Where to Stay in Tokyo, Japan - Best Neighborhoods Guide

Tokyo is a city of distinct cities, where hyper-modern skyscrapers sit alongside ancient shrines. Choosing where to stay defines your experience: the neon chaos of Shinjuku, the youth fashion of Shibuya, the polished luxury of Ginza, or the historic charm of Asakusa. Use this guide to find the neighborhood that matches your pace.

Shinjuku Shibuya Ginza Asakusa Roppongi

Shinjuku

Shinjuku is the neon-lit leviathan of Tokyo, home to the world's busiest railway station and an endless sprawl of skyscrapers, department stores, and alleyways. It is the city's administrative center by day and a chaotic entertainment district by night. Essential for first-timers who want the 'Lost in Translation' experience and unbeatable transport links to everywhere in Japan.

What we love

+Unmatched transport connectivity (Shinjuku Station)
+Endless dining options from Michelin stars to yakitori alleys
+Vibrant nightlife that goes until morning

Worth noting

–Can be overwhelmingly crowded and intense
–Shinjuku Station is notoriously difficult to navigate
–Some areas (Kabukicho) can feel gritty

Nearby

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden · Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) · Golden Gai · Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building · Kabukicho

Shibuya

Shibuya is Tokyo's center of youth culture and fashion, defined by the iconic Scramble Crossing and giant video screens. It pulses with energy and is packed with trendy cafes, record shops, and boutiques. It’s perfect for younger travelers or those who want to be in the thick of Tokyo’s modern pop-culture heartbeat.

What we love

+Iconic urban Tokyo atmosphere
+Fantastic shopping and cafe culture
+Walkable to Harajuku, Omotesando, and Yoyogi Park

Worth noting

–Extremely crowded, especially on weekends
–Accommodation prices can be high for small rooms
–Station area is under heavy construction

Nearby

Shibuya Crossing · Shibuya Sky · Hachiko Statue · Miyashita Park · Center-gai

Handpicked Hotels

Boutique Hotels in Tokyo

Hotel Gracery Shinjuku

★★★★

Shinjuku Granbell Hotel

★★★★

Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Tokyo-Shiodome

★★★★

Hotel Ryumeikan Tokyo

★★★★

View All Hotels in Tokyo

Ginza

Ginza is Tokyo's answer to Fifth Avenue, a district of wide boulevards, luxury flagships, and gleaming architecture. It offers a more polished, grown-up side of the city with a focus on high-end dining and traditional crafts. It is ideal for shoppers and foodies who prefer refined elegance over chaotic energy.

What we love

+Upscale, clean, and pedestrian-friendly on weekends
+Tokyo's best department stores and luxury shopping
+Excellent proximity to Tokyo Station and Tsukiji

Worth noting

–Limited nightlife options for general travelers
–Dining and accommodation are expensive
–Lacks the 'otaku' anime quirkiness of other districts

Nearby

Ginza Six · Kabukiza Theatre · Uniqlo Ginza Flagship · Itoya Stationery Store · Nissan Crossing

Asakusa

Asakusa maintains the atmosphere of an older Tokyo, centered around the majestic Senso-ji Temple. The streets are lined with traditional craft shops and food stalls, offering a glimpse into the 'Shitamachi' (downtown) spirit. It is quieter and more affordable than the western hubs, making it great for families and history lovers.

What we love

+Rich traditional atmosphere and historic sites
+More spacious and affordable than Shinjuku/Shibuya
+Great access to Narita/Haneda airports (Asakusa Line)

Worth noting

–Far from the nightlife of Shinjuku and Roppongi
–Senso-ji is extremely crowded during the day
–Shows its age compared to modern districts

Nearby

Senso-ji Temple · Nakamise Shopping Street · Tokyo Skytree (visible/nearby) · Hoppy Street · Kappabashi Kitchen Town

Roppongi

Roppongi combines sophisticated culture with a raucous nightlife scene. It is home to Tokyo's best art museums and high-end residential complexes like Roppongi Hills. Popular with expats, it is one of the most English-friendly districts, offering a mix of luxury living and late-night clubs.