The 15 Best Hotels in Tokyo
Planning a trip to Tokyo but feeling overwhelmed by all the hotel options? You’re in the right place!
Tokyo is absolutely enormous, with thousands of hotels spread across dozens of distinct neighborhoods. Even though the trains make it super easy to get around, not every neighborhood is equally convenient for sightseeing, and finding somewhere that’s both convenient and affordable can take some work!
So to make planning your trip a little easier, we’ve rounded up 15 of our favorite hotels in Tokyo, with convenient locations and options to suit different budgets and travel styles.
Ready? Let’s get to it!
Don’t miss out!
Our Top Choice
This is the hotel we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE hotel to stay in Tokyo is WPÜ HOTEL Shinjuku!
We loved the sleek design, helpful staff, and ridiculously good location in Shinjuku. The morning coffee and croissants were also a sweet touch!

Photo credit: WPÜ HOTEL Shinjuku
The Best Hotels in Tokyo
Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower


- Price range: $$$
- Location: Shinjuku
- Best for: First-time visitors and couples who want excellent transport links
- Close to: Shinjuku Station, Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, NEWoMan, Takashimaya Times Square, and Shinjuku Gyoen
- Standout features: High-floor rooms with panoramic Tokyo views, several restaurants and a lounge 100 meters (328 feet) above ground, spacious twin and king rooms
If you’re looking to explore all of Tokyo, Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower is not only a super convenient place to stay, but its rooms also offer epic city views! Just a three-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, it provides access to several JR, subway, and private railway lines. This makes it much easier to reach areas such as Shibuya, Harajuku, Tokyo Station, and Ginza, without repeatedly changing trains.
It’s also close to major attractions like the gorgeous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Kabukicho, and the Meiji Jingu Shrine, so you’re right in the middle of everything. Better yet, the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal is just a short walk away, making airport transfers nice and easy. Some limousine buses even stop right at the Southern Tower, which is a bonus if you’re traveling with heavy luggage.
Inside, all the rooms are more than 100 meters (328 feet) above the ground, so the views are pretty impressive. Depending on where your room is, you could be looking out over the Shinjuku skyline, Yoyogi Park, or even Mount Fuji on a clear day. Some rooms have seating by the window too, which makes the views feel like a real part of the stay rather than a minor bonus.
Double rooms at Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower typically cost between 33,000 and 70,000+ JPY ($210–$440+ USD) per night.
WPÜ HOTEL Shinjuku


- Price range: $$
- Location: Shinjuku
- Best for: Couples looking for a central stay
- Close to: Shinjuku Station, Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, Golden Gai, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
- Standout features: Creative communal spaces, a 24-hour shared kitchen, café and diner, cultural events, private en-suite rooms, and coin-operated laundry
WPÜ HOTEL Shinjuku is a friendly, reasonably priced option in a super convenient location. This was our choice too, and we loved being just a six-minute walk to the station. Getting around Tokyo was so easy, whether we were heading to Shibuya, Harajuku, Ikebukuro, Tokyo Station, or somewhere else entirely, so it works perfectly for first-timers.
And if you like to shop, even better. You’re very close to Shinjuku SanPark Mall, so you can shop until you drop! The hotel also has a fun, creative vibe, combining private rooms with the social atmosphere you’d expect from a stylish hostel. There’s a café, diner, gallery, radio station, and event spaces all under one roof.
You’ll also find a cozy lounge and a shared kitchen available around the clock, with utensils and tableware if you want to make breakfast or a simple meal and save a little money. And if cooking isn’t your thing, there’s an on-site restaurant too.
Single rooms make it a good choice for solo travelers, while triple rooms work well for friends or families. There’s also a flexible cancellation policy, which is always handy if plans change.
Prices range from around 16,000 to 50,000 JPY ($110–$350 USD) per night, depending on the room and season; for the location and perks, it’s pretty fair.
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku


- Price range: $$
- Location: Shinjuku
- Best for: First-time visitors, nightlife lovers, and families wanting triple rooms
- Close to: Shinjuku Station, Seibu-Shinjuku Station, Kabukicho, Golden Gai, Omoide Yokocho, and Thermae-Yu
- Standout features: Landmark Godzilla head, themed Godzilla rooms, high-floor accommodation, separate bathrooms and toilets, true triple rooms, lounge, restaurants, and coin laundry
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku is pretty hard to miss, thanks to the life-sized Godzilla Head peeking over its eighth-floor terrace! And while the Godzilla theme throughout makes this an especially fun choice, there’s much more to this hotel than its famous resident.
The location is a huge part of the appeal. You’ll be right in the middle of Kabukicho, with restaurants, convenience stores, entertainment, and late-night food just outside. Seibu-Shinjuku Station is about a three-minute walk away, while JR Shinjuku Station’s East Exit is closer to five minutes away.
The rooms are modern, comfortable, and designed to make the most of the space. Separate bathing and toilet areas make getting ready much easier when you’re sharing, and the triple rooms are a big plus for small families or groups of friends. There’s also a coin laundry for longer stays and an eighth-floor lounge with views toward the Godzilla Head.
Better yet, Golden Gai and Omoide Yokocho are both within walking distance. And if your feet need a break after a long day of sightseeing, the huge Thermae-Yu hot spring and sauna complex is just a short stroll away.
Rooms typically cost between 20,000 and 42,000 JPY ($130–$270+ USD) per night, which we think is very reasonable for such a memorable hotel in one of Tokyo’s most convenient neighborhoods.
APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower


