Honest Advice for Where to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time & Repeat Travellers

Arghhh, where to stay in Tokyo for first timers, or as a repeat visitor? With what feels like multiple cities within one major one, it can be very overwhelming trying to figure this out…

This is where I come in to simplify this stressful task for you! I can genuinely speak about staying in dozens of Tokyo hotels because I’ve actually done it, and from multiple perspectives.

Since 2014 spanning 14 trips, I’ve stayed in Tokyo 34 separate times, in 25 different hotels, and as every kind of traveller – solo, as a couple, for business, with kids, as part of a group, and in transit.

Where to stay in Tokyo: Best areas & hotels according to a repeat visitor

In true invisible tourist fashion, I can share the pros and cons for everywhere I have stayed to help you narrow down accommodation in Tokyo you should seriously consider for your Tokyo or larger Japan itinerary. Here’s my quick answer, then my step-by-step guide to choosing yours:

Disclaimer: I paid for each of these hotels with my own money and am reviewing them unbeknownst to the hotel owners, management or staff. None were sponsored by tourism boards.

STEP 1: Decide which Tokyo neighbourhood suits you best (West, Central or East)

Tokyo is huge, so start by choosing which side of the city suits your needs. Here’s where the main sights are, and where the hotels I’ve stayed in sit.

Tokyo’s three sides, the main sights in each, and 8 of many hotels I’ve stayed in. Tap a side to jump to it, or a hotel to check prices on Booking.com.

West Tokyo: Shinjuku, Harajuku and Shibuya

Central Tokyo: Ginza, Shimbashi and Tokyo Tower

East Tokyo: Asakusa and Ueno ★ Best for first-timers

✈ Off the mapFlying in late or out early? I’ve also stayed at two Haneda Airport hotels, and in Yokohama: 30 mins south of Tokyo Station makes a fun change for a night or two.

STEP 2: Stay close to Tokyo public transport

Overall, you’ll be fine if you’re staying near the JR Yamanote Line (known to tourists as the Tokyo loop line around the city) or any Metro station. It makes getting around the city so much easier, and every hotel review below lists its nearest station and the walk.

• Flying in or out of Haneda? From Asakusa, the Asakusa Line links to the Keikyu Line for Haneda Airport, and you’re at the start of the line (great with luggage). From Minato, the monorail and Keikyu Line are a few minutes’ walk from Shiba Park Hotel and Bay Hotel Hamamatsucho.
• Flying in or out of Narita? Ueno would be a good choice. The express Keisei Skyliner to and from Narita Airport takes about 40 mins.
• Big stations take practice. In Shinjuku or Shimbashi it can take 10 minutes to walk from one line to another, so check which exit is nearest your hotel before you arrive. Use Google Map’s “wheelchair accessible” feature to filter away routes with lots of stairs if you’re wheeling heavy luggage.
• Get your bearings: Make sure you rent portable wifi in Japan so maps work for the duration of your trip.

TIP: Confused about the different train lines and when to use a JR Pass or IC Card? Read my guide to Japan train symbols and their meanings for all the details.

STEP 3: Get the most out of your Tokyo hotel budget

Tokyo is one of the most expensive cities to stay in Japan, but there’s no need to pay luxury prices. My picks are mostly in the mid-range price bracket (3 to 4 star hotels). Here’s what a night for two cost at the hotels I’ve stayed in, by area:

Side	Area	A night for two
West	Shibuya & Harajuku	USD 195 to 440
West	Shinjuku	USD 145 to 245
Central	Shimbashi & Ginza	USD 125 to 170
Central	Minato (Tokyo Tower)	USD 130 to 315
East	Asakusa	USD 140 to 330 Mimaru apartments from USD 460
East	Ueno	USD 110 to 125
Off the map	Haneda Airport	USD 90 to 485
Off the map	Yokohama	USD 60 to 325

 
Prices are what Booking.com showed me in October 2026 for two adults on a weeknight in January (outside peak season), from the cheapest double or twin room to the best regular room, before Tokyo’s small accommodation tax. Expect to pay more in cherry blossom and autumn leaves season.

