Where To Stay In Tokyo?

Choosing where to stay in Tokyo depends on your preferences and budget. Shinjuku is vibrant, offering a range of accommodations near major attractions.

Shibuya is lively, and known for its nightlife and shopping. Ginza boasts luxury hotels and upscale shopping experiences. Asakusa provides a glimpse into traditional Tokyo with historic temples and cozy ryokans.

Roppongi caters to diverse interests with art galleries, entertainment venues, and international cuisine. Akihabara is a haven for tech and anime enthusiasts. Consider factors like location, amenities, and reviews to find the perfect match for your stay in Tokyo, ensuring a memorable and comfortable experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Accommodation in Tokyo

When choosing accommodation, several factors should be considered to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay:

Location

The location of the accommodation is crucial. Consider proximity to attractions, transportation hubs, dining options, and other points of interest you plan to visit. A central location can save time and transportation costs.

Budget

Your budget is a crucial aspect when choosing accommodation. Consider not only the nightly rate but also any additional fees or charges that may apply, such as resort fees, parking fees, or taxes.

It’s important to strike a balance between cost and value – while you may be tempted to opt for the cheapest option available. Keep in mind that higher-priced accommodations often come with additional amenities, better service, and more comfortable facilities.

Be realistic about what you can afford and prioritize your spending accordingly to ensure a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.

Amenities

Look at what the accommodation offers besides just a place to sleep. Things like free Wi-Fi, breakfast, or a gym can make your stay more enjoyable. Decide which amenities are important to you and choose a place that has what you need.

Keep in mind that different places might offer different things, so it’s worth doing some research to find the right fit for you.

Room size and configuration

Consider how big of a room you need and what layout works best for you. If you’re traveling with others, make sure there’s enough space for everyone to be comfortable. Think about any specific needs you have, like wanting a view or a non-smoking room. It’s also helpful to check if the room comes with amenities like a kitchenette or a separate living area.

Reviews and ratings

Read reviews and ratings from previous guests to gauge the quality of the accommodation and the level of service provided. Websites like TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Google Reviews are valuable resources for gathering feedback from other travelers.

Safety and Security

Prioritize safety and security when choosing accommodation. Look for properties with secure entrances, well-lit parking areas, and in-room safes. Additionally, consider the safety of the neighborhood where the accommodation is located.

Flexibility and cancellation policies

Review the accommodation’s cancellation policy and any fees associated with changes to your reservation. Opt for accommodations with flexible policies that allow for changes or cancellations without significant penalties.

Accessibility

If you have specific accessibility needs, such as wheelchair access or ADA-compliant features, ensure the accommodation can accommodate them.

Reputation and brand loyalty

Pay attention to what other people say about the place you’re considering staying. Reading reviews can give you an idea of what to expect and help you avoid any unpleasant surprises.

If you have a membership with a hotel chain, you might get some extra perks by staying with them. So, it’s worth looking into to see if you can save money or get some special treatment by sticking with a brand you trust.

Unique features or experiences

Some accommodations offer unique features or experiences that enhance your stay, such as historic charm, themed rooms, or on-site activities. Consider these factors if you’re looking for a memorable and distinctive accommodation experience.

Top Examples of Some Areas

Here are examples of areas in Tokyo where you might consider booking accommodation

Shibuya (South of Yoyogi Park)

Shibuya stands out as an ideal choice for anyone seeking accommodation in Tokyo. Situated just south of the lush Yoyogi Park, this neighborhood pulsates with the vibrant essence of the city. Offering a harmonious blend of retail therapy, culinary delights, verdant spaces, and quaint local districts, Shibuya caters to diverse tastes and preferences.

At the heart of Shibuya lies the highly efficient Shibuya Station, serving as a central nexus for convenient exploration of the city. Visitors can indulge in distinctive experiences, including street go-karting, immersive bar-hopping food tours, and effortless exploration of various locales.