- Price range: $
- Location: Shinjuku
- Best for: Budget travelers and nightlife lovers who do not mind compact rooms
- Close to: Higashi-Shinjuku Station, Kabukicho, Golden Gai, Shin-Okubo, and Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
- Standout features: Indoor and open-air public baths, compact high-tech rooms, larger twin options, under-bed luggage storage, breakfast buffet, and coin laundry
If you’d rather save as much money as possible for exploring Tokyo, APA Hotel Higashi Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower is a fantastic budget-friendly option. It’s particularly well suited to couples on a short city break who prioritize price, nightlife, and a public bath over having lots of floor space.
The standard rooms are compact, as you’d expect from an APA hotel, but they use the space cleverly. Larger twin rooms are also available if you’d prefer a little more room to spread out.
The real highlight, though, is the public bath. With both indoor and open-air bathing areas, it gives you the perfect place to relax after a long day of walking around Tokyo; something you don’t often find at this price point!
Location-wise, the hotel sits on the eastern side of Kabukicho, around a 5-minute walk from Higashi-Shinjuku Station. JR Shinjuku Station is about a 20-minute walk away, so this hotel isn’t quite as convenient for the main station as some of our other picks. However, you’ll still be less than a 10-minute walk from Golden Gai, and there’s a huge Don Quijote discount store nearby perfect for snacks, toiletries, and any other late-night essentials.
The tiny rooms mean this wouldn’t be our first choice for families, but at just 8,500 and 22,500 JPY ($55–$145+ USD) per night, it’s a solid option for solo travelers and couples who care more about price, nightlife, and transport connections than having lots of extra space.
Japan Rail Pass!
The Easiest Way to Travel Japan By Train
If you’re planning to explore Japan, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is hands down the easiest and most affordable way to get around. It’s a special 7, 14, or 21 day pass for foreign visitors that gives you unlimited rides on Japan’s famous JR trains, including the high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains)!
Why We Love the JR Pass
Pro Tip: If you’re only exploring one region of Japan, consider a Regional Pass instead (like the Kansai, Hokkaido, or Kyushu Pass). They’re cheaper and perfect for smaller trips!
Where to Get Your Pass
We personally recommend buying your pass online in advance through JRPass.com — they’re an official reseller with fast worldwide delivery and English support, making the whole process super simple. They even offer handy add-ons like pocket WIFI and meet & greet services! Still not sure if the JR Pass is right for you? Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Japan Rail Pass for a full breakdown of costs, inclusions, and when it’s worth it!
THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku


- Price range: $
- Location: Shinjuku
- Best for: Design-conscious couples and foodies
- Close to: Shinjuku Central Park, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Tochomae Station, Nishi-Shinjuku, and Tokyo Opera City
- Standout features: Park-facing rooms, stylish communal spaces, popular bakery and restaurants, fitness room, triple and four-bed rooms, and coin laundry
If you want to stay in Shinjuku but would prefer somewhere a little calmer than Kabukicho, THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku is one of our favorite options in the city. This stylish hotel sits directly across from Shinjuku Central Park, so the area feels more relaxed and neighborhood-like, even though you’re still close to the skyscrapers of western Shinjuku.
The rooms are modern and come with everything you’ll need, and some overlook Shinjuku Central Park. Triple and four-bed options are also available, making this an especially good choice for friends or small families.
Another thing we love about this hotel is the food. MORETHAN Bakery is perfect for grabbing fresh bread and coffee before sightseeing, while MORETHAN Tapas Lounge and MORETHAN Grill offer easy options for dinner and drinks. There’s also a newly added fitness room.
As for location, Tochomae Station is around a 5-minute walk away, and you can reach the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and its free observation decks in about five minutes. JR Shinjuku Station’s West Exit is about a 15-minute walk, but a local bus stops close to the hotel, which we recommend when you have luggage.
Since you’re in western Shinjuku rather than the main nightlife area, Golden Gai and Kabukicho are less immediately convenient. However, the quieter setting is a worthwhile trade-off if you prefer a more relaxed base.
Rooms typically cost between 12,500 and 39,000 JPY ($80–$250+ USD), depending on the room type, season, and dates.
Related Read: Love the idea of staying in Shinjuku? Check out our complete guide on where to stay in Shinjuku for our favorite areas and hotels!
Shibuya Stream Hotel


