The sprawling capital of Japan combines urban pockets, bustling city centres, and peaceful retreats. Tokyo is the world’s largest metropolis which means there’s a wealth of choice when it comes to choosing where to stay, but can also be confusing for first-time visitors looking to make the most of their time in the city.

Having visited Tokyo on multiple occasions, at different times of the year and with various budgets, I’ve spent more than my fair share of hours researching and booking accommodation.

Tokyo is a massive city which means choosing where you base yourself is important as you don’t want to spend all your time commuting around, in a neighbourhood that doesn’t match your travel style, or inconveniencing yourself.

In this guide, I’ve curated my top recommendations for the best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo whether you’re looking for convenience, a local hideaway, or to be close to specific attractions. I breakdown the atmosphere of each area, the pros and cons of choosing it as your base, the key public transport connections, and what type of traveller it’s best suited for.

My top recommendations if you’re short on time

TRUNK(HOTEL) YOYOGI PARK | for first-time travellers

OMO3 Asakusa by Hoshino Resorts | for a cultural stay

HOTEL 1899 TOKYO | for foodies

shibuya tokyo at dusk with lit up digital billboards and shibuya crossing

Shibuya | Best for first time travellers

If it’s your first time in Tokyo, Shibuya is my recommendation for most travellers. The area has a youthful energy that can’t be beaten with hundreds of restaurants, cafes, and shops. It’s most famous for the iconic Shibuya Crossing, and its skyline is filled with modern skyscrapers that tower over the pedestrians below. But there’s also a quieter, more laid-back side to Shibuya which makes it a great choice for those who want the best of both worlds.

Shibuya has great public transport connections, including the metro and it’s on the Yamanote Line which follows a ring around Tokyo and will connect you to most of the areas you’ll visit as a tourist in the city. You’ll find Lawson, FamilyMart and 7/11 on every other street corner, and there’s a great mix of entertainment, nightlife, and a fantastic dining scene.

Shibuya is a great choice for first-time travellers, those who want to enjoy Tokyo’s nightlife, and young travellers. If you’re a family or looking for a quieter neighbourhood, I’d recommend considering Asakusa or Ueno.

all day place shibuya | In a convenient location in central Shibuya, all day place is a contemporary hotel with a fresh, sleek design. Rooms are on the smaller side, but it’s ideal for travellers wanting to make the most of Shibuya’s shopping, dining, and nightlife.

TRUNK(HOTEL) YOYOGI PARK | A great addition on the doorstep of Yoyogi Park, TRUNK is an ultra-chic boutique hotel with one of the only infinity pools in Tokyo and sweeping views across green spaces. The neutral interiors are gorgeous and have a sustainability focus.

Tokyu Stay Shibuya Shin-Minamiguchi | Just 5 minutes from Shibuya Station, this branch of Tokyu Stay is convenient in every sense. Location, amenities and each room has a washing machine in it - not a common find in rooms in Tokyo.

Shinjuku | Best for nightlife

I’ve stayed in Shinjuku twice now, and its a great choice for convenience if you plan on taking day trips to places like Kawaguchiko. During the day, the area is a busy business district, but by night the neon-tinted scenes Tokyo has become synonymous with are in full force.

Shinjuku is home to attractions including Omoide Yokocho, Golden Gai, and Kabukicho Tower, as well as Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, where you can take in panoramic views from the observation decks for free.

You’ll find loads of restaurants and stores like Bic Camera as well as a mega Don Quixote. Shinjuku is a lively neighbourhood and best suited to those who want to be close to the action. If you plan on enjoying nightlife on your trip, then Shinjuku is a great area to stay.

Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo | A luxury boutique hotel with larger-than-average rooms by Tokyo standards, the Kimpton is a top choice for comfort-conscious travellers. In a prime location with a rooftop bar and rooms with a view, it’s a top choice in this popular area of Tokyo.

ONSEN RYOKAN YUEN SHINJUKU | A great option if you’re looking for a ryokan-inspired stay in Tokyo. Minimalist-style rooms have tatami floors and natural wood finished to create a serene atmosphere. The rooftop onsen is a highlight, and there’s a great restaurant and tea lounge on site.

HOTEL GROOVE SHINJUKU | Just steps from some of Shinjuku’s top spots, this hotel is bold in design with everything you could want to be comfortable. There’s a rooftop bar with city views and it’s ideal for lively travellers.

THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku | A budget-friendly option that is well-suited to younger travellers, The Knot has a community vibe about it. There’s an on-site bakery, cafe, and rooftop bar, and the communal lounge often hosts art exhibitions.

entrance gate of sensoji temple in asakusa tokyo japan

Asakusa | Best for cultural and family stays

Those in search of a quieter, family-friendly neighbourhood in Tokyo will love Asakusa. The area is one of the most traditional in Tokyo and somewhere I always make sure to spend time in when I’m visiting Tokyo. Centred around Sensoji Temple, this is where you can feel Tokyo’s old-world charm.

