Where to Stay in Tokyo

My Favorite Hotels in Tokyo

5-star: Four Seasons hotel
• 4-star: Celestine Ginza
• 3-star: Sunroute Shinjuku
• For shopping: Shibuya Granbell
• Best pool: Grand Hyatt
• Train: Tokyo Station Hotel
• Disneyland: Hilton Tokyo Bay
• For Couples: TRUNK
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  • Who in Hell is Wanda Fuca? • G.M. Ford
    an aerial view of a city at night

    The Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo

    The capital city of Japan, Tokyo, is among the largest and most thrilling metropolises worldwide. With over 38 million inhabitants in the surrounding region, its immense scale can initially seem overwhelming. Thankfully, widespread English signage and abundant online resources now make navigating Tokyo’s equally huge but efficient public transportation system much easier. Additionally, the growth of affordable and mid-range hotels has made visits more reasonably priced than ever before.

    The metropolis developed relatively recently compared to other Asian cities. Previously called “Edo”, significant growth only occurred after Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu established his capital here in 1603. Tokyo was leveled by the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 and further by Allied bombing in 1945. In stark contrast to Kyoto filled with ancient streets, temples and palaces, anything built in Tokyo before the 1960s is viewed as old. There are few globally renowned attractions – Asakusa`s Sensō-ji Temple, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Meiji Shrine and Tokyo Skytree considered its premier sites. Nonetheless, Tokyo remains an endlessly fascinating 24-hour city where one can purchase virtually anything and dine at some of the most celebrated restaurants worldwide.

    Tokyo Station is a common initial stopover for visitors arriving in Tokyo whether by plane at Narita airport or via the high-speed Shinkansen train. Here are some good hotels within a short walk of the station:

    Some of the best hotels located near Tokyo Station include the Tokyo Station Hotel, the Four Seasons Marunouchi, the Shangri-La, the Courtyard Tokyo Station, the Mandarin Oriental, and the Mitsui Garden Kyobashi.

    Tokyo Neighborhoods

    As Tokyo’s premier accommodations and star attractions are spread across the entire city and public transportation is so effective, no singular area stands apart as the best place to stay. The precincts surrounding the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station form the traditional downtown core, but nowadays the city boundaries extend much farther, and it`s most pragmatic to envisage Tokyo as a sprawling patchwork of neighborhoods with their own personalities and advantages – make your lodging choice based on preference, lifestyle, or general interests.

    At the heart of Tokyo lies the Imperial Palace; with nearby Tokyo Station and the prosperous Marunouchi and prestigious Ginza neighborhoods forming the traditional downtown, offering upscale shopping and good nightlife. The infamous Yasukuni Shrine stands just northwest.

    a living room filled with furniture and a large window

    To the north is an area called Akihabara (also known as “Akihabara Electric Town”), a center for all things high-tech and “otaku” (cosplay, anime, and manga). Beyond this lies the shrines, museums, and sizable zoo in Ueno; Tokyo National Museum specifically boasts the city’s finest collection of ancient Japanese art and artifacts, while the National Museum of Nature and Science is the best hands-on museum for children. To the east of Ueno is Asakusa, Tokyo’s most historic district, anchored by the spectacular Sensō-ji Temple. Over the river further east towers Tokyo Skytree, Japan’s tallest structure.

    West of Tokyo Station are the central districts of often overlooked Akasaka and stylish Roppongi, home to some of Tokyo’s newest (and tallest) developments. Roppongi is particularly noted for its galleries (like the Mori Art Museum and NationalArt Center) and foreigner-friendly nightlife. Just east of Roppongi lies the iconic Tokyo Tower.

    The western outskirts of the city center houses fashionable shopping precincts like Shibuya and Harajuku, but also the Meiji Shrine, Tokyo’s most prestigious location of Shinto worship. Shinjuku constitutes the city’s second major commercial center, home to skyscrapers, department stores, and a huge nightlife district (Kabukichō). The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (with Observation Deck) rank among the city’s most visited attractions.

    Out in the harbor, the man-made islands in Tokyo Bay are a well-liked destination for families, with a variety of amusing attractions including the immersive teamLab Planets Tokyo, the international exhibition center Tokyo Big Sight, the futuristic Fuji TV Building, Gundam Base toy store with its massive Gundam statue, Legoland Discovery Center, and Madam Tussauds Tokyo. There`s also the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (aka Miraikan), the Tokyo Sea Life Park aquarium, and finally Tokyo Disney, situated at the far eastern end of the bay.

    Tokyo Transportation

    Despite its sizable scope, navigating Tokyo is straightforward, efficient, and affordable. The city`s transportation infrastructure is one of the best and most extensive globally. The Japan Railways (JR) Yamanote Line forms a circular route passing through many of the city`s most popular districts including Tokyo Station, Akihabara, Ueno, Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya and others. Most of Tokyo`s primary attractions are near or directly within this Yamanote Line circuit.

    There are also 13 subway lines, each assigned its own color and letter (for example, the Ginza Line is orange and is identified by G). Furthermore, each station along each line is numbered in chronological sequence, so if you board the Ginza Line in Omotesandō (G 02), it’s easy to keep track of how many stations you’ll pass before reaching Asakusa (G 19). Various travel day passes are available and are usually a good deal if you intend to do a lot of sightseeing.

    Do not rent a car in Tokyo. Parking is costly, roads are often congested, and driving is perplexing for first timers. Public transportation is excellent in Tokyo and the subway will take you within walking distance of almost every attraction.

    The Best Places to Stay in Tokyo

    Best Areas in Tokyo for…

    • Prime Areas for Newcomers: Shibuya and Shinjuku
      Two central Tokyo districts renowned among initial visitors to the city are Shibuya and Shinjuku. Both showcase Japan`s blend of tradition and modern progress through vibrant streetscapes and excellent public transportation. As such, they offer an immersive introduction to Tokyo`s dynamic urban character through their central locations within the metropolitan region.

