Where to stay in Tokyo First Time 2024 - 10 best areas
In this article, we dive deeper into your question about where to stay in Tokyo first time.
To make it as simple as possible for you as a reader, we start with an overview of all the recommended areas we cover followed by a short description.
Then, we briefly answer a few commonly asked questions:
Where to stay in Tokyo first time?
Where to stay in Tokyo with family?
Where to stay in Tokyo on a budget?
Where to stay in Tokyo for nightlife?
You can always tap on a purple link to go directly to that part of the article.
This will save you a lot of time and only read what you need to read.
Enjoy!
Overview of the best areas to stay in Tokyo first time
| Name of the area in Tokyo | Description of the recommended area |
|---|---|
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Located right in the heart of Tokyo, this area is known for its vibrant atmosphere and huge variety of shopping, entertainment, and dining options. It’s the ideal base as you have direct access to Tokyo’s busiest train station. Using the train is simply necessary to explore this enormous city. *You can click on the purple or blue link to directly navigate to that part of the article to read in-depth information about that specific area. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This part of Tokyo is famous for the iconic Shibuya Crossing and the Hachiko Statue. It’s known for its shopping and nightlife scene and especially younger travelers will appreciate this part of the city as you can combine sightseeing with a proper nightlife. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This is a central business district where you can find upscale hotels and historic architecture. You’re also located close to major attractions like the Imperial Palace. You have great access to public transport. This is an ideal area for those who want to combine sightseeing with luxury and comfort. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | A traditional part of the city and home to the historic Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. A great area for those who want to stay in a more authentic part of Tokyo. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Although shopping can be properly done in several areas, Ginza stands out from the rest being an upscale shopping and dining area. Expect high-end boutiques, large department stores with the latest fashion and tech, as well as fine dining. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | You can find shopping centers, entertainment venues, and great city views in this area, but the main reason why it’s a popular area is because of its nightlife scene. If you’re planning to explore Tokyo until the late hours, this is the place you want to stay at. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | The area where you can find several important museums and other cultural attractions. It’s a relatively quiet area where you can also find plenty of good-value hotels. For many families, this is a great area to stay at. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Electronic and anime mecca, known for its otaku culture. A paradise for tech enthusiasts, anime/manga fans, and gamers. Even if you’re not staying here, we highly recommend visiting this unique part of Tokyo as an activity. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Another large entertainment and shopping district with some similarities with Akihabara. Here, you can find the Sunshine City complex, multiple unique department stores, and themed attractions. Just keep in mind that you’re located much further away from the city center. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | A man-made island with futuristic architecture and entertainment complexes. You can find shopping malls, family-friendly museums, waterfront attractions, and theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland. This part of Tokyo mainly attracts families. |
Where to stay in Tokyo first time
The best areas to stay in Tokyo first time are Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station & Marunouchi, and Asakusa.
Shinjuku is arguably the best area because of its accessibility and the fact that it’s such a bustling area.
Shibuya is also an incredibly convenient area where you can shop until you drop, visit famous sights, and move around the city without much hassle.
Tokyo Station is another example of how easy it is to move around the city and see all the major highlights as well as make city trips, but it’s a bit pricy.
Asakusa is a great area to explore Tokyo’s historical parts with great access to other important areas in the city.
But there are many alternative areas, with each of them its own unique features.
Ginza is great for a luxurious holiday.
Roppongi is the place to be for party-minded travellers.
Ueno is the ideal place for culture lovers.
Akihabara is the epicenter of anime and manga culture in Tokyo.
Ikebukuro is a combination of manga, anime, technology, and beautiful gardens.
And lastly, Odaiba is a man-made island ideal for families with loads of entertainment parks to discover.
Where to stay in Tokyo with family
This part will be updated very soon.
Where to stay in Tokyo on a budget
The best areas to stay in Tokyo on a budget are Asakusa and Ueno.
These two areas are located conveniently and offer a wide range of affordable accommodations.
