Finding a well-located accommodation in Tokyo can be as difficult as finding a needle in a haystack. The city is so gigantic that when you open the map for the first time (or open it in any app) it can be overwhelming at first glance. We have spent several seasons in the Japanese capital and even so, we still have neighborhoods to explore. But after many experiences and searches, we can recommend the best neighborhoods and areas to stay in Tokyo .
⭐ Get to know the capital of Japan better with our article on the Tokyo neighborhoods you can't miss
Best areas to stay in Tokyo
In this article we focus on the Tokyo neighbourhoods that we find interesting from a tourist point of view . Those that are well located and well connected, that have a certain appeal and also where there is a wide range of accommodation and hospitality. Among them you will find some traditional ones like Asakusa (our favourite), others bustling like Shinjuku and others full of electronics stores and otakus like Akihabara.
Ready to discover the best neighborhoods to look for accommodation in Tokyo? Let's go!
1. Asakusa
Of course, we start this list with our favourite neighbourhood in Tokyo. Although it is not as central as others, Asakusa has something unique: it is one of the few traditional areas in Tokyo that retains a village-like atmosphere, with low-rise buildings, narrow streets with more bikes than cars and colourful lanterns. Although during the day it is a bustling neighbourhood, thanks especially to the presence of the Senso-ji Temple, at night it is much quieter and more intimate (without ever being deserted or boring).
What we enjoyed most during our time in Asakusa was wandering around the alleys, discovering small restaurants specializing in tempura, ramen, okonomiyaki and other delicious foods, and enjoying the atmosphere of a time gone by.
Recommended accommodations in Asakusa:
- The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa
- Super Hotel Asakusa
- APA Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon
2. Shinjuku
If Asakusa shines in the night under the light of lanterns and silence reigns in its streets, Shinjuku shines under the light of neon lights and silence is the only thing missing from its streets. Bustling, fun and ideal for those looking for nightlife and a rich and varied gastronomic scene , Shinjuku is the choice of many travelers. And we think it is another of the best areas to stay in Tokyo.
Recommended accommodations in Shinjuku:
- Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku
- APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower
- Galois Hotel Shinokubo
- Park Hyatt Tokyo (the hotel from Lost in translation)
3. Shibuya
Known for its ultra-busy pedestrian crossing , Shibuya is one of the most modern, youthful and lively areas in Tokyo . Takeshita Dori and Yoyogi Park are just a short distance away, so there is no shortage of tourist attractions either . And of course, if you stay here, you have to go see the famous Hachiko statue .
Well located and well connected, Shibuya is a safe bet when looking for accommodation. On the other hand, there are not too many hotels and prices are high, but if you find a good deal, don't think twice!
Recommended accommodations in Shibuya:
- Shibuya Tobu Hotel
- Shibuya Tokyo REI Hotel
- Sakura Flower Aoyama
4. Ginza
This is the luxury area of Tokyo , full of high-end shops, boutiques, galleries and designer stores. Some of the best hotels in Tokyo are located here and yes, as you can imagine, it is one of the most expensive and posh areas of the city , so if you are a backpacker, don't even look! However, if you are travelling on a larger budget, you should know that with a little advance planning you can find interesting accommodation offers.
Recommended accommodations in Ginza:
- Super Hotel Premier Ginza
- Hotel Vista Tokyo Tsukiji
- Hotel Musse Ginza Meitetsu
5. Ueno
The Ueno area, known especially for its huge park , is a cheaper alternative to Asakusa since it is located in the same area. In addition, it is very well connected by both train and subway. Something cool about the neighborhood is the Ameyoko shopping area , full of all kinds of stores, ideal for shopping lovers.
It is especially recommended during hanami (cherry blossom) when the trees in the park are filled with flowers and people gather to stroll, have picnics and enjoy celebrations.
Recommended accommodations in Ueno:
- APA Hotel Ueno Ekiminami
- Tosei Hotel Cocone Ueno Okachimachi
- Grids Tokyo Ueno Hotel&Hostel
6. Akihabara
South of Ueno lies a world of otaku, cosplay, manga, maid cafes and electronics stores . But because of its location, Akihabara is also a great area to look for accommodation in Tokyo if you're not particularly into that. There isn't as much choice as in other areas of the city, but if you find a good rate it can be an interesting and certainly picturesque base.
Recommended accommodations in Akihabara:
- remm Akihabara
- APA Hotel Akihabara Ekihigashi
- Super Hotel Premier Akihabara
7. Roppongi
This central area of Tokyo is home to many business hotels, and although Roppongi was once almost exclusively associated with nightlife (and not always entirely legal), things have changed considerably today and it is in fact one of the trendiest areas of the capital . It is also not far from top attractions such as the Tokyo Tower or the Zojoji Temple, as well as several art galleries and museums.
The area known as Roppongi Hills is where we would look, created ad hoc in 2003 to rezone the neighborhood with luxury apartments, top-quality restaurants and shops, and works of art.
Recommended accommodations in Roppongi:
- remm Roppongi
- APA Hotel & Resort Roppongi-Eki-Higashi
- Act Hotel Roppongi
Remember to get the Revolut card ( with a €10 promo ) to avoid commissions when paying and withdrawing money abroad
Map with the best areas to stay in Tokyo
To make things clearer, we have created a map showing the recommended neighbourhoods where you can find accommodation in Tokyo in different colours, as well as the location of the hotels we have suggested in the article:
One last tip: book your hotel in Tokyo as soon as possible to secure the best rate, and even better if it comes with free cancellation. A few days before you go, do another search to see if there are any last-minute deals. But keep in mind that prices usually go up close to the dates of your trip and availability is much reduced, so booking in advance can save you a good bit of money.
Do you know any other recommended areas to stay in Tokyo ? Which neighborhood did you stay in when you visited the city?
