Tokyo, a sprawling metropolis, is more accurately described as a collection of cities seamlessly connected by an exceptional public transportation system. Choosing the right area to stay is paramount to experiencing Tokyo to its fullest. As of February 2025, this guide highlights the most convenient and captivating neighborhoods Tokyo has to offer, ensuring your visit is both memorable and strategically located.
Panoramic modern city skyline aerial view of shinjuku area under bright blue sky and sun in Tokyo, Japan
Top Recommendations at a Glance
For travelers seeking convenience and prime locations in Tokyo, these neighborhoods stand out as the best places to stay:
- Shinjuku: The top choice for its unparalleled transport links, shopping, and dining.
- Tokyo Station and Marunouchi Area: Ideal for transport convenience and central location.
- Shibuya: Perfect for those seeking a trendy and youthful atmosphere.
- Roppongi: Best for vibrant nightlife and international dining.
- Ginza and Hibiya: Suited for upscale shopping and a sophisticated experience.
- Shiodome: Convenient for business travelers and those seeking modern hotels.
- Ebisu, Meguro, and Daikanyama: Excellent for a chic and local experience.
- Shinagawa: Great for transport links, especially for Shinkansen users.
Diving Deeper: Exploring Tokyo’s Best Areas to Stay
Having explored Tokyo extensively, staying in various hotels and apartments across the city, my recommendations are based on three key factors:
- Proximity to the Yamanote Line: This circular train line is the backbone of Tokyo’s transportation, making it essential for easy city navigation.
- Abundance of Dining and Shopping Options: A great neighborhood should offer a diverse range of restaurants and shops within walking distance.
- Overall Appeal: The area should be pleasant and contribute positively to the overall Tokyo experience.
The neighborhoods surrounding Tokyo Station and the western hubs of Shinjuku and Shibuya consistently meet these criteria. Roppongi, while not directly on the Yamanote Line, is also highly recommended due to its exceptional dining and attractions. Ginza and Hibiya, located near Tokyo Station, provide an upscale experience with excellent shopping and dining opportunities.
To visualize these locations, refer to the map at the end of this guide.
Recommended Mid-Range Hotels in Tokyo
For travelers seeking quality and value, these mid-range hotels in prime Tokyo locations are highly recommended:
Hotel RyumeikanTokyo StationMore Info
Kyushu BlossomShinjukuMore Info
Marunouchi HotelTokyo StationMore Info
Century SouthernShinjukuMore Info
The Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Tokyo: Detailed Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at each recommended area, ranked in order of preference, including key highlights and hotel suggestions. For an extensive list of personally vetted Tokyo hotels across all budget ranges, visit our Tokyo Hotels page.
Skyscrapers of the Shinjuku city skyline, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan, on a bright, blue day
1. Shinjuku: Tokyo’s Premier Choice for Accommodation
Shinjuku consistently ranks as the best area to stay in Tokyo, especially the western side of Shinjuku Station, known for its calmer atmosphere. As one of Tokyo’s major transportation hubs and a key station on the Yamanote Line, Shinjuku offers unparalleled convenience. The district is a shopper’s paradise, boasting numerous department stores, vast electronics retailers, and countless dining options, including Kinokuniya, Tokyo’s best-known bookstore. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building are among the nearby attractions. For those sensitive to crowds, quieter alternatives like Ebisu, Meguro, or Daikanyama might be considered.
Shinjuku Key Points:
- Positives: Excellent transport links, diverse shopping and dining experiences, numerous attractions.
- Negatives: The east side of Shinjuku can be overwhelming, especially for families with young children.
- Ideal For: Young travelers, food enthusiasts, shoppers, and those interested in nightlife.
Top Hotel Picks in Shinjuku:
Corner guest room in the Kimpton Shinjuku hotel, Tokyo, Japan, with contemporary interior design with double bed, L-shaped leather sofa, and corner seating area
Corner guest room on the upper floors of the Hotel Century Southern Tower, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan, with chaise longue and armchair, looking out on the city skyscrapers and large park area
Twin guest room in the Sotetsu Fresa Inn Higashi Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan, with padded headboards and strip lighting above the pillows, brown carpet with sprial geometric patterns
Family room in the Mimaru Tokyo Shinjuku West hotel, Tokyo, Japan, with two sets of twin beds, long dining table with sofa seating, and contemporary update on traditional minimal Japanese style
Consider the Hundred Stay Tokyo Shinjuku for family-friendly rooms at competitive prices. For a comprehensive list of Shinjuku hotels across all price categories, explore our dedicated Shinjuku Places To Stay section.
