 HOTEL
Located across the river from the city center, Sumida provides a low-key environment that may suit families and couples. The streets are a little more peaceful, but there are still a few iconic attractions like the Tokyo Skytree around this district.
Smi:re Stay Oshiage in Sumida is good for large groups because it can fit up to six guests in one room. Since it is a little more quiet, there are fewer accommodations around this area. Book in advance.
Even if you don’t stay in Sumida, you should definitely reserve tickets to visit the Tokyo Skytree. At 2,080 feet, it’s the third-largest structure in the world and the tallest tower. After your visit, get an introduction to onsens with a dip at Daikoku-yu.
Pros of Staying in Sumida City Neighborhood:
- Calm atmosphere
- Less crowded
- Home to Tokyo Skytree
- Lots of options to eat
Cons of Staying in Sumida City Neighborhood:
- Limited nightlife
- Fewer accommodation options
📚 Sumida City Mini Guide 📚
Best Near Tokyo Skytree
Google Maps
✨ Best Hotels – Smi:re Stay Oshiage • Jeffery Skytree Residence Tokyo • AET & o3 HOTEL
🏠 Apartments – Browse Top Rentals in Sumida
🍽️ Where to Eat – Gatsun ($), Unazen ($$$), Uosai ($$)
🍸 Where to Drink – TOKYO Sumidagawa Brewing, TakeYourTime
🎟️ Top Attractions – Tokyo Skytree, Sumida Aquarium, Daikoku-yu onsens
Tips for Planning Your Stay in Tokyo
Tip #1 – Learn About Tokyo’s Amazing Public Transportation System
The Tokyo metro system is fantastic. It’s fast, efficient, and affordable. This makes it easy to whisk around the city and visit different areas you aren’t staying in.
It IS, however, undeniably complex. I found Google Maps made it relatively easy to navigate the trains.
It also helps to get a prepaid IC transit card. There are several, but the biggest are Suica and Icoca. You just buy the card once. Most of the central JR rail stations sell them (including Tokyo, Shibuya, and Shinjuku stations). Just ask the main ticket counter.
You can top up at machines in most stations along the way to add to your balance. English is an option at most such machines. You can even use the card as a form of payment for many places, including convenience stores like 7-11 and Lawson. Note that there is a ¥500 deposit, which you can get back if you return the card at the end of your trip.
Tip #2 – Tokyo’s Trains Stop Running Around Midnight and You Don’t Want to Get Stuck in the Wrong District
The trains in Tokyo are great – but come with a catch! Think of yourself like Cinderella in Tokyo because if you don’t make it on the last train at midnight, you’re in trouble. Keep an eye on the clock.
Tokyo is a big city and losing track of the time can put you an hour or more away from your hotel with only expensive ways to get back.
Tip #3 – Pre-Book These Popular Tokyo Attractions
Tokyo is a popular destination, so many ticketed attractions tend to sell out. Don’t assume you can just show up and buy a ticket!
In particular, I’d recommend pre-booking your tickets for:
- teamlab Planets (if you only have time for one, do this one – it was the absolute highlight of my last Tokyo trip!)
- teamlab Borderless (also fantastic, and different than Planets)
- Tokyo Skytree (we had to wait in a long line for tickets that you could skip by pre-booking)
I highly recommend the teamLabs digital art installations. They were highlights of our entire trip to Japan. It’s hard to explain why, but I tried on Episode 1 of the Travel Lemming Podcast (around minute 15).
Tip #4 – You Can Ship Your Bags Between Hotels in Japan
One cool Japan travel hack is that you can easily ship your bags between hotels for a very affordable price (around $15).
This service makes it so much easier to travel between cities on public transportation and pack everything you need for Japan without worrying about transporting bulky bags.
Most hotels will provide this service upon request. On the rare occurrence that they don’t do luggage shipment, you can go to pretty much any convenience store like 7-Eleven or Lawson. The service is also available at most major airports (check out Yamato Transport).
Tip #5 – Learn a Bit About Japanese Culture & Customs Before Your Trip
One of the reasons why Japan is such a fascinating destination is that its culture is quite distinct from the Western culture to which many visitors are accustomed.
For example, the Japanese prefer silence on public transit. Even mild talking can be perceived as rude (though of course you’ll still hear foreigners doing it).
