Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo

Tokyo, a city where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge innovation, is a bucket list destination for many, with record numbers of travellers visiting this incredible city.

For many first-time visitors, the sheer scale of this metropolis is both exhilarating and daunting. After all, Tokyo is a behemoth with 37 million inhabitants living in a vibrant tapestry of 23 wards, each a small city in its own right.

Getting your location right is key to ensuring you make the most of your time in the city. As amazing as Tokyo’s metro system is, you want to spend your time exploring the sights and discovering hidden gems, not sitting in a train carriage travelling from one end of this megatropolis to the other.

How Long Should a First-Timer Spend in Tokyo?

That's a tough one. Tokyo is like a ball of yarn - once you pull on it, you just want to keep going. For a first-time visitor, 4-5 days is a good start, especially if you plan to venture outside of Tokyo and see some of the other amazing parts of Japan.

The thing about Tokyo is, it has a way of getting under your skin. Once you’ve experienced it, you will want to keep coming back and uncovering more of it. So be warned: this may not be your only trip to Tokyo!

Understanding Tokyo's Key Districts

When deciding where you should stay in Tokyo, the first question should be, "What do I want to see and do while in Tokyo?"

Once you have a feel for your must-dos and must-sees, picking where to stay becomes a little easier. Tokyo's geography helps with this, too.

We can broadly categorise the city into three key areas: Traditional Tokyo, Central Tokyo, and Modern Tokyo. Each of these has its own specific appeal and attractions.

You can choose to stay in one area of Tokyo and travel to other parts of the city, or you can move around and spend nights in different locations. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and how much time you have on the ground.

Traditional Tokyo (Northeast)

Think of this as 'old' Tokyo, where you will experience Tokyo's ancient and cultural attractions. This area appeals to visitors who want to dive deep into Japan's rich heritage and traditional arts, offering an enriching Japanese cultural encounter.

Areas included in Traditional Tokyo:

• The historic districts of Asakusa

• Ueno

• Yanaka

• Kuramae

• Ryogoku (Sumo district)

Must-see attractions in this area include:

• Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa

• Ueno Park and its museums

• The Sumo quarter

• The artisan districts of Kuramae and Yanaka

Where to stay in Traditional Tokyo: For the most immersive experience, stay near Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa. The area around Ueno Park also offers good access to museums and cultural sites.

Central Tokyo

Just like it says on the box, this is the middle of Tokyo and a great location to base yourself, as it is the best position to explore all corners of Tokyo from. It's also ideal for those wanting to head out and explore the rest of Japan due to its proximity to Tokyo Station and Haneda Airport.

Central Tokyo is also a great location for those who like the finer things in life. Here, you will find all the designer shopping you could wish for, the best restaurants, and all the premium hotels.

Areas that fall into this district include:

• The shopping mecca of Ginza

• Marunouchi

• Imperial Palace area

• Roppongi

• Toranomon Hills

• Omotesando

• Aoyama

Attractions beyond shopping include:

• The Imperial Palace and Gardens

• Ginza's high-end boutiques and department stores

• Roppongi's upscale dining and entertainment

• The architectural marvel of Toranomon Hills

• The tree-lined boulevards of Omotesando and Aoyama

Where to stay in Central Tokyo: If your credit card can manage the expenses near Tokyo's 5th Avenue, then Ginza boasts some incredible hotels. Marunouchi offers excellent access to Tokyo Station and exudes an old-money sophistication. Toranomon is a newer, more low-key area with a great selection of both modern and traditional hotels, as well as a wide variety of restaurants that are popular among locals but not as frequently highlighted by food bloggers.

Modern Tokyo

The aesthetics of Blade Runner, the immersive experience of Lost in Translation, and the cozy vibes of Tokyo Diner all come together to showcase Tokyo's vibrant after-hours scene. In the western part of the city, you'll discover the epicentre of Japan's youth culture, which encompasses everything from trend-setting fashion and amazing shopping to outstanding restaurants and the non-stop nightlife that Tokyo is renowned for.

This district is where you will find these iconic neighbourhoods:

• Shibuya, world-famous for its youthful energy and shopping

• Shinjuku, notorious for its salaryman watering holes and Netflix-famous diners

• The fashion-forward streets of Harajuku

• The trendy neighbourhoods of Ebisu, Daikanyama, and Nakameguro

Highlights you won't want to miss:

• Shibuya's iconic scramble crossing

• Shinjuku's entertainment district and Kabukicho

• Harajuku's unique street style on Takeshita Street

• The hip boutiques and cafes of Daikanyama

• Some of Tokyo’s best restaurants in the back streets of Nakameguro

Where to stay in Modern Tokyo: Choose Shinjuku for its central location and vibrant nightlife, or Shibuya for its trendy shops and iconic crossing. Daikanyama and Nakameguro are ideal for a more relaxed, stylish experience.

Things to Consider When Choosing Your Tokyo Accommodation

Neighbourhood Personality

Each neighbourhood in Tokyo has its own distinct character, from the more sedate areas around the ancient temples of Asakusa to the non-stop energy of Shibuya. These characteristics will significantly influence your experience of the city and your overall enjoyment. It's important to choose an area that suits the kind of experience you want, particularly during the evening hours.

Transportation Access

Tokyo's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore, but choosing a central location will ensure that you can experience as much of the city as possible in the time you have. Look for accommodation within a 10-minute walk of a major train or subway station.

Your Onward Journey

Morning flights out of Narita or Haneda could mean a very early start. Consider your next destination when planning your accommodation - your future self will thank you. For Narita departures, staying in Ueno or near Tokyo Station can save you valuable sleep time.

Planning Your Perfect Tokyo Stay

Tokyo is vast, and there is so much to experience; with a new discovery at every turn. While its sheer size may seem a little daunting, Tokyo is warm and welcoming, and unlike any city in the world.

To ensure a seamless and unforgettable Tokyo experience, consider allowing our travel experts to craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your unique preferences. We specialize in Tokyo accommodation planning and can match you with the perfect neighbourhood and hotel for your travel style.

Get in touch and let us ensure that your trip to this amazing city is a perfect one – whether it’s your first time or whether you’re reacquainting yourself with one of the greatest cities in the world!