      Shibuya is an energetic district renowned for its iconic pedestrian crossing, known as the Shibuya Scramble, which symbolizes the lively, fast-paced atmosphere of Tokyo. The area is a major shopping and entertainment hub, with numerous department stores, specialty shops, and eateries catering to a variety of tastes and price points. Shibuya is also known for its nightlife scene, featuring an extensive selection of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. The district is well-connected to the rest of the city via Shibuya Station, servicing multiple train and subway lines, making exploring other parts of Tokyo convenient.

      Shinjuku, alternately, is a lively district that offers a blend of shopping, eating, and enjoyment choices. It is home to the world’s busiest train station, Shinjuku Station, which provides convenient access to other parts of Tokyo and the broader Kanto region through multiple train and subway lines. Major sights in Shinjuku include the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building with its free observation decks, the spacious Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and the vibrant nightlife district of Kabukicho.

      Both Shibuya and Shinjuku offer a variety of accommodation choices, ranging from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses and hostels, making them appropriate for travelers working within different budgets. A few of our favorite hotels recommended for beginners visiting the city are TRUNK,Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu,Hotel Gracery,Tokyu Stay Shibuya,Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, and Rose Garden Shinjuku.

    a city street filled with lots of tall buildings

    • Prime Districts in Tokyo for Cost-Friendly Lodging: Asakusa/Ueno and Shinjuku/Shibuya
      Accommodations in Tokyo can be pricey, though there is now a much larger supply of moderately priced and low-cost lodging options in recent years. For cheaper rooms, especially hostels (dormitories and private rooms), consider looking in Asakusa and Ueno located in the north – both areas offer abundant local flavor and plenty to see and do. Mid-range and budget hotels have the greatest numbers in the lively and trendy hubs of Shibuya and Shinjuku to the east which are centers for entertainment and shopping. Quality can vary, but the Rose Garden and Sunroute Plaza in Shinjuku are reliable selections – we provide more possibilities below.
    • Top Areas in Tokyo for Retail and Fashion: Shibuya/Harajuku
      Three neighboring yet distinctive Tokyo neighborhoods – Shibuya, Omotesandō, and Harajuku – are tremendously popular weekend destinations. The tree-lined Omotesandō Avenue is home to designer boutiques as it connects the youth-centered shops and affordable eateries of Harajuku to the upscale designer stores and innovative cuisine of Aoyama. Lodging choices in Omotesandō are limited, but nearby Shibuya offers both 4-star and 5-star hotels in addition to large shopping malls, with pedestrian Cat Street or a brief subway trip linking it to Harajuku.

      For electronic devices, anime, manga and contemporary Japanese pop culture, Akihabara is considered the central hub for the entire country – this is where the costume café trend began and where the largest tech emporiums can be located.

      For traditional Japanese craft shops, Asakusa offers possibilities: visit Fujiya selling hand-painted cotton towels (tenugui), Kaneso crafting hand-made knives, scissors, and shears; and the Yonoya Comb Store (Yonoya Kushiho) fabricating handcrafted boxwood combs and hair ornaments.

    • Prime Tokyo neighborhoods for nightlife: Roppongi and Shinjuku
      If you`re a night owl who likes to be near the action, Roppongi offers Tokyo`s most cosmopolitan yet concentrated nightlife, packed with bars, izakaya, and restaurants offering everything from yakitori and sushi to pizza and loads of international cuisines. Popular places include the BrewDog craft beer hall (a joint endeavor between the UK craft brewer and Asahi), Cask Strength (known for rare whiskey), Gen Yamamoto for craft cocktails, Jazz House ALFIE, and A-Life for late night clubbing

      The Shinjuku district spreads over a larger area and is noisier, featuring strip shows, hostess bars, small dining pubs, karaoke bars, dance clubs, and live music venues; concentrated generally in an entertainment sector called Kabukichō. Nearby is Golden Gai, a complex of cramped roads lined with tiny bars, while farther away is 2 Chome Shinjuku , Asia’s largest LGBT nightlife locale. Shinjuku Pit Inn is one of the city’s top jazz venues, though dance clubs and live band venues tend to have better options in nearby Shibuya: Club Asia,Harlem, and Womb are top recommendations.

      It is noteworthy that most trains in Tokyo finish operation around midnight, so staying in Roppongi and Shinjuku could save a lot on taxi fares if partying extensively.

    people walking down a city street

    • Most Historically Rich Neighborhood in Tokyo: Asakusa
      Asakusa imparts the atmosphere of old Edo better than any other area of Tokyo. If Old World Tokyo is what you’re after, this is the neighborhood. Asakusa’s Sensō-ji Temple, in fact, predates Tokyo by more than 1,300 years, and there are many souvenir shops and traditional restaurants in the quaint surrounding side streets that have been passed down from generation to generation. For an even more authentic immersion into old Tokyo, stay in one of many traditional Japanese inns in Asakusa or nearby Ueno.

      • Here are a few highly recommended places to stay in Lagos.

      The capital city of Tokyo is renowned globally as a premier destination for food enthusiasts; those with a passion for ramen and sushi will be truly satisfied. Some of the finest dining establishments can be found throughout the metropolis, though generally the highest quality venues are concentrated in neighborhoods including Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, and most notably Ginza. Ginza is famous not only for its high-end shopping options, but also for its respected culinary establishments. Foodies will discover a diverse array of dining options ranging from luxurious venues specializing in French cuisine to others focusing on blended dishes fusing different influences. Also available are cozy izakaya style pubs, sophisticated cocktail lounges, and various other restaurant types. Ginza is further celebrated as a premier location to visit renowned purveyors offering Japanese desserts, sake, and other products, in addition to department stores with below grade food emporiums commonly called “depachika” (Tokyo Station itself features an immense underground food court ( Gransta), along with Ekibenya Matsuri, providing over 150 regional “ekiben” or train station bento boxes)).

      At the top of a extensive list is the tiny Ginza Ichibun for sushi (reservations indispensable), Tempura Kondo for freshly harvested seafood tempura, Ginza Kagari Main Branch for ramen, Higashiya Ginza for traditional Japanese sweets (“wagashi”) and green tea, Ginza Shinohara for the famed kaiseki menus of Chef Takemasa Shinohara, and stylish French restaurant Esquisse. It`s also worthwhile visiting Cafe de l’Ambre, a classic “kissaten” (traditional coffee shop) open since 1948. The food court at Ginza Mitsukoshi department store is also worthy of exploration, and Henri Charpentier Ginza Store is an appealing destination for dessert.