For those considering lodging options in Shibuya, here are some noteworthy selections:

JR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya: Positioned for convenience and efficiency, this hotel offers straightforward service and seamless integration with the station, ensuring effortless city travel.
Shibuya Granbell Hotel: This hotel is right in the middle of Shibuya, making it super convenient for exploring. It’s a bit fancier than some others, with really modern and stylish rooms. They’ve got cool places to eat, too, where you can try yummy food from Japan and around the world. Plus, if you need to relax, they’ve got a spa and a fancy bar where you can chill out..
TRUNK (Hotel) Yoyogi Park: For those inclined towards luxury and sustainability, TRUNK presents an eco-friendly haven near Yoyogi Park, boasting serene surroundings and thoughtful design.
Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel: It is like a skyscraper with amazing views of Tokyo. It’s super posh and fancy inside, with really comfy beds and fancy bathrooms. You can eat at their fancy restaurants and try delicious food. And if you want to relax, they’ve got a spa where you can get pampered and feel really fancy. It’s a great place to stay if you want to feel like a VIP in Shibuya.

The OneFive Tokyo Shibuya: Nestled in Shibuya’s bustling core, this boutique hotel infuses modern flair into cozy accommodations, catering to travelers seeking style and convenience.
Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya, an IHG Hotel: Known for its vibrant design and proximity to the famous Shibuya Scramble, this boutique hotel under the InterContinental Hotels Group banner ensures a stylish stay in the heart of Shibuya.

Shinjuku

Shinjuku, a vibrant ward in Tokyo situated just north of Yoyogi Park, is renowned for its towering skyline and bustling cityscape. It’s a hub of business activity and renowned for landmarks like the Golden Gai alleys, perfect for a memorable bar-hopping tour.

With excellent connectivity to the rest of Tokyo, Shinjuku serves as an ideal base for exploration. Despite its energetic atmosphere, the area also offers serene retreats such as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the nostalgic Omoide Yokocho Lane. For utmost convenience, staying near Shinjuku Station is advisable due to its central location.

Here are notable hotel options in Shinjuku:

Park Hyatt Tokyo: Iconic for its appearance in the film Lost in Translation, Park Hyatt offers luxurious accommodations with breathtaking city views. Guests can expect unparalleled amenities and top-notch concierge service.
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo: A trusted name in major Japanese cities, Keio Plaza Hotel caters primarily to business travelers but also offers comfort and convenience for tourists, especially with available deals.
Hilton Tokyo: Strategically located near Shinjuku Station, this Hilton property stands as one of the brand’s premier establishments, boasting impressive amenities and elegant design.
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku: Famous for its iconic Godzilla statue atop the building, Hotel Gracery provides a unique and playful Tokyo experience. Its central location and good value for money make it a popular choice among travelers.

Tokyo Station/Marunouchi

The Tokyo Station/Marunouchi area serves as a bustling entry point to Tokyo, akin to Midtown Manhattan, offering a blend of vibrancy, luxury accommodations, and fine dining.

Though slightly removed from Tokyo’s main attractions, it compensates with a plethora of activities, top-tier restaurants, and shopping opportunities.

Notable attractions include the Imperial Palace and the Idemitsu Museum of Arts, with Tokyo Station itself being a must-visit landmark. Here’s a guide to some of the finest hotels in the Tokyo Station/Marunouchi vicinity:

Marunouchi Hotel : This refined hotel offers luxury with understated elegance and enjoys a prime location directly above Tokyo Station.
The Tokyo Station Hotel: Housed within the historic Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building, this luxury hotel seamlessly blends European architectural charm with impeccable Japanese hospitality.
Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo: Situated in Marunouchi, this hotel epitomizes luxury, offering breathtaking views of Tokyo Bay and the Imperial Palace, with service steeped in Asian-inspired grace.
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo: Nestled in the Nihonbashi district, this five-star gem boasts stunning vistas of Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji, alongside exquisitely appointed rooms, exceptional dining, a world-class spa, and flawless service.
The Aman Tokyo: Featuring a minimalist modern design, the Aman Tokyo offers a serene retreat in the heart of the city, celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere and contemporary interpretation of the traditional Japanese ryokan.
The Peninsula Tokyo: Renowned for its opulent decor, impeccable service, and sweeping views of the Imperial Palace and Hibiya Park, The Peninsula epitomizes five-star luxury in Tokyo.
Palace Hotel Tokyo: This upscale hotel in Marunouchi impresses with its refined design, impeccable service, and captivating views over the Imperial Palace Gardens and the city skyline.

