Where to Stay in Tokyo for First-Time Visitors: Best Areas Explained
Tokyo is one of the world’s most exciting and tourist friendly cities, but Tokyo is huge and choosing where to stay in Tokyo, can seem like a daunting task.
From the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku to the historic area of Asakusa, each neighborhood offers a completely different experience.
I’ve spent weeks in Tokyo staying in different areas and seeing all the must-see sites, attractions, and local hangout spots.
In this guide, I’ll break down some of the best areas to stay in Tokyo, what makes the district unique, things to do there, places to stay, and more helpful advice so you can book the perfect stay in Tokyo, especially if you are a first-time visitor.
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- Asakusa: Best for Culture and History
- Chiyoda City: Best for transport and Imperial Palace
- Chuo City: Best for shopping and markets
- Minato: Best for upscale and quieter stays
- Shibuya: Best for young travelers and nightlife
- Shinjuku: Best for nightlife and first-time visitors
- Sumida City: Best for Tokyo Skytree and Parks
- Ueno: Best for transit access and parks
Where to Stay in Tokyo
When researching where to stay in Tokyo, I know there is an endless amount of options, and most reviews will give you the same answers, Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Asakusa.
I agree, these areas are great places to stay in and visit in Tokyo, but there are other areas that are worth looking into that might be more suited for your travel style and interests.
I’ve stayed in Tokyo many times over the course of my seven years in Japan. I created this list of wards, districts, and neighborhoods to stay in Tokyo to help you pick a suitable destination based on your budget, interests, and itinerary.
Asakusa
For a more traditional Tokyo experience, Asakusa offers historic charm, unique shopping experiences, and more affordable accommodations.
Why Stay Here:
- Asakusa is home to Tokyo’s most famous temple, Senso-ji.
- You can find reasonable hotel accommodations.
- There are a lot of novelty stores here to include Japanese knife stores and food sample shops.
- Great nightlife experience with local izakaya’s.
Top Things to do in Asakusa:
- Take your photo at Kaminarimon Gate.
- Walk through Nakamise Street.
- Enjoy Senso-ji Temple.
- Go shopping along Kappabashi Hondori Shopping Street or Kan’non-dori.
Where to Stay in Asakusa:
👉 Asakusa Tip: If you want to experience Senso-ji Temple with limited crowds, go early. I’ve been here many times and it’s always crowded. Go before 8:00 am, and you’ll get to experience the temple area with fewer crowds.
Chiyoda City
Chiyoda City is the heart of Tokyo, it’s home to the Tokyo Imperial Palace and government buildings. It’s also home to Tokyo Station, which is great for connections and honestly, you could spend an entire day exploring the station.
Why Stay Here:
- Ultra-central location with easy access to multiple districts around Tokyo.
- Walking distance within key landmarks, like the Imperial Palace.
- Clean, safe, and less chaotic then other districts.
- Tokyo Station is an attraction in itself. You can get lost there. Trust me, I have on multiple occasions.
Top Things to do in Chiyoda City:
- Explore Tokyo Station, here you can find shops, character street, and many restaurants.
- Walk the grounds of the Imperial Palace.
- Visit nearby museums and parks.
Where to Stay in Chiyoda City:
👉 Chiyoda City Tip: Hotels around Tokyo Station can be expensive depending on the time of year or local holidays. If that is the case, I recommend looking just outside the Tokyo Station area. If you’d like to support and find deals, you can find hotels on Agoda or Booking. Thanks!
Chuo City
Chuo City includes popular areas like Ginza and Nihonbashi. Here you can find a mix of luxury, culture, and convenience. The Tsukiji Fish Market is popular and Hamarikyu Gardens is a must visit!
Why Stay Here:
- Close to popular shopping and dining areas.
- Excellent transportation and well connected.
- More relaxed atmosphere compared to other districts.
Top Things to do in Chuo City:
- Shop and dine in Ginza.
- Stroll through Tsukiji Outer Market and sample fresh seafood.
- Relax at Hamarikyu Gardens.
Where to Stay in Chuo City:
👉 Chuo City Tip: Tsukiji Market is fun to walk around, but it’s rather expensive. You can find some of the same dishes a few blocks away at restaurants for much cheaper. Now a days, Tsukiji Market is geared towards tourists.
Minato
Minato includes neighborhoods like Roppongi and Azabu. Lately, Minato has been one of my favorite areas to stay in Tokyo. Minato is quiet, well connected, and is home to some of my favorite restaurants in Tokyo.
Why Stay Here:
- Well connected with multiple train lines.
- Quieter area and offers a more relaxing experience.
- Close to Tokyo Tower and teamLab Borderless.
Top Things to do in Minato:
- Explore the nightlife in Roppongi.
- Visit Tokyo Tower.
- Experience teamLab Borderless.
- Try craft beer and Chicago stuffed pizza at Devil Craft.
- Sengaku-ji, Temple featuring the graves of 47 Ronin Samurai.
- Visit the State Guest House Akasaka Palace.
Where to Stay in Minato:
👉 Minato City Tip: Some of the best pizza I’ve ever had in the world are in Minato City, check out Devil Craft for Chicago Style Pizza and Craft Beer and Pizza 4P’s.
Shibuya
Shibuya seems to be the trendy district of Tokyo and mostly known for the famous and very crowded Shibuya Crossing, where upwards to a few million people can pass through a day.
Why Stay Here:
- Shibuya has a youthful and energetic crowd but is suited for everyone.
- There are a lot of great local restaurants and shops.
- Shibuya is well connected and pedestrian friendly.
