Where to Stay in Tokyo for Your First Epic Visit to Japan

Nov 11, 2019 | 0 comments

Best 6 Areas in Tokyo with Recommended Hotels to Stay for Your First Visit in Japan

I chose Tokyo as the first city to stay during my very own first visit to Japan. And I’m willing to bet that Tokyo will be your first stop in Japan as well. But Tokyo is comprised of 23 wards! This makes it difficult for first-time solo and family travelers trying to find a good affordable Tokyo hotel for their holiday.

That’s why in this Tokyo hotel guide I’m only recommending six of the best areas to stay in Tokyo.

When I first discovered Tokyo on my own I couldn’t believe how huge the city is. Just like you, I was looking for an area in Tokyo that didn’t cost more than my plane ticket! And I wanted to stay in an area with lots of good food close to Tokyo train stations.

Wayfaring Soul Tip #288 – Booking Japanese Hotels

“Don’t procrastinate. Make your Tokyo hotel reservation 1 to 2 months in advance.”

Five years later and a total of 10 trips (as of writing) to Tokyo under my belt I felt confident enough to present to you my Tokyo hotel guide. I’ve narrowed your Tokyo hotel search to only six neighborhoods that are all perfect for exploring Tokyo.

There are only six wards in greater Tokyo you should focus on to make your Japan trip planning simpler.

Let’s take a look at all of them below!

SIX BEST AREAS TO STAY IN JAPAN (PLUS REASONS WHY)

1. SHINJUKU (Shinjuku Ward) – Fast-paced and exciting Shinjuku puts you in the center of Tokyo’s action. Walk the narrow lanes of Golden Gai’s bars. Hit the shopping spots and enjoy the restaurants of Shinjuku. If you are feeling a bit naughty head over to the nearby Kabuchiko red light district.
2. ASAKUSA (Taito Ward) – You’re looking to stay around or as close as possible to Sensō-ji temple. Take a stroll around nearby Sumida Park and enjoy a view of the river. It’s also a prime spot for cherry blossom viewing from mid-March to April. Plus many traditional Japanese shops with restaurants and shopping along Asakusa’s historic alleyways. To my wonderful Muslim friends reading this, because Asakusa is so popular with tourists from around the world there are many popular halal restaurants in the area as well.
3. TOKYO STATION (Chiyoda Ward) – If you plan to visit many areas near Tokyo, particularly with the Shinkansen train to Mt. Fuji, Osaka, and Kyoto, consider staying around Tokyo Station. Cheaper travel by bus is also available to Kyoto and Osaka.
4. SHIBUYA (Shibuya Ward) – A mix of trendy eclectic shops and high-end clothes for Tokyo fashionistas are all concentrated in Shibuya. Many famous tourist attractions are around Shibuya, most famously Harajuku and Meiji Shrine. And don’t forget to make your rounds on the Shibuya Crossing. You haven’t been to Shibuya if you haven’t crossed it. And snap an Instagram photo with Hachiko while you’re there.
5. GINZA (Chuo Ward) – Not just for rich stuffy shoppers with cash bursting from their wallets. Ginza, my friends can also be budget-friendly as well with many affordable hotels and attractions like Imperial Palace and the old Tsujiki Fish Market.
6. IKEBUKURO (Toshima Ward) If you’re traveling to Tokyo during high season, check for hotels near Ikebukuro Station. It’s not far from Shinjuku, yet lesser known. If your budget is tight Ikebukuro is where you should stay to save money on hotels in Tokyo. This area is a lot more quieter but there are plenty of places to eat. Matter of fact Ikebukuro was where I stayed most of the time when I was a young solo traveler. I’ve got a lot of fond memories of Ikebukuro.

Tokyo Hotel Prices – Is it Expensive?

Historically the city of Tokyo and Japan overall always had the reputation for expensive hotels and accommodations. Space is a precious commodity in Tokyo. Spacious hotel rooms are expensive in Tokyo. Smaller rooms are cheaper It’s that simple.

That said, I come from New York City and I know NYC hotels are just about if not more expensive than Tokyo. However, Tokyo has a greater number of hotels compared to NYC. But I can say one thing for certain budget Japanese hotels are better than budget hotels in NYC, in terms of quality.

Many are shocked by the size of small hotel rooms. But trust me you will get used to it. And besides you are going to be outside most of the time anyway.

The more I travel throughout Japan I discover that the country’s hotel accommodations are not as expensive as most would think.

Japan Hotel Prices Are Not As Expensive As You Think

Today Japanese hotels are more expensive right after COVID restrictions were completely lifted. That said, it also means Tokyo hotels have to keep their prices competitive as well.

I generally avoid paying over $80USD a night in Tokyo when visiting alone. Most of the time when I’m traveling with my wife I spend between $100USD to $125USD for double occupancy rates. Which is not too bad at all.

