Where to Stay in Tokyo, Japan

Booked a trip to Tokyo, Japan, and trying to decide where to stay? This ultimate guide to the best areas of Tokyo to stay in will help you plan your trip. With a range of accommodations to choose from and neighborhoods, there is a lot to decide on beforehand.

In this guide, I’m going to help you figure out first which neighborhood is the best fit for you. With each section, I’m including some recommendations for curated hotels, from boutique to larger properties.

I’ve been to Tokyo three times now, and every time I find myself perusing through all of the options. There are so many places to stay in the city, and each neighborhood offers a very different experience. I have my favorites, my go-to neighborhood for ease of exploring as well.

Read on for the guide on the best neighborhoods and hotels in Tokyo, and where to stay to base yourself.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for Where to Stay in Tokyo:

1. TRUNK (Hotel) Yoyogi Park, for the best Shibuya hotel
2. Park Hyatt Tokyo, for the best Shinjuku hotel
3. The Peninsula Tokyo, for the best Tokyo Station/Marunouchi hotel

Where to Stay in Tokyo, Japan

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Before You Visit Tokyo

To help you better plan your time in Tokyo, here are a few guides to reference:

• The Ultimate Tokyo 5-Day Itinerary
• The Coolest Coffee Shops in Tokyo
• The Alternative Guide to Tokyo
• Top Tips for Visiting Japan
• A Transportation Guide to Japan

Travel Tip: If you plan on getting a rail pass for Japan, I’d recommend booking your JR Rail Pass here.

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Where to Stay in Tokyo: Neighborhood Map

The highlighted areas aren’t exact, but I wanted to give you a sense of where in Tokyo these areas are:

Yellow: Shibuya | Purple: Shinjuku | Orange: Tokyo Station/Marunouchi | Blue: Ropppongi | Black: Ginza | Pink: Ebisu, Maguro, and Daikanyama

My Takeaway On The Best Area to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo is a massive city, it’s truly hard to pin down the perfect spot when it comes to where to base yourself. But if there are one or two neighborhoods that are the most ideal for exploring the major sights, it’s Shinjuku or Shibuya. These are both on the west side of Tokyo.

The other element I always look at is how far is the nearest train station, specifically the Yamanote Line. This train line (the Tokyo Loop line) gives you incredible access to everything and can easily transfer to other lines in the city.

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Need A Japan Rail Pass? This Is Where I Book Mine

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Top Pick #1: Shibuya (South of Yoyogi Park)

My number one pick for where to stay in Tokyo is always the neighborhood of Shibuya. Just south of the lush Yoyogi Park, it feels like the heart of the city. You have almost everything here that you could want — cool shopping and restaurants, outdoor spaces, and quaint neighborhoods.

It’s an absolute playground of things to do, and it doesn’t hurt that it has the incredibly connected Shibuya train station. You can do things like do a street go-kart ride, go on a bar-hopping night food tour, and explore a few areas at once.

This is where I recommend everyone to stay for ease, with lots to do within walking distance and nearby. I like to either stay near the train station if I plan to do a lot of city exploring or opt for something closer to the park for a quieter stay.

Hotels in Shibuya:

1. JR-East Hotel Mets Shibuya ($$) — I’ve stayed at this hotel twice now, and it’s purely for its location and ease of checking in and out. There are no frills at this hotel, it’s a lowkey, clean, and rather budget choice for Shibuya. What it makes up for though is that it’s basically in the train station and you can get everywhere from there.
2. Shibuya Granbell Hotel ($$) — This is another hotel I’ve stayed at, a bit more than the JR-East Mets as it is slightly nicer and elevated. This is a wonderful option within the Shibuya train Station.
3. TRUNK (Hotel) Yoyogi Park ($$$) — If I could pick one of the better luxury hotels, it would be TRUNK. Its serene location near Yoyogi Park gives it a much more relaxing, green feel. It’s also one fo the most eco-friendly hotels in the city with incredible design and a boutique stay.
4. Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel ($$$) — The Cerulean Tower Tokyo Hotel is a luxurious and modern hotel located in the Shibuya district of Tokyo, Japan. It has stunning skyline views, upscale amenities, and convenient access to Shibuya’s center.
5. The OneFive Tokyo Shibuya ($$) — Formerly the Emit Hotel, the OneFive Tokyo Hotel is a boutique property that is super central in Shibuya. A wonderful boutique property that feels like a revamped inn with smaller rooms.
6. Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya, an IHG Hotel ($$$)— Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya is a design-forward boutique hotel that offers a unique stay not far from the Shibuya Scramble. It’s part of the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) and is known for its modern design and colorful decor.

