Where To Stay in Tokyo
Types of Accommodations
♦️ Hostels
One of the most affordable accommodation options in Japan, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
Many hostels offer both dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds and private rooms at a higher cost.
Many Japanese hostels provide modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and even capsule-style sleeping pods for added privacy.
Some hostels have strict rules, such as no shoes indoors, quiet hours, and separate male and female dormitories.
♦️ Capsule Hotels
Small, pod-style sleeping spaces designed for efficiency and privacy, commonly found in Japan’s cities.
Each capsule typically includes a bed, a small TV, lighting controls, and a storage area for personal belongings.
Ideal for short stays, layovers, or travelers who need a simple place to sleep without paying for a full hotel room.
Many capsule hotels cater to business travelers and solo guests, with some offering separate floors for men and women.
Some modern capsule hotels include added comforts like larger pods, high-quality bedding, and on-site baths or saunas.
♦️ Guesthouses
Small, family-run accommodations that offer a warm and personal atmosphere.
Often provide a mix of Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and futons, as well as Western-style rooms with beds.
Some guesthouses include breakfast, featuring home-cooked Japanese or Western meals.
A great option for travelers looking to experience local hospitality and interact with hosts.
Located in both cities and rural areas, with some offering unique cultural experiences like tea ceremonies or calligraphy lessons.
♦️ Hotels
Available in a wide range, from budget-friendly business hotels to high-end luxury accommodations.
Standard amenities often include free Wi-Fi, on-site restaurants, and concierge services.
Business hotels offer small, functional rooms at affordable prices, making them ideal for short stays and solo travelers.
Luxury hotels provide spacious rooms, high-end dining, spas, and personalized services.
Many international hotel chains operate in major cities, while smaller boutique hotels offer unique designs and personalized experiences.
♦️ Ryokans
Traditional Japanese inns that provide an immersive cultural experience.
Rooms typically feature tatami flooring, futon bedding, sliding paper doors, and minimalistic decor.
Guests are often served multi-course kaiseki meals, showcasing seasonal Japanese cuisine.
Many ryokans have communal baths, including natural hot springs (onsen), for relaxation.
Commonly found in scenic regions like Kyoto, Hakone, and the Japanese Alps, where nature plays a key role in the experience.
Guests are expected to follow certain customs, such as wearing yukata (casual kimono) and removing shoes indoors.
Average Costs for Different Types of Accommodations
▪️ Hostels: 2,000 - 4,000 JPY per night for dormitory beds; private rooms slightly higher
▪️ Capsule Hotels: 2,500 - 5,000 JPY per night, varying by location and facilities
▪️ Guesthouses: 3,000 - 8,000 JPY per night, depending on location and amenities
▪️ Business Hotels: 5,000 - 10,000 JPY per night for single rooms
▪️ Ryokans: 15,000 - 50,000 JPY per night, often including meals
1,000 JPY is approximately 6.57 USD (February 2025)
Best Times to Book
♦️ Advance Booking
It’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance if you're visiting Japan during peak travel seasons. This includes the cherry blossom season in spring (late March to early April), Golden Week (late April to early May), summer (July to August), and autumn foliage season (November). These periods attract a lot of domestic and international tourists, meaning rooms fill up quickly and prices go up. By booking early, you can secure the place you want and avoid the stress of trying to find something last minute.
♦️ Off-Peak Discounts
If you're flexible with your travel dates, visiting Japan during the off-peak months can save you quite a bit. Non-peak seasons, like winter (December to February) and late autumn (mid-November), see fewer tourists, which leads to lower accommodation rates and better availability. Many hotels and hostels offer discounts during these times, giving you the chance to explore popular destinations without the crowds. Plus, traveling during off-peak months means you have more flexibility when booking, with less rush to secure your stay.
♦️ Popular Booking Platforms
▪️ Booking.com
- Offers a wide range of accommodations from budget to luxury.
- Features user reviews to help make informed decisions.
