Where to Stay in Tokyo 2026: Our Top Areas & Best Hotels

Tokyo is one of those cities that feels overwhelming before it feels exciting. It’s massive, fast, and layered — and choosing the wrong area can easily turn an amazing trip into a tiring one. We learned that quickly.

Our autumn Japan trip was fairly spontaneous — we booked it just about a month before departure. That meant fewer hotel options than usual, especially in a city like Tokyo. But instead of settling, we spent time researching the city properly and narrowed it down to two areas we genuinely wanted to stay in.

As first-time visitors to one of the biggest cities in the world, we made a conscious decision to stay right in the middle of the action. It wasn’t the cheapest option — we paid more than we would have further out — but it turned out to be absolutely the right call. Being central saved us time, energy, and allowed us to explore all the best things to do in Tokyo without rushing.

After moving between areas, navigating Tokyo’s transport day after day, and seeing how different neighborhoods feel in real life, one thing became very clear: where to stay in Tokyo matters more than in almost any other city we’ve visited.

In this guide, we’re sharing the best places and hotels in Tokyo based on real experience and research — the areas most travellers actually enjoy staying in, what each neighborhood is really like, and the hotels we’d happily book again. If you want a stay that makes your trip smoother and more enjoyable, keep reading.

Where to stay in Tokyo: Our experience

We only had four nights in Tokyo, so instead of committing to just one base, we decided to split our stay between two different neighborhoods. With limited time, we wanted to experience more than one side of the city — and in hindsight, that decision shaped our entire trip.

Our first base was Ginza. We stayed at Park Hotel Tokyo on the 27th floor, right next to Shiodome Station, and getting there from the airport was incredibly easy. Being directly connected to the train network meant we didn’t waste time walking or figuring out routes — something that really matters when you’re only in Tokyo for a few days.

Ginza sits between Shibuya and Asakusa, which makes it a very practical choice. The area felt polished and calm compared to other parts of the city, especially in the evenings, with plenty of cafés, bakeries, and restaurants just around the corner.

For the second half of the trip, we moved to Shibuya, and the contrast was immediate. This is Tokyo at full volume, and there’s a good reason it’s one of the most popular places to stay. From here, it was a short train ride to Shinjuku and several other stops on our itinerary, which made getting around effortless.

The area was lively from morning until late at night, with endless food options and a constant buzz. We were prepared for autumn crowds but in reality they were more intense than we imagined — crossings were packed, trains were busy, and evenings felt chaotic — but staying right in the center was convenient.

Even though we didn’t stay overnight in Shinjuku or Asakusa, we spent enough time in both to understand what staying there would feel like. Shinjuku was the most overwhelming area we visited — neon lights, dense crowds, and nonstop energy, especially after dark. It’s exciting and extremely convenient, but for us, it felt a bit too intense to fully unwind at night.

Asakusa was the opposite: quieter evenings, a more traditional atmosphere, and a noticeably slower pace. It felt calmer and more relaxed, but also farther from western Tokyo highlights, which would add travel time every day.

What we learned quickly is that where to stay in Tokyo has a huge impact on how the city feels. In peak seasons like autumn, crowds are unavoidable in popular areas — but choosing the right base can save you time, energy, and frustration.

Below, we break down each area in detail and explain which neighborhoods work best depending on your travel style, so you can choose the one that fits your trip best.

Best areas to stay in Tokyo

Tokyo’s neighbourhoods each have a different feel, so choosing the right one can shape your trip. We focus on the four areas most travellers stay in, and the map below helps you quickly see where they sit so you can compare distances.

Ginza

Ginza is located right in central Tokyo, between Shibuya and Asakusa, and close to Tokyo Station and Shiodome. It’s one of the most polished and convenient areas to stay in, especially if you want excellent transport connections without the constant chaos of the busiest districts.

The overall vibe is upscale. During the day, Ginza feels busy and energetic, with flagship stores, department stores, and great restaurants packed along the main streets. In the evenings, it becomes noticeably calmer, which is something we really appreciated after long sightseeing days.

We chose Ginza for our first stay because of its central location and transport efficiency. Staying right next to Shiodome Station meant we could get around Tokyo quickly without long walks or unnecessary transfers. If you plan to visit during autumn or spring, you have to book months in advance to secure the best hotels.