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Top Pick #2: Shinjuku

Shinjuku, also known as Shinjuku City is a very large ward in Tokyo north of Yoyogi Park. You have some very famous hotels here, known for their epic views over the city. There is a lot going on here as one of the busiest parts of Tokyo.

For that reason, it’s good to know that it is quite populated as the business center of Tokyo. But with that, you have a lot going on like the famous Golden Gai alleys (consider booking a bar hopping tour here!). I do like Shinjuku for its access to the rest of Tokyo.

Sprinkled throughout, there are a handful of other wonderful sites like the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Omoide Yokocho Lane, and epic views from a few different vantage points. If you do stay in Shinjuku, be sure to be near the station.

Hotels in Shinjuku:

1. Park Hyatt Tokyo ($$$$) — Quite possibly one of the most famous hotels in Tokyo for its views that everyone saw in Lost in Translation. The Park Hyatt is a wonderful, luxury hotel to stay at in the city. You have every amenity you could need and their concierge team is extremely helpful.
2. Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo ($$) — You’ll come across a lot of Keio hotels in the larger cities of Japan. This brand is aligned with the likes of Hyatt. They’re more geared towards business travelers but do make for a good stay if you can snag a good price.
3. Hilton Tokyo ($$$) — A solid choice in Shinjuku that is right near the main station. This is one of the nicest Hilton properties I’ve seen, great for its amenities and design.
4. Hotel Gracery Shinjuku ($$) — It’s a famous hotel in Shinjuku that has the Godzilla statue on top. While it’s popular for photos, it does make for a fun and quirky stay in Tokyo. You’re close to a lot in the city, and the price point is usually good value here.

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Don’t Forget a Prepaid SIM Card

Wi-Fi is your best friend in Tokyo and I highly recommend getting a Prepaid SIM Card before arrival. The last time I went, we had to do a more complicated SIM Card purchase at a 7/11 store, but now you can pre-purchase this highly reviewed data card on Amazon (which is what I’d do now).

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Top Pick #3: Tokyo Station/Marunouchi

Often overlooked, Tokyo Station and Marunouchi are known as the gateway to Tokyo. It’s a very vibrant neighborhood in Tokyo, full of luxury hotels and restaurants.

It’s a bit further from the main sights, but what it lacks in location it makes up for incredible things to do, great restaurants, and shopping. One of the best comparisons I can make is that it’s like Midtown Manhattan.

In the Tokyo Station area, you have things like the Imperial Palace to visit, and the Idemitsu Museum of Arts, and the station itself is a sight to see. You’ll find some of the best hotels in the city here.

Hotels in Tokyo Station/Marunouchi:

