Where to Stay in Tokyo Japan: 7 Best Areas + How to Book Hotels – Don’t make THIS mistake! | 2024
Hi, I’m Toshi from Japan and tourist guide for foreigners. In this video, I will show you 7 Best Areas to stay in Tokyo. I’ve been getting tons of questions from viewers asking where they should stay when visiting Tokyo. But here’s the thing—Tokyo is a massive city with over 14 million people, so where you stay really depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want convenience, budget-friendly spots, or perhaps a lively nightlife? Having lived here for over 10 years and guided countless foreign tourists, I’ve come to know each area’s unique vibe and can help you choose the best place to stay based on your preferences. In this video, I’m going to break down the seven best areas to stay in Tokyo, what makes each one special, who I recommend them to, and how convenient it is to get to them. I’ll also share specific hotel recommendations and tips on how to book. Plus, I’ll even tell you which areas you might want to avoid. By watching this video, you will be able to travel in Japan more comfortably, efficiently and enjoyably, so please be sure to watch until the end. So, let’s get started. What is Tokyo? Before I dive into the best areas to stay in Tokyo, let’s quickly talk about what Tokyo really is. It’s the capital of Japan, home to about 14 million people, making it the largest city in the country. According to the Global Power City Index, which takes into account various factors such as economy and culture, Tokyo is ranked third, making it a fairly large city on a global scale. Tokyo is made up of 62 districts, each with its own personality. The main tourist spots are found in the 23 central wards, where access is super convenient. But even within the 23 wards, each area has its own vibe. For example, Shibuya is the hub for youth culture, Shinjuku has the biggest nightlife district, Asakusa is known for its historical charm with Tokyo’s oldest temple, and Akihabara is famous for its anime and otaku culture. If you’re staying for more than a week, I recommend splitting your stay between two areas to get a broader experience. You’ll find it interesting to explore the different atmospheres. For more details on Tokyo’s tourist attractions, be sure to check out my previous video! **Where to stay** **Top7: Roppongi** 7. Why is Roppongi? Roppongi is one of Tokyo’s most luxurious neighborhoods. It’s a hotspot for Japan’s wealthy and celebrities, so if you want a taste of that upscale Tokyo vibe, this is the place to stay. The keywords here are luxury, international culture, and nightlife. You’ll find plenty of high-end shopping malls with luxury brands and fine dining restaurants. Roppongi is also popular among expats, making it a very international area with a vibrant nightlife scene. 7. What about the location in Roppongi? As for the location, Roppongi is in the heart of Tokyo. While there’s a nearby station, it doesn’t have as many train lines as other popular areas. Many people here prefer to travel by car or taxi, which fits the high-end vibe. 7. Which hotel at Roppongi? If you’re looking for a top hotel, I recommend The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo. The views from the rooms and restaurants are stunning, especially at night. Some rooms even offer a view of Tokyo Tower, a symbol of the city. So, if you’re looking for luxury and a lively international atmosphere, Roppongi is an excellent choice! **Top6: Ueno** 6. Why is Ueno? Ueno is an area that gives off an old-school, nostalgic vibe. If you’re looking to experience traditional Japan, Ueno is the place to be. The key highlights here are the bustling street markets, old-town charm, and beautiful parks. One of the most famous spots is ‘Ameyoko,’ a market that started as a post-war black market and has since transformed into a lively destination attracting tourists from all over. I personally love it for its unique, retro atmosphere. Another gem is Ueno Park, Tokyo’s oldest park, loved by locals for its peaceful vibe. It’s home to the National Museum and Ueno Zoo, making it a perfect spot for both kids and adults. 6. What about the location in Ueno? In terms of location, Ueno is incredibly accessible, with 12 train lines running through, including the Shinkansen, making it a convenient base if you’re traveling north towards areas like Tohoku. 6. Which hotel at Ueno? For accommodation, I recommend staying at Ueno Hotel. It’s in a budget-friendly area, offering affordable stays compared to some other parts of Tokyo. If you want a mix of history, culture, and affordability, Ueno is a great choice! **Top5: Tokyo Station** 5. Why is Tokyo Station? Tokyo Station is Japan’s transportation hub, making it perfect for business travelers or those prioritizing location. The key themes here are “transportation center” and “business district.” It connects you to all of Japan via train, bus, and Shinkansen, and is surrounded by office buildings hosting Japan’s top companies. 