See Sky’s article on Japan’s cultural taboos to learn more ways you might accidentally embarrass yourself.
Tip #6 – Many Tokyo Hotels Come With Pajamas!
Do you know how many nice hotels give you slippers and a bathrobe? Well, in Japan, the hotels take this to the next level by also offering pajamas.
Every single hotel we stayed at in Japan had pajamas in the room. Just note they are loaner PJs – you’re not supposed to take them home.
Tip #7 – Book Your Tokyo Accommodation Well in Advance!
Tokyo is a big city, so there will always be a hotel available somewhere. But the best hotels in Tokyo? Those tend to book up pretty far in advance. I booked our hotels two months in advance of our last trip, and I still had trouble booking my preferred rooms at several.
You can find lots of Tokyo hotels on Booking that offer free cancellation.
Not sure what hotel is right for you?
You can’t go wrong with any of my top hotels in Tokyo:
- 🏆 My #1 Overall Pick: Hotel Indigo Shibuya
- 🗺️ Best Location: lyf Shibuya Tokyo (Shibuya) or karaksa hotel premier Tokyo Ginza (Ginza)
- 📷 Most Photogenic: Prince Park Tower Tokyo
- 👨👩👦 For Families: Tokyu Stay Shibuya
- ❤️ For Couples: Prince Park Tower Tokyo
- 💎 For Luxury Travelers: Imperial Hotel Tokyo
- 🍜 In Shinjuku: APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower
- 🏨 Hostel (capsule-style): The Millennials
- 🛏️ Best Budget: Akihabara Washington Hotel or Asakusa Kokono Club Hotel
👉 Traveling around Japan? Bookmark our mega-guides to where to stay in Kyoto nd where to stay in Osaka.
Common Questions About Tokyo Trip Planning
Have a Tokyo question I haven’t covered or need personalized help deciding where to stay? Leave me a comment below! I usually reply within a day or so. I’ll help if I can!
It’s my first visit to Tokyo. Where should I stay?
Shibuya and Ginza are the best areas to stay in Tokyo for first-time visitors, in my opinion. These neighborhoods are optimally located in the city center. They have convenient access to top attractions, other districts, good restaurants, and many accommodations.
With that said, those areas are expensive, so I get that maybe those accommodations aren’t for everyone. Fortunately, Tokyo is well-connected by public transit. If you find a hotel you love in another part of the city, just check a map application to see how far it will be to travel to the attractions you care about. You might be surprised how even long distances can be covered quickly if you’re willing to take public transportation.
How is safety in Tokyo?
All of Tokyo is fairly safe and it is even considered to be the safest city in the world as of 2024 [Source]. All 11 areas mentioned above are generally safe for tourists to stay in, and you should feel confident booking any accommodations you find in those areas.
Where should I avoid staying in Tokyo?
As mentioned above, Tokyo in general is extremely safe. But, simply from a convenience perspective, you still want to avoid staying in areas too far from the center. The Tokyo metro area is sprawling and you don’t want to spend all your time in transit. I would avoid staying anywhere further out from the center than Shinjuku or Sumida City.
Where should budget travelers stay in Tokyo?
Asakusa, Roppongi, Akihabara, and Shinjuku are the best parts of Tokyo to stay on a budget. All of these areas have a range of affordable hotels and hostels available, cheap things to do around the area and plenty of low-cost places to eat and drink.
Where should families stay in Tokyo?
In general, Tokyo is fairly family-friendly – though you should be prepared for a fair bit of noise and chaos in a city this large. Probably the single best part of Tokyo for families is Chiyoda City. It’s central to the sites and transportation options, making it convenient for families to visit and return to the hotel for breaks during the day.
***
You’re officially in the know about where to stay in Tokyo! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions.
Traveling elsewhere in Japan? Bookmark our guides to where to stay in Kyoto and in Osaka.
–Sky Ariella contributed to drafting this article
If you were a first time visitor to japan and had 7-8 nights in March. Wanting to see a combination of Kyoto, Hakone, Osaka and Tokyo. Party of 5, with 3 between 12 and 19.
It’s a lot to cover in 7-8 nights. It’s doable, but just know that you’ll be moving a lot. I would try to fly into Osaka and out of Tokyo or vice versa and do it that way. Spend more time in Kyoto and Tokyo and less in Osaka and Hakone (both of which can even be done as day trips from Kyoto and Tokyo, respectively).