- Price range: $$$
- Location: Shibuya
- Best for: First-time visitors and couples
- Close to: Shibuya Station, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Scramble Square, Shibuya Hikarie, Hachiko Square, and Daikanyama
- Key features: Direct station connection, comparatively spacious rooms, corner rooms for up to four guests, selected rooms with city-view baths, lively bar and restaurant, daily guest social hour
If it’s your first time in Tokyo, or you’re a couple who wants maximum convenience without giving up comfort or space, Shibuya Stream Hotel is a great pick.
It’s directly connected to Shibuya Station, so you can access major JR, Tokyo Metro, and Tokyu lines without walking far outside. The New South Exit of the JR lines is just one or two minutes from the hotel, while Exit C2 gives you easy access to the Tokyu Toyoko and Den-en-toshi lines, as well as the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin and Hanzomon lines.
You’re also just minutes from Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Scramble Square, Hachiko Square, and Shibuya Hikarie, so you’re right in the middle of the action.
Rooms here are sleek, modern, and spacious, with big windows and even bigger beds. The hotel also has a generous cancellation policy, which we always appreciate when planning a big trip. When it comes to food, the on-site restaurant serves Japanese-inspired dishes and cocktails, while breakfast includes a mix of Japanese and Western options.
Oh, and you can head up to the rooftop bar for a drink with a view or enjoy a soothing soak in the onsen after a long day of exploring. What could be better? Prices here start at around 42,500 JPY ($265 USD) per night.
Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya-jingumae


- Price range: $$
- Location: Shibuya
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, repeat visitors
- Close to: Meiji-jingumae Station, Harajuku Station, Shibuya Station, Cat Street, Takeshita Street, Omotesando, and Yoyogi Park
- Standout features: Natural hot-spring baths, high-temperature sauna with auto löyly, cold plunge pool, complimentary late-night ramen, free post-bath treats, Western-style breakfast buffet, and coin laundry
Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya-jingumae is a great pick for couples and repeat visitors who want to stay close to Shibuya and Harajuku without being right in the middle of all the chaos. Tucked away on a quieter street between the two neighborhoods, you’re also located close to Cat Street and Jingumae, so there’s still lots to see and do nearby.
Plus, Meiji-jingumae “Harajuku” Station, Shibuya Station, and JR Harajuku are all about a 10-minute walk away, so Tokyo is your oyster! From Meiji-jingumae, you can hop on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda or Fukutoshin lines and easily get to Omotesando, Shinjuku-sanchome, Ikebukuro, and other parts of central Tokyo.
The rooms are clean and modern, but honestly, we love the little extras. After a long day of walking around Tokyo, you can head to the onsen for a relaxing soak, then come back later for free soba noodles. Not a bad way to end the day!
Breakfast is included too, so that’s one less thing to think about in the morning. Just keep in mind that the baths are gender-separated rather than private. Rooms typically cost between 35,000 and 57,000 JPY ($225–$380 USD) per night, which feels like good value if you want a few wellness perks without paying luxury-hotel prices.
Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel


- Price range: $$
- Location: Shibuya
- Best for: First-time visitors and short city breaks
- Close to: Shibuya Station, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Hachiko Square, Shibuya Hikarie, Shibuya Scramble Square, and Center Gai
- Standout features: Two-minute walk from Shibuya Station, compact modern rooms, Tempur pillows, larger deluxe twin rooms, breakfast buffet, coin laundry, and self-service check-in
If location is your top priority, Shibuya Tokyu REI Hotel should definitely be on your radar. It’s just a two-minute walk from Shibuya Station, so you’ll have easy access to the Yamanote Line and several subway and private railway lines.
You’ll also have many of Shibuya’s biggest attractions within easy reach. For example, Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Hachiko Square are only a 3-minute walk away, while Miyashita Park is just across the street. Shibuya 109, Shibuya Sky, Center Gai, and the shops around Shibuya Parco are also within walking distance, so there’s plenty to keep you busy in between day trips.
As for the rooms, they’re equipped with all the practical amenities you’d expect from a modern Japanese hotel, including comfortable Tempur pillows, work desks, and air purifiers (a real lifesaver during spring allergy season). Like other hotels in Japan, the rooms are quite compact. So if you’d like a little more room to spread out, we recommend upgrading to a deluxe twin room.
When it comes to breakfast, HUSH HUSH serves a Japanese and Western buffet with made-to-order omelets, slider burgers, curry bread, grilled fish, Japanese side dishes, salads, pastries, and fruit. There’s also a coin laundry and self-service check-in machines, which are handy extras for a short city break.
Price-wise, you can expect rooms to typically cost between 17,000 and 37,000 JPY ($110–$240+ USD) per night. With Shibuya Station and so many major attractions on your doorstep, we think that price is more than fair.
Hotel Fukudaya


