Choosing where to stay in Tokyo can have a bigger impact on your trip than choosing a particular hotel. Tokyo is enormous, but you do not need to stay in the middle of everything. You simply need a neighbourhood with good transport links that matches the type of trip you want.
For most first time visitors, Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza, Tokyo Station, Asakusa and Ueno are the best areas. Each offers a different experience, from nightlife and shopping to traditional streets and easy airport access.
Best areas at a glance
| Area | Best for |
|---|---|
| Shinjuku | First visits, transport and nightlife |
| Shibuya | Shopping, restaurants and younger travellers |
| Ginza | Luxury, shopping and central location |
| Tokyo Station | Business hotels and Shinkansen access |
| Asakusa | Traditional atmosphere |
| Ueno | Value, museums and airport access |
If you’re still planning your route, start with the Ultimate Japan Travel Guide or compare the main cities in our Where to Stay in Japan guide.
Shinjuku
Shinjuku is the easiest recommendation for a first visit. It has one of Japan’s busiest transport hubs, making it simple to reach almost every part of Tokyo. Hotels range from budget business properties to luxury towers.
Stay on the west side for quieter hotels and on the east side if you want restaurants and nightlife. Kabukicho is lively at night but may not suit families.
Best for: first time visitors, transport, nightlife.
Shibuya
Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most exciting districts. It is packed with cafés, fashion, shopping and late night dining. The famous crossing is busy throughout the day, but the area also has quieter streets just a few minutes away.
Shibuya works well if you enjoy walking between neighbourhoods such as Harajuku, Omotesando and Ebisu.
Best for: couples, shopping, food and nightlife.
Ginza and Tokyo Station
These neighbouring districts are ideal if you want convenience and a more polished atmosphere. Ginza is known for luxury shopping, while Tokyo Station is perfect for travellers catching the Shinkansen to Kyoto or Osaka.
Hotels here are usually more expensive than Ueno or Asakusa, but the location is hard to beat.
Best for: luxury travellers, business trips and rail connections.
Asakusa
Asakusa offers a very different side of Tokyo. Senso ji Temple, narrow shopping streets and traditional architecture create a slower pace than Shibuya or Shinjuku.
It is an excellent choice if you want to experience historic Tokyo and don’t mind slightly longer journeys to western neighbourhoods.
Best for: culture, photography and quieter evenings.
Ueno
Ueno is often overlooked, but it is one of Tokyo’s best value neighbourhoods. It has museums, Ueno Park, Ameyoko Market and straightforward rail links to Narita Airport.
Hotels here are usually cheaper than Ginza or Shibuya while remaining very convenient.
Best for: budget travellers, museums and airport transfers.
Other areas worth considering
Roppongi
Known for upscale restaurants, bars and luxury hotels. Good for nightlife but less practical for first time sightseeing.
Akasaka
A quieter central district with excellent transport and good hotel value.
Shinagawa
Ideal for early bullet train departures or flights via Haneda Airport.
Odaiba
A waterfront district with larger hotels and family attractions. Better for a resort style stay than sightseeing.
Best area by traveller type
- First visit: Shinjuku
- Families: Ueno or Tokyo Station
- Luxury: Ginza
- Budget: Ueno or Asakusa
- Nightlife: Shibuya or Shinjuku
- Traditional atmosphere: Asakusa
- Shopping: Shibuya or Ginza
- Food: Shinjuku or Shibuya
Planning your whole trip? Our First Time Japan guide and 10 Day Japan Itinerary work well alongside this article.
Booking tips
- Book early for cherry blossom and autumn foliage.
- Stay within walking distance of a JR or Metro station.
- Check room size before booking.
- Choose refundable rates if your dates may change.
- Do not switch hotels just to save a small amount.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Tokyo for first time visitors?
Shinjuku is the best all round choice thanks to its transport, hotel selection and easy access to the rest of the city.
Is Shibuya or Shinjuku better?
Shinjuku is more convenient for transport. Shibuya is better for shopping and nightlife.
How many nights should I stay in Tokyo?
Four or five nights is ideal for most first visits.
Is Asakusa too far from the main attractions?
No. Journeys take a little longer than from Shinjuku, but public transport is excellent.
Should I stay near Tokyo Station?
Yes if you plan to use the Shinkansen or want an easy transfer from the airport.
Final thoughts
For most travellers, Shinjuku is the safest choice. If you want a more traditional experience, choose Asakusa. If shopping and restaurants are the priority, stay in Shibuya. Whatever you choose, staying near a major station will make your time in Tokyo much easier.
Next, compare the best places to stay in Japan or start planning with the Ultimate Japan Travel Guide.