STEP 4: Choose the right Tokyo hotel room type

• Check a cheap room is actually suitable before you book. Some are for one person only rather than twin share, and some business hotel rooms are smoking rooms with windows that don’t open.
• Family rooms in Tokyo are hard to find. Sometimes we’ve had to book two adjoining rooms (or two on the same floor), with one parent and one child in each, which doubles the cost. Apartment hotels like Mimaru, or connecting rooms like Sotetsu Fresa Inn’s, are the way around it.
• Ask for the view when you book, and opt for a twin. In most Japan hotels they have a little more space than a double. Each hotel’s room tips below say which room to ask for.

STEP 5: Understand Tokyo’s hotel booking seasons

• Many hotels in Japan won’t open up their bookings until 3-6 months in advance from the dates you’re wishing to book. If rooms are showing as unavailable earlier than that, do try again 6 months out as more will begin to show as available.
• Remember prices increase due to supply and demand in peak seasons such as late March – mid-April for the cherry blossoms, late November – early December for autumn colours and over the Christmas/New Year’s period. My detailed guide to how to plan a trip to Japan covers other significant dates you should be aware of when putting together your trip, such as Golden Week and Obon. 
• Some of the cheapest months to stay in Tokyo are February, second half of May, June, July and September. Even the first half of October can be quite affordable. These months are generally also great for avoiding crowds, too!

STEP 6: Choose the best hotel in Tokyo for you (where I’ve stayed)

I’ve grouped my hotels by area, starting with the two areas I recommend for first-timers. I’ve included nearest stations, points of interest, if a konbini (convenience store) is nearby and any additional info.

West Tokyo

Where to stay in Shibuya and Harajuku

This is my top pick for where to stay in Shibuya Tokyo. I could easily stay in Tokyo for a month here, and have stayed in this hotel during two separate trips, June 2022 and January 2023.

As I’ve gotten older, I’m more into views from the room and less walking distance from a train station. If I opened my curtain to the view of a brick wall years ago, I couldn’t care less because we don’t spend much time in our room, do we?

But now I am beginning to see the value and appreciate rooms with a view a little more. Sound like you too? You’re going to LOVE Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu! I feel it’s one of the best places to stay in Tokyo for couples.

Pros of Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu

• Nearest Station/s: JR Shibuya Station, Shibuya Metro Station directly opposite hotel.
• Points of interest: Hachiko Statue, Shibuya Sky & Shibuya Scramble Square, Shibuya Centre-gai. Close to funky Dougenzaka streets and Love Hotel Hill.
• Nearby konbini:  There is food everywhere! Try the underground maze of eateries in Food Show Shibuya.
• Room tips: Ask for a large corner room for a view over Shibuya Crossing.
• Other info: Towers above Shibuya Scramble crossing, incredible views as far as Shinjuku!

Cons of Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu

• Was difficult to find the entry at first as there are no signs on street level. Stay to the left and up the escalators when entering Shibuya Mark Square from Shibuya station.
• Can hear background noise from the TV billboards and traffic from the ground level, day and night. The windows are quite thick so I was fine with it, but it may bother some.

TIP: On my second stay in this hotel, I spent 2 nights in the Corner Room again and then a third night in a regular Single Room. My Single Room was 1401 and I was surprised it also had a view of the Shibuya Crossing! Plus the SkyTree over in the distance and the mountains to the west.

So to save some money from the Corner Room, while it is not guaranteed you can request your Single Room facing the Shibuya 109 building and you may get lucky!

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When I asked myself “Where should I stay in Tokyo for the first time?”, Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya is what I ended up booking.

Throughout my Japan travel blog, I have always sung its praises. I stayed there with my partner for my first Tokyo trip in August 2014, and again on my third solo trip in March 2020 as it was perfect for me: Clean, tidy, great price, in a quiet backstreet off one of Shibuya’s busiest roads.

It’s in a great overlooked location between Harajuku and Shibuya, meaning you can skip the big crowds of Shibuya Station and switch it for Harajuku if you wish. If you’re looking for where to stay in Tokyo on a budget, this is a great option. 

Having discovered Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu (above), this isn’t my go-to anymore. But its convenient location and budget price still make it a great pick!

TIP: My detailed guide to unforgettable things to do in Shibuya during the day and night has your stay covered.

