Best Places to Stay in Tokyo

Where to Stay in Tokyo: A Guide for Tourists

Tokyo offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the perfect spot:

For the Budget-Conscious:

  • Capsule Hotels: A uniquely Japanese experience, capsule hotels offer compact, futuristic pods for sleeping. They’re clean, safe, and incredibly affordable (starting around ¥3,000 per night). Popular options include Nine Hours Shinjuku-North and First Cabin.
  • Hostels: Great for solo travelers or those looking to meet new people, hostels provide dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms. Expect prices between ¥2,500 - ¥4,000 per night. Check out Khaosan Tokyo Kabuki or UNPLAN Shinjuku.

Mid-Range Comfort:

  • Business Hotels: Clean, efficient, and conveniently located near train stations, business hotels are a popular choice. Expect comfortable rooms with basic amenities like Wi-Fi and breakfast. Prices range from ¥8,000 - ¥15,000 per night. Look into Toyoko Inn or APA Hotel.

  • Boutique Hotels: These smaller, stylish hotels offer unique designs and personalized service. They often have themed rooms or feature local art. Expect prices between ¥10,000 - ¥20,000 per night. Check out Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (famous for its Godzilla head) or Claska.

Luxury & Splendor:

  • 5-Star Hotels: For an unforgettable experience, indulge in Tokyo’s world-renowned luxury hotels. Expect impeccable service, fine dining options, and stunning views. Prices start from ¥30,000 per night. Consider the Imperial Hotel, Park Hyatt Tokyo (featured in “Lost in Translation”), or Mandarin Oriental Tokyo.

  • Ryokans: Experience traditional Japanese hospitality at a ryokan. These inns feature tatami mats, futon bedding, and communal baths (onsen). Prices vary depending on location and amenities. Try Hakone Yuryo for breathtaking mountain views or Ryokan Sumiya in Asakusa for a historic setting.

Neighborhood Considerations:

  • Shinjuku: Bustling and energetic, Shinjuku is home to skyscrapers, nightlife, and department stores.
  • Shibuya: Famous for its iconic scramble crossing, Shibuya is youthful and trendy, with great shopping and dining options.
  • Ginza: Tokyo’s upscale district, Ginza boasts high-end boutiques, art galleries, and Michelin-starred restaurants.
  • Asakusa: Historic Asakusa features the Sensoji Temple and traditional shops selling souvenirs and snacks.

Pro Tip:

Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (spring cherry blossom season and autumn foliage). Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass for cost-effective travel between cities.