Roppongi

Roppongi, nestled in Tokyo’s Minato City district, is a vibrant hub of urban life, combining world-class art museums, luxury shopping, and a plethora of gourmet dining options. It’s a must-visit destination for any Tokyo itinerary.

Explore the Roppongi Hills complex, which boasts a myriad of shops and restaurants, as well as the Mori Art Museum, renowned for its contemporary art exhibitions.

The international flair of Roppongi creates a diverse cultural atmosphere that’s both captivating and unique. Here are some top hotel recommendations for those planning to stay in this lively area:

Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier – This upscale hotel offers stylish modern facilities and a chic ambiance, ideal for contemporary design enthusiasts.
The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo – Exuding luxury and a distinctively Japanese aesthetic, the Ritz-Carlton promises a refined experience in the heart of Roppongi.
Hotel New Otani Tokyo – A Tokyo landmark, this hotel is a paradise for food enthusiasts, featuring an extensive selection of dining venues that cater to all tastes.
Grand Hyatt Tokyo – A pioneer of luxury in the area, the Grand Hyatt offers elegant accommodations, an indoor pool, and a spa, perfect for unwinding after a day of city exploration.
InterContinental ANA Tokyo, an IHG Hotel – This luxury tower hotel is another excellent upscale choice, offering breathtaking city views from its bar and lounge on the 35th floor.
The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon – For boutique-style living, the EDITION offers a stylish and intimate setting, emphasizing innovative design and personalized service.
The Capitol Hotel Tokyu – Known for its modern, minimalist aesthetics and generously sized rooms, the Capitol Hotel Tokyu provides a comfortable and spacious stay.
Ace Hotel Roppongi – Embracing vibrant community spaces, the Ace Hotel offers a boutique experience with well-designed, cozy rooms tailored to the modern traveler.

Ginza

Ginza an upscale district bordering Tokyo Station, offers a unique city-within-a-city experience. Vibrant both day and night, it boasts gourmet restaurants, bars, theaters, art galleries, traditional tea houses, and historic landmarks like the Kabuki-za Theater.

Ginza seamlessly blends modernity with tradition, making it a must-visit for those seeking Tokyo’s cosmopolitan elegance.

Here are some notable hotels in Ginza:

Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier ($$): Located in the heart of Ginza, this chic hotel offers modern design and convenient amenities, providing a comfortable base for exploring the fashionable neighborhood.
Muji Hotel Ginza ($$$): A unique and fun stay, this hotel by the renowned lifestyle brand “Muji” features comfortable and functional rooms with a focus on sustainability. Guests can enjoy a cafe and retail store showcasing Muji’s signature products.
Hotel The Celestine Ginza ($$$): Situated near Shimbashi station, this hotel boasts contemporary aesthetics and a quiet ambiance. Well-appointed rooms offer good views, making it a design-forward choice in Ginza.
The Blossom Hibiya ($$$): Offering a chic stay with an airy ambiance, this hotel is conveniently located near the Imperial Palace. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning city views, enhancing the experience.
Hotel Sunroute Ginza ($$): A budget-friendly option in Ginza, this neighborhood hotel offers simple, clean rooms ideal for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring.

Tips for Booking Accommodation in Tokyo

Book accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Choose a convenient location near public transportation.
Read reviews to gauge quality and service.
Compare prices across different booking platforms.
Consider room size and amenities.
Check for additional fees not included in the booking price.
Be prepared for potential language barriers.
Explore alternative accommodations like guesthouses or ryokans.

FAQ’s

Is it better to stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya?

The decision depends on personal preference. Shinjuku is famous for its diverse entertainment and legendary nightlife, while Shibuya offers a youthful and trendy nightlife scene. Choose based on whether you prefer a diverse, energetic nightlife (Shinjuku) or a modern, youthful party scene (Shibuya).

Final Words

Among Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods, Shinjuku stands out as a top pick. With its vibrant atmosphere, plethora of accommodation options, and proximity to major attractions, it offers an ideal blend of convenience and excitement.

Whether you’re exploring bustling streets, indulging in delicious cuisine, or experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife, Shinjuku has it all. From budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels, there’s something for every traveler.

So, for a memorable stay in Tokyo, consider making Shinjuku your top pick, where adventure and comfort await around every corner.