When I am traveling alone, I mostly stay in Tokyo capsule hotels which cost around $60USD. If I’m in the mood for more privacy the APA branded business hotels in Tokyo are a very good budget alternative.

Wayfaring Soul Tip #287 – Booking Japanese Hotels “If you can’t stand stale cigarette smoke, remember to book non-smoking rooms.”

7 Tokyo Hotel Booking Tips

1. Tokyo hotels are very popular not only with foreign tourists. Local Japanese tourists from all over their country love visiting their capital city also. With rooms in high demand, especially during peak travel seasons (check out the info graph below) you should book one to two months in advance to be sure to lock in the price.
2. If the hotel you pick doesn’t include breakfast in the room rate but charges around $10USD extra you might consider paying that extra money for breakfast. More about that below.
3. Always pick a hotel within walking distance of JR Train Station and Metro Train Station. Frequent travel by metered taxi is too expensive in Tokyo. Trains and buses are the way to go to save money on transportation.
4. You can save extra money by walking to Tokyo attractions if possible. I often stroll from Shinjuku to Shibuya. Or from Ginza to Tokyo Station. Exploring the main avenues and side streets of Tokyo is fun! The sidewalks are wide and street signs are in English. Strolling through Tokyo is a joy.
5. First-timers visiting Japan are going to be shocked about the size of Japanese hotel rooms. Most of the recommended Tokyo hotels I reviewed and recommend below, range from 11-17 square meters. They were mainly designed for Japanese solo business travelers who pack light for overnight stays. Which doesn’t offer a lot of space for foreign tourist and their larger-sized pieces of luggage. But every hotel type in Tokyo has a coin-operated laundry room with a washer and dryer. So you don’t need to pack too many clothes as you can wash them when needed.
6. I cannot stress this enough, that if you are a non-smoker you must remember to book a room on a non-smoking floor. Here I recommend finding hotel discounts in Tokyo and make hotel reservations through Agoda.com. I personally use both websites to find hotel discounts in Japan and they give you the option of booking smoking and non-smoking rooms.
7. Tokyo hotels have differing check in and check out hours. Most budget hotels have no reception service past 10pm. Which makes checking in rather difficult if you arrive late into the night. So be sure to notify any Tokyo hotels you’re planning to stay in your expected check-in time.

Should I Book a Tokyo Hotel Room with Breakfast – Or Not?

While booking a hotel room in Tokyo you’ll come across the option to pick a room rate with breakfast or without.

Depending on the hotel it could be about $10USD to $20USD per guests. If you see breakfast included for an additional $10USD I think it is totally worth it.

Breakfast inside a Japanese hotel is usually a Western style breakfast with scrambled eggs, salads, sausage or bacon and plenty of bread for toast. There’s also a little bit of Asian dishes like congee and curry with rice.

Personally, I always choose a room with breakfast option as long as it’s around $10USD. Any more than that it’s better to grab some eats outside.

The reason why is I can eat a lot. Every time I’m staying at a hotel in Japan with breakfast I stuff myself to the point I’m able to skip lunch. And eating two full meals out at a restaurant in Tokyo can be rather costly.

However, I know Tokyo has a lot of places where you can grab cheap meals too. As I said, this is just my personal take.

And during lunch times in afternoon you may have to wait for seating. And waiting around is the same as wasting time exploring the amazing city of Tokyo.

Okay, so now that we cleared the way by first introducing you to some Tokyo hotel booking tips and advice.

Let’s hop on over to the number one district for first time visitors to Tokyo, Shinjuku! And its my favorite district in all of Tokyo.

FIVE BEST HOTELS IN SHINJUKU FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Hotel Price Range: $110 USD to $350USD+

Shinjuku is the area you should most certainly start your Tokyo experience! There’s lots to see and do for all types of tourists, young and old. It is best to stay at a hotel near Shinjuku Station which is a major rail transit hub with these train lines:

• JR-East system includes Yamanote Line, Chūō Main Line, Chūō Rapid Line, Chūō-Sōbu Line, Shōnan-Shinjuku Line and Saikyō Line.
• Marunouchi subway line

To be honest, I can never, ever get used to Tokyo’s mind boggling train system. I feel like such a dork standing in front of the ticketing machine, figuring out which button to push. While taking ages to count coins for the fare.

I prefer walking with Google Maps leading me to my destination. From Shinjuku, I can practically walk to the interesting parts of Tokyo. I’ve taken 30 minute walks from Shinjuku to Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. Which are located right in Shibuya and adjacent to Harajuku Station!

That’s the reason why out of these six best areas to stay for your first visit to Tokyo, I’ve stayed in Shinjuku the most times. Which is why I’ve been to so many hotels in the Shinjuku area.