1. Marunouchi Hotel ($$$) — One of the more elevated hotels that don’t run up a tab like some of the others on the list, the Marunouchi is an elegant choice. It sits right above Tokyo Station as well.
2. The Tokyo Station Hotel ($$$) — The Tokyo Station Hotel is a renowned luxury hotel situated within the Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building, offering convenient access to the city’s transportation network. This iconic hotel boasts a stunning blend of classical European architecture and Japanese hospitality
3. Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo ($$$$) — The Shangri-La Hotel Tokyo is a prestigious luxury hotel located in Marunouchi, Tokyo. Known for its stunning panoramic views of the city, including Tokyo Bay and the Imperial Palace, this five-star hotel offers a blend of Asian-inspired elegance and top-notch hospitality.
4. Mandarin Oriental Tokyo ($$$$) — As a luxurious five-star hotel situated in the Nihonbashi district of Tokyo, the Mandarin Oriental has amazing views of landmarks like Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji. The rooms are beautifully designed, there are exceptional dining experiences, a world-class spa, and impeccable service.
5. The Aman Tokyo ($$$$) — Known for its minimalist and modern design, the Aman Tokyo provides a serene oasis in the heart of the bustling city. It’s one of the most sought-after luxury hotels in Japan, and a bucket list stay for anyone.
6. The Peninsula Tokyo ($$$$) — With opulent design, exceptional service, and stunning views of the Imperial Palace and Hibiya Park, it’s a five-star destination for discerning travelers. The Peninsula is a classic for a luxury stay in the city.
7. Palace Hotel Tokyo ($$$$) — Palace Hotel Tokyo is a high-end luxury hotel nestled in Tokyo’s Marunouchi district. It’s known for its sophisticated design, top-notch service, and fantastic views of the Imperial Palace Gardens and the cityscape.
8. HOSHINOYA Tokyo ($$$$) — This is my number one pick on the list for a unique luxury stay. Hoshinoya Tokyo is a unique luxury ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) located in the Otemachi area of Tokyo. Unlike typical hotels, Hoshinoya offers a serene and traditional Japanese experience, featuring modern interpretations of classic ryokan elements. Guests can expect elegant tatami-matted rooms, kaiseki (multi-course) dining, and meticulous attention to detail in service.
9. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi ($$$$) — Another wonderful luxurious five-star hotel situated in the Marunouchi district, offering a sophisticated and contemporary retreat in Tokyo. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a high-end and centrally located accommodation experience in Tokyo.

For more budget-friendly hotels, try:

• Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo ($)
• Mimaru Suites Tokyo Nihombashi ($)
• Pearl Hotel Yaesu ($)

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Roppongi

Set right in the heart of the city, Roppongi is a very dynamic area in the Minato City area of Tokyo. You have a bit of everything here from world-class art museums to luxury shopping. There is also one of the highest concentrations of fine dining.

So depending on what you have on your itinerary, Roppongi could be a great fit. During the day, you can explore the Roppongi Hills complex, which includes shopping, dining, and art attractions, or visit the Mori Art Museum for contemporary art exhibitions.

Roppongi’s international atmosphere makes it a melting pot of cultures, making it a unique and exciting part of Tokyo to explore.

Hotels in Roppongi:

1. Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier ($$) — The Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier is a chic and upscale hotel tucked away in Tokyo’s lively Roppongi neighborhood. With its contemporary style and great facilities, it’s a fantastic choice for a comfortable stay.
2. The Ritz-Carlton in Roppongi ($$$$) – For one of the more luxury hotels in Roppongi, don’t skip the Ritz-Carlton. It’s a refined stay, the rooms are very Japanese in the sense of style and feel.
3. Hotel New Otani Tokyo ($$$) — An absolute classic in Tokyo, the Hotel New Otani is one of those foodie destinations with several dining options inside. It has over 1400 rooms as well, so it’s quite large in terms of size.
4. Grand Hyatt Tokyo ($$$$) — With elegant rooms, the Grand Hyatt was one of the first luxury hotels in the area. There is a wonderful indoor pool here as well as a spa, if you’re looking for some downtime.
5. InterContinental – ANA Tokyo, an IHG Hotel ($$$$) — Another great upscale choice in Roppongi, the InterContinental is a luxury tower hotel. There are amazing views from the bar and lounge on the 35th floor.
6. The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon ($$$$) — When it comes to chic boutique hotels, the EDITION group is it for me. I love the feel of this hotel in Roppongi, it’s very design-forward and is my kind of intimate stay.
7. The Capitol Hotel Tokyu ($$$) — A modern, clean hotel in the neighborhood. Their known for generous room sizes which is always a plus when traveling.
8. Ace Hotel Roppongi ($$) — If you’re familiar with the Ace Hotels, then you know how great they are at creating a community space within their hotel. This is no different, good option for the area, boutique, and smaller rooms.