While it does get busy around Sensoji Temple, the rest of Asakusa is generally laid-back and doesn’t feel as overwhelming as areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku. The area has access to four metro stations including the Tobu Skytree Line, the Toei Asakusa Subway Line, the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and the Tsukuba Express (TX) Line, however it is not located on the Yamanote line.

Asakusa is a great area to stay in Tokyo for families, cultural enthusiasts looking for a more traditional atmosphere, and those in search of slower-paced travel.

OMO3 Asakusa by Hoshino Resorts | I really like this chain of properties across Japan. The Asakusa branch is inspired by the traditional design of ryokans with a contemporary approach. It’s ideally located close to Sensoji Temple and rooms offer good storage so you can maximise space.

PROSTYLE RYOKAN TOKYO ASAKUSA | If you’re looking for a more traditional stay, this hotel marries traditional Japanese ryokan design with contemporary touches. There is a communal hot spring, and some rooms have a private bath and balcony.

KAIKA TOKYO by THE SHARE HOTELS | This design-focused hotel with an emphasis on traditional elements such as tatami mats and minimalist design is a great choice for budget-conscious travellers. Rooms can accommodate solo travellers up to groups of six, making it a good option for families and friends travelling together.

Ueno | Best for budget and family travel

If you are looking for a balance between the traditional quieter area of Asakusa and the lively atmosphere of Shibuya, then Ueno might be the best fit for you. Combining open green space at Ueno Park with traditional markets and several museums, it’s a good choice for those interested in the cultural side of Tokyo.

Ueno is another great option if you want to be close to convenient public transport connections. Ueno station is located on the Yamanote Line, the Keihin-Tohoku Line, and the Utsunomiya Line, as well as Ginza and Hibiya metro lines. I used Ueno as a base during part of my most recent trip to Japan and it was perfect for walking to areas including Asakusa, Akihabara, and Yanaka Ginza, and using various metro and trains to get around neighbourhoods further away.

There are loads of restaurants in the area, including around Ameyoko, and lots of stores as well. If you’re a budget traveller, family, or someone interested in the cultural side of Tokyo, Ueno is a great area to stay in.

Hotel Resol Ueno | I stayed here in January and it was perfectly located to visit some of my favourite places in Tokyo, as well as take a few day trips outside the city too. Rooms are simple but modern and housekeeping is every other day. The location and service make it great value for money.

LANDABOUT TOKYO | A modern hotel that appeals to younger travellers, LANDABOUT is close to Ueno Park and the Tokyo National Museum. The hotel blends creativity with comfort and there nice touches with technology to help you during your stay.

MIMARU Tokyo Ueno East | A great family-friendly hotel, these apartment-style rooms feature kitchenettes making it ideal for self-catering. There’s also a communal lounge and laundry facilities, and it’s close to Ueno station making it a convenient base for your time in Tokyo.

Tokyo Station/Marunouchi | Best for convenience and fine dining

The area around Tokyo station is mostly a business district, but it’s also a great pocket with its fair share of historical significance. Tokyo Station itself has a beautifully restored red-brick facade from 1914 making it one of the city’s landmarks. Inside the station you’ll find a wealth of stores and dining options including the stretch known as Character Street where you can find small shops selling the most popular brands including Sanrio, Mofusand, Studio Ghibli, and Pokemon.

Beyond the station, that area is quieter in the evening and weekends than elsewhere in Tokyo, and is known for its variety of upscale dining options. Staying around Tokyo station puts you within walking distance of Ginza and is ideally located for those looking to take day trips or easy access to the Shinkansen to travel elsewhere on your Japan itinerary.

The area around Tokyo station is ideal for business travellers, those looking for convenience for travel, and luxury travellers.

Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi | I stayed here earlier this year and it was super convenient for getting around Tokyo and jumping on the Shinkansen to make my way to Nagano. Rooms are simple but there is a great communal space and the bed was super comfortable.

Nest Hotel Tokyo Yaesu | A new addition to the hotel scene in Tokyo, Nest is a budget-friendly option with sleek rooms and a peaceful atmosphere. Rooms tend to run on the smaller side, so it’s great for solo travellers or those that don’t plan to spend much time in the room.

Oakwood Premier Tokyo | A collection of upscale studios and one-bedroom apartments that are perfect for travellers that want to self-cater. Sophisticated design and spacious rooms are complemented by a 24-hour concierge, fitness centre, and business facilities.

Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi | A five-star hotel with panoramic views, this is a truly luxurious property just moments from Tokyo Station. There’s a brilliant restaurant on site, as well as a full-service spa, a top-tier fitness centre, and a concierge service.

Ginza | Best for luxury travel

Known for its high-end shopping and polished feel, Ginza is an ultra-cosmopolitan corner of Tokyo. On the weekends Chuo-dori (the main shopping street) is pedestrianised, giving the area a laid-back atmosphere. Numerous luxury brands have flagship stores here, and you’ll also find the biggest Uniqlo in Ginza where you can make your own customised clothing and accessories.