- Competitive pricing with frequent promotions.
- Popular for international travelers, available in multiple languages.
- Flexible cancellation policies for most bookings.
▪️ Agoda
- Known for its extensive selection of accommodations across Asia.
- Offers exclusive deals and discounts, especially in Asian destinations.
- Loyalty program ("Agoda Rewards") for discounts on future bookings.
- Easy-to-use app and website for convenient booking.
Great for booking stays in Japan and other Asian countries.
▪️ Rakuten Travel
- Popular in Japan, catering to both domestic and international travelers.
- Provides detailed property information, including photos and amenities.
- Features local deals and seasonal promotions. English-language option available for international tourists.
- Integrates with Rakuten’s other services, allowing users to earn Rakuten points.
Cultural Considerations
♦️ Etiquette in Traditional Accommodations
Remove your shoes before entering ryokans and some guesthouses; slippers are usually provided for indoor use.
Wash yourself thoroughly before entering communal baths; follow specific onsen etiquette, such as not soaking towels in the bath.
Maintain quietness, especially in ryokans and traditional inns, as walls can be thin and sound carries easily.
Keep your room tidy and respect the traditional style of the accommodation, especially in ryokans where rooms are often minimalist.
Be mindful of the check-in and check-out times; punctuality is highly valued in Japanese hospitality.
♦️ Interaction Tips
Use polite language and gestures; bowing is a common form of greeting, and saying "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you) shows appreciation.
When staying in a traditional setting, engage politely with your host, but be mindful of not overstepping cultural boundaries in terms of conversation and behavior.
Popular Districts in Tokyo
📌 Shinjuku
A busy district that is a major hotspot for shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.
Known for its tall skyscrapers, shopping malls, and bright lights.
▪️ Highlights
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – a peaceful park with a mix of traditional Japanese and Western landscapes.
- Kabukicho – an entertainment district full of bars, restaurants, and clubs.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – offers free observation decks with great city views.
📌 Shibuya
Known for Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world.
A popular spot for youth culture, fashion, and entertainment.
▪️ Highlights:
- Shibuya Crossing – iconic for its massive crowds and neon signs.
- Hachiko Statue – a tribute to a loyal dog who waited for his owner daily after the same had passed away.
- Trendy shops, cafés, and restaurants make Shibuya a popular area for shopping and dining.
📌 Ginza
Tokyo’s upscale shopping district, known for luxury stores, designer boutiques, and fine dining.
The area has a refined, elegant feel with a mix of modern and classic architecture.
▪️ Highlights:
- Ginza Six – a luxurious shopping complex with high-end brands and a rooftop garden.
- Kabuki-za Theater – where you can watch traditional Kabuki performances.
- Upscale dining and nightlife – perfect for those looking for a more sophisticated experience.
📌 Asakusa
A historic area that offers a glimpse of traditional Tokyo, centered around the famous Senso-ji Temple.
Known for its mix of culture, old-world charm, and shopping.
▪️ Highlights:
- Senso-ji Temple – one of Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temples.
- Nakamise Shopping Street – lined with stalls selling traditional snacks, souvenirs, and crafts.
- Sumida River – offering scenic boat rides with views of Tokyo Skytree.
📌 Roppongi
A lively district known for its international vibe and vibrant nightlife.
Popular with both locals and visitors for its bars, clubs, and cultural landmarks.
▪️ Highlights:
- Roppongi Hills – a massive complex with shopping and dining options, as well as the Mori Tower offering panoramic views of Tokyo.
- Mori Art Museum – showcasing contemporary art in a sleek, modern setting.
- The area's nightlife and dining scene are perfect for late-night activities, with plenty of options for drinks and entertainment.
Accommodation Recommendations by Area
♦️ Shinjuku
👍 Why Stay Here: One of the best-connected areas in Tokyo, with easy access to major train lines and transport hubs. A lively district with endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it great for both daytime exploration and nightlife.