Ginza is one of the most practical places to stay if you want a calm, central base with excellent transport and dining — especially for first-time visitors who value comfort and efficiency over nightlife.

✅ Pros: Central location, excellent transport links, great dining, calmer evenings
❌ Cons: limited nightlife
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, couples, travellers who want a polished and convenient base

Shibuya

Shibuya sits on Tokyo’s west side and is one of the city’s most important transport hubs, with fast connections to Shinjuku, Harajuku, and beyond. It’s a highly central base if your itinerary focuses on modern Tokyo, shopping, nightlife, and food.

The atmosphere here is energetic and youthful. Shibuya is busy from morning until late at night, with constant movement, music spilling from shops, and streets full of people. It feels vibrant rather than polished — and unapologetically urban.

We chose to stay in Shibuya to experience Tokyo at its most alive. Being based here made evenings effortless, whether that meant grabbing late-night food, exploring side streets, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Transport was never an issue — most places we wanted to visit were a short train ride away.

The downside is obvious: crowds. During autumn, crossings and stations were packed, and it’s not the quietest place to stay, especially at night.

Look for hotels a few minutes away from Shibuya Crossing — even a small distance makes nights noticeably quieter without sacrificing location.

Shibuya is ideal if you want to be surrounded by energy and convenience and don’t mind crowds in exchange for atmosphere.

✅ Pros: Excellent transport, lively atmosphere, endless food options
❌ Cons: Heavy crowds, a bit noisy evenings
⭐️ Best for: First-time visitors, younger travellers, anyone who wants to feel Tokyo’s buzz

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is located on the west side of Tokyo and is home to Shinjuku Station, the busiest train station in the world. From here, you can reach almost anywhere in the city with minimal transfers, which makes it one of the most logistically convenient places to stay.

The area feels intense and fast-paced. Skyscrapers, neon lights, department stores, and busy streets define Shinjuku, especially around Kabukicho and the station exits. At the same time, there are calmer pockets just a few blocks away, particularly near Shinjuku Gyoen and residential streets.

Although we didn’t stay overnight in Shinjuku, we spent a lot of time here — mostly in the evenings. It’s exciting and full of life, but also the most overwhelming area we experienced. During autumn, crowds were constant, stations were hectic, and evenings felt loud and dense. Dispate that we loved visiting this area and would definitely stay there next time.

If you want Shinjuku’s transport convenience without the chaos, look for hotels near Shinjuku Gyoen or west of the station rather than right next to Kabukicho.

This area unbeatable for transport and nightlife, but it’s best suited to travellers who don’t mind crowds and a bit of late-night noise.

✅ Pros: Incredible transport connections, endless dining and nightlife, lively atmosphere
❌ Cons: Very crowded, can feel overwhelming
⭐️ Best for: Nightlife lovers, short stays, travellers who prioritise convenience

Asakusa

Asakusa is located on the eastern side of Tokyo, along the Sumida River, and is best known for Senso-ji Temple and its traditional surroundings. It’s well connected by metro, but noticeably farther from western Tokyo areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku.

The atmosphere here feels much more relaxed and old-school. Streets are calmer, evenings are quieter, and the area has a distinctly traditional character compared to the rest of the city. It feels less rushed, especially once the day-trippers leave.

We didn’t stay overnight in Asakusa, but we were exploring this area from early morning until evening. During the day in autumn, the main streets around Senso-ji were extremely busy, packed with tour groups and visitors.

Once the crowds thinned out, the area felt peaceful and pleasant — a completely different mood from central Tokyo at night. The trade-off is distance: getting to Shibuya or Shinjuku takes longer, which adds up if you’re moving around a lot.

Early mornings or late evenings are the best time to enjoy Asakusa — the area feels calmer and more local once the tour buses leave.

Asakusa is a good choice if you value a slower pace and traditional atmosphere, but it works best if you don’t mind longer travel times to the modern districts.

✅ Pros: Traditional feel, quieter evenings, better value hotels
❌ Cons: Farther from the western side of the city, crowded during the day
⭐️ Best for: Culture-focused travellers, families, budget stays

Best hotels in Tokyo

This section brings together the places we genuinely recommend around Tokyo — hotels we’ve stayed in ourselves or would confidently book after exploring the city properly.