Recommended Luxury Hotels in Tokyo
For an indulgent stay, Tokyo offers an array of luxury hotels in prime locations:
Mandarin OrientalTokyo StationMore Info
The PeninsulaTokyo StationMore Info
Ritz-CarltonRoppongiMore Info
Conrad TokyoShiodomeMore Info
Brightly illuminated Tokyo Station and surrounding office buildings viewed from Marunouchi Exit at night
2. Tokyo Station/Marunouchi Area: Central Hub and Convenience
The Tokyo Station and Marunouchi district is a strong contender for the best place to stay, possibly even surpassing Shinjuku for sheer convenience. As the city’s primary transportation hub, it houses the crucial Tokyo Station, including the Shinkansen terminal for easy access to Kyoto and beyond. Ginza and Nihombashi’s major department stores are within easy walking distance, and the area is brimming with restaurants. The Imperial Palace and its gardens are nearby, offering a touch of tranquility amidst the urban bustle. Marunouchi’s broad, elegant streets add to the area’s appeal.
Tokyo Station/Marunouchi Key Points:
- Positives: Tokyo’s central transport hub, excellent shopping, diverse dining, and high-quality hotels.
- Negatives: Can feel less lively in the evenings compared to entertainment districts.
- Ideal For: Most travelers, particularly those planning extensive travel within and beyond Tokyo.
Top Hotel Picks in Tokyo Station/Marunouchi:
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo – Tokyo Station and Marunouchi District
Double corner guest room in the Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo, Japan, with large double bed facing a freestanding TV and wall-length corner windows overlooking illuminated night view of the city
Simple double room in the Smile Hotel Nihombashi Mitsukoshimae, Tokyo, Japan, with bed, desk and mirror, fridge, and TV
Clean, contemporary double guest room in the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo, Japan, with L-shaped desk with work chair and stool, fitted chest of drawers, armchair, and bright view of the shinkansen train lines
For extended stays, consider the serviced apartments at Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo. Budget-conscious and family travelers should check out karaska hotel colors Tokyo Yaesu, offering connecting rooms and reasonable rates near Tokyo Station.
For more hotel options in this area, see our Tokyo Station/Marunouchi Places To Stay section.
Aerial view looking down on the famous Shibuya Crossing and illuminated buildings at twilight in Tokyo, Japan
3. Shibuya: Tokyo’s Trendy and Youthful Hub
Shibuya, another major shopping and transport center on the Yamanote Line’s west side, shares many similarities with Shinjuku. Its excellent transport links, including the Yamanote Line, abundant shops and restaurants, and numerous attractions make it a top recommendation. Shibuya is slightly less overwhelming than Shinjuku and has a stronger youthful vibe, making it particularly appealing to younger travelers and families.
Shibuya Key Points:
- Positives: Trendy and fun atmosphere, excellent shopping and dining, vibrant nightlife.
- Negatives: The station area is almost always crowded.
- Ideal For: Families, young people, and shoppers seeking a lively experience.
Top Hotel Picks in Shibuya:
Large double suite in the Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel in Tokyo, Japan, with huge bed, various cushioned seating areas, and wide windoes offering city views
Twin guest room in the Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya, Japan, with joined twin beds with two sofa chairs at the foot and bleached wooden floors, as well as city views
Pink neon and atmospheric lighting as people relax in the lounge of The Millennials capsule hotel in Tokyo
Also consider the Hyatt House Shibuya, opened in 2024, for apartment-style accommodations suitable for families. For more Shibuya hotel options, see our Shibuya Places To Stay section.
Recommended Budget Hotels in Tokyo
Travelers on a budget can find excellent value in these Tokyo hotels:
Remm HibuyaGinzaMore Info
Super HotelAsakusaMore Info
Tokyo Tower lit up in orange with Christmas illumination at Roppongi, Tokyo, Japan and time lapse light trails from the traffic
4. Roppongi: Nightlife and International Flair
Roppongi is another excellent area to consider, often ranked as number one by Tokyo residents and frequent visitors. Its slight drawback is not being directly on the Yamanote Line. However, if extensive travel across Tokyo isn’t your priority, Roppongi could be your top pick. Renowned for its exceptional dining, vibrant nightlife, and numerous attractions, Roppongi is Tokyo’s most cosmopolitan and glamorous district, attracting a wealthy international and Japanese crowd.
Roppongi Key Points:
- Positives: Glamorous and exciting, fantastic dining and nightlife, international atmosphere.
- Negatives: Not directly on the Yamanote Loop Line, requiring short transfers.
