Tokyo is tremendously big so choosing the best place to stay can be headache-inducing. Well let me tell you this secret, when searching for where to stay in Tokyo, there is no one BEST neighbourhood. Instead, the best neighbourhood depends on your needs during your trip. My list contains what I consider to be the 8 best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo for first-time visitors, along with what to do there and what you might not like about it (after all, no place is perfect, right?).
Tokyo is made up of 23 wards, 6 of which are central: Chiyoda, Chuo, Minato, Shinjuku, Shibuya and Taito. Each ward then has its districts or neighbourhoods, there is no exact number for this as each ward could have hundreds. Thankfully, the transport network is outstanding, meaning wherever you stay in Tokyo you are well connected to the rest of the city.
Are you ready to find out which one of the 8 best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo is for you?
Tips On How To Choose Where To Stay In Tokyo For First Time Visitors
For first-time visitors, navigating Tokyo, the biggest city in the world can be a challenge. Deciding where to stay in Tokyo is often the first hurdle. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice!
- Stay close to a subway station. There are 13 lines, however, for sightseeing the most convenient lines are the Yamanote Line or the Ginza Line.
- Make an itinerary. This might seem obvious but pay close attention to the places where you plan to start and end the day. Do many overlap? Bingo, that’s where you stay. I always prefer to plot my itinerary on Google Maps by saving all the places I plan to go to
- Plan to go to bars and clubs? Stay in a nightlife district so getting home is easy and not dependent on the last subway.
Related Post: 3 Day Tokyo Itinerary
Where To Stay In Tokyo
Click here for the full map with subway stops and hotels
1. Shibuya + Harajuku
Where to stay in Tokyo for first time visitors looking for nightlife
Shibuya is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo for first-timers. Close to major attractions, Shibuya offers convenient access, minimising subway time and simplifying navigation. It is touristy, lively and colourful. Dotted with colourful skyscrapers, fun 3D advertisements on LCD screens, along with trendy bars and restaurants.
Partygoers will enjoy the vibe here, with an abundance of bars it is the best place for anyone planning to hit the town after hours. Due to the number of bars, this is the best place to stay in Tokyo if you plan to experience the nightlife. Staying in Shibuya allows you to dance the night away without last-subway worries.
Aside from exploring the many Izakayas and nightclubs, there are many other fun and memorable things to do in Shibuya such as this Go-Kart tour, and food tour.
Things to do in Shibuya
- Shibuya Crossing – the most famous and busiest crossing in the world
- Shibuya Sky – panoramic observation deck 229 meters (751 feet) tall, on a clear day you can see Mount Fuji
- Mag’s Park rooftop bar
- Harajuku
- Miyashita Park
- Hachiko Statue
- Konno Hachimangu
Cons of staying in Shibuya
Shibuya is one of the busiest neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo, although this can be a positive when it comes to nightlife and energy, it can also be tough on the days you want to relax and escape the noise. In addition for anyone on a tight budget, Shibuya is one of the most expensive areas to stay, consider exploring other Tokyo neighbourhoods that are more affordable.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: Hotel Fukudaya Midrange: REI Hotel Splurge: sequence Miyashita Park
If your visit is only short consider staying in a capsule hotel such as the Millennials
Related Post: 1 Day Tokyo Itinerary
2. Shinjuku
Where to stay in Tokyo for bar hopping and LGBT friendly nightlife
Shinjuku is Shibuya’s ever so slightly grittier sister. Drenched in colourful neon signs, Shinjuku is one of the biggest entertainment districts in Tokyo. Its vibrant streets are packed with bars and clubs, bound to cater for all tastes. It is also known for its large number of LGBT bars.
Things to do in Shinjuku
- Omoide Yokocho
- Golden Gai
- Kabukicho
- Hanazono-jinja Shrine
- Godzilla road
- Taito Station Game World
Cons of staying in Shinjuku
It is worth noting that Shinjuku station is an absolute maze, with a whopping 300 exits it can be difficult to navigate. Getting lost here is a common complaint, if you plan to take the subway daily, this may be something to consider. Additionally, there are also a large number of ticket touts and promotors that will try and get you to come into their club. It’s best to politely decline their offers.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: APA Kabukicho Tower Midrange: Washington Hotel Splurge: Keio Plaza
Capsule Hotel: Rembrandt Cabin
3. Akasaka
Where to stay in Tokyo for first time visitors on a budget
Akasaka is my favourite area to stay in Tokyo, it has a laidback vibe with lots of office buildings, and it is not as hectic as other areas of Tokyo. I enjoyed winding down here in a bar or restaurant after a busy day of sightseeing.
A major motive to stay in Akasaka is its affordability factor. There are plenty of budget-friendly hotels along with being well connected to others areas of Tokyo. With 3 metro stations, you can reach Shibuya and Shinjuku in about 15 minutes.
Although there aren’t many nightclubs you will find many chill izakayas and expat bars. I highly recommend Izakaya Sanzoku and The Mermaid.
Things to do in Akasaka
- Shrines: Hie Shrine (a mini Fushimi Inari) and Atago Shrine
- Imperial Palace
- Ryogoku Kokugikan – sumo wrestling stadium
- the Harry Potter cafe
- Prime Minister’s residence
- National Diet Building
Cons of staying in Akasaka
Akasaka is not as glamorous as Shibuya or Shinjuku, you won’t find many bright neon signs here, it is mainly modern office buildings. If nightclubs are your scene consider staying elsewhere as there are mostly cosy izakayas and bars here. Additionally, although Akasaka has a good selection of budget hotels, there are many upscale restaurants which might not be suitable if you are on a budget.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: Keio Presso Inn Midrange: Super Hotel Premier Luxury: Hotel Risveglio
Capsule Hotel: 9h nine hours Akasaka sleep lab
Related Post: 23 Ways To Save Money In Japan
4. Asakusa
Where to stay in Tokyo for culture
Asakusa is another budget-friendly neighbourhood to stay in Tokyo with lots to offer! This neighbourhood is a glimpse of old Japan, there aren’t many bright neon-lit skyscrapers here. Instead find small alleys, shopping streets and shrines.