      Tsukiji’s renowned wholesale marketplace shifted to Toyosu in 2018, however the “ Tsukiji Outer Market” (just 10 minutes from Ginza by subway), a complex assortment of seafood bistros and local pubs, continues to be an entertaining place to eat sushi or ramen; Tsukiji Itadori Bekkan is a superb choice for the former.

      In Tokyo, be prepared to wait in a queue to dine. Many popular places are small, casual affairs that do not accept reservations; you’ll have to submit your name and wait to be called in (or arrive at opening time).

      people sitting at a table with plates of food

    • Most Romantic Neighborhood in Tokyo: Ebisu
      Though you won`t want to be amid big crowds on a honeymoon or couple`s trip, making overlooked Ebisu highly convenient as it`s accessible via the Yamanote and Hibiya rail lines. While there are many dining and drinking options along Ebisu`s side roads, Tokyoites regularly choose the Yebisu Garden Place mall as one of the city`s top spots for dates. It`s like a small city within the larger one with its well-known glass arcade, offering eateries with dreamy perspectives on the 38th and 39th floors of Yebisu Garden Place Tower, a beer hall commemorating where Sapporo`s “Yebisu” brand beer originated, the Mitsukoshi department store, a weekly open-air farmer`s market, and the upscale Westin hotel. The stylish Tokyo Photographic Art Museum is here too, and it`s a brief walk to the Meguro River Promenade renowned for its spectacular cherry blossoms in springtime. Winter (Nov–Dec) can also be romantically spent, as Yebisu Garden Place includes unique illuminations at night like the world`s largest Baccarat chandelier. Top choice for dinner dates is the Joël Robuchon Restaurant, situated in what looks like a French manor, while lantern-lined Ebisu Yokocho is a slim, covered lane filled with atmospheric bars and food stalls. Ebisu is also in walking range of the trendy Nakameguro and Daikanyama neighborhoods. The best Hotels in Ebisu are the Westin Tokyo and Ebisuholic Hotel
    • Best Neighborhood in Tokyo for Short Stays: Around Tokyo Station (Marunouchi & Ginza)
      If you only have a day or two available, you don`t want to waste time transporting your luggage across the city. Tokyo Station is conveniently located near Narita airport and the high-speed Shinkansen bullet train, and it contains shops, eateries, and even a hotel. However, it is also within walking distance of the Imperial Palace, the bustling Ginza district, and Kitanomaru Park, home to the impressive National Museum of Modern Art. Access to the rest of the city is via Tokyo Station`s Yamanote and Marunouchi subway lines and four additional lines from the nearby Ōtemachi Station.

    • Best Neighborhoods in Tokyo for Sightseeing: Akasaka or Around Tokyo Station (Marunouchi & Ginza)
      Akasaka, home to numerous corporate head offices, possesses few attractions of its own excepting the Hie Shrine, the National Diet Building, the Akasaka Sacas purchasing and dining composite, and a petite but spirited nightlife scene. However, its central location and combined stations of Akasaka-Mitsuke and Nagatacho, with five subway lines, offer direct access to Asakusa, Ueno, Shibuya, Omotesandō, Ginza, Shinjuku and other top spots without necessitating to interchange trains. Hotels are pricey, but many offer great perspectives of the city).

      In any other case, many visitors settle for the micro-neighborhoods around Tokyo Station – there are plenty of choices here (though this area also tends to be on the expensive side), with excellent transportation connections across the city and to the airports, with a huge range of restaurants, bars and shopping centers within walking distance.

    • Most Authentic Neighborhoods in Tokyo: Meguro or Shimokitazawa
      If the density of Tokyo gives you pause, consider staying in the nearby neighborhoods of Meguro, Nakameguro, and Daikanyama. Located just outside the Yamanote Line’s designation of inner Tokyo but with quick access to Shibuya and Ebisu, Meguro is mostly a residential area with breathing space and a hipster vibe. Few tourists make it down here, though it’s popular with local Japanese on weekends and the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum hosts high-quality rotating art exhibitions in a former royal villa. The pleasant Meguro River Promenade, smothered in pink cherry blossom in the spring, links Meguro with the hip Nakameguro neighborhood a bit further north (check out work of local artists at Meguro Museum of Art on route).

      Around Nakameguro Station, visitors will find trendy coffee houses, antique clothing stores and boutiques, along with the remarkably stylish Sato Sakura Museum, which holds exhibitions of Japanese artwork. Equally fashionable Daikanyama lies on the hill just north of Nakameguro and the river, with Tsutaya Books Daikan-yama being a destination on its own – a huge, contemporary bookstore and a center for outdoor cafes and restaurants. From there one can stroll along Esperanza-dōri to Log Road Daikanyama, a small shopping center on an old railway line serving as another local cafe gathering place (Spring Valley Brewery Tokyo is also located here).

      The Olympic Sculpture Park is a branch of Seattle Art Museum located along Seattle’s downtown shoreline, just downhill from Seattle Center. It houses a notable collection of modern works by contemporary artists such as Alexander Calder, Claes Oldenburg, and Louise Bourgeois. In addition to showcasing an impressive collection, the Sculpture Park is one of downtown Seattle’s few green spaces, set amid picturesque views of the sound, mountains, and ferries. Admission is complimentary, and hour-long public tours are provided at 1pm on weekends from April through November. Check the SAM calendar of events for particulars.

      Further westward, just a handful of stops from bustling Shibuya, Shimokitazawa offers another trendy neighborhood providing a refreshing low-rise reprieve from frenetic central Tokyo. It`s a charming district with a village-like feel containing vintage clothing stores, record shops, galleries, live music venues, and independent cafés. The Honda Theater stages cutting-edge plays (usually only in Japanese), while cozy places like Oishii Curry and Bagel cafe 88 are ideal for grabbing a quick bite. At Shimokita Senrogai, a brief walk along the tracks north of Shimo-Kitazawa Station, you`ll find a hub of food and drink trucks, with special events held most weekends.