You can always look for hostels in the most popular places in Tokyo, such as Shinjuku and Shibuya, but these are not considered budget-friendly areas.
Where to stay in Tokyo for nightlife
The best areas to stay in Tokyo for nightlife are Roppongi and Shibuya.
Yes, there are many other areas that offer nightlife but for travellers who visit Tokyo for just a few days, these two are by far the most interesting ones.
Roppongi is by far the wildest of these two areas.
1. Shinjuku
Shinjuku is arguably the best area to stay in Tokyo for first-time visitors.
One of the most important factors when visiting this city is accessibility.
Tokyo is so incredibly large and moving from point A to point B can be a huge pain if you don’t take advantage of its public transportation system.
Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest and most well-connected train stations in Tokyo.
So, when you choose Shinjuku as your base, you eliminate your biggest worry to fully explore the city.
But Shinjuku has more to offer than being a transportation hub.
There are loads of things to do, ranging from shopping to nightlife.
For example, you can find department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya and bustling shopping streets like Kabukicho and Golden Gai.
Kabukicho, part of Shinjuku, is known as Tokyo’s entertainment district, where you can find numerous bars, restaurants, and other entertainment establishments.
It’s also where you can find Tokyo’s Robot Restaurant.
Shinjuku is the part of Tokyo where you can find numerous impressive skyscrapers, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
The observation decks of these buildings offer panoramic views of the city, especially beautiful during the evening.
Shinjuku seamlessly blends modern skyscrapers and neon lights with traditional elements.
And this area is popular among all sorts of travelers, as you can find a huge range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and traditional ryokans.
Is there anything not to like?
Well, as it’s such a popular area, expect it to be extremely busy, although many parts of Tokyo are simply very crowded.
Also, be aware that there is a red-light district, namely Kabukicho, that attracts a certain type of partygoer.
Lastly, although this area is super convenient with all the modern amenities, it lacks authenticity, which is more like a personal preference than a bad thing.
Other than that, Shinjuku is such a popular area among tourists for some very good reasons!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Shibuya
Shibuya is known for its youthful and trendy vibe.
It’s a fashion and entertainment hub with many boutiques, cafes, and unique shops catering to a younger crowd.
You can also find the famous Shibuya Crossing, which is one of the busiest pedestrian crossings in the world and a symbol of Tokyo.
It’s an exhilarating experience to be part of the organized chaos as thousands of people cross the street simultaneously.
Shopaholics should get excited too as Shibuya is simply a shopping paradise with a huge variety of stores ranging from high-end fashion boutiques to quirky and stylish streetwear shops.
Shibuya 109 is a famous shopping complex catering to the latest fashion trends.
Shibuya is adjacent to Harajuku, known for its unique street fashion and Takeshita Street. Tourists can easily explore both districts during their stay.
The Hachiko Statue, located near Shibuya Station, is a popular meeting point and a heartwarming symbol of loyalty.
It commemorates the loyal dog Hachiko (of which a movie was made), who waited for his owner at the station every day.
Shibuya comes alive at night with its vibrant nightlife.
It’s a far better experience compared to the previously recommended area.
But most importantly, Shibuya Station is a major transportation hub, which makes it super easy to reach other parts and attractions of Tokyo without much hassle.
As said in the previous paragraph, it’s the most important factor when choosing an area.
We believe that younger travelers who love to combine sightseeing with shopping and nightlife will appreciate this part of Tokyo the most.
But is there anything not to like?
It does get extremely crowded and hectic, especially around Shibuya Crossing.
The whole area also feels touristy and lacks a traditional atmosphere.
Some parts, especially around Shibuya Station are relatively expensive in terms of accommodation and dining.
But other than that, it really serves its purpose.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Tokyo Station/Marunouchi
The first recommended area was all about convenience.
The second recommended area was a combination of convenience and nightlife.
Both areas offer plenty of fun things to do, but what they also have in common is the lack of authenticity.
This area, Tokyo Station, and its surrounding Marunouchi offer convenience AND authenticity.