5. What about the location in Tokyo Station? It’s incredibly well-connected, with 14 train lines passing through. If you’re heading to Osaka or Kyoto, this is where you’ll catch the Shinkansen. Plus, you’ve got easy access to nearby attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, Tsukiji Market, and teamLab, which are all popular with foreign tourists. 5. Which hotel at Tokyo Station? For accommodation, I recommend Tokyo Station Hotel, located right inside the station. It offers a unique experience where you can enjoy both the city’s hustle and its quiet moments late at night or early in the morning. For more accessibility, you might also want to consider staying near Tokyo Station! **Top4: Akihabara** 4. Why is Akihabara? Akihabara is famous for its electric town and otaku culture. If you’re into Japanese anime, this is the place for you. The key themes here are “otaku,” “anime,” and “electronics.” Anime and game enthusiasts gather here, and it’s also home to the iconic maid cafés. The area is great for tech lovers, offering everything from gadgets to retro game arcades, which even my American friends loved. 4. What about the location in Akihabara? Akihabara is well-connected, with five train lines passing through. It’s conveniently located between Tokyo Station and Ueno, both reachable on foot in about 20 minutes. 4. Which hotel at Akihabara? The Akihabara Washington Hotel is a great choice. One standout feature is its railway-themed room, perfect for train enthusiasts. If you’re into Japan’s anime, gaming, and electronics, this area will make your stay truly memorable! **Top3: Shibuya** 3. Why is Shibuya? Shibuya is known as the trendsetter’s paradise, bustling with young people. If you’re interested in the latest fashion, dining, and vibrant nightlife, Shibuya is your go-to spot. It’s a shopping haven with stores catering to all ages and preferences. There are also many restaurants, so you can choose one based on the food you want to eat and your budget. Also, for those who want to enjoy the night view, I recommend “SHIBUYA SKY,” the highest observation facility in Shibuya. I went there with my friends, and the night view of Shibuya from a height of about 230 meters was very beautiful. 3. What about the location in Shibuya? Shibuya is super convenient, with 10 train lines passing through. Just one station away is Harajuku, another trendy spot where you can explore Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, and do some shopping on Omotesando and Takeshita Street. 3. Which hotel at Shibuya? A great choice is Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing. A friend of mine from the U.S. stayed here and loved watching the city’s famous hustle and bustle right from their room! If you’re into fashion, food, and urban energy, Shibuya offers an unbeatable experience. **Top2: Asakusa** 2. Why is Asakusa? Asakusa is perfect for those interested in Tokyo’s rich history and traditional atmosphere. The key themes here are historic streets, street food, and iconic landmarks. Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest, draws over 30 million visitors annually. Around the temple, you’ll find a bustling area famous for street food, with must-try options like minced meat cutlet and sweets. The nighttime illumination of the area gives it a different, magical vibe, perfect for an evening stroll. 2. What about the location in Asakusa? Asakusa is well-connected with three train lines, buses, and even a river cruise. Plus, it’s within walking distance of Tokyo’s symbol, the Tokyo Skytree, the tallest tower in the world, which opened in 2012. 2. Which hotel at Asakusa? A great option is the Asakusa View Hotel, where you can enjoy stunning views of Tokyo, including Skytree, from your room or the hotel’s restaurant. If you’re interested in traditional Japanese culture, historic landmarks, and great street food, Asakusa is the ideal place to stay! **Top1: Shinjuku** 1. Why is Shinjuku? Shinjuku is perfect for those who want to experience Tokyo’s energetic nightlife and diverse atmosphere. The key themes here are energetic, diversity, and nightlife. Shinjuku boasts Japan’s largest entertainment district, Kabukicho, with its iconic Godzilla Head. The area is also home to a mix of cultures, including a Koreatown, Middle Eastern quarter, and even an LGBT street. Popular spots include the bar-hopping streets of Omoide Yokocho and Golden Gai. But be cautious of scams targeting tourists, as mentioned in previous videos. A great free spot for views is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building’s observation deck, open until 10 PM. It’s also recommended to go there to sober up after drinking. 1. What about the location in Shinjuku? Shinjuku is extremely well-connected, with 12 train lines passing through. Most major areas in Tokyo are within 30 minutes by train. 