    • Best Family-Oriented Neighborhood in Tokyo: Tokyo Bay (including Odaiba)
      The human-made islands of Tokyo Bay offer an abundance of appealing options for families. Open areas abound for activities with a selection of well-designed parks and even a scattering of beaches. Attractions encompass Miraikan, National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, using direct experiences related to technology`s future. Large entertainment compounds like game-focused Tokyo Joypolis and small-scale replica park Small Worlds Tokyo are present. In addition, there are Legoland and Madame Tussauds wax museum. Shopping centers abound with eateries and the sizable Gundam Base storefront housing its massive Gundam figure. Additional diversion lies several miles eastward where Kasai-Rinkai Park holds the immense Diamond and Flower Ferris Wheel alongside the marine animal aquarium Tokyo Sea Life Park, both within brief transit of Japan`s premier theme destination, Tokyo Disneyland.

      Access to other areas of Tokyo is limited if staying in Tokyo Bay due to its location. Families wanting to be immersed in the bustling Tokyo scene may prefer Shibuya as an accommodation option.

    • Safety in Tokyo
      Like most of urban Japan, Tokyo is very safe, though standard precautions should be taken at night.

    The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Tokyo for Tourists

    1. Around Tokyo Station (Marunouchi & Ginza)

    The area surrounding Tokyo Station is considered the old “downtown” of the city, also known as Shitamachi, and is where Edo (Tokyo`s former name) began developing in the 17th century. Located here is the Imperial Palace (the former Edo Castle), as well as the business district of Marunouchi and the upscale shopping and entertainment area of Ginza. This region is more tranquil than trendier neighborhoods like Shinjuku and Shibuya, and more upscale – some of the most luxurious inns in the city are found here – but it makes sense to stay here if one wishes to fully explore the city or be within walking distance of Tokyo Station (the major bullet train hub and a Narita Express stop).

    As expected, Tokyo Station itself is immense and can initially perplex, though signs translate to English and its arrangement is fairly logical, with shopping centers and food courts on lower levels (“Tokyo Character Street” on Basement 1 is a favorite target for manga and anime fans).

    The collection of tall buildings toward the west of the station is Marunouchi, Tokyo’s premier financial district. Japan’s biggest bank, MUFG Bank, is headquartered here, with Mizuho Bank and SMBC nearby. Marunouchi is additionally the place of the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum (showing European craftsmanship, yet closed until late 2024 for renovations), the respected Imperial Theater, and the more up to date Tokyo International Forum expo office intended by Rafael Viñoly). Past here lies the immense reach of the Kokyo Gaien National Garden and the Imperial Residential complex itself (home of Japanese rulers since 1868). Be that as it may it’s typically not conceivable to get in (or even see) the fundamental structures (ruined in World War II and reestablished in the 1960s), most guests stomp through the external nurseries by the same token, taking the exemplary photo of the Nijubashi Bridge, with the Fushimi-yagura tower behind it. Kitanomaru Recreation center is found straightforwardly to the north of the imperial residential complex and is the site of the Nippon Budokan (Tokyo’s well known melodic theater, opened in 1964 as the Olympic hand to hand fighting play area), the Science and Innovation Museum, and the National Museum of Contemporary Craftsmanship (displaying works by noteworthy Japanese craftsmen since the Meiji time span).

    North of Tokyo Station are the commercial quarters known as Ōtemachi and Nihonbashi, home to the Tokyo Stock Exchange and the stately nineteenth-century premises of the Bank of Japan. Nearby is the Mitsui Memorial Museum, housing a rare collection of ancient Japanese artwork and artifacts. Further north, Kanda-Jinbōchō is known for its secondhand book stores (aka Jimbōchō Book Town); Kitazawa has an excellent selection of English-language books.

    Ginza lies south of Tokyo Station, best known today for its luxury retailers, fashion boutiques, and high-end dining and coffee establishments – all the prominent global brands have a presence here, from Gucci to Chanel. The Ginza is still a major nightlife hub as well, though perceived as less hip than Shinjuku and Roppongi. Places of interest incorporate the Seiko House Ginza Clock Tower, the venerable Mitsukoshi Ginza department shop, and the Nissan Crossing at the heart of the district (at the Ginza Yon-chōme crossing, where Chūō-dōri and Harumi-dōri meet); Renzo Piano`s “bubblewrap” designed Maison Hermès boutique and gallery; the relatively recent Ginza Six shopping complex; the traditional Kabuki-za (kabuki theater); and the restaurant featured in the 2011 documentary “Jiro Dreams of Sushi” about sushi grandmaster Jiro Ono, Sukiyabashi Jiro, though reservations are now virtually unattainable. Chūō-dōri is closed to traffic on weekends from noon to 5pm.

    To the west of Ginza lies the Hibiya Park, opened in 1903 and still a peaceful refuge in the heart of the city. The Japan Sake and Shochu Information Center is just south of the park, an exhibition space/bar that shares Japan`s favored beverages. Additionally, you`ll find many lodgings east of Tokyo Station in Yaesu, a quieter locale known for the contemporary Artizon Museum and its diverse collection of Impressionist and European artwork.

    The Yasukuni Shrine is located northwest of the central area, beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring, but otherwise a controversial Shinto place of worship. Established in 1869, it commemorates those who died serving Japan, but now includes over 1,000 World War II criminals (including 14 “A-class” like Hideki Tojo, secretly added in 1978). The on-site Yushukan Museum contains various military artifacts, including actual Mitsubishi zero fighters, but expect a fairly one-sided perspective of Japan’s invasion of China and World War II.

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    2. Akihabara

    a city street filled with lots of tall buildings

    Around a mile north from Tokyo Main Station (halfway to Ueno), “Akihabara Electric Town” has turned into Tokyo’s primary center point for all electronic things, yet additionally for “otaku” devotees of cosplay, anime, and manga. It’s additionally the first home of one of Japan’s most intriguing odd patterns: the “housemaid bistro,” where young ladies dressed as French maids serve drinks and nibbles enhanced with affectionate plans and now and then sing melodies too.