- Ideal For: Young adults, fine dining lovers, and those seeking nightlife and entertainment.
Top Hotel Picks in Roppongi:
Large double guest room in The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo hotel, Japan, with bed and twin armchairs, brown striped carpet, and wide windows with nighttime city views
Compact twin guest room in the Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Roppongi, Japan, with two beds, separated by a three-man sofa, opposite a wall-mounted TV, and pleated curtain drawn against the window
Simple double guest room in the Hotel Asia Center of Japan, Tokyo, with large double bed facing a wide window overlooking the city at night
Loft room in The Lively Tokyo Azabujuban hotel with four large bunks and stylish living area
For more hotel options in Roppongi, explore our Roppongi Places To Stay section.
A street scene in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan, with pedestrians walking along in the middle of the road between the tall buildings
5. Ginza/Hibiya: Upscale Shopping and Refined Elegance
Ginza and Hibiya, located south of Tokyo Station, offer a more refined experience. Hibiya is known for its spacious park, while Ginza is famed as a high-end shopping and dining district. Both are excellent choices for those seeking a less hectic environment than Shinjuku or Shibuya, while still enjoying easy access to transportation.
Ginza/Hibiya Key Points:
- Positives: Close to Tokyo Station, upscale shopping and dining, elegant atmosphere.
- Negatives: Can feel more commercial than residential, less neighborhood feel.
- Ideal For: Mature travelers, luxury shoppers, and those seeking a sophisticated base.
Top Hotel Picks in Ginza and Hibiya:
Double guest room in The Peninsula Tokyo hotel, Japan, with large double bed behind a wide sofa and coffee table, adjacent to dining table and big windows overlooking the river
Guest room in the Gate Hotel Tokyo, Japan, with bed facing free-standing TV unit, L-shaped sofa and armchair, as well as wall-sized corner windows
Compact twin guest room in the Remm Hibiya Hotel, Tokyo, Japan, including two beds with orange styling, relaxing chair, purple dotted carpet, and curtained window
Comfortable living area with chairs and table and a panoramic city view of Tokyo from the huge corner windows in a suite in The Blossom Hibiya hotel, Tokyo, Japan
For more hotel recommendations in Ginza, explore our Ginza Places To Stay section.
Hamarikyu Gardens, Tokyo, Sumida River, Chuo district, Japan, with oriental japanese garden during Hanami, and the Hama Rikyu contrasting with the skyscrapers of the adjacent Shiodome district
6. Shiodome: Modern High-Rises and Business Convenience
Shiodome, located south of Tokyo Station, is characterized by its modern high-rise office and hotel towers. It’s a short walk to Shimbashi Station, just two stops from Tokyo Station on the Yamanote Line, offering reasonable accessibility. While not as bustling as other districts, Shiodome has a selection of good dining options.
Shiodome Key Points:
- Positives: Convenient access to Tokyo Station and Haneda Airport via the monorail, modern hotels.
- Negatives: Fewer shops and restaurants compared to other central areas, less vibrant atmosphere.
- Ideal For: Business travelers, solo travelers, and those prioritizing airport access.
Top Hotel Picks in Shiodome:
Living area of a Conrad Tokyo hotel suite with sofa and armchair around a wall-mounted TV, separate sleeping area beyond, and dining area beside the window overlooking the nighttime bay
Double guest room in the Royal Park Hotel the Shiodome, Tokyo, Japan, with wide double bed sat beneath the wall-length corner windows, overlooking the city at night, and reflected in the gold-effect wardrobe doors
Large guest room in the Hotel Villa Fontaine Shiodome-Tokyo with large mattress on a built-in wooden platform, over patterned rug, and with desk area, twin easy chairs and coffee table, and platform beside windows overlooking city greenery
For more hotel options in Shiodome, refer to our Shiodome Places To Stay section.
Recommended Tokyo Ryokan
Experience traditional Japanese hospitality in these Ryokan in Tokyo:
Asakusa ToukaisouBudgetMore Info
Asakusa ShigetsuMid RangeMore Info
Kamogawa AsakusaLuxuryMore Info
Ryokan KatsutaroMid RangeMore Info
Aerial view of the Ebisu area of Tokyo, with skyscrapers and train lines, and other buildings
7. Ebisu, Meguro, and Daikanyama: Chic and Local Living
Ebisu and Meguro, along with Daikanyama to the west of Ebisu, are smaller, more upscale urban hubs on the Yamanote Line’s southwest side. Favored by Tokyo’s fashionable and affluent residents, these areas offer a local experience. Staying here allows you to explore trendy cafes, hip restaurants and bars, boutique shops, and pleasant streets, away from the tourist crowds.