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Don’t forget to book your Japan Rail pass before you arrive!

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Ginza

For another upscale district, Ginza is a great choice as well. It’s like its very own little city and it borders really close to Tokyo Station. I’ve stayed over here once on our way out of Japan before a flight. There were a handful of things to do and great dining.

The district comes to life at night with a plethora of gourmet restaurants, bars, and theaters. Ginza also has a rich cultural scene with art galleries, traditional tea houses, and historic landmarks like the Kabuki-za Theater. It’s a place where modernity meets tradition, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Tokyo’s cosmopolitan elegance.

Hotels in Ginza:

1. Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier ($$) — The Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier is a chic and comfortable hotel located in the heart of Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district. With its modern design and convenient amenities, it offers a great base for travelers exploring this fashionable neighborhood.
2. Muji Hotel Ginza ($$$) — This might be one of the more fun hotel stays in the city. Done by the store group “Muji” known for their lifestyle and home goods, everything in the hotel is from the brand. It’s a bit more upscale in terms of price, but it has comfortable and functional rooms with a focus on sustainability, along with a cafe and retail store featuring Muji’s signature products.
3. Hotel The Celestine Ginza ($$$) — Not far from Shimbashi station is the Celestine Ginza, known for being incredibly design-forward and a quiet space. The hotel boasts well-appointed rooms with contemporary aesthetics and most have good views.
4. The Blossom Hibiya ($$$) — Such a chic stay in Ginza, the Blossom Hibiya has a really airy feel to it and is just around the corner from the Imperial Palace. I love the floor-to-ceiling windows which give incredible views of the city.
5. Hotel Sunroute Ginza ($$) — A more budget-friendly choice in Ginza, this feels like your classic neighborhood hotel. The rooms are simple, clean, and good for those who plan to be out exploring most of the day.

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Ebisu, Meguro, and Daikanyama

I wanted to include these areas as they’re more up-and-coming and are worth considering. These three artful hubs of Ebisu, Maguro, and Daikanyama are just south of Shibuya.

I have a few favorite coffee shops down that way in the Maguro area like Onibus Coffee, and love going for a stroll along the Meguro River. This area would be a bit further afield, so worth doing some research if there are things you’d enjoy doing here.

Hotels in Ebisu, Maguro, and Daikanyama:

1. The Westin Tokyo ($$$) — The Westin Tokyo is a luxurious and well-regarded hotel located in the upscale Ebisu district of Tokyo. Known for its elegant design, exceptional service, and world-class amenities, it offers a comfortable and memorable stay for travelers.
2. Sheraton Miyako Hotel ($$) The hotel features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a variety of dining options, fitness facilities, and a serene Japanese garden. It’s definitely more geared towards business travelers versus leisure.
3. Hotel Gajoen ($$$$) Hotel Gajoen, also known as Meguro Gajoen, is a unique and historic hotel located in the Meguro neighborhood of Tokyo. Originally established in 1931, it’s renowned for its stunning architecture, exquisite artwork, and traditional Japanese aesthetics. The hotel features beautifully decorated rooms, banquet halls adorned with traditional art, and a beautiful Japanese garden.

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The Best Luxury Hotels in Tokyo

With many luxury hotels to choose from in Tokyo, I wanted to put together a list of the best ones in the city. Luxury in Japan is incredibly elevated in terms of service, amenities, and how the hotel integrates it.

1. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi
2. Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
3. The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
4. TRUNK (Hotel) Tokyo
5. The Peninsula Tokyo
6. Shangri-la Hotel, Tokyo
7. The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon

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The Best Ryokan-Style Hotels in Tokyo

If you’re looking for a ryokan-style experience while visiting Tokyo, these are arguably the best ones to choose from.

1. Yuen Bettei Tokyo Deita
2. Hoshinoya Tokyo
3. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku

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