    The massive Yodobashi electronics emporium stands on the eastern side of Akihabara Station, while the main promenade, Chuo-dōri, sits on the western side and is closed to vehicles on Sundays (usually 1–6pm). The Radio Kaikan complex houses over 30 stores selling all kinds of electronics and anime, Super Potato is renowned for vintage video game consoles, and Mandarake offers rare and secondhand manga, figurines, DVDs and toys. There’s also a huge branch of discount retailer chain Don Quijote (open 24 hours), which provides duty free rates if you present your passport (go early in the morning to avoid crowds). The 8th floor here is home to the AKB48 Theater, where girl “idol” group AKB480 perform shows. Popular Akihabara “maid cafés” include @Home Café,Maidreamin, and Magical Girl.

    Akihabara is primarily a shopping hub, but there are a couple of interesting temples here worth checking out. The Kanda Shrine was established long ago in 730 AD, but was moved to its current location in 1616 (and like most Japanese temples, it’s been rebuilt multiple times). It’s very attractive, with a bright vermillion two-story main gate and elegant main hall. Nearby is the much quieter Yushima Seido, a large but restrained 17th-century Confucian temple (the grounds also contain the world’s largest statue of Confucius).

    It can become very busy in Akihabara, but it’s not a bad place to base yourself if you enjoy being in the thick of things, and particularly if you love contemporary Japanese culture. It’s also just a couple of stops from Tokyo Main Station on the JR Yamanote Line or JR Keihin-Tōhoku Line).

    people walking down a street next to a building

    3. Ueno

    a large body of water surrounded by tall buildings

    Located just over a mile west of Asakusa, Ueno is home to another major train station and Shinkansen stop, but is best known for the museums and attractions within Ueno Park. Ueno Park is Tokyo’s most famous location for viewing cherry blossoms in the spring, when huge crowds can be expected. Year-round, art enthusiasts could spend a couple of days or more exploring the galleries here, starting with the invaluable collections of Japanese art and artifacts housed in the Tokyo National Museum. There’s also the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the National Museum of Western Art, the University Art Museum found at Tokyo University of the Arts, and the Shitamachi Museum dedicated to the history of Tokyo before World War II.

    The immense National Museum of Nature and Science provides families with an excellent option at Ueno Park, though the popular Ueno Zoo is also an attraction, and during summer months visitors can rent boats on the scenic Shinobazuno Pond. The Buddhist Shinobazunoike Benten-do temple represents a famed spot for taking in the cherry blossoms and lotus flowers around the pond. There is also one of Tokyo`s oldest temples, the Ueno Tōshō-gū, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, with its main entrance lined by well-known snacks stalls (the pagoda now part of the zoo near can formerly be seen belonging to Kan’ei-ji Temple). A brief walk away is the Ameyoko shopping district, no longer quite the bargain street market of days past, but still an enjoyable area to explore. About a mile northwest of Ueno Park, the Nezu Shrine is rightly renowned for its expansive azalea gardens, which erupt in color during spring (Nezu Station is the closest subway stop)).

    a tall building with a view of a city

    4. Asakusa

    Asakusa, which is around 2.5 miles (4km) north of Tokyo Station, is thought to be the area of the city that comes closest to having an “old town”, featuring various shops and restaurants established during the Edo Period (1603–1868) as well as the lengthy, pedestrian walkway leading to Sensō-ji temple – Nakamise-dōri – lined with conventional stores, snack stalls, and guesthouses. Nevertheless, most structures actually date from the 1950s and 1960s since the entire region sustained heavy bombing during World War II. Even so, it`s one of Tokyo’s most visited tourist spots, with the magnificent Sensō-ji Buddhist temple situated at its core. Dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, Sensō-ji’s grand halls are painted in striking vermillion, black, and gold; along with the smaller Asakusa Shrine (dedicated to the men who originally found the sacred Kannon statue in the nearby river) nearly adjacent. The Kaminarimon Gate, with its enormous red lantern at the southern end of Nakamise-dōri, is a favored spot for photos. River trips along the Sumida River leave from a pier just a brief walk from the temple, and families with small kids might also want to inspect the nearby Hanayashiki amusement park.

    From Asakusa, it’s a pleasurable stroll across the Sumida River (through the Sumida River Walk) and east along the narrower Kitajukken River (now lined with the shops and restaurants of the Tokyo Mizumachi mall) to Tokyo Skytree. Heading this route you’ll get stunning perspectives of the tower, with afternoons best for photos. At 2,080 ft (634 m), it represents Japan’s tallest architectural structure – and the third tallest structure globally – and a significant tourist attraction; its sky-height observation deck and enormous shopping centers attract huge crowds, particularly on weekends.

    Asakusa is especially known for its traditional festivals, with Sanja Matsuri (aka Sanja Festival), in May, the most famous)..

    a large building with a clock on the front of it

    5. Akasaka

    Southwest of Tokyo Station and Hibiya Park, and just north of Roppongi, Akasaka is an oftoverlooked neighborhood that once catered mostly to businessmen and bureaucrats. Currently it’s an up-and-coming commercial center and posh residential district with lots of construction and a new swath of soaring skyscrapers, especially in the adjacent Toranomon Hills area.

    There’s a small yet trendy nightlife zone in the heart of Akasaka (near Akasaka-Mitsuke Station) that features a “Little Korea” with Korean eateries and bars, plus some quality hotels. Nearby are important governing bodies, notably the National Diet Building and Akasaka Palace (one of the Emperor’s residences, usually closed to visitors).

    Akasaka is also home to two notable Shinto places of worship: the centuries-old Hie Shrine sits at the top of a small elevation above Akasaka-Mitsuke Station (motorized stairways run up the incline), with its scenic “Thousand Toriis” pathway; the atmospheric Nogi Shrine is dedicated to war hero General Nogi Maresuke and his wife Nogi Shizuko, renowned in Japan for committing suicide after the passing of Emperor Meiji in 1912 (their simple wooden living quarters are also preserved on site).

    Akasaka is another centrally situated neighborhood with easy access to the rest of Tokyo via 5 subway lines, which provide direct routes to Asakusa, Ueno, Ginza, Shinjuku, and other top tourist destinations).

