Wondering where to stay in Tokyo? Look no further! I’ve narrowed it down to the top 3 best places: Shinjuku, Ginza, and Asakusa.
Whether you’re into shopping, luxury, or soaking up traditional vibes, these districts offer something unique for every traveler.
Keep reading to discover why these spots are the ultimate choices for your Tokyo stay! 😊
6 Key Tips for Picking Your Tokyo Stay
1. Stay Near a JR Train Station or Tokyo Metro Station
Why It’s Important:
For easy access to Tokyo’s top attractions, choose accommodation near a JR Yamanote Line station.
This train line connects you to popular spots like Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ueno, Tokyo Station, and Harajuku. It’s a convenient way to explore the city without the hassle of changing trains.
Another Option:
Staying near a Tokyo Metro station also provides easy access to many famous attractions. Both JR and Metro stations make it simple to get around Tokyo.
2. Be Close to a 24-Hour Convenience Store
Why You’ll Love It:
Tokyo’s convenience stores, like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart, are everywhere and have everything you might need—snacks, meals, drinks, toiletries, and more. The best part? They’re open 24/7, so you can get what you need anytime.
Extra Perks:
Some stores even offer banking services and foreign transactions. Having one near your hotel means you’re never far from a quick snack or last-minute essentials, no matter the hour.
3. Choose a Hotel with Nearby Restaurants and Food Stalls
Why It Matters:
Good food is a big part of any trip, and Tokyo has endless options to satisfy your cravings. Staying in a location with nearby restaurants and food stalls makes it easy to enjoy local dishes without traveling far.
Save Time and Money:
A hotel near food spots not only saves you time but also cuts down on extra travel costs. Make sure your hotel has convenient dining options nearby before booking.
4. Love Shopping? Stay Close to Shopping Areas
Best Shopping Spots:
If shopping is your thing, pick a hotel near Tokyo’s top shopping districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya. These areas are packed with fashion stores, beauty products, and authentic Japanese snacks.
Why It’s Convenient:
Staying close means less time commuting and more time shopping! Shinjuku and Shibuya are just a 7-minute train ride apart on the JR Yamanote Line, making it easy to explore both.
5. Pick a Twin Room Over a Double Room
Did You Know?
In Tokyo, twin rooms are usually bigger than double rooms. Twin rooms have two single beds, which actually offer more space compared to a single double bed.
A Personal Tip:
When I visited Tokyo with my family, we opted for a twin room because we had a little kid with us. The extra space made our stay much more comfortable. If you’re traveling with kids, a twin room is definitely the better choice.
6. Booking in Shinjuku? Reserve Early!
Why Plan Ahead:
Shinjuku is a prime location, so hotels here fill up fast, especially during busy seasons like spring and autumn. To secure your spot, book your hotel in advance.
Backup Plan:
It’s a good idea to have second and third hotel options ready in case your first choice is fully booked.
1. Best Place to Stay in Tokyo: Shinjuku
Why Stay Here
Shinjuku is Tokyo’s most vibrant district and a great choice for first-time visitors.
It has multiple train stations, making it easy to explore the city and even take day trips to places like Hakone and Mt. Fuji.
The east side of Shinjuku Station is lively with shopping, beauty shops, and restaurants, including Don Quijote. For a quieter stay, the west side is ideal.
Pros of Staying in Shinjuku
- Shopping Paradise: Shinjuku is a top spot for shopaholics, offering everything from budget finds to luxury brands.
- Nightlife: The area comes alive at night with plenty of bars, pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants to explore.
- Convenience: Numerous convenience stores offer snacks, meals, and late-night options.
- Great Transport Links: Easy access to Tokyo’s attractions via JR Train Station, Tokyo Metro, and Toei Subway.
- Airport Access: Direct limousine bus and train options from Haneda and Narita airports.
- Quick Access to Mt. Fuji and Hakone: From Shinjuku Station, take the highway bus or Express Train to Mt. Fuji, or use the Odakyu Railway to reach Hakone.
- Accommodation Variety: Plenty of mid-range and luxury hotels to choose from.
Cons of Staying in Shinjuku
- Crowded: Shinjuku can get quite packed, especially at night on the East side, which might feel overwhelming for some.
- Limited Budget Hotels: Shinjuku isn’t ideal for travelers on a tight budget, as there are fewer budget-friendly hotel options available.
- Noise Levels: The area’s vibrant nightlife can lead to higher noise levels, which might not be ideal for those seeking a quiet stay.
