The energy in Japan’s capital hits you like a bullet train, with sci-fi skylines, twinkling lights and ancient tradition peaking though futuristic innovation. It’s also one of the biggest cities in the world, so deciding where to stay in Tokyo can seem overwhelming – but it’s just a matter of choosing the best district for you.
Shinjuku
You can’t get much more ‘action-packed’ than the streets of Shinjuku
If you’ve fallen in love with Tokyo via armchair travel, it’s Shinjuku that lives up to your ideals. The neon lights, thronging streets, towering skyscrapers, electronics, 100 yen shops, restaurants and gigantic shopping malls won’t disappoint. It’s also a great base for daytrips, with Shinjuku Station on hand.
Just a short stroll from the train station, Hotel Gracery Shinjuku puts you in a handy location, with self-check in machines, ladies-only floors and restaurants. As far as cheap hotels in Tokyo go (granted, there’s not many) the Premier Hotel – CABIN – Shinjuku comes close. All the fun stuff is nearby, with buffet breakfast and the tiny rooms Tokyo is famous for.
Marunouchi
The stylish rooftop garden at Kitte Mall, Marunouchi
Located between Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace, Marunouchi offers a central base for exploration. The prestigious business district has all the shops, restaurants, bars and art galleries you need, with a sophisticated vibe. Visit the Imperial Theatre, Hibiya Park and the Tokyo Station Gallery, close by.
For a dash of luxury in the city, stay at the Four Seasons Tokyo at Marunouchi, with a spa, restaurant, lounges and business facilities. Or, try the Oakwood Premier Tokyo, which is adjacent to Tokyo Station and all rooms are equipped with full kitchens.
Shibuya
It’s all about fun and entertainment, in Shibuya
Fanciful costumes, fun and frivolity sums up Shibuya, making it the number one choice for families in Tokyo. Find all the Hello Kitty stationery you’ll ever need, parks for the kids to run around and stand in awe at the busy intersection near the Hachiko Station Exit, with neon lights and video screens galore.
The Shibuya Tobu Hotel is within walking distance of the town centre and offers rooms with one double and two single beds for the family. The Sakura Fleur Aoyama is in the heart of the action, with a cute, vintage style that perfectly suits its location in the entertainment district and is a top candidate for where to stay in Tokyo.
Roppongi
Museums and nightlife make Rappongi an all-round choice to stay
If you’re a foreigner in Japan and you love to hit the town, Roppongi is the spot for you. Bars, restaurants, nightclubs, views of Tokyo Tower and a large expat community means there’s never a dull moment, especially after dark. You’ll also find the National Art Museum and the Mori Art Museum, for a culture fix.
The B Roppongi Hotel is smack bang in the middle of the nightlife, with a casual vibe and breakfast venue. Hotel and Residence Rappongi S offers boutique rooms for the rest you’ll need, a restaurant and lounge bar.
Odaiba
The futuristic Fuji TV Building, Odaiba
Located on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, Odaiba is one of the most popular tourist areas of Tokyo. Architectural feats such as Fuji TV Building, Telecom Center and Tokyo Big Sight Exhibition Center, blend with green spaces, shops, restaurants and elevated walkways. Families will love the vibe in this district.
Close to restaurants, shops and attractions, the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba also has a spa, gym and seasonal pool with views. Situated on the waterfront, the Hilton Tokyo Odaiba offers all the perks the chain is known for, with a jetted outdoor tub, complete with sea views.
Ginza
Ginza is the luxury shopping mecca of Tokyo
It’s upmarket, luxurious and the favoured realm of shopaholics. Ginza is home to some of Tokyo’s most expensive real estate and you’ll have to be prepared to pay for your ‘people-watching’ coffee at a trendy café. However, if you love all the leading brands in fashion, dining and entertainment, it might be a top choice for where to stay in Tokyo.
With rooms located above the 16th floor, The Mitzu Garden Hotel Ginza Premier has views and a prime located on the edge of the shopping district. The Courtyard by Marriott Tokyo Ginza, is right on the famous Showa-Dori Avenue, so you’ll be just steps from shopping heaven.
Asakusa
Asukusa is where you’ll find ancient tradition and temples galore
Asakusa is for tradition-hunters, with rickshaws, Buddhist temples, shrines and souvenir shops full of lanterns. Navigate on foot to get a real sense of a past filled with gangsters, geishas and writers. The main attractions include Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji and Nakamise Dori shopping street for food and trinkets.
The Asakusa View Hotel is an art deco delight with an indoor pool and it’s just a short walk from Senso-ji Temple. Another central pick is the Red Planet Asakusa Hotel. Every room offers a power shower and 40 inch flat screen TV- though it’s not likely you’ll want to be indoors for long with the neon lights beckoning.