5 Reasons Why You’ll Love Staying in Shinjuku for Your First Visit to Japan

1. Hotels in Shinjuku are affordable for solo and group travelers. For solo travelers to Tokyo look for capsule hotels or APA Hotel Shinjuku-Gyoemmae. For couples I recommend looking for small business classed hotels. Tokyo business classed hotels are also perfect for families with connected room types available.
2. Shinjuku is a quintessential Japanese experience so if this is your first visit to Tokyo, Japan then you should be staying in Shinjuku. Even Shinjuku Station is a center of activity.
3. For those looking for a fast frenetic pace of Tokyo, Shinjuku won’t disappoint you.
4. Although Shinjuku is a well known red light district in Tokyo called Kabuchiko, there’s normal nightlife where you can enjoy like Golden Gai without getting into the seedier parts.
5. Even though Shinjuku, Tokyo is a red light district, there’s still plenty of areas to bring your kids to. Like the Tokyo Toy Museum. Or take them out to a wonderful park at Shinjuku Gyoen National Park for some fresh air and exercise. Then end a day of fun at the Tokyo Fire Museum.

SHINJUKU (新宿駅) Best Hotels in Shinjuku

1. Hotel Sunroute Higashi Shinjuku ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I can’t recommend this hotel enough. Every time my friends stay here too the tell me they enjoyed staying at Hotel Sunroute Higashi Shinjuku as much as I have. I wrote a hotel review post here awhile back, but I stayed there several times after. It was renovated back in 2016. Still to this day, it is one of the better and more affordable hotels in Shinjuku.

Single and semi-double rooms are the same size at 16 square meters with a single small bed that will fit two people. While twin rooms are larger at 21 square meters or 226 square feet. This means twin rooms will cost more.

Hotel Sunroute Higashi Shinjuku
Read reviews and check for discounts on Agoda.com
Check-in from: 14:00 (2 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

2. APA Hotel Shinjuku-Kabukicho Tower ⭐️⭐️⭐️

This hotel opened in 2015 so it’s recent, fresh and modern. APA Hotel Shinjuku-Kabukicho Tower hotel is located in the heart of Shinjuku which can be easily accessed on foot from JR Shinjuku Station and Seibu Shinjuku Station.

Though the standard rooms here are only 11 square meters the rooms are designed with functional furniture which provides a little more space for guest comforts.

This hotel is in a super busy location as the name states it’s within Kabukicho which is one of Tokyo’s red light district.

APA Hotel Shinjuku-Kabukicho Tower
Read reviews and check for discounts on Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

3. APA Hotel Shinjuku-Gyoemmae ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I’m recommending APA Hotel Shinjuku-Gyoemmae especially for solo travelers not keen on staying inside a Tokyo capsule hotel. I stayed at this particular APA Hotel when I couldn’t find a hotel that fit my budget during my travel date.

Because a single rooms cost around $100USD including taxes. And that’s a good deal since most 3 star Tokyo hotels charge at least $150USD a night for single travelers to Tokyo.

The main Shinjuku station is about 10 minutes walk. However, there’s Shinjuku Gyoemmae Subway Station only 180 meters on foot. Also I enjoyed a peaceful stroll and lunch I picked up at 7 Eleven at the nearby Shinjuku Gyoen Park.

APA Hotel Shinjuku-Gyoemmae Hotel
Read reviews and check for discounts on Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

4. Premier Hotel Cabin Shinjuku ⭐️⭐️⭐️

This hotel is located back in Kabuchiko nightlife district and closer to Shinjuku Station, about a 10 minute walk. Even though Kabuchiko is overly crowded I was relieved that Premier Hotel Cabin Shinjuku is in a quiet part of Kabuchiko. I didn’t even know that was possible. And plenty of shopping centers nearby so it’s a bonus.

The Premier Hotel Cabin Shinjuku is also another $100USD hotel inside Tokyo, but this hotel allows up to two guests. It’s a little bit of an older hotel though it’s going through a renovation. A small double room is 13 square meters.

Premier Hotel Cabin Shinjuku is also one of the hotels that charge 1100yen for breakfast. That’s reasonable so whenever I book a room there I just pay the extra for breakfast.

Premier Hotel Cabin Shinjuku Hotel
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-in until: 01:00 (1 am)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

5. Book And Bed Tokyo Shinjuku ⭐️⭐️

I mentioned earlier if you want to spend about $50USD in Tokyo then a capsule hotel is your best choice. But this is not just an ordinary capsule hotel it’s Book And Bed Tokyo Shinjuku and it’s one of the coolest hotels I’ve ever been to.

This is one of the places you’ll be telling your friends about your first visit to Tokyo.

There are shelves of books and manga throughout the hotel property to browse through after coming back from a full day of exploring Tokyo. Private rooms with a shower are also available for $100USD.