    6. Roppongi

    Tokyo’s premier nightlife hub for Japanese, expats, and foreign visitors, Roppongi is a posh residential area and burgeoning high-rise district crammed with bars, stylish restaurants, izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), and dance clubs some 2.5 miles (4km) southwest of Tokyo Station. Over the last 20 years the neighborhood has evolved into a major commercial center: the Izumi Garden Tower and the Roppongi Hills high-rise complexes were completed in 2003, Tokyo Midtown (with the The Ritz-Carlton Hotel on top) was finished in 2006, the Ark Hills Sengokuyama Mori Tower topped out in 2012, and the Azabudai Hills complex to the east (including the Mori JP Tower, Japan’s tallest building) completed in 2023.

    Visitors commonly flock to the three attractions that comprise the cultural area known as the Roppongi Art Triangle: the Mori Art Museum at Roppongi Hills (a complex that also features the Tokyo City View observational platform and tree-lined Keyakizaka-Avenue); the beautifully-engineered National Art Center, with excellent temporary displays shown behind its rippling glass facade; and the Suntory Art Museum and fashionable 21_21 Design Sight exhibit (a union between architect Andō Tadao and designer Issey Miyake) both at Tokyo Midtown, the city’s third tallest skyscraper housing an upscale shopping center.

    Directly to the east of Roppongi lies the iconic Tokyo Tower (1,092ft/333m). Drawing inspiration from Paris’ Eiffel Tower and completed in 1958, its observation deck was long overshadowed but remains well-known. You’ll get the finest panoramas of the tower from the neighboring Prince Shiba Park, though sometimes there is a line to capture the photograph popular on Instagram from the crimson stairs leading up from the underground parking area nearby. Zojo-ji temple, north of the park, was carefully reconstructed after being flattened in World War II and serves as the head temple of Jōdo-shū Buddhism. Its small graveyard contains several Tokugawa shoguns, and there is a poignant “Garden of Unborn Children” honoring those lost at birth or from miscarriage, filled with “jizo” bodhisattva statues topped with crimson caps and pinwheels.

    Roppongi offers nightlife options and is less of a “foreign sensation” if this is your initial time in Japan/Asia, though despite its central location it’s not as well-connected as other neighborhoods and lodging choices here are much smaller).

    7. Shibuya

    a city street filled with lots of traffic

    One of Tokyo’s most important commuter hubs, Shibuya is a more modern, trendier version of Shinjuku, some 2 miles (3.5km) to the north. It offers a lively restaurant and nightlife scene catering primarily to students, young office workers, and professionals, but is perhaps best known for the Shibuya Scramble Crossing, the “most crowded pedestrian crossing” just outside the station, made famous in the film Lost in Translation. The nearby Hachikō Memorial Statue recalls the faithful dog that continued to wait at Shibuya Station for 9 years after his owner’s death in 1925, while the Shibuya Sky observation deck provides 360-degree open-air views that are wildly popular on Instagram.

    Otherwise, the area is mostly renowned for purchasing opportunities: the Shibuya 109 shopping center is a showcase for current Japanese fashion trends, while neighboring Center Gai street is jam-packed with indie boutiques. There’s also a MEGA Don Quijote store, branches of Parco and Tokyu Hands malls, a well-known Shibuya Loft, the new Shibuya Stream shopping center and Shibuya Fukuras mall. Fashionable Cat Street runs north to Harajuku, lined with cool boutiques and cafes).

    a large building with a lot of windows

    8. Harajuku

    people walking down a city street

    Harajuku, located in Tokyo, is considered a teen shopping mecca filled with stores selling inexpensive clothing and accessories, stalls offering sweet crepes, and affordable eateries, though some areas – Cat Street, running south to Shibuya, and the Tadao Ando-designed Omotesandō Hills complex, for example – showcase global fashion brands, larger international chain stores and high-end luxury boutiques. The 1980s truly represented Harajuku’s peak (between 1977 and 1998 a large part of the neighborhood prohibited car traffic on Sundays and groups of dancing costumed teens were a regular occurrence), though you may still see Rockabillies in Yoyogi Park on weekends.

    One of the traditional central areas of Harajuku is Takeshita-dōri, a narrow pathway reserved for pedestrians that is often very crowded with people, and still a major attraction for teenagers (although fake brands are no longer sold there). Omotesandō-dōri extends southeast, becoming increasingly upscale as it enters Aoyama, while the fashionable Cat Street branches off it to the north through the backstreets of Harajuku. Other notable places include the tranquil Togo Shrine, the Shinto temple honoring Tōgō Heihachirō, a renowned Japanese Navy admiral from the 19th–20th centuries; the Ota Memorial Museum of Art (known for historic woodblock prints), the Laforet Harajuku mall, and the Design Festa Gallery, an artists’ cooperative that resembles a miniature version of Paris’ Pompidou Center. One of Tokyo’s top attractions lies just northwest of Harajuku: the Meji Shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji (1868–1912), is a beautiful complex nestled away in the wooded grounds that form part of Yoyogi Park.

    Accommodations are not available within Harajuku itself, but Shibuya is just one stop away on the train.

    9. Shinjuku

    Home to Japan’s busiest commuter station, as well as some of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, top hotels, restaurants, bars, shops, and plenty of late-night entertainment, Shinjuku is Tokyo’s modern heart, rivaling the traditional city center in Marunouchi and Ginza, some 4 miles to the east. The station itself is surrounded by giant shopping centers and department stores like Takashimaya, while the complex network of narrow paths northeast of the station is best known for nightlife. Omoide Yokochō is a popular but atmospheric alley of small neighborhood bars and tiny dive bars, but the main entertainment area is Kabukichō, still home to flashy hostess bars and strip clubs but a lot more mainstream since its decades of red-light activity and criminal element. It’s best experienced at night (it’s known as “Sleepless Town,” as little action occurs here during the day). Favorite observation spots include the red Kabukichō Ichiban-gai gateway (along Yasukuni-dōri), and the Godzilla tribute on top of Hotel Gracery. The sword-filled Samurai Museum has remained closed since the COVID issues, but deserves a look if open.