We did the groundwork so you can quickly choose the stay that fits your trip, without getting lost in endless options.

Best hotels in Ginza

We loved staying here because it felt central without draining our energy — trains were close, and mornings were calm with lots of dining options around. If you want a polished base that still lets you reach Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa quickly, Ginza is hard to beat.

• Sotetsu Fresa Inn Shimbashi Hibiyaguchi $
• Park Hotel Tokyo $$
• The Blossom Hibiya $$$ (our top pick)

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Shimbashi Hibiyaguchi $

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Shimbashi Hibiyaguchi is a budget-friendly stay just a short walk from Shimbashi Station, making it easy to get around Tokyo quickly and effortlessly. Rooms are compact but comfortable, ideal if you’re planning to be out exploring most of the day, and there’s a convenience store and laundry room onsite — very practical on a short trip. What we like about this hotel is how easy it is to reach Ginza on foot and Shibuya or Shinjuku by train without wasting time on transfers.

If you want a place that keeps travel simple and lets you stretch your budget for experiences, this one does the job.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want an affordable and well-connected base
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Park Hotel Tokyo $$

Park Hotel Tokyo is a mid-range hotel we chose for our stay in Ginza, and it instantly became one of our favorites thanks to its calm atmosphere, striking art decor, and incredible views from the 25th-floor lobby — on clear days, we could even spot Mount Fuji in the distance. Breakfast was rich and varied, and dining in the Japanese restaurant felt like a treat after long days out.

What we liked most was the location: just a couple of minutes from Shiodome Station, which made exploring the city fast and effortless without feeling rushed. The room was quiet, the beds were comfortable, and the staff went above and beyond with small touches that made our stay feel special.

If you want a stay that mixes great views, smooth transport access, and a warm welcome, this hotel gets it right.

⭐️ Best for: couples and travellers who want comfort, views, and seamless transport
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Blossom Hibiya $$$ (our top pick)

The Blossom Hibiya is the place we’d stay next time, and one of the best hotels in Tokyo. It has the comfort, views, and location we value most. The hotel sits on the upper floors of the building, so the lobby, dining area, and many rooms have fantastic skyline views without the noise of the main streets below.

There’s a convenience store right across the road, and multiple stations are a short walk away, which makes getting around easy. The buffet breakfast is excellent, with a wide selection of Western and Japanese dishes, including fresh salads and cut fruit.

We didn’t stay here on our last trip because it was slightly over budget at the time, but the combination of views, quiet surroundings, and practical location is exactly why it’s our top pick.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want views, comfort, and a calm but central base
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best hotels in Shibuiya

This is where Tokyo feels most alive — the crowds can be intense in peak seasons, but being in the middle of it means you can explore, eat, and return to your hotel without long commutes. It’s ideal if you want movement and convenience from morning until late at night.

• Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel $
• Shibuya Stream Hotel $$ (our top pick)
• Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel $$$

Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel $

Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel was our budget base in Shibuya, and we were honestly surprised by how smooth and comfortable the stay felt for the price. We were only five minutes from Shibuya Crossing, so getting around was a breeze, yet the hotel sits just far enough from the busiest streets that we slept well every night. The room was compact but had everything we needed — plenty of power outlets, a safe, fridge, and solid Wi-Fi — which made coming back after long days feel easy and practical.

What really stood out were the small touches: complimentary water bottles, a daily happy hour with free snacks and soft drinks, and staff who genuinely helped us with luggage and directions more than once. Those little things made the stay feel more personal than we expected from a budget option.

If you want to stay right in Shibuya without stretching your budget, we’d happily book this hotel again.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want an affordable and practical base steps from Shibuya Crossing
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Shibuya Stream Hotel $$ (our top pick)

Shibuya Stream Hotel is one of the most appealing mid-range stays in Shibuya for travellers who want comfort and modern design without stepping away from the action. What we like about this hotel is how directly connected it is to Shibuya Station, which keeps travel simple and makes it easy to reach other parts of Tokyo without long walks.

Rooms are spacious with comfortable beds and large windows bringing in plenty of daylight and city views. The breakfast is excellent, offering a wide mix of Japanese and Western options that actually feel satisfying before a busy day out.