Pros of Dormy Inn Premium

• Nearest Station/s: Under 10 mins walk to either Shibuya Station, JR Harajuku Station and Meiji Jingumae Metro Station.
• Points of interest: 10 mins walk to Shibuya Crossing, Shibuya Sky (read my Shibuya Sky tips to not make the same mistakes I did on my first visit!), Shibuya Scramble Square, 6 mins walk to Miyashita Park complex, 8 mins walk to Omotesando (the “Park Avenue” of Tokyo) and foodie places around Harajuku, 10 mins walk to Meiji Shrine.
• Nearby konbini: Family Mart directly opposite on Chuo-dori.
• Room tips: Rooms overlooking the train line were very quiet and could never hear the trains go by due to great window insulation.
• Other info: Free sento in hotel for guests, staff very friendly and helpful, Japanese and Western-style hot breakfasts cooked on the spot to suit both sweet and savoury tastes.

Cons of Dormy Inn Premium

• Rooms on the small side. Tight when staying as a couple and small when staying solo. 
• Solo rooms at front of hotel and don’t overlook the train line. Only views are from double rooms over the train line.
• Pillows were a bit firm for my liking but they’re easy to get used to.
• There’s a sensor light in the room entryway. You can’t turn it off as you please, it will go off on its own (I learnt this the hard way, haha).

Check prices for Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya →

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East Tokyo ★ Best for first-timers

Where to stay in Asakusa

Where to stay in Asakusa Tokyo? I’d always loved this neighbourhood, but hadn’t stayed the night there until my ninth visit. Based on the incredible location and reasonable price, I locked in The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon for my January 2023 stay.

As the name suggests, The Gate Hotel is just a few steps away from the impressive Kaminarimon Gate of Senso-ji Temple, the most important in all of Tokyo. The views from the lobby were just breathtaking and some of the best for the area! It’s my favourite hotel to avoid crowds in Tokyo.

Pros of The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon

• Nearest Station/s: Excellent location 2 mins walk to Asakusa Station on the Asakusa Line and Ginza Line. Handy for switching to the Keikyu Line for easy access to Haneda Airport (great for luggage as you’re at the start of the line). 
• Points of interest: 1 min walk to Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise-dori & Asakusa Tourist Information Centre, 7 mins walk to Don Quijote Asakusa, 5 mins walk to Hoppy Street bars and countless izakaya.
• Nearby konbini: 2 mins walk to Family Mart on the opposite side of the street.
• Room tips: Very fresh, brand new, comfortable beds with soft pillows.
• Other info: Some noise travels at night, but windows insulate against most of it. There is an outdoor rooftop bar with incredible views of the SkyTree and Senso-ji, too! if you want a view of Senso-ji from your own room, ask for a Scenic with Corner Room, and for views of the SkyTree ask for a Classy Room. 

Cons of The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon

• No storage cupboard with coat rack, but hooks on the wall in the hallway (not a big deal unless you’re visiting in winter as I was).
• The only space to store a large suitcase is in the hallway, but at least it is out of the way!
• Not really a negative point, but just note that the hotel lobby is on the top floor, 13th floor. The rooms are on the lower floors. 

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Where to stay in Tokyo with family, or as a group? If you fall into this category, you may already know Tokyo is notoriously difficult for finding a room that fits more than two adults and a small child.

If there are four or more in your group, in most cases you’ll need to book two rooms, which is not a great financial option. However, this is where the Mimaru chain of serviced apartments come in, and why I have now stayed here twice – October 2023 and October 2024.

With plenty of room to fit up to four adults and two children in each room, this is a fantastic option for not splitting up the group. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay here, waking up to views of the SkyTree and the “golden turd” at sunrise!

Pros of Mimaru Tokyo Asakusa Station Apartment Hotel

• Nearest Station/s: Just 1 min walk to Asakusa Metro Station (accessible from two locations).
• Points of interest: 3 mins walk to Senso-ji’s main Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise-dori shopping street.
• Best suited for: Families, Groups. Would suit Business or Couples if staying long-term.
• Nearby konbini: Family Mart is at the hotel entrance.
• Room tips: Ask for the River View room to enjoy the views I did. 
• Other info: The rooftop observation deck is open until 22:00 daily if you don’t score a River View room.

Cons of Mimaru Tokyo Asakusa Station Apartment Hotel

• Honestly, I didn’t have any, so I stayed again. Was very impressed with the staff, service and location was fantastic for Asakusa. For where to stay in Tokyo with kids, you can’t go wrong here!

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East Tokyo ★ Best for first-timers

Where to stay in Ueno

Coming in cheaper than Shibuya or Shinjuku, where to stay in Ueno? Directly opposite the area’s lengthy Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street and Ueno Station, Hotel Crown Hills Premier is in a top location. The views from either the City View corner room or SkyTree Room are superb!