The good news is that Asakusa has more inexpensive accommodation offers compared to other neighbourhoods. Getting around is easy with Asakusa located on the Yamanote loop Line. Asakusa has a laid-back and retro feel with plenty of character.
Things to do in Asakusa
- Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate)
- Sens?-ji (Tokyo’s oldest temple)
- visit the retro amusement park Hanayashiki
- Nakamise-dori Street
- Sumida River Walk
Cons of staying in Asakusa
Asakusa gets extremely busy with visitors to Sensi-ji however during the night it is significantly quieter with many businesses closing at 11 pm. There are low-key izakayas offering a local experience, but if you’d rather a livier nightlife Asakusa may not be for you.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: Hotel Tavinos Midrange: OMO3 Splurge: Asakusa View
RYOKAN: PROSTYLE
5. Ueno
Where to stay in Tokyo to experience local life and access Narita Airport
It is no secret that Ueno is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo for first-time visitors. Ideal for exploring, Ueno sits conveniently on both the Yamanote and JR lines, offering easy access to the city.
A major perk of staying in Ueno is its proximity to the bustling Ameyoko market. This vast open-air market (slightly less famous than Tsukiji but still a popular destination) stretches over 160,000 square feet and offers a treasure trove of street food, izakayas, and shops selling everything imaginable.
For those arriving at Narita Airport, Ueno offers an additional advantage. It’s the fastest interchange station on the Yamanote Line to Narita, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure.
Although Ueno attracts tourists, it’s not nearly as many as Shibuya or Shinjuku. This translates to a more authentic local experience.
Things to do in Ueno
- Ueno Park + Zoo
- Rent a swan boat at Shinobazu Pond
- Ameyoko market
- Tokyo National Museum + National Science Museum
Cons of staying in Ueno
During the weekends Ueno Park and Ameyoko market can become extremely crowded, for those travelling with children it might become overwhelming. Aside from the crowds, there are limited luxury hotels. If you are looking to splurge on somewhere fancy then Ginza or Shibuya might be a better fit.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: ICI Hotel Midrange: Hotel sardonyx Splurge: Section L
Ryokan: Ryokan Katsutaro
6. Akihabara
Where to stay in Tokyo for anime, manga and gaming
Only a short walk from Ueno is Akihabara, also referred to as “electric town”. This is a fun, central neighbourhood, with some decently priced hotels.
In Akihabara you will find all things manga and anime related, along with maid cafes and arcades, it is a wonderful place to gain an insight into Japanese pop culture. It is not all anime though, Akihabara is also the place to go for electronics in Tokyo, you can find modern, retro and specialised gadgets here.
Things to do in Akihabara
- Games Arcade – Tokyo Leisureland / TAITO Station
- visit a maid cafe
- Kanda Shrine
- Mandarake Complex
Cons of staying in Akihabara
Akihabara might not appeal to everyone. If anime, manga and maid cafes aren’t your thing, it may feel less exciting. Nightlife options are also limited.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: Marukou Midrange: Hotel Resol Splurge: Nohga Hotel
7. Ginza
Where to stay in Tokyo for luxury shopping
Ginza is a posh and pricey neighbourhood, most known for its high-end shopping and upscale dining. It is quieter than other neighbourhoods on the list, it’s perfect for anyone looking to relax after a day of sightseeing and crowds. If you want to wine and dine in style, this is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo for you!
Things to do in Ginza
- Shopping: Ginza Six, Ginza Mitsukoshi and Printemps Ginza
- Kabuki Theater
- Art Aquarium Museum
- Close to Tsukiji Market
Cons of staying in Ginza
Ginza is one of Tokyo’s most expensive neighbourhoods, this includes accommodation, dining, nightlife and shopping. For anyone watching their cash, it will be more difficult to remain on a budget here. Ginza is a sophisticated neighbourhood, for people looking for a more energetic vibe, Ginza might appear sterile.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: Ginza Capital Hotel Midrange: Hotel Vista Splurge: The Gate Hotel
8. Roppongi
Where to stay in Tokyo for nightclubs and expat community
Roppongi is the expat area of Tokyo. There are many upscale clubs here, the clubs are mostly similar to Western nightlife rather than a true reflection of Japanese nightlife. You will be within walking distance of Tokyo Tower and TeamBorderless Labs. Due to the high volume of expats living here, many establishments have English signage.
The nicest area in Roppongi is Roppongi Hills, you will be close to nice restaurants and great shops.
Things to do in Roppongi
- Mohri Garden
- Tokyo Tower
- Team Borderless
- National Art Center
Cons of staying in Roppongi
Although staying in a heavy expat centre can have benefits such as easier communication, however, this convenience comes at the cost of missing out on the traditional Japanese experience. Additionally, for anyone not interested in nightlife, Roppongi’s wild nights attract loud crowds and noises, that might become overwhelming for any weary travellers.
Recommended Hotels
Budget: APA Hotel Midrange: Hotel Villa Fontaine Splurge: Mitsui Garden Hotel
Summary Of Where To Stay In Tokyo For First Time Visitors
Click here for the full map of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Tokyo with subway stops and hotels
What was your favourite area to stay in Tokyo? Let me know below 🙂
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