    Located on the eastern side of Kabukichō is Golden Gai, an intricate network of six narrow alleyways lined with over 150 diminutive bars housed in wooden shanty-like structures. Its appearance may seem unsavory but it actually caters to an exclusive clientele of Tokyo`s artistic community, with crowds only showing up well past the 21:00 hour. Further east is Shinjuku Ni-chome (2 Chome), Japan`s largest district devoted to LGBTQ+ nightlife. A major daily attraction in the area is the vast green expanse of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This enormous park is perpetually busy, featuring several picturesque ponds, flowers blooming throughout the year, gigantic tulip trees, and sensitively designed teahouses. Also within the park is a highly photogenic Chinese pavilion (Kyu-Goryo-Tei or Taiwan Pavilion), a futuristic greenhouse crammed with tropical flora, and the stylish Shinjuku Gyoen Museum which chronicles the park`s history as the estate of a nobleman from the Tokugawa era. To the north of Kabukichō lies Shin-Okubo, Tokyo`s most vibrant Koreatown, packed with food stalls, markets, karaoke bars, and restaurants specializing in Korean barbecue.

    The modern skyscraper area west of Shinjuku Station known as Nishi-Shinjuku is home to landmarks like the eye-catching Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower with its intersecting curved design, the unique twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building renowned for its scenic observation platform, the laidback Shinjuku Chuo Park and neighboring Shinjuku Jyuniso Kumano Shrine. The Park Hyatt (at the pinnacle of the iconic Shinjuku Tower) was where much of the 2003 movie Lost in Translation was shot and remains one of the top hotels in the city; relive scenes from the film at the New York Bar (New York Grill during the day) on the 52nd floor, or visit the bamboo-filled Peak Lounge & Bar on the 41st floor for similarly spectacular perspectives.

    Shinjuku provides an extremely vibrant experience of Tokyo renowned for outstanding nightlife, dining, and shopping scenes, with convenient transportation links to other city areas..

    10. Tokyo Bay (including Odaiba)

    Vast open spaces and many family-friendly attractions make the Tokyo Bay district a popular destination for visitors. Newly developed (this part of Tokyo is less traditional), a series of artificial islands feature shopping complexes, museums, and entertainment centers, with wider avenues and considerably more room than elsewhere in the city.

    Toyosu has undergone redevelopment since the 1990s and is best known for the immense Toyosu Market complex, replacing the famous Tsukiji fish market in 2018 (there are now two buildings for seafood and one for fruits and vegetables, with many onsite restaurants). Aiming to arrive at 6am allows viewing the tuna auctions from the viewing deck (an advance reservation is necessary to see the auctions from a closer platform). All market halls close by 3pm. The other main attraction here is teamLab Planets Tokyo, an immersive “Instagram” museum featuring 4 large-scale artwork spaces and 2 gardens.

    people standing in front of a building The neighboring Ariake island is home to attractions such as the Tokyo Big Sight international convention center featuring a notable pyramid-style tower. Other options include Small Worlds Tokyo, a miniature theme park catering to families, in addition to scientific exhibits at the Panasonic Center Tokyo

    The futuristic Fuji TV Building and Telecommunications Center stand on Odaiba island, both with scenic observation areas. The Gundam Base store contains a huge statue of Gundam and toys, while the Decks center includes Tokyo Joypolis,Legoland Discovery Center, and Madam Tussauds Tokyo. The bilingual National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation offers hands-on learning, while the Museum of Maritime Science resembles a cruise ship. A small replica of the Statue of Liberty and beach provide views of the Rainbow Bridge.

    Accessed via the Yurakucho Line subway, Toyosu Station is also an endpoint for the monorail line running across the bay called the Yurikamome, linking with Shimbashi passing Odaiba and Ariake. Some decent hotel deals may be found here, and depending on where you lodge it`s just a few stops to Tokyo Station – though it tends to be much quieter overnight. Hotels are generally newer and situated near the water, which is uncommon in Tokyo. Outstanding views can be appreciated from the Mitsui Garden Hotel (it’s worthwhile going up for a drink or meal to observe if not a guest)

    .

    More Tokyo Neighborhoods

    We’ve examined our favored neighborhoods to visit and remain in more detail above, but with more time these places are also worth exploring:

    • Aoyama/Omotesandō: This affluent region located just east of Harajuku offers fun opportunities for exploration, housing high-end eateries, cafes, and international designer boutiques, centered generally around Aoyama and Omotesandō avenues. Notable sights incorporate the stylish Nezu Art Museum (with pre-modern Japanese and East Asian art plus a beautiful garden), and the smaller but quirky Taro Okamoto Memorial Museum (home and workshop of Japan’s most renowned 20th-century abstract artist). You’ll also find top-quality arts and crafts available for purchase at Japan Traditional Crafts Aoyama Square. History buffs might want to stroll around Aoyama Cemetery, containing a small but poignant Foreign Section (resting place of numerous early American and European expatriates and missionaries), and a memorial to Hachikō (the faithful dog that waited at Shibuya Station for 9 years after its owner’s death). Our preferred hotel here is Tokyu Stay Aoyama Premier.
    • Ryōgoku: Historic neighborhood located on the east shore of the Sumida River, most renowned for housing the Kokugikan National Sumo Arena (three tournaments are hosted here annually). Nearby, the Edo-Tokyo Museum showcases the city’s most informative historical exhibition (note its closure until the end of 2025 for major renovations), the Sumida Hokusai Museum celebrates the renowned painter of Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji (such as the iconic Great Wave off Kanagawa), and the Japanese Sword Museum features a rare collection of ancient Japanese weaponry. Ryōgoku Station lies along the JR Sobu and Toei Oedo lines (about 15 minutes from Tokyo Station). The premier hotel here is the outstanding Gate Hotel Ryogoku ( APA Hotel & Resort Ryogoku Eki Tower offers good value as an alternative).
    • Sengaku-ji (in Takanawa): This highly esteemed 17th-century Sōtō Buddhist temple is one of Tokyo`s most renowned thanks to the account of the 47 Ronin, interred here in 1702 and immortalized in Japanese fiction thereafter. The 47 are respected in Japan for avenging the death of their master Asano Naganori – they killed the corrupt official who had forced Naganori to commit suicide, before calmly committing suicide themselves shortly after. You can tour the temple and grave sites free of charge, but there’s a small fee for the two on-site museums. The Toei Asakusa subway line and the Keikyū Main Line serve Sengakuji Station (around 20 minutes south from Tokyo Station). Some of the top hotels nearby include the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa,Prince Sakura Tower Tokyo, and Tokyu Stay Takanawa).a person standing in front of a large building
    • Ghibli Museum (in Mitaka): Must-visit museum for devotees of director Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli, though it`s a bit of a trek from central Tokyo (40 minutes by train to Kichijōji Station) and it’s essential to book your visit in advance online – you can’t just arrive, even to check out the museum store. There are more conveniently located Ghibli shops (aka Donguri Republic) below Tokyo Station (in “Character Street” on Basement 1) and in the Solomachi mall at Tokyo Skytree. The best hotel located near the Ghibli Museum is Kichijoji Excel.
    • Tokyo Dome City (in Suidōbashi): Families may want to dedicate a day to releasing energy at this massive entertainment complex, with the theme park section (Tokyo Dome City Attractions) featuring thrill rides such as the “Thunder Dolphin”, a high-speed roller coaster, and the Big O Ferris wheel. There’s also an indoor kids’ playground, a bowling center, roller skate rink and the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame – the Dome itself (aka the “Big Egg”) is Tokyo’s major baseball venue, the home field of the Yomiuri Giants. You can stay next door at the Tokyo Dome Hotel or at the sequence SUIDOBASHI, near Suidōbashi Station.
    • Given the ease of reaching the city center, there is little reason to stay near the airports; however, if an early departure necessitates lodging at Narita, the most convenient option is the Nine Hours capsule hotel, with Hotel Nikko and ANA Crowne Plaza providing slightly more comfort just outside the airport perimeter.