Top Things to do in Shibuya:
- Be one of millions to pass through Shibuya Crossing.
- Visit the Hachiko Statue.
- Visit Meiji Jingu and Yoygi Park.
Where to Stay in Shibuya:
👉 Shibuya Tip: If you want to do the Shibuya Sky, tickets sell out well in advance. Plan ahead and book online. I use Klook to book tickets for attractions and it works great. You can find Shibuya Sky tickets, here.
Shinjuku
I kind of have a love/hate relationship with Shinjuku. I’ve probably stayed in this area the most. Although I feel for first-time visitors it’s one of the best places to stay, I am personally kind of over Shinjuku and prefer quieter districts. Just my opinion.
But, if it is your first time in Tokyo, Shinjuku is definitely hard to beat. It’s that quintessential Tokyo you think of with the neon lights Godzilla Head, and crowds.
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s main transport hubs and home to the world’s busiest train station. It’s worth staying at least a night here to experience the night life.
Why Stay Here:
- Easy access to all major Tokyo attractions.
- Endless dining and shopping options with a great nightlife scene.
- Great mix of accommodations from budget to luxury.
- There is always something going on in Shinjuku.
- Shinjuku does have its peaceful places too, like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Top Things to do in Shinjuku:
- Explore Kabukicho.
- Visit the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, it’s free and highly recommended.
- Relax at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
- Shop at Don Quijote.
- Walk down Golden Gai and/or Omoide Yokocho Memory Lane.
Where to Stay in Shinjuku:
👉 Shinjuku Tip: In case you are staying in Shinjuku and need more information, I have a few posts on Things to do in Shinjuku and how to spend 24 Hours in Shinjuku.
Sumida City
Located just east of Asakusa and within walking distance is Sumida City. This area in Tokyo is more laid-back and local in my opinion but is still close to major attractions like Asakusa and the iconic Tokyo Skytree.
Why Stay Here:
- Skyline Views, especially along the Sumida River.
- Less crowded with a more relaxed environment.
- Easy access to Ueno Asakusa and Ueno.
- Close to Tokyo Skytree.
- Accommodations are fairly cheap.
Top Things to do in Sumida City:
- Visit Tokyo Skytree for panoramic city views.
- Walk along the Sumida River promenade.
- Relax or spend the morning in Sumida Park.
Where to Stay in Sumida City:
👉 Sumida City Tip: Staying in Sumida City is a great alternative to Asakusa. Also, there are hotels here with Tokyo Skytree views, which is spectacular at night.
Ueno
Ueno is one of the more practical places to stay in Tokyo. Ueno is well connected and there is a lot to do here. You can spend an entire day at the museums within Ueno Park. Ueno also has a great nightlife with some of my favorite Izakaya’s.
Why Stay Here:
- Direct train from Narita Airport and well connected.
- Hotels are affordable and abundant.
- Easy access to Ueno Park, the Museums, and Ueno Zoo.
- Great nightlife and Izakaya’s.
Top Things to do in Ueno:
- Visit Ueno Park.
- Go to the Tokyo National Museum and National Museum of Nature and Science.
- Ueno Zoo, especially if traveling to Tokyo with a family.
- Izakaya hopping
Where to Stay in Ueno:
👉 Ueno Tip: The Ueno area is great if you are looking for quick access from Narita Airport. Ueno Park is also a great place to stay in Tokyo during Sakura season.
How to Choose the Best Area in Tokyo
First time visitors to Tokyo?
I recommend staying in Shinjuku or Shibuya just to experience that quintessential Tokyo atmosphere.
Traveling Japan on a Budget?
I recommend Sumida City or Ueno. Both areas have great transportation options and are located close to many great attractions in Tokyo.
Want a luxury trip in Tokyo?
Perhaps money is not an issue and you want to experience Tokyo in a different way? Stay in the Ginza area of Chuo City or find a hotel in Shibuya overlooking the Shibuya Crossing.
Short Stay?
I recommend staying near Ueno, Tokyo Station, or Minato for ease of access due to their close proximity to major train stations.
FAQ
What is the best area to stay in Tokyo for first-time visitors?
I recommend staying in either Shinjuku or Shibuya just to get it out of your system. But this is a personal choice, I hope the break down above of the wards, districts, and neighborhoods in Tokyo helps with your decision.
Is it better to stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya?
Shinjuku is more convenient. You can always take an easy train ride to Shibuya from Shinjuku.
How many days should you stay in Tokyo?
This one is tough. For first-time visitors to Tokyo, I recommend anywhere from 3-5 days. I’ve spent the equivalent of probably 3 weeks in Tokyo and still have a lot left to see and do. But 3-5 days allows for time to explore different parts of the city.
Conclusion
For first-time visitors asking where to stay in Tokyo? It can be complicated, but I made this post to help you better understand the different wards, districts, and neighborhoods in Tokyo and what they offer and who they typically cater to.
Choosing where to stay in Tokyo, ultimately comes down to your travel style, but the good thing is, there really is not a “bad” choice, you really can’t go wrong anywhere in Tokyo.
At the end of the day, Tokyo’s incredible transportation network makes it easy to explore the city no matter where you stay. I’d recommend to focus on what matters most to you, whether it is nightlife, culture, food, or convenience.
I hope this guide helped you determine where to stay in Tokyo. If you have other recommendations or areas I did not list, please leave a comment so that everyone to include myself can enjoy! Safe Travels!
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Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️🇯🇵
Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖
For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com
Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁
Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options.
In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘
I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Train Travel 🚂🚊
For the JR Pass, tickets can be purchased on the JR Pass site.
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