1. Which hotel at Shinjuku? A great option is the Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku. When I lived in the US and came to Japan on business trips, I often stayed at this hotel because of its convenient location. If you’re looking for nightlife, a variety of experiences, and great location, Shinjuku is the ideal place to stay! **Where not to stay** Why is not Outside the 23 Wards? Generally, I don’t recommend staying outside of Tokyo’s 23 wards for most travelers. The majority of Tokyo’s popular tourist spots are located within these central areas, so staying outside means you’ll have poor access to them. That said, if you’re planning a longer stay and prefer nature and a slower pace, those areas can be a good choice. Why is not Odaiba? Although Odaiba is a fun tourist destination with attractions like a life-sized Gundam, shopping malls, and beaches, it’s an artificial island in Tokyo Bay. The issue is access. Trains run deep underground, and fares are higher than usual, which means it can become costly to get around if you make Odaiba your base. Therefore, due to transportation costs and location, I don’t recommend using Odaiba as your base. **How We Book Hotel** Hotel Booking Tip Let’s talk about some important tips for booking hotels in Japan, as well as my recommended platforms. First, if you already have your travel schedule, always book your hotel before you arrive. As I’ve mentioned in previous videos, Japan is experiencing overtourism, and this has led to a shortage of hotel staff and accommodation options. This means demand often exceeds supply, and if you don’t book ahead, you may struggle to find a place to stay upon arrival. Even if you do find a room, it might not be in a convenient location, or you could end up paying much more than you expected. I had a friend from the U.S. who didn’t book in advance, and since he arrived on a weekend, he ended up staying at an overpriced hotel in a bad location. He really regretted not planning ahead. To avoid this, I highly recommend booking at least the first few days of your stay before you leave for Japan. Which Platforms to Use? When it comes to booking hotels in Japan, I recommend using either Expedia or Booking.com. I’ve traveled to over 75 countries, and these are my go-to platforms, both internationally and in Japan. They offer a smooth experience and a wide selection of accommodations. If you’re using Expedia, consider using the link in the description to support my channel at no extra cost to you. Your support helps me create more content like this. So if you’re booking through Expedia, I’d really appreciate it! How was 7 Best Areas to stay in Tokyo? Please share your thoughts in the comment section. Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and like button. See you in my next video, bye!
I’ve been getting tons of questions from viewers asking where they should stay when visiting Tokyo.
But here’s the thing—Tokyo is a massive city with over 14 million people, so where you stay really depends on what you’re looking for.
Do you want convenience, budget-friendly spots, or perhaps a lively nightlife?
Having lived here for over 10 years and guided countless foreign tourists, I’ve come to know each area’s unique vibe and can help you choose the best place to stay based on your preferences.
In this video, I’m going to break down the seven best areas to stay in Tokyo, what makes each one special, who I recommend them to, and how convenient it is to get to them.
I’ll also share specific hotel recommendations and tips on how to book. Plus, I’ll even tell you which areas you might want to avoid.
By watching this video, you will be able to travel in Japan more comfortably, efficiently and enjoyably, so please be sure to watch until the end.
⭐️CHAPTERS⭐️
0:00 Opening
1:11 What is Tokyo?
2:23 **Where to stay**
2:26 **Top7: Roppongi**
2:29 7. Why is Roppongi?
2:59 7. What about the location in Roppongi?
3:17 7. Which hotel at Roppongi?
3:41 **Top6: Ueno**
3:44 6. Why is Ueno?
4:28 6. What about the location in Ueno?
4:42 6. Which hotel at Ueno?
5:01 **Top5: Tokyo Station**
5:04 5. Why is Tokyo Station?
5:25 5. What about the location in Tokyo Station?
5:47 5. Which hotel at Tokyo Station?
6:09 **Top4: Akihabara**
6:12 4. Why is Akihabara?
6:40 4. What about the location in Akihabara?
6:55 4. Which hotel at Akihabara?
7:16 **Top3: Shibuya**
7:19 3. Why is Shibuya?
7:57 3. What about the location in Shibuya?
8:16 3. Which hotel at Shibuya?
8:41 **Top2: Asakusa**
8:44 2. Why is Asakusa?
9:16 2. What about the location in Asakusa?
9:34 2. Which hotel at Asakusa?
9:56 **Top1: Shinjuku**
9:59 1. Why is Shinjuku?
10:47 1. What about the location in Shinjuku?
11:00 1. Which hotel at Shinjuku?
11:24 **Where not to stay**
11:26 Why is not Outside the 23 Wards?
11:51 Why is not Odaiba?
12:21 **How We Book Hotel**
12:24 Hotel Booking Tip
13:19 Which Platforms to Use?
⭐️Related Videos⭐️
How to Spend 5 Days in TOKYO – Japan Travel Itinerary | Travel Update 2024 | For First Timers!