Do you have any recommendations for shops for resale designer purses in both osaka and tokyo
Hi Lisa – unfortunately I don’t have much personal experience to offer with this topic. This video on YouTube looks like it might be helpful for you though.
Thank you for all the info! We followed your advice for booking our hotels. We are flying into haneda airport and then flying over to osaka. Do you recommend we ship our luggage from osaka airport to our hotel in Namba? we are a group of 8. also will they ship the luggage from osaka to tokyo if we take the train back?
Hi Lisa!
It is possible to ship bags from the airport, though I’ve personally only ever done it between hotels (that service worked very well, as hotel staff just helped fill everything out). You can find more at the Yamato Transport site about these services, which are popular in Japan.
Considering there are 8 of you, it may be more practical and economical to arrange for a private transfer from Osaka airport to your hotel, in which case you could just take your bags. Here is a popular transfer service you might consider.
From Osaka to Tokyo, your Osaka hotel should be able to help.
Lastly, in case you missed it, I also have a guide to Osaka you might check out: https://travellemming.com/where-to-stay-in-osaka/
Thank you for reading Travel Lemming and I hope you enjoy Tokyo and Osaka!
How do you book hotels? Trying to book August 2027
Hi Randee – I think you’re probably experiencing that a lot of hotels don’t open their booking calendars until a little over a year before. So if you aren’t seeing many options, that may be why.
Hi Nate-loved your post and finding it helpful. We are a family of 3 and will be visiting early June for HS graduation trip. We are trying to pack alot in on our 1st visit and plan to visit Tokyo, Kyoto and Okinawa-ending in Tokyo. Our first night we will spend in Tokyo and then plan to use the bullet train to transfer to Kyoto. Do you have hotels that would be ideal for first night in Tokyo? We are not opposed to capsule either just for the experience but imagine we will be jet lagged and hoping for a terrific night sleep.
Hi Wendy – easiest would be to stay near Tokyo Station. The karaksa hotel Tokyo Station might be good. It’s a basic Japanese brand hotel that caters to families and so has rooms with multiple beds. Not a ton of frills but the price is right and the location couldn’t be easier for your train the next day. Personally, if it’s your first time in a capsule hotel, I’d opt to do that later in the trip just so you can get rest after your flight in.
If that’s not to your liking, there are other hotels near Tokyo Station here.
Also, be sure to check out our guide to Kyoto too.
Thank you for reading Travel Lemming!
-Nate
Hi Nate
Your information about Tokyo is fabulous! We are 2 couples and 2 ladies travelling end of May (6 pax) for 3 nights. Our first visit and the destination is rather overwhelming.
The Imperial Hotel in Ginza has been recommended by you and friends.
Any particular room / area we should try and book / avoid on booking.com
Hi Ruth –
Thank you so much for reading! Yes, if it’s in your budget, The Imperial Hotel is best in class. The views from the high floor rooms may be worth it if that sounds appealing (of course, maybe you won’t be spending that much time in the room anyway), but overall the location is amazing – in Ginza, but on the side towards the Imperial Palace and park. I think you’ll like it.
Hi Nate,
Thank you for a really informative article. We are in our 60s and looking to visit Tokyo and Kyoto in February/March 2027. To get between the 2 places do we book a bullet train now or can we just go to the station ? Does the same apply for tickets for trains around Tokyo ? Would you recommend getting a taxi from the airport as we will have cases ? Thank you.
Hi Julia – The Shinkansen bullet trains run very frequently between Tokyo and Kyoto, and so almost never sell out except during peak holidays. You should be fine to buy at the station. Same goes for trains around Tokyo. I’d suggest getting a Suica or Icoca refillable card for payment.
From the airport, yes, a taxi or Uber is the way to go in my opinion. You can also take the train. But, depending where you’re going, you’re likely to have to connect and, as you say, with bags it could be a little stressful.
thank you so much for your reply.
