Planning a trip to Tokyo, Japan, and feeling like a deer caught in headlights with all the options of where to stay in Tokyo? Don’t worry; we’ve all been there. When planning a 3-week adventure to Japan, the overwhelming choices can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.
This guide will help you pinpoint the best areas to stay in Tokyo for your first visit. Each suggested neighborhood comes with curated hotel recommendations for every budget—because everyone deserves a comfy bed, whether you’re a backpacker or a baller.
And the pièce de résistance? A little-known gem in Shinjuku that others won’t spill the beans on. Ready to discover the best areas to stay in Tokyo and nab the perfect spot that fits your budget like a glove? Let’s dive in and make your Tokyo stay unforgettable!
The Cheat Sheet
Need the quick and dirty on where to stay in Tokyo? Here are the top picks to stay in Tokyo, guaranteed to make your trip a breeze.
Tokyo is a sprawling metropolis, giving New York and London a run for their money. It’s packed with neighborhoods that each feel like a mini-city.
There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to the best places to stay in Tokyo, but some neighborhoods are total crowd-pleasers. For first-timers looking to be in the thick of it all, Shinjuku and Shibuya are your best bets. The closer you are to the main train stations, the easier your life will be. Trust us, your feet will thank you.
Top hotel picks for these primo neighborhoods:
- Shinjuku hotels : JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
- Shibuya: Shibuya Stream Hotel
No. 1 Top Pick to Stay in Tokyo: Shinjuku
Looking for the ultimate insider tip on the best places to stay in Tokyo? Shinjuku is the dark horse that’ll make your Tokyo trip legendary, even when everyone else is chanting “Shibuya” like it’s a mantra.
Here’s the scoop: Shinjuku’s train station is the undisputed champion of connectivity in Tokyo. Not only does it link you to every corner of the city, but it also serves as your gateway to other major Japanese cities. When navigating a metropolis as colossal as Tokyo, being well-connected is the secret sauce to an efficient, hassle-free adventure.
Shinjuku station even hosts the Odakyu train lines, whisking you away to Hakone and the iconic Mt. Fuji without breaking a sweat. Talk about convenience!
But wait, there’s more! Shinjuku is within strolling distance of Tokyo’s culinary and cultural treasures, like the nostalgic Omoide Yokocho, the buzzing nightlife of Shinjuku Golden Gai, and the serene Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. And if your destination isn’t a short walk away, the magical Shinjuku station will get you there in no time.
Also Read: Your Solo Trip to Japan Awaits – Adventure & Peace in Perfect Harmony!
Top Shinjuku Hotels
1. JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku
The JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku is your knight in shining armor. Just a hop, skip, and a 3-minute jump from the main Shinjuku train station, this gem puts you right in the heart of the action. With a location that’s prime real estate and a price tag that’s a steal (by Tokyo standards), you get the best of both worlds.
2. Hotel Groove Shinjuku
Hotel Groove Shinjuku is a top contender when scouting the best places to stay in Tokyo. Nestled on the northern side of the bustling Shinjuku train station, this highly rated hotel is just a stone’s throw from the lively Kabukichō Ichiban-gai street. Talk about prime real estate!
This location plops you right in the heart of Shinjuku, with a smorgasbord of restaurants within walking distance. And the cherry on top? The Shinjuku train station is just a breezy 4-minute walk away. When it comes to finding the best areas to stay in Tokyo, Hotel Groove Shinjuku hits all the right notes.
3. Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower
When it comes to the areas to stay in Tokyo, the Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower is a true gem. Perched right next to the Shinjuku Train Station on the southwest corner, this hotel offers unbeatable efficiency and modern amenities at a price that won’t make your wallet cry. The location is pure gold for anyone wanting to maximize their Tokyo experience without wasting a second. With easy access to all of Shinjuku’s hotspots and the entire city at your fingertips, Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower is a standout choice among areas to stay in Tokyo.