The nearest train station is Seibu Shinjuku Train Station which is about a 5-minute walk. And you’re in short walking distance to Kabuchiko and just further down is Golden Gai, a hidden narrow lane filled with tiny bars.

Extra Tips about Staying at Book and Bed Tokyo Shinjuku:

Towels are not free, but you can rent a towel for ¥162. Check in time is 16:00 (4pm) and check out time is 11:00 (11am). Be aware this is a hostel/capsule type environment so don’t expect too much privacy. Ear plugs are provided. Good news is you get to meet people from around the world.

Book And Bed Tokyo Shinjuku
Read reviews and check for discounts on Agoda.com
Check-in from: 16:00 (4 pm)
Check-in until: 23:00 (11 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

So those are my five favorite hotels to stay in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. It’s an exciting neighborhood to get fully immersed in your first visit to Tokyo’s nightlife as well as sightseeing and travel.

But if you’re looking for a hotel in Tokyo of historic significance and not be totally boring, then check out my 5 favorite hotels in Asakusa!

FIND MORE HOTELS IN SHINJUKU, TOKYO

FIVE BEST HOTELS IN ASAKUSA FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Hotel Price Range: $90 USD to $175USD+

With 37,000,000 people living in Tokyo finding a quiet neighborhood that is not boring seems impossible. That’s why I’m recommending Asakusa to you if you like an area with less people but not far from any tourist attractions.

5 Reasons Why You’ll Love Staying in Asakusa for Your First Visit to Japan

1. Asakusa is the best area to find budget hostels in Tokyo. I highly recommend this area for all budget travelers searching for hostels are hotel rooms that are slightly roomier.
2. Sensoji and its surroundings are one of the most recognizable Buddhist temples of Asakusa. Surrounding this beautiful temple built in the 7th century
3. Sample the slow life in Asakusa. Watch the rickshaws pass you by as you’re sitting outside a café. Walk the old street lanes and wander around shops that have been around for generations.
4. Asakusa is an amazing neighborhood in Tokyo to explore on foot. You can walk from Sensoji temple, to Sumida River and down to iconic Tokyo Skytree. For a fun treat and peek at how Tokyo looked forty years ago take a walk along Asakusa Underground Street.
5. Food is a do not miss in Asakusa. Many small stores sell all sorts of sweet and savory foods. Remember, it’s not polite to walk and eat. So enjoy your newfound snacks near the shops you bought from.

Asakusa is the second district I’ve stayed the most in Tokyo and here are five hotels in Asakusa I know you’ll enjoy for your first trip to Tokyo.

ASAKUSA (浅草) Best Hotels in Asakusa

1. Red Planet Tokyo Asakusa ⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is one of the most well reviewed affordable hotels in Asakusa which is why I decided to stay at Red Planet Tokyo Asakusa when I visited Japan a few years back. The hotel’s location is great. Senso-ji Temple, which is Asakusa’s main attraction is a 5 minute walk.

You can get a double room for $90USD taxes included. If the room rate doesn’t include breakfast you can choose to purchase a breakfast buffet coupon for $10USD.

However, I recommend skipping the breakfast option. When I stayed there it wasn’t that good.

Red Planet Tokyo Asakusa
Read reviews and check for discounts on Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

2. Hotel Hokke Club Asakusa ⭐️⭐️⭐️

One of my best Japanese friends recommended Hotel Hokke Club Asakusa to me when a hotel I wanted to book had no rooms available. At the time it was a little too pricey for my budget.

But during one of my subsequent trips to Tokyo, I saw I could get a room small double room at Hokke Club Asakusa for $110 USD plus tax.

And I jumped at the chance to make a booking for this review. And I’m glad I did. It’s a very nice 3-star hotel five minutes walk to Kaminarimon and Nakamise-Dōri.

With short walking distance also to three train stations Asakusa Train Station, Kuramae Subway Station and Tawaramachi Subway Station.

Hotel Hokke Club Asakusa
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 10:00 (10 am)

3. Agora Place Asakusa ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Out of all the Tokyo hotels I reviewed here this one is the oldest. Agora Place Asakusa was built in 2012.

But I’m recommending them because it’s one of the few hotels in Asakusa where you can get a hotel room for around $70USD with taxes during the right time.

It’s a rate I found for their small double rooms which are 12 square meters. The last time I stayed there with my wife I paid about $90USD, taxes included.

As you can see, Tokyo hotel prices fluctuate so if you can spot a good deal you should book your room as soon as possible before the deal is over.

Agora Place Asakusa
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-in until: 00:00 (Midnight)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

4. Bunka Hostel Tokyo ⭐️⭐️

I know there’s always going to be some fellow traveler reading this and prefer staying in hostels. Not because it’s a cheap Tokyo accommodation option. But because one can meet many people from around the world interested in Japanese travel and culture.