- Tourist Heavy: The popularity of Shinjuku means it attracts a lot of tourists, which could make it feel less authentic at times.
Recommended Hotels
East Side: For those wanting to stay in the heart of Shinjuku’s energetic atmosphere, the best options are APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Chuo and APA Hotel Shinjuku-Kabukicho Tower. These hotels put you right in the action, but be aware that the area can be a bit noisy, and it’s located in the red-light district, which may not be ideal for families with kids.
West Side: If you prefer a quieter stay while still being centrally located, consider Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku or JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku. These hotels offer a more relaxed environment, making them a great choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
Read More: 17 Best Things to Do in Shinjuku
2. Best Place to Stay in Tokyo: Ginza
Why Stay Here
Ginza is Tokyo’s go-to spot for upscale shopping and dining. It’s quieter in the evenings, making it perfect if you prefer a calm atmosphere.
With luxury boutiques and department stores, it’s a top choice for high-end shopping.
Plus, it’s close to Tokyo Station, great for catching the bullet train. If you’re ready to indulge a bit, Ginza’s refined vibe and exclusive options make it an excellent choice.
Pros of Staying in Ginza
- Luxury Shopping: Matsuya Ginza, Ginza Six, and Tokyu Plaza Ginza are top spots for high-end shopping.
- Great Dining: Sushi no Midori, Ippudo Ginza, and Ginza Kagari Honten offer tasty, mid-priced meals.
- Posh Atmosphere: Ginza provides a sophisticated and relaxing vibe.
- Convenient Access: One stop from Tokyo Station, with easy connections to Disneyland, Osaka, and Narita Airport.
- Airport Bus: Quick bus access to Haneda and Narita airports.
Cons of Staying in Ginza
- Limited Budget Lodging: Ginza has fewer options for affordable accommodations, making it less ideal for budget travelers.
- Limited Affordable Fashion Stores: For budget fashion, you only have Uniqlo Ginza and GU Ginza.
- Quiet at Night: While some may enjoy the peace, Ginza can feel too quiet in the evenings compared to other lively districts like Shinjuku or Shibuya.
- Limited Nightlife Options: Although there is some nightlife, it’s not as vibrant or varied as in other parts of Tokyo, which might be a drawback if you’re seeking a lively evening scene.
Recommended Hotels
If you’re looking for top accommodations in Ginza, consider Tokyu Stay Ginza, Millennium Mitsui Garden Hotel Tokyo, and Mercure Ginza Tokyo.
These hotels offer a blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience, making them excellent choices for your stay in this upscale district.
Read More: Top 17 Things to Do in Ginza
3. Best Place to Stay in Tokyo: Asakusa
Asakusa gives you a real feel of traditional Tokyo, perfect for those wanting to explore local culture.
With historic sites like Sensoji Temple, it offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Asakusa is also great for budget travelers, offering affordable stays and a relaxed atmosphere.
Strolling through its streets feels like stepping back in time, with temples, shrines, and craft shops keeping Tokyo’s history alive.
If you want a quieter, authentic Tokyo experience without spending much, Asakusa is the ideal spot.
Pros of Staying in Asakusa
- Rich History: Asakusa is ideal for history lovers, with attractions like Sensoji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, and Nakamise Shopping Street showcasing traditional Japanese culture.
- Authentic Souvenirs: Asakusa offers a great selection of authentic Japanese mementos and crafts.
- Affordable Dining: Asakusa has plenty of cheap, delicious food options, as well as mid-range restaurants for those with a bit more budget.
- Convenient Airport Access: The Keikyu Airport Line provides easy access between Asakusa and Haneda Airport.
- Budget-Friendly Accommodations: Asakusa offers many affordable lodging options, making it perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.
Cons of Staying in Asakusa
- Calm Nightlife: The night scene in Asakusa is much quieter compared to other Tokyo districts, which might not appeal to those looking for vibrant nightlife.
- Limited Fashion Shopping: Asakusa isn’t the best choice if you’re looking for high-end or trendy fashion shopping options.
- Distance from Central Tokyo: Asakusa is a bit farther from central Tokyo, making travel to some of the main attractions slightly more time-consuming.
- Far from Narita Airport: Asakusa is a bit far from Narita Airport, which might make your arrival and departure more time-consuming.
Recommended Hotels
Top choices in Asakusa include Asakusa Tobu Hotel and Asakusa Central Hotel.
These hotels are conveniently located near key attractions and offer comfortable options for different budgets, making them great picks for experiencing Asakusa’s traditional charm.
Read More: 17 Wonderful Things to Do in Asakusa