What we like about hotel amenities: a well-equipped gym, coin laundry, snack machines, gachapon machines, and toiletries that go beyond basics — including face masks and bath salts. These small extras make stays more practical and enjoyable.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want comfort, views, and excellent transport access without going full luxury
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel $$$

What we like about Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel is that it offers a more refined Shibuya stay without losing the convenience of being close to Shibuya Station — it’s only a short walk, yet feels noticeably calmer than the streets around Shibuya Crossing.

Rooms are much larger than the average in this area, with comfortable beds, panoramic city views, and big windows that make the space feel even more open. The hotel also stands out for its excellent facilities, including a well-equipped fitness center, an indoor pool, multiple restaurants, and a bar with skyline views on the 40th floor — ideal if you want a break from the crowds while still staying central.

If you want a Shibuya base that feels spacious, polished, and genuinely relaxing after busy days out, this hotel fits the bill.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want comfort, space, and luxury-style facilities close to Shibuya Station
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best hotels in Shinjuku

Even though we didn’t stay here overnight, we quickly saw why so many travellers do — transport options are unbeatable, and you can reach almost anywhere with minimal transfers. It’s busy and loud, but perfect if you want nightlife and direct access to multiple train lines.

• Rosenheim Tokyo Shinjuku $
• Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower $$ (our top pick)
• Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand $$$

Rosenheim Tokyo Shinjuku $

What we like about Rosenheim Tokyo Shinjuku is how practical it is for an affordable base when deciding where to stay in Tokyo. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from Shinjuku Station, with a bustling street and several shops nearby for quick meals and essentials. Rooms are compact but clean and organised, with reliable Wi-Fi, a fridge, kettle, and toiletries — everything you need if you’re out exploring most of the day.

Having a laundromat onsite is a big plus for multi-day trips, and the staff are consistently friendly and willing to help. The area feels lively during the day but calmer once you step away from the main streets at night.

If you want to stay near Shinjuku’s transport hub without stretching your budget, this hotel keeps things easy and efficient.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want an affordable, no-fuss base close to Shinjuku Station
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower $$ (our top pick)

Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower is our top pick in Shinjuku because it strikes the balance most travellers look for when choosing where to stay in Tokyo: a central location, comfortable rooms, useful amenities, and a price that still feels reasonable for what you get.

What we like about this hotel is how close it is to Shinjuku Station — just a few minutes from the South Exit. Rooms are spacious for Tokyo standards with large windows and skyline views, and on clear days, some rooms even have views of Mount Fuji in the distance.

Breakfast offers both Western and Japanese dishes, and having multiple dining options and a lounge with city views makes it easy to unwind without leaving the building.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want comfort, views, and easy transport access without overspending
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand $$$

What we like about Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand is that it offers a more refined Shinjuku experience with spacious rooms, premium amenities, and wide city views, yet still keeps you within a short walk of Shinjuku Station and the area’s main sights.

Rooms in the Premier Grand category come with exclusive lounge access, where you can enjoy breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails with skyline views. Beds are comfortable, bathrooms are larger than average for Tokyo, and floor-to-ceiling windows make the space feel bright and generous.

The hotel also includes multiple restaurants, a fitness centre, a seasonal outdoor pool, and thoughtful touches like upgraded bath products, which give stays here a more polished feel. It’s a great match if you want a calm base after navigating Shinjuku’s busy streets, without compromising on convenience.

If you want luxury-leaning comfort, space to unwind, and amenities that genuinely add value to your stay, this hotel delivers.

⭐️ Best for: travellers who want a luxury hotel with excellent service, super close to Shinjuku station
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Best hotels in Asakusa

Asakusa feels completely different — slower in the evenings, traditional, and easier on the budget, but travel times to western Tokyo can add up. If you want a quieter base after long sightseeing days and don’t mind planning your routes in advance, it’s a great fit.

• The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa $
• Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu $$
• The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic $$$ (our top pick)

The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa $

What we like about The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa is how it gives you a comfortable, good-value base just a short walk from Senso-ji and the quieter backstreets that feel much calmer once the daytime crowds leave. Rooms are compact but well laid out with comfortable beds and everything you need for a smooth stay.

The real highlight is the rooftop terrace with amazing views of both Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree — a great spot to take in the neighbourhood without the crowds. The onsite laundromat also makes longer trips more convenient, and there are plenty of casual dining options nearby for easy dinners.

