Confused Where to Stay in Tokyo? Start with This Guide

Tokyo can feel overwhelming for first-timers. The city is massive, packed with personality, and every neighborhood has its own unique vibe. So how do you choose where to stay in Tokyo?

In this guide, I’ll help you figure it out based on your travel style, budget, and what kind of Tokyo experience you’re looking for.

Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo (Based on Travel Purpose)

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas in Tokyo for travelers:

Area	Best For	Pros	Cons
Shinjuku	First-timers, nightlife lovers	Excellent transport hub, endless dining, shopping, entertainment	Can be crowded and noisy
Shibuya	Trendy travelers, young tourists	Vibrant, stylish, full of fashion and food	Crowded and touristy
Asakusa	Culture seekers, budget travelers	Historic temples, budget hostels, traditional vibes	A bit far from modern city center
Tokyo Station / Marunouchi	Business travelers, short-stay tourists	Shinkansen access, elegant hotels, central location	Pricey and more business-like
Ueno	Museum lovers, families	Cultural sites, Ueno Zoo, affordable hotels	Quiet at night
Ginza	Luxury travelers, shopping	Upscale shops, fine dining, sophisticated	Very expensive

Types of Accommodation in Tokyo

Whether you want something modern, traditional, or quirky, Tokyo has it all.

• Business Hotels: Compact, affordable, efficient. Great for solo travelers or short stays.

• Ryokan: Traditional Japanese inns with tatami mats and futons. Perfect for those who want a cultural experience.

• Capsule Hotels: A unique Japanese invention. Tiny sleeping pods, shared bathrooms. Best for backpackers and solo travelers.

• Luxury Hotels: Think five-star views of Tokyo Tower or Mt. Fuji. Ideal for couples, honeymooners, and executives.

• Family Hotels / Apartments: Larger rooms with amenities like kitchenettes. Ideal for groups or families traveling with kids.

Recommended Hotels by Area

Here are some great options in different price ranges and styles:

Near Tokyo Station

• Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo – Beautiful fusion of modern and traditional design, minutes from Tokyo Station. From ¥18,000/night.

• Karaksa Hotel Tokyo Station – Great for families. Spacious rooms, up to 6 people. From ¥24,000/night.

Shinjuku

• Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – Famous for its Godzilla-themed building. Comfortable and right in the heart of the action. From ¥15,000/night.

Asakusa

• Khaosan Tokyo Samurai Capsule – Tatami-style capsules, affordable and cultural. From ¥3,000/night.

Tips for Booking Hotels in Tokyo

• Book early if you’re traveling during peak seasons (cherry blossom in March–April, or autumn foliage in October–November).

• Always check hotel location on Google Maps—near a train/subway station saves time.

• Some hotels still allow smoking inside rooms. Double-check if you prefer non-smoking.

• Traveling as a family or group? Look for apartment-style hotels with kitchenettes and washing machines.

Tokyo Hotel Budget Guide

Here’s a rough guide for average nightly costs:

Hotel Type	Price Range (per night)
Capsule Hotel	¥2,500–¥5,000
Business Hotel	¥6,000–¥12,000
Mid-range Hotel	¥12,000–¥25,000
Luxury Hotel	¥30,000+
Ryokan	¥15,000–¥50,000+

Final Thoughts

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer when it comes to staying in Tokyo. The best location depends on you—your budget, your plans, your vibe.

Whether you're here for the cherry blossoms, shopping, food, or anime culture, Tokyo has a neighborhood and hotel just for you.

Still confused? Save this guide and share it with your travel buddies so you can plan together!