Choosing where to stay in Tokyo for the first time can be a very overwhelming task for travelers. There is a lot of considerations that go into the decision and ALOT of research that needs to be done.
This is why I have made it EASY FOR YOU! Here is a guide to the best areas and where to stay in Tokyo for the first time. I’ve listed the TOP x 3 areas I would recommend which each offer their own distinct character, attractions and are central to explore ALL the sites of the bustling city of Tokyo!
Table of Contents:
Where to stay in Tokyo for the first time:
1. Shinjuku
About the Shinjuku area
Shinjuku is definitely one of Tokyo’s most vibrant and happening neighborhoods. It is renowned for its neon-lit streets, towering buildings, and a HUGE entertainment scene. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to be in the heart of where it is all happening and experience the energy of urban Tokyo Life!
Shinjuku is also home to Kabukicho, which is Tokyo’s famous entertainment district known for its nightlife, restaurants, and shopping. Aswell as, the Instagram famous Memory Lane and the Golden Gai Districts which are warrens of narrow alleys made up of tiny bars, restaurants and shops.
Transport is also a very important consideration when choosing where to stay in Tokyo. It is why Shinjuku takes its place as number 1 for first timers. Shinjuku is one of the city’s major transportation hubs. Shinjuku boasts an extensive network of train and subway lines, including the JR Yamanote Line. This provides easy access to popular tourist destinations such as Shibuya, Harajuku, and Tokyo Station. Another positive is the easy connection to Narita and Haneda airports via the Narita Express and Airport Limousine buses.
Accommodation options range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, catering to every budget and preference.
Shinjuku Highlights
- Memory Lane (Omoide Yokocho)
- Golden Gai district
- Kabukicho Shinjuku
Shinjuku Accommodation Suggestions
FEATURED PROPERTY: Hotel Groove Shinjuku (MID RANGE) offers travelers something very unique, with a modern fun vibe and an eclectic mix of music / modern art features. There is also with a bar on Level 17 and sweeping views of the city. If this looks like your VIBE, take a look no further than Hotel Groove Shinjuku and click to find out more!
UNIQUE: For something different take a look at this very UN-TRADITIONAL accommodation, Book and Bed This budget accommodation options funky library / bookstore crossed with a Capsule Hotel.
Find out more: Book and Bed
If you are seeking something a little Bougie then take a look at the Bellustar Tokyo A Pan Pacific Hotel This 5 Star property offers all the qualities you’d expect from a Pan Pacific Hotel, including large suites and a Bar / Restaurant with panoramic views across the city.
Find out more: here
Budget options in Shinjuku:
- Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku (LOW/MID) We stayed here and LOVED IT
- APA Hotel Higashi shinjuku Kabukichotower (LOW)
- Super Hotel Shinjuku (LOW)
2. Shibuya
About the Shibuya area
Shibuya, made famous by its iconic scramble crossing, is the beating heart of Tokyo’s youth culture and fashion scene. It’s a mecca for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with department stores, boutiques, and trendy cafes lined up its streets.
Travelers staying in Shibuya can explore nearby attractions such as Meiji Shrine, Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, and the trendy Daikanyama neighborhood. Accommodation options in Shibuya range everything from upscale hotels to cheap capsule hotels, making it a popular choice for travelers of all budgets.
Shibuya is easily accessible to just about anywhere Tokyo, with multiple train and subway lines, including the JR Yamanote Line, which circles central Tokyo.
From Shibuya Station, travelers can also venture to popular destinations like Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Tokyo Tower with ease.
Shibuya Highlights
- Scramble Crossing
- Shopping!
- Shibuya Yokocho – Drunkard’s alley
- Cafe & Restaurant just about everywhere you look
Shibuya Accommodation Suggestions
FEATURED: The Millennials Shibuya. The Millennials Shibuya is a modern and state of the art NEW kind of hotel. It’s number one feature, if you ask me, is their unlimited FREE BEER between 5:30 and 6:30pm every day.
Situated in the heart of Shibuya, their ‘Smart Pods’ are all controlled by iPods. You can adjust everything from your bed and lighting, and even set a soundless alarm. The Millennials Shibuya
- Something Bougie: Cerulean Tower Tokyo – A Pan Pacific Hotel (HIGH)
- Something Budget: APA Hotel Shibuya Dogenzakaue (LOW)
FUN VIBES: Shibuya Hotel En is super close to the heart of Shibuya and all the action yet far enough away to avoid all the noise. The interior is definitely FUN with a different vibe on every floor!
3. Asakusa
About Asakusa area
Asakusa offers the perfect blend of cultural historic landmarks, and convenience and is ideal for first time visitors to Tokyo. It is home to the famous Senso-ji, a MUST SEE in Tokyo and Tokyo’s oldest and most revered Buddhist temple. You will also find Nakamise-dori here, a bustling street lined with traditional shops and street food stalls.
Additionally, Asakusa offers easy access to Tokyo’s extensive transportation network. Asakusa Station serves as a major hub for the Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines. From here, you can conveniently explore most other parts of the city with ease, including popular destinations like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Akihabara.
With its rich history, cultural landmarks, and being a convenient transportation hub, Asakusa offers an authentic and practical place to base yourself to see all the wonders of Tokyo for first-time travelers.
Furthermore, Asakusa also offers a great range of BUDGET accommodation options and is often a lot cheaper than Shinjuku or Shibuya.
Asakusa Highlights
- Senoji Temple – Oldest Temple in Tokyo
- Nakamise-dori shopping area
Asakusa Accommodation Suggestions
FEATURED: You are going to love the VIBE of Hotel Tavinos located in a central location in Asakusa. The hotel features a very modern art design that feels like you have stepped into a neon lit manga book. The rooms may be a little small, but they have very clever storage features and have been very well laid out with a lot of modern technology additions as well.
Book here: Hotel Tavinos
ROBOT HOTEL: Another iconic hotel in Tokyo is the Henn na Hotel Tokyo Where else but in Tokyo will you go to a hotel chain that has Robot or Holographics’s checking you into your room!
To find out more click here
Budget options in Asakusa
- Glamping Tokyo Asakusa (LOW)
- Hotel Amanek (LOW)
Conclusion
Ultimately choosing where to stay in Tokyo for the first time can be a BIG and daunting decision. My suggestion is to choose to stay somewhere that is a central hub to transport and exploring the entire city of Tokyo. Transport in my eyes, should play a HUGE role in your decision making, as well as matching the vibe you are seeking.
Whether you are drawn to the hustling neon glow of Shinjuku, the youthful & trendy mecca of Shibuya, or the timeless historical charm of Asakusa, there’s a perfect area to suit your style and interests.
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