Finding the best place to stay in Tokyo during a first-time visit can be overwhelming. With 23 wards and hundreds of neighborhoods with their own charms and character, where should first-timers stay in Tokyo? This guide is based on years of experience living in, and exploring, Tokyo, visiting both the city’s most popular sites and its hidden gems.
I’ve outlined the best areas to stay in Tokyo to make your first, or your next, trip to Japan one to remember. Keep reading until the end of this guide, because I’ve also included a few areas that I don’t recommend staying in Tokyo, because they are less convenient for sightseeing.
Before we begin, I want to break down Tokyo into two sections to keep things simple: West Tokyo, and East Tokyo. This breakdown is also how I structured my three days in Tokyo itinerary, which focuses on East Tokyo for Day 1, and West Tokyo for Day 2.
East Tokyo is known for its historic neighbourhoods, traditional temples, and old-town charm.
West Tokyo is known for its modern neighbourhoods, trendy shopping areas, youthful energy, and vibrant urban culture.
For first-timers to Tokyo, I recommend staying in one of these four areas:
- Shibuya area (West Tokyo, including Harajuku, Jingumae, and Omotesando)
- Ginza area (East Tokyo, including Tsukiji, Marunouchi, and Yurakucho)
- Asakusa (East Tokyo, including Kuramae)
- Shinjuku area (West Tokyo, including Shin-Okubo)
Depending on how much time you have time Tokyo, you can also split your time and stay 2 nights in East Tokyo and 2 nights in West Tokyo, for example.
For second-time visitors, or those who want to experience a different side of Tokyo, I recommend:
- Akasaka (Central Tokyo)
- Nakameguro area (West Tokyo, including Ebisu and Daikanyama)
The following sections include a breakdown of each area to stay in Tokyo, some of their famous places of interest, and surrounding neighborhoods. I’ve also included top-rated hotels in each of the areas, to round out this best places to stay in Tokyo list.
At the very end of the post I’ve also listed some areas to avoid, because they put you out of the way in terms of the best sightseeing spots, and the pros and cons of each of the top Tokyo neighborhoods in the post.
So without further ado, let’s jump in to the best places to stay in Tokyo for first timers, recommended by Tokyo residents and travel experts!
1. Shibuya area
Places of interest in Shibuya
- Shibuya Crossing – the world-famous scramble, the busiest intersection in the world.
- Hachiko statue – a statue of a faithful dog who waited for its owner’s return even after his death, and Tokyo’s beloved meeting point
- Shibuya Sky – a new observation deck in Tokyo with skyline views
- Shibuya Shopping-gai and Dogenzaka – streets lined with shopping, dining, nightlife options
- Shibuya Parco and Shibuya 109 – fashion hubs, including icons like the Pokemon store, Nintendo store, and Marvel store.
Surrounding neighborhoods
When I say the Shibuya area is a great place to stay in Tokyo for first-timers, I’m including the surrounding areas of Shibuya ward including Harajuku, Jingumae, and Omotesando. Here’s a bit about each:
Harajuku is known for its playful fashion, youth culture, and colourful, high-energy streets filled with cafés, rainbow food stalls, and clothing boutiques.
Jingumae blends creative culture with calm residential pockets, offering stylish cafés, independent shops, and a more refined shopping vibe.
Omotesando is Tokyo’s elegant, tree-lined avenue of luxury boutiques showcasing modern architecture.
Top hotels in the Shibuya area
Budget-friendly hotels
- Millennials Shibuya (a popular capsule hostel in Tokyo)
- Tokyu Stay Shin-Minamiguchi
- Hotel Graphy Shibuya
Mid-Range hotels
- Hotel Indigo
- Sequence Miyashita Park
- Illi Mani Shibuya (a great hotel for large groups and families in Tokyo)
- Shibuya Stream Hotel
Luxury hotels
2. Ginza area
The Ginza area, including nearby Tsukiji, Marunouchi, and Yurakucho neighborhoods, is there area where I spend the most time in Tokyo. Ginza is known as Tokyo’s center of luxury shopping, refined dining, and timeless Japanese elegance. This is where you’ll find everything from Michelin-starred sushi counters and French fine dining to quiet cocktail bars, retro coffee shops, and beautifully curated boutique stores.