Ueno is an ideal place to stay in Tokyo with children or for first-timers as it’s not as overwhelming as Shibuya or Shinjuku.

I’ve stayed twice in this hotel now, in April 2025 and October 2025 due to its convenient location near Ueno Station when I’ve needed to catch a shinkansen up north.

Pros of Crown Hills Ueno Premier

• Nearest Station/s: 5 mins walk to Ueno Station, a handy shinkansen stop for exploring further in Japan
• Points of interest: 5 mins walk to the sights in beautiful Ueno Park, opposite Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street and countless eateries
• Nearby konbini: 7-11 on the ground floor or Family Mart across the road
• Room tips: More spacious than other hotels listed here, and affordable for families (up to four).

Cons of Crown Hills Ueno Premier

• The wallpaper was a bit scuffed and torn along the room corners, but that wasn’t a dealbreaker for me. 

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Central Tokyo

Where to stay in Shimbashi and Ginza

If you’re wondering where to stay in Ginza Tokyo, Tokyu Stay Shimbashi Ginza may be an option as it’s 15 mins walk to the hustle and bustle of central Ginza. I stayed here in April 2025 and LOVED the location.

Shimbashi is often overlooked by most tourists as an area to stay, and it’s my favourite mini-alternative to Shinjuku. Packed with izakaya beneath the train tracks, still has a very local feel but without the crowds of foreign tourists.

Pros of Tokyu Stay Shimbashi Ginza

• Nearest Station/s: 5 mins walk to Shimbashi Station, which has the JR and Metro line access. This side of Shimbashi Station is much less complicated!
• Points of interest: Just a few moments’ walk to countless izakaya, nightlife and shopping, 15 mins walk to central Ginza, 10mins train to Tokyo Station
• Nearby konbini: 1 min walk to 7-11, 3 mins walk to Family Mart with an ATM
• Room tips: Very fresh, updated and comfortable.

Cons of Tokyu Stay Shimbashi Ginza

• There was some muffled sound of trains in the evening, but it wasn’t really a bother to me.

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Central Tokyo

Where to stay in Minato, near Tokyo Tower

With stunning panoramic views over train lines, Tokyo Tower, Zojo-ji Temple, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day, Park Hotel Tokyo in Minato is one of THE coolest places to stay in Tokyo Japan.

When I visited Japan for business during the border closure in June 2022, I treated myself to the Premium King room and didn’t regret those panoramic windows for a single moment.

Each night, I’d leave the curtains open with a slight crack as my bed was perfectly positioned to see the illuminated Tokyo Tower through them. I felt like I was living in a dream when I woke up early one morning to see Mt Fuji wishing me a good day from 100kms away!

Pros of Park Hotel Tokyo Minato

• Nearest Station/s: 1 min walk to Shiodome Metro Station & Shiodome Monorail Station, 5 mins walk to JR Shimbashi Station.
• Points of interest: The quirky Ghibli clock is right outside, near cool and underrated Shimbashi area with plenty of local eateries and nightlife. Could be the best area to stay in Tokyo for foodies.
• Nearby konbini: Family Mart directly downstairs, 2 mins walk to Lawson around the corner.
• Room tips: The King Panoramic Room is massive and features an oversized king bed facing Tokyo Tower. There are also beautiful Artist Rooms (Tokyo Tower Side) with murals painted on the walls, so unique! Art gallery walk throughout the hotel itself.
• Other info: Friendly staff, amazing views of Tokyo Tower and southern Tokyo from the lobby.

Cons of Park Hotel Tokyo Minato

• Shiodome Station & Shimbashi Station. It can take 10 minutes to walk from one train line to the other. After a week I still couldn’t figure out these stations. I always departed and arrived on different lines, which was confusing to get back to the hotel.
• The hotel cannot guarantee you’ll receive a specific Art Room. However, you’re able to make a request. 
• One of the hotel entrances is on the 4th floor and is accessible via outdoor escalators and a boardwalk. The boardwalks have different levels and it can get confusing where to go.

 

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The hotel lobby of Shiba Park Hotel Minato is lovely and there are beautiful kimono fabrics on the wall behind the Reception area. It was quite clean, and had a marvellous buffet breakfast including both Japanese and Western options.

With the monorail a few moment’s walk away, Shiba Park Hotel is one of the most convenient places to stay in Tokyo for access to Haneda Airport.