Normally I do not stay inside a mixed dormitory hostel because I’m older. Plus I snore a lot and I think I want to be considerate to others.

Joking aside, I tried it out a few nights here because my young cousin was staying here while he was touring around Japan for his very first trip. Also, he agreed to let me have the top bunk bed.

And after staying there for a few nights I have to admit, Bunka Hostel Tokyo is one of the best budget lodging in Asakusa for the young folks. And not so bad for old folks either.

Mixed dormitory rooms are available at around $40USD plus tax. Bunka Hostel Hotel even has a private family dormitory style room with 4 bunk beds priced at $225USD plus tax which is a good price.

Bunka Hostel Tokyo
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 16:00 (4 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)
Guests arriving after 11:00 PM are requested to contact the property directly prior to arrival.

5. Ryokan Asakusa Mikawaya Honten ⭐️⭐️

In Japan Royokans are guesthouses tourists can book like a traditional hotel. You get a close and intimate look at the Japanese way of life and living which I think is an amazing cultural experience.

While staying in Asakusa during one of my trips I found Ryokan Asakusa Mikawaya Honten. There are only 19 rooms with four floors. It’s an older property and with that said it’s part of the charm of staying at a Japanese Ryokan. But you can expect rooms to be clean and in proper working order.

One thing I truly enjoy is sleeping on futons over traditional tatami mats. It may not look comfortable but it is and believe after a long day of sightseeing you’re going to sleep like a log regardless.

Rooms at Royokan Asakusa Mikawaya Honten are smaller, especially the two-person Japanese-style rooms which are 10 square meters but there’s a private bathroom and tub. The rooms are very cozy.

If you’ve stayed in many hotels and want to try something different, a Japanese Ryokan is well recommended.

Royokan Asakusa Mikawaya Honten
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-in until: 22:00 (9 pm)
Check-out until: 10:00 (10 am)
Reception is open until: 23:00 (11 pm)

FIND MORE HOTELS IN ASAKUSA, TOKYO

FIVE BEST HOTELS NEAR TOKYO TRAIN STATION FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Hotel Price Range: $110USD to $300USD+

Tokyo city’s namesake station is the most important transit hub in all of Tokyo. Nearly 3,000 trains arrive and depart in a single day connecting many parts of regional Japan.

This is why I recommend staying near Tokyo station if you plan to visit neighboring cities in Japan via rail travel.

If you choose to stay near Tokyo Station, remember the key is to pick a hotel that is not too close to the station. Many 3 to 4-star hotels with high price tags in close proximity to the hotel cost 50% more than if you were to walk 10 minutes away from the station.

But if you’re going to treat yourself to a very nice hotel you might as live it up near Tokyo Station. Treat yourself to a 5-star hotel which is why I am recommending Marunouchi Tokyo Hotel.

And if that’s too pricey for your taste then below you’ll find 5 affordable hotels near Tokyo Station for your first amazing visit to Tokyo.

5 Reasons Why You’ll Love Staying in Tokyo Station for Your First Visit to Japan

1. Staying at a hotel around Tokyo Station is ideal for travelers looking to stop in regional cities around Tokyo, like Kyoto and Osaka. Or zip out on a bullet train to Mount Fuji.
2. Located in the Marunouchi business district, Tokyo Station is not only a significant transportation hub. But a historical symbol of Japan’s growth spurt into the modern era. It’s a fabulous station that deserves visiting.
3. Tokyo Station is close to the Imperial Palace and also numerous parks to Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum to see a selection of fine arts from around the world. You can also travel on foot to Ginza, which is not far at all.
4. Ramen! I’m not kidding. Inside Tokyo Station, you will find “Tokyo Ramen Street” (東京ラーメンストリート) which has a row of famous ramen shops popular with Japanese office workers. When you get there but don’t know which ramen shop to dine in check out Rokurinsya (六厘舎).
5. Buildings around Tokyo Station have retained its modern yet classic architecture. Just like Tokyo Station, many buildings like Meiji Seimeikan make an interesting visit.

The Wayfaring Soul Travel Tip #352: “If you love jogging or long walks, check out Ueno Park (上野公園) near Tokyo Station.”

TOKYO TRAIN STATION (東京駅) – Best Hotels Near Tokyo Station

1. Pearl Hotel Yaesu ⭐️⭐️⭐️

One of the most affordable hotels near Tokyo Station. Pearl Hotel Yaesu is 400-meter walk from the city’s most important transportation link in Japan.  And located near Sakura Dori Street where you’ll find plenty of affordable restaurant chains.

Pearl Hotel Yaesu is one of the few affordable full-service hotels near Tokyo Station. A single room for two persons cost around $90USD plus taxes. Goes without saying that the room is small at 12 square meters.