Great post Nate! Glad to have found you. I’ll be heading to Japan next month on a 3-week journey, 2 of which will be with a group tour traveling multiples cities beyond Tokyo. Upon the tour’s conclusion in Tokyo (Sinjuku), I’ll be staying on for several extra days solo to explore Tokyo (as we won’t get to see much as a group). I’m a mature person (not into the party or bar scene but am thinking of doing a Go Kart experience!) but have asked to stay an extra two nights post-tour at the Shinjuku area hotel (for convenience) and am looking to switch “scenery” for the remaining two nights of my trip before heading back home. The tour company suggested the Otsuka area (and stay at Hoshino Resorts OMO5), while like you, someone else suggested the Ginza area. Although, others have likened staying in Ginza to staying on Park Avenue in NY. Being from NY, that’s not my ideal stay while in Tokyo. And to me Shibuya crossing feels very “Times Square”. I really don’t want a NY experience, rather, I’d like spend my remaining time in an area with a “classic” Japan neighborhood feel but not too far removed. If such a place exists? LOL. Also, any Sumo Stable visit recommendations? I realize the Sumo tournaments are held in March and most competitors are away but would like to visit and learn about their sport, watching their practice, etc. — not watching some schmaltzy show. Appreciate your insight and helpful guidance. Best, Bee
Hi Bee – Thank you for reading! Sounds like an awesome trip.
Yes, Ginza as Park Avenue or Shibuya as Times Square are probably (very rough and imprecise) analogues. Bear in mind both those places are popular with tourists in NYC for a reason, but if you’re used to a mega-city, I can see why it’s less interesting.
I will say that I think you are likely to get that “traditional” vibe on the other stops on your trip before you get to Tokyo. But for Tokyo, maybe look into the neighborhood “Yanaka.” It is a little far from the attractions for most tourists, which is why my guide doesn’t mention it. But it’s not that far removed and since you are already spending time in Shinjuku it’ll give you a different angle on the city.
You could also consider staying in a ryokan! There are not as many in Tokyo as elsewhere in Japan, but there are a few like cyashitsu ryokan asakusa, which is near the Senso-ji temple. Chelsea wrote a whole article on staying in a ryokan you can read here to learn about the experience and if it might be right for your trip: https://travellemming.com/perspectives/staying-in-a-ryokan/
For Sumo, I don’t have something I can confidently recommend unfortunately. But if you find a good one please let us know!
I hope that helps and thank you so much for reading Travel Lemming. You’re going to have a ton of fun in Japan!
-Nate
Hey Nate – great article! Will take your advice & stay in Shibuya or Ginza. My husband & I are going to spend 2 days in Tokyo before heading to Hakiddo to ski. Do you have any must see things we should do while in Tokyo? It’s our first visit & I am a bit overwhelmed with all the info out there. We are mid aged not partiers but do like our happy hour drinks & good food. I would like to see more traditional Japan. Any suggestions for a nice 2 day sightseeing extravaganza? Thanks.
Hi Annie –
Sounds like an awesome trip. I’m jealous you’re going to Hokkaido. I have many found memories of school trips from when I went to middle school in northern Japan.
Anyway, for Tokyo, a few things you might enjoy:
-Senso-ji Temple / Asakusa Shrine – Tokyo’s oldest temple, and a must visit area if you want history/tradition
-Imperial Palace – you really just visit the park near it, but it’s beautiful to walk around. You can also hire a guide to learn more history.
–teamlab Planets – this is a digital art installation/”experience.” teamlab also has other installations in Tokyo and throughout Japan, but this is my favorite. It’s a more modern thing to do, but I really love it.
–the Tokyo Skytree – this is a giant tower/observation deck. A cool way to see the city from above.
-Shibuya Crossing – the most famous intersection in the world. Not much to do here (it’s just a street crossing), but still worth making sure you see it while in Shibuya.
I hope that helps and hope you love Japan!
-Nate
Flying into ntr. In Tokyo for 7 days we are seniors. Where is the best place to stay I heard Ueno might be a good choice.
Hi Gail!
I haven’t spent as much time in Ueno but I think it could be nice. The park is nice. It doesn’t have as many attractions but if you’re comfortable using the trains to get around it could be ok.
If you let me know your budget and preferences I can suggest options.
Cheers!
Nate
Your recommendations for Akihabra , autumn 2026 (Oct -Nov, 14 days), tradional culture (futton is ok too, hot springs desired but not so expensive price. Availabilty?
Maybe the Dormy Inn Akihabara would be a fit for you. It has an onsen.
If you wanted something even cheaper, the Under Railway Hotel Akihabara is quite affordable. It does not have an onsen though.