Despite its reputation for luxury, Ginza remains surprisingly affordable if you know where to go. Wander its side streets and you’ll find small izakaya, kissaten cafés, and stationery shops that show off a more traditional and artistic side of Tokyo. With excellent proximity to Tokyo Station and key public transport access, Ginza makes an ideal base for first-timers in Tokyo who want convenience, sophistication, and calm all in one place.
Places of interest in Ginza
- Ginza Six – a luxury shopping complex with rooftop garden and my favorite Tsutaya bookstore
- Kabukiza Theater – a historical theater that shows traditional kabuki performances
- Mitsukoshi Ginza – one of Tokyo’s oldest department stores with a famous foodhall
- Ginza Loft, Itoya, and MUJI – three of the best places for souvenir shopping in Tokyo.
- Tsukiji Outer Market – ok, this world-famous fish market is technically in Tsukiji but it’s so close that you can visit it every morning if you stay in Ginza.
Surrounding neighbourhoods
When I recommend the Ginza area as a place to stay, I mean Ginza and its neighbouring districts, all of which are walkable and offer different sides of central Tokyo. Here’s a bit about each:
Tsukiji is known for its lively outer market filled with fresh seafood stalls, specialty food shops, and some of the best casual sushi and street food spots in Tokyo.
Marunouchi is home to Tokyo Station and its maze of underground shopping and dining. Tokyo Station also offers a connection to national Shinkansen trainlines and airport busses, making it a perfect base for travellers to Japan. Marunouchi is also known for its many luxury and 5-star hotels in Tokyo.
Yurakucho blends old and new Tokyo with its famous yakitori alleys under the train tracks, cosy izakaya, and classic restaurants, perfect for more casual nights out.
Top hotels in Ginza
Budget friendly hotels
- The Square Hotel Ginza
- Tokyu Stay Ginza
- Dormy Inn Premium Ginza (one of the few hotels in Tokyo with onsen!)
Mid-range hotels
Luxury hotels
- The Tokyo Station Hotel
- Hoshinoya Tokyo
- Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo (near Tokyo Station/Marunouchi)
3. Asakusa
Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s historic districts, famous for its traditional atmosphere, red temples, and beautifully preserved old-town streets. The most famous Asakusa landmark is Senso-ji Temple, known for its massive red gates and a five-story pagoda. Asakusa offers a different pace from the city’s modern hubs, especially once the tourist crowds at Senso-ji leave for the night.
Beyond the temple grounds, Asakusa is full of hidden izakayas, cultural activities, and scenic alleyways. It’s also an excellent area for first-timers thanks to its convenience: multiple subway lines, easy access to Ueno and Tokyo Skytree, and plenty of traditional inns and modern hotels to choose from.
Places of interest in Asakusa
- Sensō-ji Temple – one of Tokyo’s oldest temples, famous for its bright red gate and incense-filled courtyard.
- Kaminarimon Gate – The massive red lantern that serves as the symbolic entrance to Asakusa.
- Nakamise Shopping Street – A lively street lined with traditional snacks, souvenirs, and craft shops.
- Sumida River Boardwalk – A scenic walkway perfect for evening strolls and views of Tokyo Skytree.
- Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center – An observation deck with free city views.
- Asakusa Yokocho – A colourful alley of food stalls, restaurants and bars.
- Tokyo Skytree (in nearby Oshiage) – A short train ride or a pleasant riverside walk away from Asakusa is this iconic building and shopping hub.
Looking for other things to do in Tokyo?
- Read up on my Tokyo itinerary – The Perfect Three Days in Tokyo Itinerary
- Check out the highlights – Top Things To Do In Tokyo
- See Tokyo’s weird and quirky side – 50 Weird And Unique Things To Do In Tokyo
- Learn where to escape the crowds – Off-The-Beaten-Path Places In Tokyo
- Get out of the city for a day – Best Day Trips From Tokyo
- Gain some elevation over Tokyo – Six Amazing Tokyo Viewpoints
Surrounding neighbourhoods
When I talk about the Asakusa area, I also include Kuramae and Oshiage.