👎 Why Not Stay Here: Can be overwhelming due to its busy streets, large crowds, and bright lights, especially around Kabukicho.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
IMANO Tokyo Hostel – A stylish and social hostel offering dormitory-style and private rooms. It has a cozy café on the ground floor and is located within walking distance of Shinjuku Station, making it a great choice for budget travelers who want a convenient and comfortable stay.
Unplan Shinjuku – A stylish hostel with dormitory and private room options, a social atmosphere, and a café/bar, great for budget travelers who enjoy meeting people.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku – Known for its giant Godzilla head on the rooftop, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a great central location, and a fun theme for movie lovers.
Shinjuku Granbell Hotel – A boutique hotel with modern interiors, a rooftop bar, and stylish rooms, providing a balance between affordability and comfort.
▪️ Luxury:
Citadines Central Shinjuku Tokyo – A serviced apartment-style hotel offering spacious rooms with kitchenettes, ideal for longer stays or travelers who want more flexibility.
♦️ Shibuya
👍 Why Stay Here: A lively area at the heart of Tokyo’s youth culture, fashion, and entertainment, with endless shopping, dining, and nightlife options. Well-connected by train and subway, making it easy to explore other parts of Tokyo.
👎 Why Not Stay Here: Can be crowded and noisy, especially around Shibuya Crossing and major shopping streets.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
Nadeshiko Hotel Shibuya – A women-only capsule hotel with a cozy design, communal bath, and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for solo female travelers.
Shibuya Hotel En – A budget-friendly hotel with compact yet comfortable rooms, stylish interiors, and a central location near Shibuya’s main attractions.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel – A well-located hotel offering clean, modern rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to Shibuya Station.
Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu – A trendy hotel directly connected to Shibuya Station, featuring sleek rooms, great city views, and easy access to shopping and dining.
▪️ Luxury:
Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel – A high-end hotel with spacious rooms, stunning city views, and excellent dining options, located in a quieter part of Shibuya.
TRUNK (HOTEL) Shibuya – A boutique luxury hotel with a stylish, modern design, spacious rooms, and a focus on sustainability. Located near Cat Street, it offers a trendy and upscale stay.
♦️ Ginza
👍 Why Stay Here: One of Tokyo’s most upscale districts, known for luxury shopping, fine dining, and high-end entertainment. Centrally located with easy access to major attractions and well-connected public transport.
👎 Why Not Stay Here: Hotels in Ginza tend to be expensive, and budget options are limited compared to other areas.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
Budget stays in Ginza are rare. Consider nearby areas like Tsukiji or Nihonbashi, which offer more affordable accommodations while still being within walking distance.
TSUKI Tokyo – A stylish yet reasonably priced boutique hotel in nearby Tsukiji, offering modern rooms with a touch of Japanese design.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Hotel The Celestine Ginza – A refined boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a sophisticated atmosphere, and a convenient location near shopping and dining spots.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel Ginza – A business-style hotel with modern, well-equipped rooms, ideal for travelers looking for comfort and convenience.
▪️ Luxury:
The Peninsula Tokyo – A five-star hotel known for its spacious rooms, impeccable service, and direct access to high-end shopping and cultural experiences.
Imperial Hotel Tokyo – A historic luxury hotel offering world-class hospitality, a wide range of dining options, and a central location near the Imperial Palace and Ginza’s shopping streets.
♦️ Asakusa
👍 Why Stay Here: Rich in history and culture, home to Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, and traditional craftsmanship. Offers a more traditional atmosphere with old Tokyo charm, while still being well-connected to the rest of the city.
👎 Why Not Stay Here: The area is quieter at night compared to places like Shinjuku or Shibuya, with fewer late-night entertainment options.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
K’s House Tokyo Oasis – A cozy and well-maintained hostel with a communal atmosphere, located near Senso-ji Temple. Offers both dormitory and private rooms.