I’m not a fan of the Japanese hard beds. Which hotels have a more comfortable American style bed? I’m open to anywhere in Tokyo. Thank you!
You are right beds can be on the firm side in Japan. In general, I’d suggest looking at the Western-branded chains.
The Hotel Indigo had comfortable American style beds. I also thought the beds were comfortable at the karakasa hotel premier Ginza, though that hotel is more Japanese style.
hi.. i am 63 years old. i’ve been thinking to take a trip to tokyo alone. i love travelling. i have travelled alone in my younger days but now after 60 and retired i am not so sure i can do it. so many things on my mind. is it wise to spend my retirement funds for this trip…will i be lonely..what if i fall sick…what if i suddenly passed out in my room alone…what if i run into trouble…. i am trying to be positive.
Hi Norisa!
I think those are all reasonable things to consider, but if you have in your heart that you want to visit Tokyo, I think you’ll love it and it’ll work out positively. Another one of my creators wrote an article about her experience traveling Japan solo. Maybe you’ll like it: https://travellemming.com/perspectives/i-think-japan-is-one-of-the-best-destinations-for-a-solo-trip/
Overall, Japan is very safe, modern, and there are lots of services for just about anything. If you’re reasonably healthy and have experience traveling, I think you can do it.
I’d suggest talking with your doctor to make sure you address any health and fitness concerns, and of course insuring your trip for those contingencies.
In terms of traveling alone, would you maybe be interested in a group tour? That’s one way to solve that. Another is to take walking or day tours or to try to meet people on your trip.
In terms of cost, that’s always a concern with travel, but budget you can also plan for. If you want help finding good options, let me know your expected dates and I can make suggestions for hotels, activities, or anything else.
Bottom line: only you can make the right choice for you, but Tokyo is really a special place and if you want to see it, I think you’ll love it. Please feel free to reply with more question or anything I can do to help!
-Nate
First hotel recommendation is a $600 hotel?
Most nights at the Hotel Indigo I can see availability for around somewhere in the $300s. But if you’re looking around the holidays then, yes, it might cost that much. Tokyo is an expensive destination, so demand is high for the top hotels. It’s a special hotel and worth the price to many travelers, but I also listed many mid-range and budget suggestions as well. Bear in mind that even pod hotels can sometimes cost up to $200 per night when it’s peak season. If you let me know what you’re looking for and your range, I’m happy to provide more specific ideas if I can. Thank you for reading.
How easy is to communicate using English language in Shibuya, Ginza and Shinjuku areas.
In general, you should be fine with English at most establishments. Those are very international areas and they are used to tourists. You can download Japanese offline in a translate app like Google Translate for those cases where you need it.
Thank you so much for this incredibly helpful guide!
Your review is by far the best I’ve come across while researching Tokyo.
Regarding Hotel Indigo, could you share which specific room you stayed in? You mentioned it was a corner room, but on the website the corner room doesn’t mention the scramble view. They do show two scramble view room types – one marked as “high floor” and one that I assume is lower down. From your timelapse video, it looks like you had the ideal angle of the scramble crossing!
Also, the hotel’s website warns of nearby construction. Was that happening during your stay, and if so, did you find the noise disruptive, particularly in the mornings?
Thanks again – your insights have been hugely valuable!
I was in room 2801. I think the high floors should all have that view but higher will be better as the bottom corner could get slightly obscured at lower angles.
Thank you for reading Travel Lemmimg! I hope you enjoy Tokyo!
Help! Just booked flights for early hours of Friday. Any suggestions for hotels or Airbnb – we are 4 – me, my wife and two boys 14/18. Ideally one room. Arriving into Narita!
Cheers,
Jason
Rooms are small in Tokyo so squeezing four in is harder (you might find some that let you have 4 in a 2-double bed room). I do see MIMARU SUITES Tokyo Nihombashi has a 2 bedroom suite and a solid location near the central attractions, though it is a bit pricey. In terms of apartments, you can try any of the neighborhoods I mentioned to see if you find one you like.
Are there any Samurai museums in Tokyo?
Thanks!!
Hi Susan – I haven’t been yet, but check this one out.
What do you think of Shimokitazawa for a 5 night stay for a family with two kids (9, 13 years)?
It is an area bit further out from the main attractions. I’d check Google Maps to confirm if you’re comfortable with transit times to the places you intend to visit. But if you are, I think it’s known as a hip and popular area.