JAPAN HAS CHANGED | Japan’s 16 Tourist Traps to watch out for | New Scam | Travel Update 2024
Japan is Changing | Why I Keep Saying Travel to JAPAN ASAP | Travel Update 2024
⭐️Hotel Information⭐️
7. The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo(Roppongi)
https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/tyorz-the-ritz-carlton-tokyo/overview/
6. Ueno Hotel(Ueno)
https://www.uenohotel.jp/en/
5. Tokyo Station Hotel(Tokyo Station)
https://www.thetokyostationhotel.jp/
4. Akihabara Washington Hotel(Akihabara)
3. Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
https://www.tokyuhotels.co.jp/en/shibuya-e/index.html
2. Asakusa View Hotel
1. Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
https://sotetsu-hotels.com/en/sunroute/plazashinjuku/
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47 Comments
There is a budget barrier for everyone… and my line is $150 in my currency (90USD) a night. Anything more is, to my thinking, a criminal waste of money so when I see recommendations for hotels from Japan travel experts, it is evident that expectations of what viewers can afford are incorrect.
Yes, some travellers can afford those kind of five star rooms, but those wealthy people don't use YouTube to plan their hotels! It's people who want a clean room, a bathroom, and a bed in a 12 square metre space close to a convenience store and a shopping mall. This is who is watching. Maybe someone younger is watching who wants to sleep in Net Cafes late, do stuff all day and soak up the nightlife.
Who thought that capsule hotels would become overpriced? Well, they are now! This is why business hotel chains are now being looked at by more tourists. I'm not sure if these 2-3 star hotels are ready for the challenge of so many English-speaking customers!
Nice video! I'm wrapping up my stay in your beautiful country! I loved every bit of my trip. I'm staying my last 2 days in Chiba because I'm leaving from Narita, I stayed in Shinjuku for 1 week, visited all the amazing neighborhoods, and spent other 3 weeks in Osaka, kyoto, Hakone, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Nara and Nagoya. The best thing from japan: the people. ❤
when i was on my trip i stayd at Minami-Senju cheap quiet and still close to Ueno and Akihabara
And Ginza ?
Nice informative video, thank you!
I will visiting Japan for the first time on a solo trip in early December, have booked hotel The Celestine Tokyo Shiba in Minato area because I wanted to stay closer to Tokyo station and on Yamanote line. Is this a good area/hotel for solo female travellers? Thanks!
I have a hostel booked next to the Shimbashi station but now I consider changing to Shinjuku even though it's more expensive 😡
I'm staying in Yokohama for my first trip, getting to Tokyo Station is only an hour or so, so it doesn't bother me that much. Was that a bad choice?
We stay in Kanda. Short walking distance to JR and metro station. Just one station away from Tokyo station or Akihabara station. Lots of restaurant open at night. Very convenient. It also fits our budget.
Hi Toshi, love your videos ❤
I suggest you DON'T stay in any of the major busy areas of Tokyo. Visit them by all means, but don't stay in them unless you like the thought of being on a roller coaster that never sleeps 😅
After 10 Japan visits, and 8 visits to Tokyo, the winner is Sugamo. During each visit I've stayed in a different location each time.
Firstly, when staying in Tokyo it's super important to stay as close as you can to a station on the Tokyo Yamanote Loop Line. This has you on track quickly to your destinations without having to connect from a line outside the city centre to the Yamanote line.
On my 8th trip I found the quiet northern area of Sugamo/Otsuka which is the best area I've stayed in out of eight different spots. It's regarded as a seniors' local area with its cheaper prices all around in restaurants and supermarkets, etc.
Sugamo is also home to the tranquil Rikugien Garden, one of the two great Edo gardens.
The town also boasts the traditional 'Jizo-dori street market day' in the middle of the shopping street three times a month with locals selling bric-a-brac and collectables amongst the food vendors !
Sugamo is only 2 stations from Ikebukuro a major hub and busy city center. It's also centred on the Yamanote line between Shinjuku/Shibuya and Akihabara/Tokyo so you're doing less travelling time either direction between the busy tourist areas.
Sugamo also has 2 railway lines and a tram line ! The Toei subway station, is right next to the JR railway station, so it's super convenient. In addition there is the Arakawa Toden Tram line as well, the last remaining tram line in Tokyo. Now re-named as the 'Sakura Tram' (cherry blossom tram) it's a wonderful area to explore overlooked by most tourists.