TIP: I’ve also stayed at Bay Hotel Hamamatsucho in October 2024 which is just nearby. My corner room had a view of the top of Tokyo Tower, and their rooftop lounge has a nice view of it too! Just a few moments’ walk to Daimon Station for easy access to Haneda Airport via the monorail or Keikyu Line. The downside was the aircon temperature could not be adjusted. Price: About USD 130 to 215 a night for two.

Pros of Shiba Park Hotel Minato

• Nearest Station/s: 5 mins walk to Daimon Metro Station & 10 mins walk to Hamamatsuchō Monorail Station for easy access to Haneda Airport and Odaiba.
• Points of interest: 10 mins walk to Tokyo Tower, 5 mins walk to Zojo-ji Temple & Shiba Park, 20 mins walk to Hamarikyu Gardens.
• Nearby konbini: Family Mart directly opposite front entrance.
• Room tips: Decent size rooms for Tokyo standards.
• Other info: Excellent buffet breakfast, quiet location.

Cons of Shiba Park Hotel Minato

• Felt a little far from the action.
• No real view from room.
• Not much going on in the area at night.

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West Tokyo

Where to stay in Shinjuku

Shinjuku has never been my favourite place to stay in Tokyo (the station does my head in with its 200 exits!), however I can’t deny Hotel Gracery Shinjuku is in a fantastic central spot for those who wish to stay in this popular area.

During my April 2024 visit I was doing a few day trips from Tokyo leaving from Shinjuku, I chose to stay here for the unique Godzilla theme (so Japan!). There is Godzilla mech available, changing Godzilla model display in the lobby, and close-up view of his massive head.

TIP: Looking for alternative hotels in Shinjuku? Properties that seem comparable are the Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, and if you’re after larger rooms by Tokyo standards in Shinjuku, you could try the Keio Plaza Hotel. 

Pros of Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

• Nearest Station/s: 8 mins walk to JR Shinjuku Station West Exit (with the 3D Cat TV) down Central Road, 10 mins walk to Shinjuku Sanchome Station.
• Points of interest: Great central location in Shinjuku near Omoide Yokocho (Piss Alley), in the centre of Kabukicho (Red Light District), Samurai Restaurant and nightlife, although it is 25 mins walk from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
• Nearby konbini: A number of convenience stores and ATMs just outside, countless dining options, especially downstairs in the Toho Complex.
• Room tips: Opt for a twin as they have a little more space than a double. Ask for a high floor facing Kabukicho Tower (view from room below).
• Other info: A bonus is there are always taxis waiting downstairs if you need one. Only hotel guests are permitted in the lobby and on the rooftop to see Godzilla’s head.

Cons of Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

• Your room will NOT be made up unless you request by placing a sign on your door each day (the opposite of some other hotels). However housekeeping still do leave new water bottles, fresh towels and empty the bin daily.
• As this hotel is popular with fellow foreign tourists for obvious reasons, they can be noisy at night returning to their rooms. Ask for a room away from the lifts when booking.
• Baggage hold is a bit annoying if you use self-checkout as you need to line up twice. May as well just wait for a person.
• My couch was dusty, which I assume could be due to the rooms not being cleaned daily, just replacing necessities.
• The open-air rooftop to see Godzilla’s head up close is closed randomly, but you can see it from the lobby.

Check prices for Hotel Gracery Shinjuku →

Unpopular truths about Shinjuku

While I disagree on most counts, Shinjuku frequently tops the best place to stay in Tokyo for young adults list. Many articles recommending where to stay in Tokyo Japan will say Shinjuku is the best for first-time visitors, too.

Although, I’d not personally recommend it as the best area to stay in Tokyo for families and with over 200 exits Shinjuku Station can be quite a challenge to navigate for anyone, even when renting wifi in Japan to aid you.

There are also more people approaching visitors to lure them into nightclubs in Kabukicho, promising free unlimited drinks and adult entertainment. However this is a scam. So follow my tips for how to not look like a tourist: Ignore anyone that approaches you.

TIP: In saying all that, I did not have these “street touts” approach me at all. Generally Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and there are police watching them. So don’t avoid Shinjuku altogether, it can be really fun and a great place to stay in Tokyo for nightlife. But just be aware in the Red Light district. Roppongi also has a similar reputation.