Kuramae is known for its trendy cafés, artisan workshops, and small independent boutiques, earning the nickname the “Brooklyn of Tokyo.” It’s perfect for travellers who enjoy craft coffee, handicrafts, and relaxed strolling. The neighbourhood feels peaceful and local while still being walkable from Asakusa’s major sights.
Oshiage is most famously known for being home to Tokyo Skytree. It’s the tallest tower in the city, and one of the most popular Tokyo viewpoints. The mall at the base of Skytree hosts various events and markets throughout the year, and also has iconic stores like the Pokemon Store, Kirby Cafe, Jump Shop, and Loft.
Top hotels in Asakusa
Budget-friendly hotels
- Tosei Hotel Cocone Asakusa (there’s one in Kuramae too)
- Resol Poshtel Hotel Asakusa (a great capsule hotel for couples or mixed-gender groups traveling together)
- OMO3 Asakusa
- ONE@Tokyo
Mid-range hotels
- Onyado Nono Asakusa (another natural hot spring hotel)
- The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon
- Prostyle Ryokan Tokyo Asakusa
Luxury hotels
- Cyashitsu ryokan asakusa (one of the few places to experience staying in a ryokan in Tokyo, including Prostyle Ryokan)
- Asakusa View Hotel
4. Shinjuku area
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s most dynamic and energetic districts. It’s a full sensory experience packed with department stores, skyscrapers, nightlife, shopping, and endless other things to do.
It’s home to Shinjuku Station, the busiest train station in the world, making it one of the most convenient bases for first-timers in Tokyo. From the neon-lit Kabukicho nightlife district to serene Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Shinjuku is a neighborhood where Tokyo’s contrasts come to life.
Shinjuku is famous for its variety. Day or night, there’s always something happening, making it ideal for travellers who love being in the center of the action and round-the-clock dining and entertainment.
Places of interest in Shinjuku
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – A sprawling, peaceful escape with Japanese, English, and French-style gardens.
- Omoide Yokocho – A narrow alley packed with yakitori stalls and tiny eateries.
- Golden Gai – A maze of micro-bars, each with its own quirky personality.
- Kabukicho – Shinjuku’s neon nightlife district filled with restaurants, arcades, and entertainment.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building – A free Tokyo observation deck with panoramic city views.
- Isetan Shinjuku – One of Tokyo’s best luxury department stores with an incredible depachika food hall.
- Shinjuku Southern Terrace / Takashimaya Times Square – Shopping and dining, especially great at night.
Surrounding neighbourhoods
When recommending Shinjuku, I also include Shin-Okubo, a nearby area that adds a completely different flavour to your stay.
Shin-Okubo is Tokyo’s lively Koreatown, packed with Korean skincare shops, K-pop fan stores, cafés, street-food stalls, and some of the best Korean BBQ in Tokyo. It’s energetic yet far more compact than Shinjuku, making it a great base for travellers who love food, nightlife, and being able to walk easily to Shinjuku. It’s just one train stop or a short stroll from Shinjuku Station, and it was the first neighbourhood I stayed in when I was first backpacking in Japan.
Top hotels in Shinjuku
Budget friendly hotels
- Book and Bed Shinjuku (stay inside of a bookcase, a cool and unique hotel experience in Tokyo)
- Imano Tokyo Hostel
- La’gent Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho
Mid-range hotels
- Hotel Gracery Shinjuku (the weird and unique Godzilla hotel)
- Shinjuku Prince Hotel
- Onsen Ryokan Yuen Shinjuku
Luxury hotels
- Park Hyatt Tokyo (the iconic “Lost in Translation” hotel, recently renovated)
- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo
- Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo by IHG
5. Nakameguro
Nakameguro is one of Tokyo’s trendiest neighbourhoods, known for its tree-lined Meguro River, independent boutiques, and cool cafés and bars. It’s especially famous during cherry blossom season, when the river transforms into one of the city’s most photogenic sakura spots.
This is a neighborhood where you can slow down, wander, and enjoy the small moments of being in Tokyo. Evenings are particularly atmospheric along the river, where lantern-lit bars and intimate restaurants give Nakameguro a warm, local feel. For travellers who want a laid-back, fashionable base with excellent food and café culture, Nakameguro is an ideal choice.