Hi
We are planning to go to the Tokyo Giants.
Thoughts
Chiyoda City is closest to the Tokyo Dome if walking is important to you, so I’d suggest around there. Akihabara is also an option relatively nearby. But the Tokyo Dome is well connected by transport, so really you could stay almost anywhere in the city if some other area especially draws you. You can find hotels close to the Tokyo Dome here.
Kia Ora Nate, first visit to Japan. We are in our sixties and plan to travel light and low budget. We want to explore the alternative music scene. We also want to be able to get to places easily as we are not experienced. We are staying in Uneo the first 3 days.
Hi Erin! You might check out this events calendar to find music events. There should be plenty going on in Shibuya and elsewhere. If you need anything else let me know. I hope you enjoy Tokyo and thank you for reading Travel Lemming!
Great info! Thanks!
Going to Tokyo in July with 3 yo and 5yo. Looking for best hotel with pool that kids are allowed in, on a budget (if it exists!)
Or is it fun to stay outside Tokyo in a beach town and travel to the city for the day?
Thanks!
Erin
Hi Erin! Not as many hotels in Tokyo have pools (onsens are more common), but some do. You can go here to see a list of hotels with pools.
For beach towns you’d have to travel more than I’d usually recommend, but you could check out Enoshima or Kamakura if you really want that.
I hope you enjoy Japan!
-Nate
You have done a great job of providing overviews for each area. Any thoughts on whether we should stay in Shingawa (someone recommended this as another option)? If so, do you have a recommendation for a mid budget hotel that is accessible?
Thanks Ellen! Shinagawa is a ward a bit outside the center, which is why it didn’t make my list. But if it appeals to you and if you’re close to a rail station it can work, depending on where you plan to spend your time in Tokyo. I don’t have as much experience with hotels in Shinagawa, but Mitsui Garden Hotel Gotanda looks like a good option close to the rail station.
hello ,if one has the opportunity to stay in shinagawa toyoko inn or monzen nakacho toyoko inn what would you recommend please ?
Between those two, I would say Toyoko Inn Monzen-Nakacho Eitaibashi has a more central location.
Hi. Thanks for so helpfull guide!! Im traveling on March with my 15 yo daughter, she would like to visit for her bday Hello Kitty stores and tematic coffes and restaurants… Coudl you please advice where to stay?
Thanks
Hi Gustavo!
While I’ve not been yet, I understand a lot of Hello Kitty fans like the Puroland and Harmonyland theme parks in Sanrio, about an hour outside the city center. You can get there via train on the Keiō Line, which stops in Shinjuku and other stops.
You could also choose to stay in a Hello Kitty themed room at Asakusa Tobu Hotel in Asakusa.
Hey Nate,
We fly into Haneda airport and have 2 days before we board a ship in Yokohama. We are an elderly couple with some mobility issues. Can you recommend a good place to stay and some activities we could do. We would appreciate any suggestions.
Hi Judy,
So Haneda airport sits between Tokyo and Yokohama. You therefore of course have the option of going straight to Yokohama and staying there, which would be simpler but means missing Tokyo. If you want to come into Tokyo for those 2 nights, you can either use the trains if you’re able to navigate them or else hire a taxi (you can use Uber app) or private driver in advance.
In Tokyo, most hotels mentioned above should work but it depends if you are taking the train or a private driver to Yokohama. If you tell me more about your transport plans, and also your budget, I can hopefully make better recommendations.
Overall, Tokyo is pretty accessible, but what you do also depends on how much mobility you have. You could for instance check out the Sensoji Temple, the Miraikan museum of science and innovation, TeamLabs, or the Skytree. You might also consider a hop-on hop off bus like this one.
If you let me know your budget, transport plans, and a bit more of your interests and I can get more specific.
Thank you!
Nate
Hi,
I have a family of 7 (5 adults and 2 children, ages 15 & 17). They are arriving in Tokyo on 6/15/25 for 4 nights before their cruise out of Yokohoma. Where would you recommend to stay? They want an airbnb but I have no idea what area to book them. I found one in Sumida City but is it too far out? I can’t find anything in Tokyo Station area. Any help would be appreciated!