Tokyo Station is situated in the heart of the city, providing easy access to various attractions and neighborhoods.
It serves as a major transportation hub, making it convenient for exploring Tokyo and beyond.
The Marunouchi district, particularly around Tokyo Station, offers impressive historical architecture.
The beautiful facades of classic buildings, including the Tokyo Station Marunouchi Building, can be seen here.
But other historical landmarks such as the Wadakura Fountain Park and the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum are also located here.
You’re located close to the Imperial Palace, offering the opportunity to explore the East Gardens and the Nijubashi Bridge.
Marunouchi offers mostly upscale hotels, providing somewhat luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the city.
Overall, this is the ideal area for families as you have great access to Tokyo Station to visit other parts of the city while staying in a somewhat sophisticated area without the nightlife noise and crowdiness.
If a visit to Tokyo Disneyland is on your itinerary, Tokyo Station offers convenient train access to Maihama Station, which is close to the theme park.
Now, what is not to like about this area?
The most obvious one is that the upscale nature of this area results in higher costs in accommodation and dining, although it’s still possible to find something reasonably priced.
The second thing is that the area feels more formal and less youthful.
There are perhaps better areas for families, especially with younger kids, but the major advantage of this area is direct access to Tokyo Station.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Asakusa
This area is ideal for those who want to explore the historical parts of Tokyo to the fullest.
And we have to admit, it’s a really popular area among tourists.
Asakusa is home to Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and the iconic Kaminarimon Gate.
This part of the city has retained a more traditional and historic atmosphere compared to some other districts in Tokyo.
The narrow streets and older buildings immediately create an authentic experience.
One of the other highlights of Asakusa is the Nakamise Shopping Street.
Here, you can find an abundance of traditional stalls selling souvenirs, street food, and handicrafts.
You can also easily visit the Tokyo Skytree this huge building (one of the tallest structures in the world) is located nearby and you can enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck.
Another great perk is the area is well-connected to other interesting districts.
For example, Ueno and Akihabara can be visited without much hassle.
In these districts, you can find more history and traditions (Ueno) but also the electronics and anime culture of the city (Akihabara).
Even though this district is incredibly popular, you can still find plenty of budget-friendly options including hostels and guesthouses.
So far, it seems like the ideal area for those seeking an area full of traditions, history, and culture.
But as always, there are some things to consider.
First of all, the area around Senso-ji and the Nakamise Shopping Street is incredibly crowded. But that’s not a surprise in Tokyo.
The second thing is that a historical district like Asakusa doesn’t offer much nightlife.
If you want to party, it’s much better to stay in areas like Shibuya or Roppongi and visit Asakusa just during the day.
There are less trendy restaurants and shops. For a more modern atmosphere, areas like Harajuku and Shibuya are more suitable for you.
Lastly, most accommodations are also traditional and lack some of the modern amenities that you are probably used to.
But for a very large group of travellers, staying in a traditional and historical area like Asakusa is the whole reason why they want to visit Japan so badly.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Ginza
Ginza is renowned for its luxury shopping, featuring flagship stores of international and Japanese designer brands.
The area is a paradise for those interested in high-end fashion and upscale retail experiences.
You can find several Michelin-starred restaurants and plenty of upscale dining establishments, which makes it absolutely a foodies heaven.
The Tsukiji Outer Market, known for its fresh seafood and gourmet street food, is within walking distance of Ginza.
It’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts and this market proves that you don’t always have to spend a lot of money to eat some of the best food in the city.
Ginza features modern and innovative architecture, including iconic buildings designed by renowned architects.
As you can expect, the nightlife and entertainment scene is spot on.
Expect a sophisticated nightlife with upscale bars, lounges, and entertainment venues.
It’s a great place to experience Tokyo’s more refined evening scene.
Ginza is Tokyo’s central business district, making it a hub of economic and commercial activity.
The area is, like all the other areas we recommend, well-connected to other parts of Tokyo via the Tokyo Metro, making it easy for tourists to explore the city.
