Where to Stay in Tokyo
Japan
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Tokyo at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Tokyo
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card upon arrival for seamless travel on trains and buses, and even for small purchases at convenience stores and vending machines.
Getting Around
Download a navigation app like Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner (Jorudan/Navitime) as they provide real-time train schedules, platform numbers, and optimal routes.
Watch Out For
Touts offering 'special tours' or directing you to specific bars/clubs, often leading to overpriced services.
Solo Female Travel
Tokyo is exceptionally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions regarding personal belongings in crowded areas and avoiding overly isolated spots late at night are sufficient.
Hidden Gems in Tokyo
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Yanaka Ginza
FREEA charming shopping street that retains an old Tokyo atmosphere, perfect for sampling local snacks and browsing traditional crafts. It feels like stepping back in time, away from the modern bustle.
Gotokuji Temple
FREEThis serene temple is famous for its thousands of beckoning cat (maneki-neko) statues, believed to bring good luck. It's a whimsical and visually striking sight, offering a peaceful escape.
Shibuya Sky
While Shibuya Crossing is famous, ascend to the rooftop observation deck of Shibuya Scramble Square for unparalleled panoramic views of the city, especially stunning at sunset. You can see the vastness of Tokyo spread out beneath you.
Omoide Yokocho
FREEAlso known as Memory Lane, this atmospheric alleyway is packed with tiny yakitori joints and bars, offering a nostalgic glimpse into post-war Tokyo. The smoky aroma and lively chatter make for a unique dining experience.
Nezu Museum
This elegant museum houses a remarkable collection of pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art, set within a breathtaking traditional Japanese garden. The garden itself is a tranquil oasis perfect for contemplation.
Ameya Yokocho
FREEA bustling open-air market street under the railway tracks where you can find everything from fresh seafood and produce to clothing and cosmetics at bargain prices. It's a vibrant and energetic place to experience local shopping culture.
What It Costs in Tokyo
Daily budget per person in JPY
💡73% cheaper than London
JPY 7000/day
JPY 15000/day
JPY 35000/day
Where to Stay in Tokyo
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden15 min
- Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)10 min
- Golden Gai15 min
Pros
- +Excellent transport links
- +Diverse dining and entertainment options
- +Iconic city views
Cons
- -Can be overwhelming and crowded
- -Some areas can feel gritty at night
Top stays in Shinjuku
Park Hyatt Tokyo
$$$Iconic luxury hotel with breathtaking city views, famously featured in 'Lost in Translation'.
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
$$A large, well-established hotel with multiple dining options and convenient access to transport.
Shinjuku Granbell Hotel
$$Stylish boutique hotel offering good value and a central location.
Book and Bed Tokyo Shinjuku
$Unique hostel where you can sleep amongst bookshelves.
Best for
Walk to
- Shibuya Crossing2 min
- Hachiko Statue1 min
- Center Gai5 min
Pros
- +Vibrant atmosphere and endless energy
- +Great shopping and dining
- +Excellent public transport
Cons
- -Extremely crowded, especially at the crossing
- -Can be noisy
Top stays in Shibuya
Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
$$Directly overlooks the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, offering unparalleled views.
Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu
$$Modern hotel integrated into a stylish complex with shops and restaurants.
The Millennials Shibuya
$Futuristic capsule hotel with smart beds and shared co-working spaces.
Shibuya Tokyu Stay
$$Offers apartment-style rooms with washing machines, ideal for longer stays.
Best for
Walk to
- Senso-ji Temple5 min
- Nakamise-dori Street3 min
- Sumida River Cruise Pier10 min
Pros
- +Rich in history and traditional culture
- +More relaxed pace than central Tokyo
- +Affordable dining and souvenirs
Cons
- -Can feel touristy, especially on Nakamise-dori
- -Fewer nightlife options
Top stays in Asakusa
The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon by Hulic
$$Offers stunning views of Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree from its rooftop.
Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International
$$Modern hotel with spacious rooms and excellent service, close to Senso-ji.
Khaosan Tokyo Origami
$Clean and friendly hostel with a communal atmosphere and good amenities.
Ryokan Kamogawa
$$Traditional Japanese inn experience offering tatami rooms and futons.