If you’re staying there be sure to check out a wonderful shrine called Suiten-gū (水天宮) devoted to conception and safe child-birth. And then head over to Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Honten to spend some of that cash you saved on staying at Pearl Hotel Yaesu.

This is certainly one of the most affordable hotels if you wish to explore parts of Japan by Shinkansen train. Or perhaps check out more of the city via the Tokyo subway Nihombashi.

Pearl Hotel Yaesu
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 10:00 (10 am)

2. Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi ⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is an expensive hotel but if you can find a double room here for around $110USD with taxes I would definitely book a room here. Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kobashi hotels’ double rooms are 15 square meters in size.

Designed mainly as a business hotel for Japanese salarymen, which was what I saw mostly when I stayed there. But tourists will be just as comfortable here from my experience.

And there are so many cool places to check out near this hotel, especially if you’re into movies.  I discovered the National Film Center by accident and enjoyed wandering around the exhibitions.

Hotel Intergate Tokyo Kyobashi
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

3. Belken Hotel Tokyo ⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you don’t want to pay over a $100USD for a fine 3-star hotel in Tokyo Station then here’s a $90USD hotel I recommend. I only stayed here for one night to catch Shinkasen train to Osaka but I was happy with that single night.

I stayed in the single room for two adults and the room size was around 13 square meters. But the way they have their minimalistic furniture set up you don’t get that cramped boxed in feeling.

And for the Pokemon nerds there’s a cool Pokemon Center & Cafe just a few minutes walk from Belken Hotel Tokyo’s doorsteps.

Belken Hotel Tokyo
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

So those are the three hotels I’ve stayed near Tokyo Station. Besides the Pokemon Center there’s really not much to do and see for young at heart travelers.

Because the area is more of a transit point and business center with the nearby amazing Imperial Palace Grounds.

If you want to pick up the fast pace lifestyle of Tokyo then perhaps staying in a hotel in Shibuya is more to your liking.

FIND MORE HOTELS IN TOKYO STATION, TOKYO

FIVE BEST HOTELS IN SHIBUYA FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Hotel Price Range: $100USD to $250USD+

From my observations and experience in staying hotels around Tokyo, Shibuya hotels are more expensive than Shinjuku and Asakusa.

Like anything else, you can find Shibuya hotel deals and discounts when the timing is right.

If you love the latest Japanese fashion trends and mind blowing entertainment you must stay in Shibuya for your first epic trip to Japan. Even if you’re not you’ll still enjoy staying in Shibuya for your first trip to Japan.

5 Reasons Why You’ll Love Staying in Shibuya for Your First Visit to Japan

1. Yoyogi Park and Meiji Shrine are just a few places in Shibuya to enjoy some nature. And who can
2. The Japanese Harajuku craze is making less noise today. But it’s not dead. Check out Takeshita Street and walk shoulder to shoulder with the young Japanese fashionista.
3. Not only is Shibuya a start point for most Japanese styled fashion trends. More treats and interesting foods and cafes are located in Shibuya
4. Shibuya is also a popular transit hub. There’s the subway train and JR train access so you can check out other parts of Tokyo easy. Though you can walk to Shinjuku in only 30 minutes up Meji Dori Avenue.
5. Shinjuku is open 24/7. Sure most of Tokyo is but Shinjuku specifically has lots of activity at all hours. Chances are if you’re reading this you’re younger than me. There are a lot of nightclubs in Shibuya.

SHIBUYA (渋谷) – Best Hotels in Shibuya

1. Mustard Hotel Shibuya ⭐️⭐️⭐️

My wife and I stayed at Mustard Hotel Shibuya just a few months after in opened in 2018. So this is an all new hotel with bunk rooms for hostel style stay and also with private rooms.

We stayed in the 20 square meter superior double rooms with a private bathroom which cost $110USD per night with breakfast.

There are also private 10 square meter double rooms that cost $90USD per night with taxes and breakfast included but shared bathroom access with hostel guests.

Mustard Hotel Shibuya
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 14:00 (2pm)
Check-in until: 00:00 (Midnight)
Check-out until: 10:00 (10 am)

2. The Millenials Shibuya Hotel ⭐️⭐️

One of my best friends is a lady who loves to travel alone, especially around Tokyo. She’s the one that told me I must recommend Millenials Shibuya Hotel to single female travelers looking to stay inexpensively in Shibuya. Not that she’s implying that Japan is not safe for solo female travelers.

The Millenial Shibuya Hotel is not your average ordinary capsule hotel. They call it a pod style room and the difference is the ceilings are higher with a semi double 120cm wide bed. There’s a nifty storage space under the bed.