Hotel Tavinos Asakusa – A modern, affordable hotel with compact yet functional rooms, featuring a unique manga-inspired design. Located within walking distance of Asakusa’s main attractions.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Ryokan Kamogawa Asakusa – A traditional ryokan offering tatami rooms, an onsen-style bath, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere near Nakamise Street.
The Gate Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon – A stylish, modern hotel with spacious rooms, excellent city views, and a rooftop terrace.
▪️ Luxury:
Asakusa View Hotel – A high-end hotel with elegant rooms, excellent city views, and multiple dining options, including a buffet restaurant with a view of Tokyo Skytree.
Richmond Hotel Premier Asakusa – A well-rated luxury hotel offering modern amenities, spacious rooms, and a central location near Senso-ji.
♦️ Roppongi
👍 Why Stay Here: Known for its vibrant nightlife, international restaurants, and entertainment, making it ideal for those who enjoy an active social scene. Home to cultural attractions like the Mori Art Museum, Roppongi Hills, and Tokyo Midtown, offering a mix of modern art, shopping, and high-end experiences.
👎 Why Not Stay Here: The nightlife can be noisy, and the area is more catered to tourists and expatriates rather than offering a traditional Japanese atmosphere.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
APA Hotel Roppongi Ekimae – This hotel offers compact yet well-equipped rooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and en suite bathrooms. It's conveniently located just a short walk from Roppongi Station.
Comfort Inn Tokyo Roppongi – Features straightforward rooms equipped with Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minifridges. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and the convenience of being close to Roppongi's main attractions.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Candeo Hotels Tokyo Roppongi – A modern boutique hotel featuring sleek interiors, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop spa for relaxation.
Remm Roppongi – A modern business hotel located near Roppongi Station, offering compact yet stylish rooms with massage chairs, rain showers, and a focus on comfortable sleep.
▪️ Luxury:
Grand Hyatt Tokyo – A five-star hotel featuring spacious rooms, world-class dining, a spa, and a prime location in Roppongi Hills.
Oakwood Premier Tokyo Midtown – High-end serviced apartments with full kitchen facilities, luxurious furnishings, and personalized services for long-term stays.
Unique Stays in Tokyo
Tokyo offers a variety of unique accommodation experiences that go beyond standard hotels. From futuristic robot-staffed hotels to temple lodgings, here are five unusual places to stay in the city.
1. Love Hotels
Love hotels are short-stay accommodations designed for privacy, often featuring themed rooms, luxurious bathtubs, and mood lighting. While primarily used by couples, some offer stylish and quirky rooms that can be booked for a night’s stay.
📌 Meguro Emperor – One of Tokyo’s most famous love hotels, designed to look like a European castle with lavish interiors.
2. Henn na Hotel
Henn na Hotel, meaning "Weird Hotel," is a futuristic, AI-powered hotel chain where robots handle check-in, luggage, and even cleaning. The concept blends high-tech automation with hospitality, making it a fun and futuristic experience.
📌 Henn na Hotel Maihama Tokyo Bay – Located near Tokyo Disneyland, this branch is popular among families and tech enthusiasts.
📌 Henn na Hotel Akasaka – A convenient location for business travelers who want a glimpse into the future of hospitality.
3. Themed Hotels
For those looking for immersive experiences, Tokyo has a variety of themed hotels, ranging from anime-inspired designs to Disney-themed accommodations.
📌 Tokyo Disneyland Hotel – A fairytale-inspired hotel with rooms themed after Disney movies like Beauty and the Beast and Cinderella.
📌 Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo (Hello Kitty Room) – A luxury hotel offering rooms fully decorated with Hello Kitty designs, perfect for Sanrio fans.
4. Capsule Hotels
Capsule hotels are a Tokyo specialty, providing small, space-efficient sleeping pods that are surprisingly comfortable. They are ideal for solo travelers or those looking for a budget-friendly yet futuristic experience.