It’s also relatively close to major attractions like the Imperial Palace.
What’s not to like about Ginza?
Aside from the higher costs, Ginza has a sophisticated and formal atmosphere, which is not always ideal for those who are on holiday.
Also, the nightlife scene is not as lively or diverse as districts like Shibuya or Roppongi.
But overall, Ginza is among the most popular areas among tourists to visit, although not everyone has the budget to find accommodation here.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Roppongi
Roppongi is a famous part of Tokyo that is widely known for its entertainment scene.
It has almost a legendary status when it comes to nightlife.
That are countless bars, clubs, and other entertainment venues and this attracts people from all over the world to experience Tokyo’s wild nightlife scene.
Many ex-pats choose to stay as close as possible to this part of Tokyo and because of that, you can find a huge international food scene.
Roppongi is known for its international community, making it a more foreigner-friendly area. English is commonly spoken, and many establishments cater to international visitors.
One of the highlights in Roppongi is Roppongi Hills, which is a large entertainment and shopping complex with upscale boutiques, restaurants, a cinema, and the Mori Art Museum.
There is an observation deck on top of the Mori Tower, which provides a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
But the main reason why people choose to stay here is because of the nightlife scene.
And that brings us to the things you might not like about this area.
Expect this area to be noisy and crowded.
Because it’s such a popular part, the costs are significantly higher than elsewhere in the city, especially in bars and clubs, as well as hotels.
While Tokyo in general is safe, always be aware when staying in areas like Roppongi and be aware of your surroundings.
Also, this part of Tokyo is far from authentic.
However, we cannot deny the fact that people all over the world visit Tokyo just to witness its nightlife scene, and the epicenter of all that is Roppongi.
And for the majority of the tourists, they will have the time of their life here.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
7. Ueno
Ueno is the complete opposite of the previously recommended area.
Here, you can enjoy an authentic, cultural experience.
The area is known for Ueno Park, which is a large public park with museums, temples, and cherry blossoms in the spring.
There are several major attractions located in this district, namely the Tokyo National Museum, the National Museum of Western Art, and the Ueno Royal Museum.
Ueno Zoo, located within Ueno Park, is Japan’s oldest zoo and a popular attraction for families and animal enthusiasts.
It’s a great place to see a variety of wildlife.
You can also find Ameyoko Shopping Street here, which is a bustling market street known for its variety of shops selling everything from street food and fresh produce to clothing and electronics.
Ueno offers a variety of accommodations, including budget-friendly options such as hostels and guesthouses.
Like all recommended areas, Ueno is well-connected by public transportation, with Ueno Station serving as a major transportation hub.
It provides easy access to other parts of Tokyo and is a convenient base for day trips.
The nearby Yanaka district offers an even more traditional and nostalgic atmosphere, with historic streets, temples, and a slower pace of life.
Make sure to visit the Ueno Toshogu Shrine, which is a Shinto shrine known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
Aside from the Ameyoko Shopping Street, Ueno has plenty of local markets and street food vendors, allowing you to experience authentic Japanese flavors for a bargain.
What’s not to like about this unique and cultural area?
While Ueno has cultural and historical attractions, it also has a commercial area with shopping streets and business establishments, which spoils the atmosphere.
The other disadvantage is that you’re located further away from the other popular areas, such as Harajuku or Shibuya.
Lastly, and this is something you can expect from the type of district Ueno is, you won’t find much nightlife and modern amenities here.
If you’re planning to explore Tokyo’s history and cultural highlights, Ueno is one of the best options you have.
And the fact that it’s considered a budget-friendly area is a major plus too!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
8. Akihabara
Akihabara is the epicenter of anime and manga culture in Tokyo.
The district is filled with anime shops, manga stores, and themed cafes.
Akihabara is also synonymous with electronics and gadgets and many malls sell the latest tech and the weirdest gadgets.
Akihabara is also home to numerous gaming centers where you can enjoy arcade games, crane machines, and even try out virtual reality experiences.