The Millenials Shibuya Hotel
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-in until: 01:00 (1 am)
Check-out until: 10:00 (10 am)

3. Shibuya Granbell Hotel ⭐️⭐️⭐️

It’s very rare that we book a hotel in Tokyo that costs $150USD plus tax for a night. But we were in Shibuya last minute. Long story short, we were too tired to look for something cheaper after a super long day of fun in Tokyo.

Shibuya Granbell Hotel is a full-service hotel and we booked a 13 square-meter room for one night before moving on to Kyoto.

It’s a comfortable clean functional hotel that is just a 5-minute walk to Shibuya Train station and a 10-minute walk to the famous Shibuya Crossing.

Shibuya Granbell Hotel
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 14:00 (2pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

FIND MORE HOTELS IN SHIBUYA, TOKYO

FIVE BEST HOTELS IN GINZA FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Hotel Price Range: $100USD to +$300USD

If we judge a book by its cover then Ginza looks like a place where mere mortal tourist cannot afford a hotel or grace the pristine streets in worn down flip flops.

True, Ginza is geared towards upmarket local shoppers and travelers looking to live it up in a glitzy part of Tokyo. It’s one of the top fine shopping centers in the Tokyo area. If you don’t believe me check out GINZA SIX where you can find artwork from famous artist and purchase overpriced t-shirts printed in China.

At least window shopping is free and there are many cultural and historical stops in Ginza to explore.

Even though the streets of Ginza are lined with high end shopping centers, oddly enough I find hotels in Ginza less expensive than Shibuya.

I’m not into brand name goods and shopping for luxury items. But I never count Ginza out as one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo for tourists on their first trip to Japan.

5 Reasons Why You’ll Love Staying in Ginza for Your First Visit to Japan

1. I’m not into Kabuki, Japan’s famed traditional dance/drama opera. But maybe you are. If so, this is the reason why you’d want to stay in Ginza. The famed Kabukiza Theatre is located right in Ginza.
2. I’m in my mid 40’s but I’m still a kid at heart. Inside Hakuhinkan Toy Park, you’ll find over 200,000 varieties of toys. I’m also into the latest tech and the Ginza Sony Park. With toys and tech, you can easily let your inner geek out on your first trip to Tokyo.
3. Tokyo has some of the most interesting architecture and buildings in Japan. Because Ginza is so near Tokyo Station there are also many interesting architecture to check out. My favorites are the Nakagin Capsule Tower, the aforementioned Kabukiza Theatre, and Tsukiji Honganji Temple.
4. For beer lovers, grab a nice frosty one (or two or three) inside Lion Sapporo Beer Hall. It’s also a pretty good restaurant serving European dishes but with a Japanese twist. There’s no sushi. The atmosphere is fun and the ambiance is “unique” in Tokyo.  Prices are reasonable and remember legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years.
5. Yurakucho (有楽町) is the main reason why I stayed in Ginza more than a few times. I love sushi and yakitori. But sometimes I just can’t help myself to some Italian, French and American food. I swear, the Japanese just do it better. Many of these restaurants are located underneath suspended rail tracks and you get this old-style feel. The lane runs up to Tokyo Station.

As I mentioned already, surprisingly Ginza hotels to me are more affordable than Shibuya. Here are a few full service Tokyo hotels I’ve personally stayed in Ginza.

Ginza (銀座) – Best Hotels in Ginza

1. Keikyu Ex Inn Higashi Ginza Tokyo Ginza Tsukiji ⭐️⭐️⭐️

With a long hotel name like that it’s gotta be good. Really I do pick hotels just by the sound of the name. I did the same while I was looking for a hotel in Taipei and found Hotel Papa Whale.

It’s also one of the most reasonably priced hotels I could find for my wife and me during one of our trips to Tokyo. You can get a room at Keikyu Ex Inn for around $100USD plus tax.

The old Tsukiji fish market and Ginza’s shopping centers are a short walking distance. Cultural sights are even closer to Keikyu Ex Inn like Tsukiji Honganji Temple and several other temples are a hundred meters away.

Keikyu Ex Inn Higashi
Read reviews and check for discounts on Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-in until: 00:00 (Midnight)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

2. Hotel Orient Express Ginza ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I found Hotel Orient Express Ginza through Booking.com, it came up first during a search on my recent trip to Tokyo. I paid about $85USD for a double room that was 15 square meters.

That’s a sweet deal considering it’s only 120 meters from Tsukiji subway station. You can walk to the main strip of Ginza in 15 minutes. Also the old Tsukiji Market is about a 10 minute stroll.

Out of all the hotels I’ve listed here Hotel Orient Express Ginza has the most comfortable beds. Maybe because this hotel just opened in 2019 so everything is still in really good condition.

Hotel Orient Express Ginza
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-in until: 01:00 (1 am)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

FIND MORE HOTELS IN GINZA, TOKYO

So finally we’re here on number six on list of the best areas with hotels to stay in Tokyo for your first epic visit to Japan!