Places of interest in Nakameguro
- Meguro River Promenade – Beautiful year-round, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons.
- Nakameguro Tsutaya Bookstore – A lifestyle bookstore with a café and art- and design-focused selection.
- Blue Bottle Coffee Nakameguro – Iconic café in a striking modern building.
- ONIBUS Coffee – Small specialty coffee shop loved by locals and baristas worldwide.
- Natural Wine Bars – The area is full of trendy, tiny bars perfect for relaxed evenings.
- Nakameguro Koukashita – A renovated stretch under the train tracks with restaurants, bakeries, and boutique shops.
Surrounding neighbourhoods
When recommending Nakameguro, I also include Daikanyama and Ebisu.
Daikanyama feels like Tokyo’s version of a chic, compact European town, filled with designer boutiques, brunch spots, artisanal bakeries, and beautifully designed architecture.
Ebisu is a relaxed yet upscale neighbourhood famous for its standout restaurants, chic bars, and being one of Tokyo’s best dining and drinking scenes.
Both neighborhoods are a short walk from Nakameguro, making the two neighborhoods perfect to explore together.
Top hotels in Nakameguro (including Ebisu)
Budget friendly hotels
- Waves nakameguro
- Do-C Shibuya Ebisu (capsule hotel)
Mid-range hotels
Luxury hotels
Where to avoid staying in Tokyo for first-timers
While Tokyo is safe and easy to navigate, some neighbourhoods simply aren’t convenient bases for sightseeing or first-time visitors.
Odaiba
Odaiba is fun to visit for its malls and waterfront attractions, but it’s far from central Tokyo and requires multiple transfers to reach most major sights. Odaiba is for a day trip, but not convenient as a base to stay during your first time in Tokyo.
Maihama (Disneyland)
Staying near Disneyland makes sense only if you plan to spend multiple days at Tokyo’s Disneysea and Dissneyland parks. Otherwise, the area is isolated, with long train rides back into central Tokyo and without many other dining or sightseeing options nearby.
Shinagawa
Shinagawa is a major transit hub but not a sightseeing spot for staying in Tokyo. While convenient for airport access, it’s quiet, business-oriented, and far from Tokyo’s most interesting neighbourhood, making it less ideal for travellers who want to explore the city.
For first-time visitors, choosing an area that matches your travel style, whether that’s sightseeing, shopping, food, or slow neighbourhood wandering, will make your trip smoother and far more enjoyable. The five areas above strike the best balance between convenience, atmosphere, and easy access to the places you’ll want to see in Tokyo.
Once you’ve chosen your base, the rest of Tokyo becomes surprisingly easy to navigate. And don’t worry about seeing everything, Tokyo is best explored neighborhood by neighborhood, leaving plenty of reasons to return for a second or even third visit.
Are You Prepared For Your Trip To Japan?
Be sure to check out my Japan home page for Japan travel information, insider tips, reading list, and must-haves for traveling to Japan!
- Book Your Flights – To find the cheapest flights, flexibility is key. I use both Google Flights for their low fare calendar, and Skiplagged, which uses airfare loopholes to get the lowest prices. For a trip to Japan, check flights to both Tokyo airports (Haneda, Narita) and to Osaka (Kansai).
- Getting Around Japan: Prepare your JR Pass and Suica transit card before you depart.
- Book Your Accommodation – Check out Booking.com for the largest selection of accommodation in Japan. Consider having a bit of fun at one of these Weirdest Hotels in Japan too 🙂
- Book Local Excursions – Don’t miss out on world-class experiences, like Teamlab Borderless or Tokyo Disneyland, by booking tickets online now. Check GetYourGuide and Klook for fun experiences all around Japan.
- Stay Connected: Order a pocket WiFi for airport pickup if you’re traveling with family or with a large group. Solo traveling to Japan? Order a SIM card just for you.
- Pack Your Essentials – Check out my posts about Long Term Travel Gear, and Carry-On Luggage Packing Essentials.
- Read more on my Travel Resources page!