Ginza is mostly known as a destination for shopping and fine dining, but also features theatres and art galleries expanding its appeal. Quieter than Shibuya or Shinjuku, Ginza is well suited to travellers with a mid-luxury budget, couples, and foodies. It’s within walking distance of Tsukiji Market - a must on any Tokyo itinerary, and is easily connected with access to Ginza and Yurakucho stations.

MUJI HOTEL GINZA | Brought to us by the much-loved Japanese brand, the Muji Hotel in Ginza is an ode to Japanese minimalist design. Natural wood and stone finishes provide functional yet stylish rooms, and it’s right in the heart of Ginza so you’re close to shopping and dining.

Agora Tokyo Ginza | One of the mid-range hotels in Ginza, Agora takes design influence from minimalism with clean lines and neutral interiors. Just moments from Higashi-Ginza station, it’s convenient for exploring wider Tokyo too.

Aloft Tokyo Ginza | This trendy hotel has a youthful vibe and takes inspiration from industrial and urban design. Just a short walk from Ginza Station and Nissan Crossing, it also features a fitness centre and W XYZ Bar, the in-house bar, does great signature cocktails.

Hotel GrandBach Tokyo Ginza | Inspired by the music of composer Johann Sebastian Bach, this elegant hotel is exactly the sort of place you’d expect in Ginza. Rooms are designed for encouraging relaxation with soothing colour palettes and high-end amenities, and it also includes a fine-dining restaurant serving both Japanese and Western cuisine.

Shimbashi | Best for foodies

Shimbashi doesn’t often feature on most guides of where to stay in Tokyo and I think that’s a shame. I spent a week in Shimbashi during my first trip to Japan and it’s an underrated neighbourhood in my opinion. By day it’s an area bustling with salarymen as there are numerous corporate headquarters located in the area - but this is the time you’ll mostly be exploring.

Come evening, the Shimbashi is a haven for finding a local dinner hotspot. Izakayas and small bars are tucked away in traditional laneways, which can feel like a surprising find among the modern buildings in the area.

Shimbashi is great if you’re a budget-conscious or solo traveller, a foodie, or someone looking for convenience. Between the populous dining options and being well-connected for getting around Tokyo thanks to Shimbashi station being located on the Yamanote Line, you’ll also get the benefit of experiencing everyday Tokyo.

HOTEL 1899 TOKYO | A beautiful boutique hotel focused on minimalist interiors and built around the concept of tea. Rooms are designed with a serene ambience in mind and guests can enjoy tea-tasting experiences at the green tea cafe on site.

Candeo Hotels Tokyo Shimbashi | I stayed here on my first trip to Tokyo and it was a great base for a week in the city. Enjoy buffet breakfasts, and onsite wellness and spa centre, and the onsen is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Park Hotel Tokyo | This art-led design hotel has spectacular panoramic views and each room features a unique artistic design. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Shimbashi station and on a clear day you can spot Mt Fuji from some rooms.

THE BLOSSOM HIBIYA | A luxury hotel that blends modern design with Japanese elegance, The Blossom Hibiya is close to the Imperial Palace. The standout feature is the ceiling-to-floor windows that overlook the Tokyo skyline.

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Shimbashi-Karasumoriguchi | A budget-friendly option just a short walk from Shimbashi JR station, Sotetsu Fresa is a popular chain in Japan. Rooms are compact, as is common in Tokyo, but there are laundry facilities and a 24-hour reception.

Ebisu, Meguro and Daikanyama | Best for living like a local

If you’re looking somewhere with more of a local feel that is close enough to the action in Shibuya and Shinjuku, Ebisu, Meguro, and Daikanyama are the great options. These are some of my favourite areas in Tokyo and the evening ambience is more low-key than the busy streets of the city’s more touristic destinations.

In spring, the Meguro river blooms with soft pink cherry blossoms and I love Onibus Coffee, a great little spot with a window seat overlooking the passing trains. Daikanyama has a village-like feel to it and is home to a fantastic bookstore, T-Site. Ebisu and Meguro stations are both located on the Yamanote Line, as well as several metro lines.

I’d recommend this area of Tokyo for couples and solo travellers, creatives, and families that want a quieter, more laid-back stay that is well-connected by public transport.

Ebisuholic Hotel | A boutique hotel with a contemporary design-led approach, Ebisuholic is great for couples and solo travellers. Rooms typically run larger than is standard in Tokyo and there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes near the hotel.

Tokyu Stay Meguro Yutenji | Located in a quiet residential area, This branch of Tokyo Stay is ideal if you’re looking to make more of a home when in Tokyo. Rooms come with a kitchenette and many also have a balcony - something not common in Tokyo hotels.

Prince Smart Inn Ebisu | A sleek and minimalist approach to design, Prince Smart Inn Ebisu is great for solo travellers or those travelling for business. With laundry facilities and a co-working space, it’s ideal for longer stays.