Introduction
Where to Stay in Tokyo: Best First Timers Guide
Tokyo is one of the world’s most exciting cities, blending ancient temples with futuristic skylines, Michelin-starred restaurants, anime culture, and world-class shopping. For first-time visitors, choosing the right neighborhood is essential because Tokyo is vast, and each district offers a unique experience.
This Where to Stay in Tokyo: Best First Timers Guide covers the best areas to stay in Tokyo, along with hotel recommendations for luxury travelers, families, couples, business travelers, and budget-conscious visitors.
Related Posts:
– Japan Travel Guide: Best Hotels, Itineraries
– 10 Days Japan Itinerary, Travel Guide & Tips
– 7 Days Japan Itinerary: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
– Best Japan Tours: Top Day Trips, Experiences
– 12 Best Hotels in Japan for every budget stays
– Best Hotels in Tokyo: Where to Stay
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Quick Picks – Where to Stay in Tokyo
| Category | Recommended Hotel |
|---|---|
| Best Overall | Hotel Groove Shinjuku, A Parkroyal Hotel |
| Best Luxury Hotel | The Peninsula Tokyo |
| Best Family Hotel | Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo |
| Best Boutique Hotel | Hotel Niwa Tokyo |
| Best Lifestyle Hotel | TRUNK (HOTEL) Yoyogi Park |
| Best Mid-Range Hotel | Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza Premier |
| Best Budget Hotel | Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International |
Best Areas – Where to Stay in Tokyo
1. Shinjuku – Best Overall for First-Time Visitors
Best for:
- First-time travellers
- Nightlife
- Shopping
- Day trips
- Transport connections
Shinjuku is often considered the best place to stay for first-time visitors because it offers easy access to nearly every part of Tokyo. You’ll find shopping malls, restaurants, bars and one of the busiest train stations in the world.
Nearby Attractions
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Kabukicho
- Golden Gai
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Recommended Hotels
Luxury
Mid-range
Budget
Additional
Hotel Groove Shinjuku, A Parkroyal Hotel
2. Shibuya – Best for Shopping & Young Travellers
Shibuya is famous for its energy, fashion and nightlife.
Highlights include:
- Shibuya Crossing
- Shibuya Sky
- Hachiko Statue
- Miyashita Park
- Trendy restaurants
Ideal for travellers who enjoy cafés, nightlife and trendy shopping.
Recommended Hotels
3. Ueno – Best for Budget Travellers
If you’re travelling on a budget, Ueno offers excellent value while still being conveniently connected.
Nearby attractions:
- Ueno Park
- Tokyo National Museum
- Ameyoko Shopping Street
- Ueno Zoo
Recommended hotels:
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno
- Hotel Sardonyx Ueno
- APA Hotel Ueno Ekimae
- NOHGA HOTEL UENO TOKYO
- Hotel Resol Ueno
4. Asakusa – Best for Traditional Japan
Want to experience old Tokyo?
Asakusa is home to:
- Senso-ji Temple
- Nakamise Shopping Street
- Sumida River
- Tokyo Skytree (nearby)
Perfect for families and travellers seeking a quieter atmosphere.
Recommended Hotels
- Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International
- Asakusa View Hotel
- Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring
5. Ginza – Best for Luxury
Luxury shopping meets five-star hospitality.
Highlights:
- Designer boutiques
- Fine dining
- Department stores
- Easy airport access
- Luxury travelers
- Couples
Top hotels:
Tokyo Station & Marunouchi – Best for Convenience
Perfect for travelers planning day trips via the Shinkansen (bullet train).
Recommended Hotels
Best Overall Hotel: Hotel Groove Shinjuku, A Parkroyal Hotel
Located in the heart of Kabukicho, this modern hotel offers stylish rooms with easy access to Shinjuku Station.
Highlights
- Excellent location
- Modern rooms
- City skyline views
- Walking distance to shopping and dining
- Convenient transport connections
Best Luxury Hotel: The Peninsula Tokyo
One of Tokyo’s finest hotels, overlooking the Imperial Palace Gardens.
Why Stay Here?
- Spacious luxury rooms
- Award-winning spa
- Michelin-starred dining
- Indoor swimming pool
- Exceptional service
Best Family Hotel: Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
Families enjoy:
- Spacious family rooms
- Airport limousine bus stop
- Multiple restaurants
- Easy access to Shinjuku Station
- Family-friendly amenities
Best Boutique Hotel: Hotel Niwa Tokyo
A peaceful boutique hotel blending Japanese design with modern comforts.
Perfect for couples and solo travelers.
Best Budget Hotel: Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa International
Offering excellent value in the historic Asakusa district, this hotel is ideal for visitors seeking comfort, convenience, and easy access to cultural attractions.
How to Choose the Right Area – Where to Stay in Tokyo
Before booking, consider:
- Proximity to JR or Tokyo Metro stations
- Airport access
- Walking distance to attractions
- Family-friendly facilities
- Breakfast options
- Laundry facilities
- Flexible cancellation
- Nearby restaurants and convenience stores
Best Time to Visit Tokyo
March–April
Cherry blossom season with mild weather.
May
Comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds after Golden Week.
October–November
Cool, dry weather and vibrant autumn foliage.
December
Festive illuminations and winter events.
Frequently Asked Questions – Where to Stay in Tokyo
Which area is best for first-time visitors to Tokyo?
Shinjuku is one of the best choices due to its transport connections, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.
Is Tokyo expensive?
Tokyo offers accommodations for every budget, from capsule hotels and business hotels to world-class luxury properties.
How many days should I stay in Tokyo?
A stay of 5–7 days allows enough time to explore major neighborhoods, cultural attractions, shopping districts, and take a day trip to destinations such as Hakone or Nikko.
Which area is best for shopping?
Shibuya and Ginza are among Tokyo’s premier shopping districts, catering to both luxury brands and contemporary fashion.
Conclusion
Tokyo offers a neighborhood for every travel style. Shinjuku is ideal for first-time visitors, Shibuya excels for shopping and nightlife, Ginza is perfect for luxury stays, Asakusa offers a traditional atmosphere, and Tokyo Station provides unmatched convenience for exploring Japan. Staying close to a major train or metro station will make getting around the city much easier.
Jobless Diary is created to document my unemployment journey.
Discover Asia’s best hotels, tours, activities and travel itineraries.