Also, only one connection from Sugamo is required to either Haneda or Narita Airports.
It's a big advantage to be able to enjoy your mornings having breakfast in the quiet area of Otsuka/Sugamo at the start of your day, then able to retreat from the bustling crowds at the end of each day.
Still, most tourists will stay in one of the hectic busy areas of Tokyo and overlook this gem of a location, but maybe that's ok and it will leave it being the 'jewel in the crown' that it is 👑.
Sugamo #1 👍
Great recommendations! We stayed at Tokyo Station Hotel this spring, really liked the location, and the breakfast was amazing 😋
Been 3 times in the last 2 years with a 4th all booked for next year. I always stay in the "business hotels" like APA or Toyoko. £50 a night or less and I book via Hotels com with 7 to 14% cashback via Quidco (the rate varies with occasional special offers) so really good value!
Asakusa/Kuramae/Ryogoku areas are great value
why do u have a Nigerian accent> lmao
Thank you sooo much Toshi, this was super helpful! I'm already nervous and happy for my next year trip to Tokyo. I'm getting familiarized with the apps you've recommended. Arigatou gozamaisu!
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Share your thoughts and questions in the comments!
Toshi, can I stay at your place? Lol
is staying at haneda airport good idea?
Good for the first timer only plus most of the hotels u recommend are expensive , say Ritz Carlton , definitely not budget friendly at all.
typical japanese optimism. 22 out of 23 wards are good. lol just kidding!
Why is Roppongi? 😂
thank you
Hi Toshi were planning to visit Tokyo for 10 days. We’re thinking to stay in Tokyo for 6 days and the rest is by Mt. Fuji. Do you have any recommendations instead? Pls. advice. Thank you
I am looking for a mire quiet experience but with shopping. I also like being near water and parks. What's your suggestion in tokyo? I' know kichijouji and used to live in that area. How about kawasaki?
Thanks for the great tour. Can you make one on the 3D signs of Tokyo?
Really helpful. Thanks so very much.
RITZ,LOL
Is Tabata good area to stay for 2 days then moving to Shinjuku for another 4 days?
We’re staying in nihombashi in an apartment hotel. I have 3 kids a wife and my mother coming with us. It was not too expensive, only 1700 for 5 nights
Hello Toshi , what do you think about the Nest hotel Tokyo Hanzomon. We are 2 adult and 2 kids. We’ll stay about 5 days in Tokyo.
Hi Tosha-San, what is your opinion about Shinagawa? Specifically Tachiaigawa station. Thanks so much
The way you do English is really cool
This video is so accurate and helpful! I stayed at the Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku and it was worth it in terms of location, value for money and it also is a stop for the airport limousine bus incase that's useful for anyone going there. No need to worry about taking your luggage to the airport.
Broooo, your videos are NEXT LEVEL! Thank you!
I am staying at Shinjuku for six nights in May, then six nights in Kyoto. Thank you for your videos they are great.
What about sotetsu fresa Inn tokyo toyocho
If you're visiting alone in June one week, stay costs between less than 430 and 450 dollars
Thank you for your video! Veru informative! We are from California and will be visiting Japan soon. Your video helped me so much on deciding where to stay. Any recommendation on 1 day tour guide?
Hi Toshi, how many months in advance should I book accommodations? If I'm travelling in Dec 2025, is it possible to book accommodations now? or I can only book around May&June
Thank you for this!! Planning my trip this October 2025!!
This was so informative. I'm planing a trip for late spring and this was very helpful 🙂
Спасибо большое.
Been to japan many times but my best place to stay is at Hatchobori station(quiet,not crowded)
❤
Stay away from don q ! It’s a trap!🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣❤❤❤
I miss japan so much !❤️
Kon'nichiwa, Toshisan! Are you sure Expedia allows customers to book a flight and 2 different hotels in one trip? I've been trying to book a round trip flight to Tokyo, with a hotel in Ueno for the first week in Tokyo and a hotel in Shibuya for the second week. Expedia won't allow it :/ I even tried clicking "I only need accommodations for part of my stay". But when I entered the second hotel stay with dates, Expedia erased my first hotel. I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong, or if Expedia no longer allows customers to book 2 different hotels.
Very well done! Thank you for the fantastic overview, Toshi.
We will be staying at the Tobu for 2 weeks what's a great itinerary for 2 adults and a 12yr old. Thank you
Good video. I like Ikebukuro but let's keep that a secret ^_^
thank you so much for the guide