📌 First Cabin Akihabara – A capsule-style hotel that offers a business-class flight theme, with “cabin” rooms that are more spacious than traditional capsules.
5. Shukubo (Temple Stays)
For a peaceful, cultural experience, some temples in Tokyo offer shukubo, where guests can stay overnight and experience aspects of Buddhist life, such as meditation and vegetarian temple meals.
📌 Komadori Sanso (Mount Mitake, Tokyo) – A temple lodging in a nature-rich area where guests can join morning prayers and try traditional Buddhist cuisine.
📌 Shibamata Taishakuten Shukubo – A lesser-known temple stay in Tokyo, offering a quiet retreat with access to a historic temple complex.
Popular Areas Around Tokyo
♦️ Yokohama
Japan’s second-largest city, known for its scenic waterfront, international influences, and relaxed atmosphere. Yokohama blends modern attractions with historical sites, offering a different pace compared to Tokyo while still being easily accessible. It is home to popular destinations like Minato Mirai, Chinatown, and Yamashita Park, making it a great place to stay for those who want a mix of urban exploration and waterfront views.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
Yokohama Hostel Village – A budget-friendly option with dormitory-style and private rooms, located near Chinatown and the waterfront. Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers looking for an affordable stay in a convenient location.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Hotel New Grand – A historic hotel with European-style decor and stunning bay views. It offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Yamashita Park and Minato Mirai, making it a great choice for those who want a mix of classic charm and convenience.
▪️ Luxury:
The Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu – A high-end hotel known for spacious rooms, excellent service, and a prime location near shopping malls and attractions in Minato Mirai. A top choice for those looking for luxury with easy access to entertainment and dining.
♦️ Kamakura
A historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic coastal views, and relaxed atmosphere. Once the political center of Japan, Kamakura is home to famous temples, shrines, and the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu). With its mix of traditional charm and natural beauty, Kamakura is a great place for travelers interested in history, hiking trails, and exploring small local cafes and shops. It is also easily accessible from Tokyo, making it a popular day-trip destination or a peaceful overnight stay.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
Kakiya Ryokan – A cozy and affordable ryokan offering a traditional Japanese experience with tatami-mat rooms and futon bedding. Located near the beach and Enoshima Electric Railway, it is a great option for those who want a cultural stay on a budget.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Kamakura Park Hotel – A comfortable and stylish ryokan with a mix of Western and Japanese-style rooms. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with ocean views and easy access to Kamakura’s main attractions, making it ideal for travelers looking for both comfort and traditional charm.
▪️ Luxury:
Kamakura Prince Hotel – A high-end hotel featuring spacious rooms with ocean views, an outdoor pool, and a refined, relaxing ambiance. Located near Shichirigahama Beach, it is perfect for those seeking a luxurious stay with a mix of coastal beauty and cultural exploration.
♦️ Hakone
A well-known hot spring resort area offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and relaxing onsen experiences. Located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is famous for its stunning views of Mt. Fuji, scenic lake cruises, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy art museums, historic sites, and traditional ryokan stays with private hot spring baths. It is a popular getaway from Tokyo, offering a perfect balance of relaxation and sightseeing.
Accommodation Options
▪️ Budget:
Onsen Guesthouse Tsutaya – A budget-friendly guesthouse with access to natural hot spring baths. It offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great choice for solo travelers or those looking for an affordable way to experience Hakone’s famous onsen culture.
▪️ Mid-Range:
Hakone Pax Yoshino – A comfortable ryokan offering both Japanese and Western-style rooms, along with open-air onsen baths. Located near Hakone Yumoto Station, it provides a convenient base for exploring the area while still offering a traditional Japanese stay.
▪️ Luxury:
Gora Kadan – A high-end ryokan known for its elegant design, private open-air baths, and exceptional hospitality. Once a retreat for the imperial family, it offers an exclusive and serene experience for those seeking top-tier relaxation.
I hope that this guide will help you to find the perfect accommodation during your stay in Tokyo.
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