    Tokyo Travel Tips

    • The cities of Tokyo are served by the Narita International Airport and the Haneda Airport also referred to as the Tokyo International Airport. Whereas Haneda has closer proximity to the city center, both airports offer superb transportation links. The Narita Express runs every 30 minutes or so from stations at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2/3 to Tokyo Station approximately 53 minutes, Shibuya around 1hr 15min, and Shinjuku roughly 1hr 20min. Tickets commence at ¥3,070 or about US$22. From Haneda, travelers can board the monorail to Hamamatsucho Station 15 minutes and transfer to the Yamanote Line to reach Tokyo Station within half an hour, Shibuya in approximately 40 minutes, and Shinjuku in 50 minutes sadly without direct service from Haneda to these stations. Taxis from the airports are costly. Fares are usually set; from Haneda to Shinjuku ¥8,300; ¥7,800 to Shibuya; and ¥6,900 to Tokyo Station, plus tolls and late-night surcharges may apply. From Narita it will cost no less than ¥23,000 to Tokyo Station and ¥25,000 to Shibuya and Shinjuku.
    • Though English is spoken more commonly now in Tokyo than in the past, and most hotels and some shops and dining spots will have English-speaking staff available, don’t assume all will understand you. Staff at the main ticket counter at Tokyo Station can converse in English, menus normally feature photos to point at, and signage in the station (and around the city) is translated into English, but try learning a few words and numbers in Japanese before you go, if feasible.
    • The Tokyo Pass (providing free entrance to over 35 museums and attractions) can be a worthwhile investment, but only if you intend to visit many sights. Their digital pass (which must be downloaded to your smartphone and have roaming/wi-fi to use) comes in 2, 3, or 5-day versions, with the option to add unlimited subway travel. Prices begin at ¥6,800 (around US$50) for 2 days, but it’s usually better value to purchase the 3-day (¥8,000) or 5-day card (¥10,300). You’ll need to go to at least 7 of the higher-priced places over two days to break even (like Tokyo National Museum, Mori Art Museum, National Museum of Modern Art). Alternatively, the Grutto Pass is valid for two months from the day you first use it and incorporates admission and discount coupons for 101 museums in the Tokyo area, starting at just ¥2,500 (around US$18–20); purchase it from participating museums. It can be a great deal, but check the list on the website, as some museums only offer a discount, not free entrance.
    • The city has two very resourceful Tokyo Tourist Information Centers in Shinjuku (at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (Main Building No.1) as well as at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, plus stations at the Keisei Ueno Station (in front of the ticket gate) and at Haneda Airport. The main Japan National Tourism Information Center is situated in the Shin-Tokyo Building (1st floor) in Marunouchi.
    • Pedaling is popular in Tokyo, though the immense scale of the city implies you must be quite fit and devoted to tour the entire locale by bicycle. CycleTrip is a favored rental company handily located in Akihabara, while Docomo operates Tokyo’s bike-sharing service.
    • Free wi-fi is accessible at Narita and Haneda airports, and there are handy complimentary wi-fi hotspots throughout the city (search for “FREE_Wi-Fi_and_TOKYO”). Most subway stations also offer free wi-fi (“Metro_Free_Wi-Fi”), and you’ll also find hotspots run by various city districts (“Chuo_City_Free_Wi-Fi” or “Shinjuku_Free_Wi-Fi” for example). You’ll usually need to register your email to use them.
    • Escalator etiquette: Make sure you stand on the left side when using escalators in Tokyo (strangely, it`s customary to stand on the right in Osaka) – use the right side if you intend to walk up and down only.

    Narita Airport – Where To Stay

    a collage of photos of a person holding a cell phone

    The fastest way to get from Narita Airport to central Tokyo uses the Narita Express. It stops at 5 stations in central Tokyo: Tokyo Station, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, and Shinagawa. Travel time ranges from 60 to 90 minutes based on station and time. If traveling to Ueno Station the Keisei Skyliner offers a direct route taking 41 minutes.

    Haneda Airport – Where To Stay

    a computer generated image of a person holding a cell phone

    The speediest way to travel from Haneda Airport to central Tokyo involves taking the Airport Limited Express to Shinagawa Station or the Haneda Express to the Hamamatsucho Monorail Station. Both routes take 13 minutes.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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