Sumida City is not the most central, but it is near a number of attractions and it is also easy to get around Tokyo by train. Otherwise, I’d check out the areas mentioned above in this guide. For getting luggage to the station, I’d recommend using Uber to book a couple taxis.
Thanks for the post- I know that being in a wheelchair in Japan is going to be difficult. Are there lifts at the train stations? Can you suggest a neighborhood for a couple nights which is not hugely crowded, no “nightlife” as my drinking days are long over and traveling with teenage daughter. I’m thinking Harajuku – any comments suggestions most welcome and also places to avoid in a chair. Thanks!!!
Awesome guide, Sky. Thank you for featuring our property, Jeffery Skytree Residence.
This is really helpful and changed my perspective about the place. 21st sept I’ll be in Tokyo with my wife and daughter. This whole article is my guide line for the trip. Thank you so much Ariella ❤️
This is a fabulous guide, I’m so happy I stumbled upon it. I’m planning a trip to Japan in December (I know may be a little late on doing this) and having such a hard time deciding where to go and where to stay. This has certainly given me much food for thought. Can’t wait to eat my way through Tokyo and surrounding areas.
This has been very helpful. Ive read its better to buy train ticket on the go and topping up whilst travelling around Toyko as apposed to a JR ticket and only purchase bullet train ticket on the day when travelling to other cities instead of pre purchasing.
Just wanted to say thank you for time compiling the comprehensive summary on Tokyo. I am sure it will come in very handy on our stay there in early next year. I especially like the dining guide. Its not always easy to find a good place to eat.
Hey Renate,
Thanks so much for your kind comment. I’m thrilled to hear that you found the dining guide useful. Although it does take some legwork to find the very best places, I’m sure you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find how many yummy restaurants there are in Tokyo.
Have fun on your trip next year!
Hello…great content indeed. We are planning a family trip June 2025 and are having a hard time deciding between Ueno and Ginza. I like the thought of unwinding at a local park as others have stated is the “pro” for Ueno. Any thoughts? We’ll be traveling with a family of 5 and it’ll be our first time.
Hey Kee,
Thanks a bunch for reading! So, I think the big difference is that Ginza is right in the heart of the city, so it’ll be much easier (and faster) to reach other popular neighborhoods and attractions. For example, it takes around 40 mins to reach Shibuya from Ueno on the train.
Ueno Park is a very lovely area and the park is a huge pro (I spent hours wandering it myself). The other big pro about this area is that it is much cheaper than Ginza. However, the distance is a consideration if you’re traveling with kids.
In short, Ginza is going to be pricier, but closer to everything you’ll likely want to see. Ueno will be a lot more affordable and have closer green spaces, but you will need to travel a lot on the train to get around.
Have fun on your trip!!
Can you recommend a hotel (mid price range) that has almost direct train line from Narita Airport. Is Uena an area that you would recommend?
Hey Marilyn,
Thanks for reading. Ueno is a nice area with a large well-known park and cultural attractions nearby (Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, etc.). Additionally, it’s very easy to reach from Narita Airport since there is a high-speed train between the areas (See here: https://www.keisei.co.jp/keisei/tetudou/skyliner/us/traffic/skyliner.php). However, it is a bit removed from the rest of the city and it can get busy around Ueno since the major Ueno Station is in this neighborhood.
On the hotel front: The Narita Express runs a nonstop train to Tokyo Station that takes around 1 hour. From there, tons of lovely hotels are within walking distance (there are even some IN the station, such as The Tokyo Station Hotel). For mid-range, I’d recommend Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyobashi. It’s just a five-minute walk from Tokyo Station, so it is a fairly direct route from Narita.
Ue no is between asakusa and akihabara.with a huge train station. I would recommend asakusa.crowded by day quiet by night.
Hi; just finished reading through this page and I have to say it was wonderful!
Quick , easy concise and to the point!
And all without annoying ads or pop ups, great job and thank you. 😊
Thanks for reading Travel Lemming, Seth! We have guides to hundreds of destinations from our team of dozens of creators. Many of our guides are ad free, but even for the ones that have ads, you can sign up for our Passport membership (currently free with the code mentioned on that page) and the whole site is ad free!
Since you’re going to Japan, you might also like Sky’s guides to Osaka and Kyoto, or her itinerary planner for Japan.
-Nate
Founder, Travel Lemming
Where is the best and affordable place to stay for a family of 4 between Disneyland and the main attractions?