Best for
Walk to
- Tsukiji Outer Market15 min
- Imperial Palace East Garden20 min
- Kabuki-za Theatre5 min
Pros
- +World-class shopping and dining
- +Elegant and refined atmosphere
- +Excellent public transport access
Cons
- -Very expensive
- -Can be less exciting for budget travelers
Top stays in Ginza
The Peninsula Tokyo
$$$Luxurious hotel offering impeccable service and stunning views of the Imperial Palace.
Imperial Hotel, Tokyo
$$$Historic and prestigious hotel known for its classic elegance and fine dining.
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier
$$Modern hotel with stylish rooms and a popular rooftop bar offering city views.
Hotel Gracery Ginza
$$Comfortable and well-located hotel with good amenities at a relatively reasonable price for Ginza.
Areas to be cautious
- Kabukicho (late night): While a major entertainment district, it has a reputation for touts, unlicensed businesses, and potential for petty crime, especially after dark. Stick to the main streets.
- Certain back alleys in Shinjuku and Shibuya: These can be poorly lit, lack foot traffic, and sometimes host suspicious activities or aggressive touts. Stick to well-trafficked and well-lit areas after dark.
Insider tip: Purchase a Suica or Pasmo card upon arrival for seamless travel on trains and buses, and even for small purchases at convenience stores and vending machines.
Safety in Tokyo
Very safeSolo Female Travel
Tokyo is exceptionally safe for solo female travelers. Standard precautions regarding personal belongings in crowded areas and avoiding overly isolated spots late at night are sufficient.
At Night
Generally very safe, even late at night. Well-lit streets and high population density contribute to a low crime rate. The main concern is navigating crowded entertainment districts and avoiding unlicensed establishments.
Emergency
110 (Police), 119 (Fire/Ambulance)
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Touts offering 'special tours' or directing you to specific bars/clubs, often leading to overpriced services.
- 2Fake police officers asking for 'identification' or 'fines' (real police will always accompany you to a station).
Getting Around Tokyo
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Narita (NRT): Narita Express train (~60-90 min, 3000 JPY), Keisei Skyliner (~35-50 min, 2500 JPY), Limousine Bus (~70-120 min, 3200 JPY). Haneda (HND): Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail (~20-40 min, 500-700 JPY), Limousine Bus (~30-70 min, 1300 JPY).
🎫
Day Pass
Tokyo Subway Ticket (24/48/72 hours) for unlimited travel on Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines: 800/1200/1500 JPY.
Single: 200-300 JPY depending on distance.
🚶
Walkability
Very WalkableUber, Didi
📶
WiFi
Excellent50-150 Mbps
Public Transport
Extensive and efficient network of JR trains (including Yamanote Line loop) and Tokyo Metro/Toei Subway lines.
Ride-share
Not widely used for standard taxi services; taxis are metered. Apps like Go, Didi, Uber (primarily for connecting to local taxis) are available.
Transport Tip
Download a navigation app like Google Maps or Japan Transit Planner (Jorudan/Navitime) as they provide real-time train schedules, platform numbers, and optimal routes.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Many cafes (Starbucks, Doutor), convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart), some train stations, and public Wi-Fi hotspots (requires registration). Pocket Wi-Fi rental is also popular.
Coworking
Various options like Shibuya Cross-FM, The Hive Jyunten, and Impact Hub Tokyo; daily costs range from 2000-4000 JPY.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Apr, Oct, Nov
Hotels & Accommodation in Tokyo
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Who Is Tokyo Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-Time Visitors
Offers a quintessential Tokyo experience with iconic landmarks, diverse food, and excellent transport links for easy exploration.
Culture Seekers on a Budget
Provides a glimpse into traditional Tokyo with historic temples and affordable local experiences.
Young Trendsetters
Immerse yourself in the heart of youth fashion, music, and the energetic pulse of modern Tokyo.
Luxury Travelers
Indulge in high-end shopping, world-class dining, and sophisticated entertainment in an elegant setting.
Solo Explorers
Abundant hostels, diverse nightlife, and efficient transport make it easy and engaging for solo adventurers.
Tokyo on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Tokyo
Tokyo, officially the Tokyo Metropolis, is the capital and most populous city of Japan. With a population of over 14 million in the city proper in 2023, it is one of the most populous urban areas in the world. The Greater Tokyo Area, which includes Tokyo and parts of six neighboring prefectures, is the most populous metropolitan area in the world, with 41 million residents as of 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tokyo
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Tokyo Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel