From neon-lit Shinjuku to historic Asakusa — we break down every neighborhood so you can choose the perfect base.
Ivan Shirokov
Author
"For first-time visitors, I always recommend Shinjuku — it puts you at the center of everything. If you want old Tokyo atmosphere and temples on your doorstep, Asakusa is magical. And for the best value without sacrificing location, look at Ikebukuro. Whatever you choose, book early — Tokyo's best hotels fill up fast."
Our current picks based on Expedia guest ratings — all 9.0+ with hundreds of verified reviews.
Each area has a different character — here's how to pick the right one for your trip
Shinjuku
Tokyo's most central district and the best all-round base. Shinjuku Station connects you everywhere. Golden Gai for tiny hidden bars, Kabukicho for neon nights, Omoide Yokocho for yakitori.
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Shibuya
Home to the famous crossing, Shibuya is Tokyo's fashion and energy hub. Walk to Harajuku and Omotesando. Great transport links and every hotel category covered.
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Asakusa
Tokyo's most historic neighborhood. Senso-ji Temple steps away, rickshaws in the streets, traditional craft shops. Some of the best ryokan in the city are here.
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Ginza
Tokyo's most prestigious address. Flagship luxury brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, immaculate service. The priciest area — worth every yen for a special occasion.
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Akihabara
Electric Town — close to Ueno Park and easy metro access to central Tokyo. Great value hotels and a fascinating neighborhood to explore day and night.
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Ikebukuro
Often overlooked by tourists — which means better value. Huge Sunshine City mall, great ramen scene, easy connections to central Tokyo and a genuinely local atmosphere.
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A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn with tatami-mat rooms, futon beds on the floor, yukata robes and often an elaborate kaiseki dinner served in your room. Staying in a ryokan is completely different from a Western hotel — and one of the most memorable things you can do in Japan.
From $100/night — often includes dinner
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Don't let the size fool you — capsule hotels are clean, efficient and surprisingly comfortable. Each pod has a TV, USB charging, reading light and privacy curtain. Luggage stored separately. Perfect for solo travelers who want to save money for food and experiences.
From $23/night
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Tokyo's luxury hotels rank among the world's very best. The Park Hyatt (famous from Lost in Translation), Aman Tokyo, Mandarin Oriental and the Peninsula all offer extraordinary Japanese hospitality combined with world-class facilities. If there's ever a city to splurge on a hotel — it's Tokyo.
From $267/night
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