It’s a paradise for gamers.
The district also offers an abundance of shops selling anime and gaming merchandise, including figurines, collectibles, and themed goods.
It’s an ideal place for fans to find unique souvenirs.
Maid cafes, a unique and iconic part of Akihabara culture, offer a distinctive dining experience with waitresses dressed in maid costumes.
It’s a cultural phenomenon that attracts curious visitors.
Places like Akihabara Radio Kaikan and Akihabara UDX are must-visits and the district hosts various anime and manga events throughout the year.
Akihabara offers a one-of-a-kind experience, and a simple visit is definitely worth it.
When you’re into this and you want to stay in Tokyo’s anime epicenter.
We can summerize the pros and cons, but to be honest, if you’re not into anime and manga, you won’t stay here.
And if you are a huge fan, you don’t care that much about the few disadvantages of staying here.
No matter the type of traveller you are, a simple visit to Akihabara is something you should do no matter what!
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
9. Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is a major shopping hub where you can find large department stores like Tobu, Seibu, and Sunshine City.
Sunshine City is a massive entertainment and shopping complex in Ikebukuro, featuring attractions like an observation deck, an aquarium, a planetarium, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Similar to the previously recommended area, Ikebukuro is known for its anime and manga culture, with popular establishments like the Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo and multiple anime-themed stores.
Otome Road, dedicated to female-targeted anime and manga, is also located in Ikebukuro. It features specialty shops catering to a female audience, offering a unique and niche cultural experience.
But when you compare Ikebukuro to Akihabara, it’s fair to say that Ikebukuro has more to offer than manga, anime, themed restaurants, and technology alone.
Ikebukuro Station is a major transportation hub with multiple train and subway lines, providing easy access to various parts of Tokyo.
The area also offers a huge range of dining options, from local Japanese cuisine to international flavors.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Space is a cultural venue in Ikebukuro that hosts various performances, including concerts, plays, and dance performances.
It’s a great place for those interested in the arts.
While not located directly in Ikebukuro, Rikugi-en Garden is a beautiful traditional Japanese garden in nearby Bunkyo.
Overall, Ikebukuro is a unique area that combines shopping with entertainment and a few cultural experiences.
You can easily find affordable hotels here.
And with its good connection to public transport, you are at the city’s highlights in no time.
Just keep in mind that nightlife is limited here and that you’re located further away from the major attractions
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
10. Odaiba
The last area that we recommend is Odaiba.
Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, known for its futuristic architecture, entertainment complexes, shopping malls, and waterfront attractions.
As you can expect, the waterfront views are amazing and you can easily enjoy relaxing walks along the waterfront promenades and explore parks like Odaiba Seaside Park.
Odaiba is home to various entertainment complexes, including Palette Town, VenusFort, and Tokyo Joypolis.
Palette Town features attractions like the giant Ferris wheel, while VenusFort is a shopping mall with a unique interior resembling a European town.
Tokyo Joypolis is an indoor amusement park offering interactive attractions and rides.
Odaiba has a beach area known as Odaiba Seaside Park Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the view of Tokyo Bay.
While swimming is not permitted, it’s a pleasant spot for seaside strolls.
DiverCity Tokyo Plaza is famous for its life-sized Gundam statue, attracting fans of the iconic anime series.
The statue occasionally features light shows and special events.
Odaiba is also home to Oedo Onsen Monogatari, a hot spring theme park that replicates the atmosphere of Edo-period Tokyo.
It’s a unique opportunity to experience Japanese hot springs and traditional bathhouse culture.
The Tokyo Sea Life Park, an aquarium located in Odaiba, showcases marine life from Tokyo Bay and beyond.
Odaiba is accessible by various transportation modes, including the Yurikamome Line, Rinkai Line, and even boat services.
It’s also very easy to reach Tokyo Disneyland from here.
Overall, Odaiba is a great escape for families away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Just keep in mind that Odaiba feels far from authentic.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Tokyo first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.