Ebisu, Meguro, and Daikanyama Key Points:
- Positives: Fashionable and trendy, relaxed and low-key atmosphere, local vibe.
- Negatives: Can be more expensive for shopping and dining, fewer major tourist attractions.
- Ideal For: Solo travelers, couples, and those seeking a chic, local experience.
Top Hotel Picks in Ebisu, Daikanyama, and Meguro:
Double guest suite in The Westin Tokyo hotel, with sofa and armchair around a coffee table, dining area beside window view of Tokyo greenery, and adjoining room with double bed
Twin guest room in the Sheraton Miyako Hotel Tokyo, with two wide beds and dining area beside balcony window
Simple guest room in the Hotel Mid in Meguro Ekimae, Tokyo, Japan, with pink bed and matching desk with anglepoise lamp, and shelf above bed with small vase of flowers
For more hotel options in these areas, check out our Ebisu, Meguro, and Daikanyama Places To Stay section.
Large office buildings in front of Shinagawa Station in Tokyo on a sunny day
8. Shinagawa: Transport Hub for Shinkansen and Airport Access
Shinagawa, a major transport hub at the Yamanote Line’s southern end, may not be the most exciting district, but its excellent transport links are undeniable. Situated on both the Yamanote Line and the Tokaido Shinkansen line, it’s exceptionally convenient, especially for travelers using the Shinkansen. The area boasts several excellent hotels that capitalize on its transport advantages.
Shinagawa Key Points:
- Positives: Major transport hub, direct train access to Haneda Airport via Keikyu Line, convenient for Shinkansen travel.
- Negatives: Fewer attractions and activities within the district itself, primarily a business and transport focused area.
- Ideal For: Business travelers, frequent flyers, and those prioritizing transport convenience.
Top Hotel Picks in Shinagawa:
Twin guest suite in the Conrad Tokyo hotel with large living area with sofa and armchair, cherry blossom carpet, and glass unit with bath and large illuminated mirror, as well as separate room with two beds
Twin corner guest room in the Shinagawa Prince Hotel, Tokyo, Japan, with two wide beds, and sofa against the wide red window length sofa and view overlooking the city
Angular twin guest room in the Hotel 1899 Tokyo, with two large beds, contemporary interior stylings with green patterns, wall-mounted TV unit and windows spread across two walls
For more hotel recommendations in Shinagawa, visit our Shinagawa Places To Stay section.
Tokyo Places to Stay Map
Open the Tokyo map to explore the locations of each recommended Tokyo district and hotel. The map uses color-coding to indicate desirability:
- Yellow: Most desirable
- Red: Desirable
- Purple: Acceptable
- Light gray: Less desirable
- Dark gray: Only as a last resort
Types of Accommodation in Tokyo
Tokyo offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From world-class luxury hotels to budget-friendly business hotels and unique capsule hotels, Tokyo has it all. While Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) are available, they are less common in Tokyo compared to Kyoto.
Hotels
Tokyo’s hotel scene is exceptional, with options spanning all price ranges. For a broader overview, visit our Tokyo Hotels page. Check real-time availability and book your stay at Booking.com and Agoda.com.
Ryokan
Although Tokyo was heavily damaged during WWII, some traditional Ryokan still exist. For a curated list, see our Tokyo Ryokan page. If a Ryokan experience is a priority, consider Kyoto, known as the heart of Ryokan culture. For more details, visit our Kyoto Ryokan guide.
Guesthouses
Budget travelers and backpackers will find numerous guesthouses in Tokyo, particularly in older districts like Asakusa.
Capsule Hotels
For a unique and budget-friendly experience, consider a capsule hotel. Originally designed for salarymen, these hotels offer compact sleeping pods. While most are male-only, some accommodate women as well. Explore our Best Capsule Hotels In Tokyo guide for recommendations.
Peak Travel Seasons: March-April and November
Important Booking Advice: Tokyo hotels book up quickly during peak seasons like cherry blossom season (late March to mid-April) and fall foliage season (November). Advance booking is crucial. Check availability for these periods at Booking.com and Agoda.com.
Planning to Visit Kyoto or Osaka?
If your itinerary includes Kyoto, refer to our Where To Stay In Kyoto guide on InsideKyoto.com. For Osaka, see our Where To Stay In Osaka guide on InsideOsaka.com.
Tokyo Vacation Checklist
[Tokyo District Map Image – i-8Zzhnnv.png from original article]
Explore Tokyo’s diverse districts with this helpful map, providing a visual guide to the city’s key areas and attractions.