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Off the map

Where to stay near Haneda Airport

Arriving late into Haneda or have an early flight the next morning? Staying in an airport hotel is a great idea. Operated by Japan Airlines, I’ve stayed three times at JAL City Haneda Tokyo (October 2026, October 2024, April 2024). It ticks all the boxes for me when I need to transit, and is cheaper than Villa Fontaine in T3 down the page.

Pros of JAL City Haneda Airport

• Nearest Station/s: 3 mins walk to Anamori-Inari Station on the Keikyu Airport express line, which takes less than 10 mins to reach the airport terminals.
• Points of interest: Anamori-Inari Shrine, which is dedicated to aviation safety.
• Nearby konbini: A Family Mart is directly opposite the hotel.
• Room tips: I chose the Comfort Single room and asked for a high floor facing the airport for great views! 
• Other info: Free shuttle bus service to the airport terminals. Ask reception to book in advance if needed.

Cons of JAL City Haneda Airport

• Honestly I didn’t have any, which is why I’ve stayed repeatedly. Great location, easy to find and check in.
• Google Maps will take you a confusing way around the block, ignore it. As soon as you exit Anamori-Inari Station, turn left and you’ll see the hotel tower right there. Crossing the railway tracks means you’re heading the wrong direction.

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If you prefer to not actually have to leave the airport, Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport is SO convenient! I have stayed here four times with my family and highly recommend it if you arrive late or have an early flight.

Located within Haneda Airport Garden, the hotel features a rooftop onsen, Western-style rooms as well as traditional Japanese themed. The Departures area of Terminal 3 is a short walk away, as well as dozens of restaurants and shops. Perfect for transit!

Pros of Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport

• Nearest Station/s: Keikyu Airport Line T3 , Tokyo Monorail T3
• Points of interest: Haneda Airport Observation Deck T3 
• Nearby konbini: A Lawson is just downstairs from reception.
• Room tips: Ask for a room on a high floor with a view of the tarmac.

Cons of Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport

I honestly don’t have any, except the rooms are on the pricier side out of the Tokyo hotels I’ve listed.

Check prices for Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport →

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Off the map

Where to stay in Yokohama

An option just 30mins south of Tokyo Station is Yokohama, Japan’s second largest city. It takes around the same time to get to Haneda Airport as it does from Shibuya, so it may be an option for a night or two to switch things up and explore greater Tokyo.

The balcony rooms of Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu are MASSIVE – I certainly felt more like I was back in Hawai’i than in Japan!

I chose this hotel for its panoramic views over Yokohama Bay and the Ferris Wheel which puts on an incredible light show each night, and the Minato Mirai area has its own train station.

TIP: My detailed guide to unique things to do in Yokohama during the day and night has your stay covered.

Pros of Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu

• Nearest Station/s: 5 mins walk to Minato Mirai Metro Station (accessible from within the lower hotel), 10 mins walk to JR Sakuragicho Station.
• Points of interest: 7 mins walk to the Cup Noodle Museum, 5 mins walk to Landmark Tower or Cosmoworld, 15 mins walk to Chinatown or Yokohama Air Cabin (gondola).
• Nearby konbini: 5 mins walk to either a Family Mart, 7-11 or Lawson towards the rear of the hotel.
• Room tips: One of the best places to stay in Tokyo Japan for huuuuuge rooms, and fresh air from the balcony is a nice change! One of the best views of Yokohama in my opinion, especially at night. 
• Other info: Late checkout from 11:00am to 13:00 is only 1,000 yen.

Cons of Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu

• Plenty of globalised eateries in walking distance rather than small local eateries. This is a huge personal preference from me as I avoid global franchises both at home and abroad, unless there is literally nothing else. But hey, it may be your thing if you’re craving something familiar and that’s ok.
• May take a while to check in and out as the queue can be quite lengthy (it’s a big hotel).

TIP: For a more affordable and basic option with connecting rooms for families, I’ve stayed in Sotetsu Fresa Inn Yokohama. It’s small but does the job and is close to the stations & restaurants! Price: About USD 60 to 70 a night for two, or about USD 125 for connecting rooms.

Check prices for Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu →

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Where to stay in Tokyo FAQs

What is the best area to stay in Tokyo for first-timers?

The best place to stay in Tokyo for first timers is Shibuya or Asakusa. Shibuya puts you in the middle of modern Tokyo, and Asakusa is old Tokyo, with Senso-ji on your doorstep. They’re at opposite ends of the Ginza Line, so it’s easy to get from one to the other. My picks: Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu and The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon.