If you want a budget stay that keeps you close to Asakusa’s main sights while staying comfortable and organised, this hotel is a strong choice.

⭐️ Best for: people looking for a budget stay with comfort, and walkable access to Asakusa’s highlights
👉 Check availability and current prices →

Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu $$

Ryokan Asakusa Shigetsu offers a comfortable balance between traditional Japanese style and the convenience of staying close to Asakusa’s main sights. Being only a short walk from Senso-ji Temple means you can enjoy the area early in the morning or after dark, when the crowds thin and the neighbourhood feels more atmospheric. You can choose between tatami rooms with futons or Western-style beds, and some rooms even offer Tokyo Skytree views, bringing the skyline right into your stay.

The top-floor bath is the real highlight here, giving you a calm way to reset after busy days of walking. Breakfast is available with both Japanese and Western choices, and luggage storage plus a 24-hour reception make travel days smoother. If you want a traditional atmosphere without losing comfort or location, this ryokan is a great choice.

⭐️ Best for: travelers who want traditional character, onsen on-site, and walkable access to Asakusa’s highlights
👉 Check availability and current prices →

The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic $$$ (our top pick)

The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic is our top pick in Asakusa because it combines comfort, style, and some of the best rooftop views of Senso-ji and Tokyo Skytree. What we like about this hotel is how it seamlessly blends modern design with Asakusa’s traditional surroundings — you step outside and you’re right by the Kaminarimon Gate, yet inside, it feels calm, refined, and spacious.

Rooms are larger than average for the area, with comfortable beds, big windows, and warm lighting, and some categories include deep soaking tubs that feel great after long days out.

A key highlight is the rooftop terrace, perfect for sunrise or sunset views over the temple grounds. Breakfast is available with Western and Japanese choices, and having a bar and lounge with panoramic city views adds an extra layer of comfort without needing to go far.

⭐️ Best for: people who want comfort, skyline views, and a memorable base next to Senso-ji
👉 Check availability and current prices →

FAQ about the best places to stay in

Where should first-time visitors stay in Tokyo?

For a first trip, we recommend staying in Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Asakusa — each gives you easy transport and a clear feel for the city without wasting time on long commutes.

What is the best place to stay in Tokyo for couples?

For couples, we suggest Ginza or Shibuya, depending on the kind of trip you want. Ginza works best if you prefer quieter evenings, great dining, and easy transport without crowds right outside your door, while Shibuya is ideal if you want more nightlife and energy on your doorstep. For a memorable stay with views, we recommend THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA in Ginza or SHIBUYA STREAM HOTEL in Shibuya.

What are the best adults-only hotels in Tokyo?

For adults-only stays, we recommend Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring for a calm ryokan-style experience with an onsen, The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo for luxury and skyline views, and HOTEL D-WAVE Shinjuku if you want a stylish base close to nightlife.

Where to stay in Tokyo for nightlife?

For nightlife, we recommend staying in Shibuya or Shinjuku. Shibuya puts you close to late-night bars, clubs, and live music while still being walkable and well-connected. Shinjuku has the biggest range of nightlife — from Golden Gai to late-night izakayas — but expect heavier crowds.

What are the best 5-star hotels in Tokyo?

Some of the best 5-star hotels in Tokyo are The Okura Tokyo for classic luxury, The Tokyo Station Hotel for historic elegance and unbeatable transport, and Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand for spacious rooms and premium facilities near Shinjuku.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Tokyo

After moving between neighborhoods and spending long days exploring, we realised how much the right base changes your experience in Tokyo. When we stayed in Ginza, mornings felt calm, transport was effortless, and getting around didn’t drain us — it set the tone for the whole trip.

Later, staying in Shibuya gave us the opposite feeling in the best way: lively evenings, endless food options, and the freedom to head out without planning too much in advance. Visiting Shinjuku and Asakusa showed us why travellers love them too — one for sheer convenience and nightlife, the other for slower moments and a more traditional atmosphere.

What we learned is simple: choose a neighbourhood that matches how you actually travel, not just what looks good on a map. If you want energy and late nights, Shibuya or Shinjuku make sense. If you like quieter evenings and quick access everywhere, Ginza is hard to beat. And if walking to a temple before breakfast sounds like your kind of morning, Asakusa will feel right.