Tokyo is a vast, vibrant city — but for first-time visitors, choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming.
The good news? There’s no “wrong” place — just the one that fits your travel style.
Let’s break down Tokyo’s best areas to stay in Tokyo based on what kind of traveler you are.
Still building your trip? Start with our “Ultimate Japan Travel Guide” to get the big picture before diving into city details.
🌸 Combine this stay with stops from our “Tokyo 7-Day Family Itinerary” for a full cultural immersion.
1. Shinjuku — Best for First-Time Tourists & Nightlife Lovers
- Vibe: Urban energy, neon lights, endless shops & restaurants
- Pros:
- ✅ Excellent public transport (Shinjuku Station is Japan’s busiest)
- ✅ Great base for day trips (like Mt. Fuji, Hakone)
- ✅ Many hotels across all budgets
- Cons: Can be overwhelming and crowded
- Nearby: Tokyo Metropolitan Gov’t Observatory (free!), Kabukicho, Golden Gai
- Recommended for: First-timers, solo travelers, night owls
- 🏨 Hotel example: Tokyu Stay Shinjuku / JR Kyushu Blossom
2. Shibuya — Best for Trendy Youth Culture & Iconic Views
- Vibe: Modern, lively, full of shopping & pop culture
- Pros:
- ✅ Home of the famous Shibuya Crossing
- ✅ Close to Harajuku & Omotesando
- ✅ Stylish hotels and hostels
- Cons: Slightly pricier, less quiet
- Nearby: Hachiko Statue, Yoyogi Park, Meiji Shrine
- Recommended for: Young travelers, content creators
- 🏨 Hotel example: Sequence Miyashita Park / Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu
3. Asakusa — Best for Culture, Tradition & Budget Travelers
- Vibe: Historic charm with a slow pace
- Pros:
- ✅ Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street
- ✅ Budget accommodations + hostels
- ✅ Close to Tokyo Skytree
- Cons: Less central; longer train rides to west Tokyo
- Recommended for: Culture lovers, families, older travelers
- 🏨 Hotel example: The Gate Hotel Asakusa / Khaosan Tokyo Origami (hostel)
4. Ueno — Best for Museums, Parks & Budget Acces
- Vibe: Green space meets local city life
- Pros:
- ✅ Ueno Park, Zoo, Tokyo National Museum
- ✅ Direct train from Narita Airport (Keisei Line)
- ✅ Cheaper stays than Shibuya or Shinjuku
- Cons: Not nightlife-oriented
- Recommended for: Museum lovers, airport travelers, students
- 🏨 Hotel example: Hotel Coco Grand Ueno Shinobazu / APA Ueno
5. Tokyo Station / Marunouchi — Best for Luxury & Transit Access
- Vibe: Classy, clean, corporate
- Pros:
- ✅ Easy access to Shinkansen (bullet trains)
- ✅ Walking distance to Imperial Palace
- ✅ Upscale hotels, great business amenities
- Cons: More business feel, less “fun” vibe
- Recommended for: Business travelers, JR Pass holders, short stays
- 🏨 Hotel example: Tokyo Station Hotel / Marunouchi Hotel
Quick Comparison Table:
| Area | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku | First-timers, nightlife | Great transport, food scene | Busy & crowded |
| Shibuya | Trendy travelers, youth | Shopping, views | Slightly expensive |
| Asakusa | Culture, budget travel | Temples, slower pace | Farther from west Tokyo |
| Ueno | Museum lovers, park-goers | Direct airport access | Less nightlife |
| Tokyo Station | Luxury, quick transits | Bullet train access, quiet | Business vibe |
Bonus Tips for Booking
- Check for hotels near JR Yamanote Line (green circle line = convenient!)
- Use filters like “non-smoking room”, “with washer” for longer stays
- Agoda & Booking.com often show better deals than Japanese sites
- Travel with kids? Look for rooms with kitchenette or sofa bed
Useful Links
— Joy