Should I stay in Shibuya or Shinjuku?

I’d choose Shibuya. Shinjuku Station has over 200 exits and can be a challenge to navigate, and touts in Kabukicho approach visitors to lure them into clubs. Shinjuku can be really fun for nightlife though, and if that’s what you’re after, Hotel Gracery Shinjuku is in a fantastic central spot.

Is Asakusa a good area to stay in Tokyo?

Yes, it’s one of my favourites. You can visit Senso-ji early or late without the crowds, the hotel rooftops have some of the best views of Senso-ji and the SkyTree, and the Asakusa Line links to the Keikyu Line for Haneda Airport. It’s also the best area I know for families, thanks to apartment hotels like Mimaru.

Where should families stay in Tokyo?

The best district to stay in Tokyo is Asakusa or Ueno for families. Rooms for more than two adults and a small child are rare in Tokyo, so I’ve stayed at Mimaru Tokyo Asakusa Station twice with my family, and OMO3 Asakusa is a little cheaper. Crown Hills Ueno Premier fits up to four, and for a late flight, Villa Fontaine Premier is inside Haneda Terminal 3.

How much does a hotel in Tokyo cost?

For the mid-range hotels in this guide, from about USD 110 a night for two at Crown Hills Ueno Premier to about USD 440 for a room with a view at Shibuya Excel, on a January weeknight. A Mimaru apartment for four starts from about USD 460. Prices climb in cherry blossom season, autumn leaves season and over New Year.

How far ahead should I book a Tokyo hotel?

As early as you can for cherry blossom and autumn leaves season. Some hotels only open bookings 3 to 6 months ahead, so if rooms show as unavailable, try again closer to your dates.

Should I stay in an Airbnb in Tokyo?

I personally don’t, and I’ve explained why I don’t choose Airbnb and similar services. Apartment hotels like Mimaru give you the space without the issues.

To summarise where to stay in Tokyo for the first time (& for repeat travellers)

That’s a wrap for my guide to where to stay in Tokyo as a tourist! Whether you’re visiting Tokyo for the first time or are a repeat visitor like me, now you know the best areas to stay in Tokyo Japan that will suit your needs on a mid-range budget.

There’s no need to stay in the expensive Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Four Seasons Hotel or Mandarin Oriental when we can stay in these more affordable options.

As a repeat visitor to Japan and as a different type of tourist each time, I personally believe the best area to stay in Tokyo for first time visitors is Shibuya or Asakusa. 

In saying that, we all have different preferences and I hope I’ve answered where is the best location in Tokyo to stay depending on yours!

I’ll be adding more of my Tokyo stays to this list in future so be sure to check back for more. Which of these hotels in Tokyo was your favourite? 

 

While you’re here, why not check out more of my travel guides and itineraries for Japan? Here are just a few:

• Find out where to stay in Kyoto from my multiple visits (including hotels and ryokan);
• Learn my favourite onsen ryokan & hotels in Izu Peninsula, the overlooked & uncrowded alternative to Hakone;
• Enjoy overlooked places between Tokyo & Kyoto in the Tokai Region with my one week in Japan itinerary;
• Read my Japan honeymoon itinerary (with romantic scenery even if it’s not your honeymoon);
• Itinerary for two weeks in Japan including how to see popular sights without crowds; 
• Go further with my itinerary for 3 weeks in Japan, including the New Golden Route;
• Itinerary to avoid crowds for 10 days in Japan in the least-visited prefectures;
• Hidden gems for creating an Izu Peninsula 7 day itinerary;
• Add on an amazing Kyushu itinerary or Shikoku itinerary to your trip;
• Visit the tropics with my guide to things to do in Okinawa;
• Take a look at all my Japan travel tips and Japanese etiquette for mistakes to avoid; 
• And for all my itineraries, travel guides and more, check my extensive Japan travel blog!

TIP: If you’re visiting South Korea, see my tried-and-tested hotel guide for where to stay in Seoul, and my honest guide to where to stay in Singapore will also help you out.

I’ve also shared what to pack for Japan in every season, crucial Japanese etiquette, easy Japanese phrases for tourists (including a FREE cheat sheet) and much more!

If you found this Tokyo accommodation guide helpful please share it with your friends or come and join me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram YouTube, and TikTok for more Japan inspiration!

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