Ikebukuro isn’t widely known as the other wards listed on this Tokyo hotel guide. Even when Ikebukuro, located in Toshima City is just north of Shinjuku. So you’re still in Tokyo.

If I can’t find any Tokyo hotels that I can afford during peak seasons, Ikebukuro never fails me. Below you’ll find just a few Ikebukuro hotels that I know you’ll enjoy!

FIVE BEST HOTELS IN IKEBUKURO FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS

Hotel Price Range: $70USD to +$200USD

I stayed in Ikebukuro a few times. The first time was due to Silver Week in September when there are a few national holidays. So hotels were fully booked or simply out of my price range.

The JR Yamanote line makes stops at Ikebukuro Station so you know it’s a major area in Tokyo. Though not too many people consider staying there because it’s not as glitzy and showy as Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ginza.

This area is sort of considered off the beaten path. But there’s perks when you travel down the road less traveled. It’s not easy finding a 16 square meter room like the three star Tokyo Stay Ikebukuro for two persons that cost $90USD.

Ikebukuro’s location is just the perfect spot in Tokyo to me. It’s only north of Shinjuku and conveniently connects both wards by JR Train Stations.

Even if you want to stay in Tokyo during low season and want to save even more money, I highly recommend looking into staying around Ikebukuro.

Because Tokyo is such a popular city to visit I’m not surprised at all that many surrounding wards are going to cover the influx of foreign visitors visiting Tokyo for their very first time.

5 Reasons Why You’ll Love Staying in Ikebukuro for Your First Visit to Japan

1. I think Ikebukuro is the best area to stay in Tokyo for families. Because the hotel rates are more affordable, families can book connecting rooms to maximize space.
2. You won’t be paying big Tokyo prices. Yet you’re still in Tokyo. Ikebukuro is the best area to stay inside the city of Tokyo on a budget.
3. Ikebukuro has the third busiest station hub in Japan. At the center of Ikebukuro is the train and subway station, a huge urban gathering shared by the JR East lines, the Seibu Ikebukuro Line and the Tōbu Tōjō Line. It is one of the main commuter hubs in the western Yamanote area of Tokyo. 8 minutes and 160 yen by the JR Yamanote, Saikyo or Shonan Shinjuku Lines and you’re at Shinujuku.
4. It is entirely possible to spend your entire stay in Ikebukuro and still enjoy your first Tokyo trip experience. And Ikebukuro has plenty of shopping centers like Seibu and Tōbu department stores.
5. If you’re lucky enough to be in Japan during the Tokyo Summer Olympics (July 24, 2020 – August 9, 2020) Ikebukuro is where you’ll find the most affordable hotels in central Tokyo during that time. While all the other areas mentioned here prices will be higher.

Ikebukuro (池袋) – Best Hotels in Ikebukuro

1. APA Hotel Tokyo Itabashi Ekimae ⭐️⭐️⭐️

The first time I’ve stayed in APA Hotel Tokyo Itabashi Ekiamae was four years ago and since then I’ve stayed there two more times. Here’s my short hotel review of APA Hotel Tokyo Itabash Ekimae.

This APA branded hotel is a few minutes walk to JR Itabashi station. It’s just two short stops from Shinjuku Station so very close and you’ll save money on hotels even though you’re paying for train travel.

Funny thing is the first time I stayed at this hotel I paid about $120USD for a double room during winter. I just checked room rates for February and see a double room for $80USD with taxes. That’s a sweet deal.

Granted the hotel hasn’t is a little dated, it’s still a clean place to enjoy visiting Tokyo.

APA Hotel Tokyo Itabashi Ekimae
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

2. Tokyu Stay Ikebukuro ⭐️⭐️⭐️

This hotel is about a 6 minute walk to Ikebukuro Station. Tokyu Stay Ikebukuro is the only hotel in Japan that I’ve ever stayed in with an actual washing machine and dryer, inside the room. There’s even a small microwave. I guess that’s the reason why their double rooms are 16 square meters.

If you’re staying in Tokyo for a little while, Tokyo Stay Ikebukuro should be on your short list.

Price point is not too shabby either at $100USD per night with taxes for double occupancy. If you’re staying alone it’s only around $80USD per night.

Tokyu Stay Ikebukuro
Read reviews and check for discounts in Agoda.com
Check-in from: 15:00 (3 pm)
Check-out until: 11:00 (11 am)

FIND MORE HOTELS IN IKEBUKURO, TOKYO

MORE OF THE BEST CITIES AND HOTELS TO STAY FOR YOUR FIRST EPIC VISIT TO JAPAN
Osaka – Three Best Areas to Stay in Osaka
Kobe – Looking to stay in Kobe, check out Sannomiya