4. Park Hyatt Tokyo: Luxuriate in Shinjuku
Seeking luxury in the heart of Shinjuku without compromising on location? Look no further than the Park Tokyo Hotel. Nestled in one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo, this hotel boasts elegance and opulence that would make royalty swoon.
Imagine yourself surrounded by exquisite Hokkaido wood paneling and wrapped in Egyptian cotton sheets. Fancy a drink? The wet bar has you covered. Slip into a fluffy bathrobe, and enjoy a movie-on-demand in pure comfort. For travelers seeking a hotel in Tokyo Japan that combines luxury, comfort, and breathtaking city views, the Park Hyatt Tokyo is an exceptional choice. This iconic Hyatt Tokyo property offers world-class service, elegant accommodations, and an unbeatable location in the heart of the city.
Whether you’re here for business or leisure, this Park Tokyo hotel provides a sophisticated retreat with panoramic skyline views, gourmet dining, and top-tier amenities—making it a must-stay for those looking to experience Tokyo in style.
No. 2 Top Pick for Best Locations to Stay in Tokyo: Shibuya
Most first-time visitors to Tokyo will find themselves magnetically drawn to Shibuya, and who can blame them? Shibuya is practically a Tokyo icon, home to the world-famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the towering Shibuya Skytree, the tranquil Yoyogi Park, and the quirky Harajuku neighborhood nearby.
However, there’s a small catch. While Shibuya boasts walkable dining and shopping galore, its train station isn’t quite the teleportation hub you’d find in Shinjuku. Navigating Tokyo or hopping over to Kyoto or Mt. Fuji is just a tad more cumbersome.
So, while Shibuya definitely earns its spot as one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo, Shinjuku still steals the show with its unmatched connectivity. But hey, Shibuya isn’t too far behind! In fact, some of the standout hotels in Shibuya might just tempt you to stay.
Curious? Check out the top Shibuya properties below and decide for yourself! When it comes to the best areas to stay in Tokyo, Shibuya definitely gives Shinjuku a run for its money.
1. Shibuya Stream Hotel: The Sweet Spot in Shibuya
For the perfect blend of affordability, modern comfort, and prime location, Shibuya Stream Hotel is a top choice in Tokyo Shibuya. Nestled in one of the convenient areas to stay in Tokyo, this hotel offers spacious, cozy rooms, sleek amenities, and unbeatable convenience just steps from Shibuya Station. Whether you’re here for shopping, nightlife, or business, this Tokyo Shibuya gem delivers a stylish stay without the hefty price tag—making it an ideal pick for travelers seeking both comfort and value.
Guests rave about its unbeatable location and those generously sized rooms—perfect for stretching out after a day of exploring. When scouting the best hotels to stay in Tokyo Shibuya Stream Hotel stands out as a stellar choice. For up-to-date pricing and availability, don’t hesitate to check the buttons below.
2. Trunk (Hotel) Yoyogi Park
Looking for a Tokyo in hotel that blends urban energy with tropical serenity? Trunk (Hotel) Yoyogi Park offers the perfect escape in one of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo. Designed with soothing neutral tones and lush greenery, this boutique hotel creates a Bali-inspired oasis in the heart of the city.
If the goal is to relax in a city that never sleeps, this is your haven. The next Tokyo adventure could very well include a stay at this zen-like retreat—after all, who wouldn’t want a mini-vacation within a vacation?
3. Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel: Your Shibuya Sanctuary
Located just a 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station, Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel is a top-tier hotel in Tokyo, Japan, offering a perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Situated in one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo, this elegant retreat provides everything a traveler could need—a refreshing indoor pool, a fully equipped gym, and a spa for ultimate relaxation.
Food lovers will appreciate the multiple on-site restaurants, serving both local and international cuisine. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant streets or unwinding in style, this standout among Shibuya hotels in Tokyo delivers an unforgettable stay.
With its unbeatable location and top-notch amenities, it’s no wonder so many Tokyo veterans swear by the Cerulean Tower as their go-to stay. Check the buttons below for current pricing and availability—because who wouldn’t want to indulge in Tokyo’s finest?