- Price range: $
- Location: Aobadai near Shibuya
- Best for: Budget travelers and couples looking for a quiet, traditional Japanese-style stay
- Close to: Ikejiri-Ohashi Station, Shibuya Station, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Mark City, Daikanyama, and Nakameguro
- Standout features: Tatami rooms with futon beds, Japanese-style family rooms, private bathroom options, a small shared bath, traditional interiors, and a peaceful residential setting
For something a little different than a standard chain hotel in Tokyo, we absolutely love Hotel Fukudaya.
This family-run, ryokan-style hotel sits in a quiet residential pocket of Aobadai. Here, you’ll find simple, comfortable rooms with tatami floors, futon bedding, low furniture, and shoji-style doors. Some rooms also have a private bathroom, so you can enjoy the traditional atmosphere without sharing facilities.
What we really love about this hotel is the small shared Japanese-style onsen on-site, along with private shower rooms available 24 hours a day. The property is deliberately simple, so you won’t find a restaurant, gym, pool, or large communal lobby here, but that’s part of its charm. Just keep in mind that renovation work is currently taking place at the property, generally during daytime hours.
In terms of location, Ikejiri-Ohashi Station is about a 10-minute walk away, while Shibuya Station is closer, a 20-minute walk. You can also hop on a local bus or take a short taxi ride when you don’t feel like walking.
Rooms typically cost between 11,500 and 55,000 JPY ($75–$355+ USD) per night, though rates vary widely by season and room type. The higher rates push it beyond true budget territory, but the more affordable rooms offer a rare chance to enjoy a traditional Japanese-style stay close to Shibuya without spending a fortune.
Book Tea Bed SHIBUYA


- Price range: $
- Location: Shibuya
- Best for: Budget-conscious visitors, nightlife lovers, and short stays
- Close to: Shinsen Station, Shibuya Station, Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya 109, Center Gai, and Dogenzaka
- Standout features: Book-lined communal spaces, women-only and mixed capsule floors, shared showers, an on-site cafe, 24-hour reception, and luggage storage
If you’re looking for somewhere fun and affordable in the heart of Shibuya, Book Tea Bed SHIBUYA is definitely worth a look, especially if you’ve always wanted to stay in a capsule hotel.
As the name suggests, this isn’t your typical capsule hotel. The communal spaces have a bookshop-inspired theme, with shelves filled with manga, art books, and bestsellers, plus an on-site cafe where you can grab a coffee and unwind with a good read.
Because it’s a capsule hotel, you’ll sleep in an individual capsule rather than a conventional hotel room. That means you’ll share shower and bathroom facilities with other guests on your floor. Women traveling alone can book a capsule on a women-only floor, while mixed floors are available for groups or anyone happy with the standard capsule experience.
Location is a major plus here. You’ll be close to Dogenzaka’s restaurants, bars, and nightlife, with Shibuya 109 just five minutes away and Shibuya Scramble Crossing about a 10-minute walk away. Shibuya Station is also less than a 10-minute walk away, so it’s easy to explore the rest of Tokyo.
We wouldn’t recommend it as strongly for couples or families, since the individual capsules offer limited privacy and floor space. However, its unique style and central location make it a great-value choice for solo travelers and short stays.
Capsules typically cost between 4,600 and 10,000 JPY ($30–$65+ USD) per night, making this one of the cheapest ways to stay in the heart of Shibuya.
Why We Book Hotels on Booking.com
Booking.com is a trusted online booking platform for hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and boutique stays around the world. We’ve been using Booking.com to reserve our accommodations for over a decade, and we keep coming back for a few key reasons:
Marunouchi Hotel


- Price range: $$$
- Location: Tokyo Station
- Best for: First-time visitors, couples, business travelers
- Close to: Tokyo Station, Otemachi Station, Marunouchi, the Imperial Palace, Nihonbashi, and Ginza
- Standout features: Direct underground station access, Tokyo Station and train views, spacious room categories, Japanese-modern rooms for three guests, 24-hour gym, four dining and bar venues, and two breakfast choices
If you’re looking for a more sophisticated stay in this elegant part of Tokyo, Marunouchi Hotel is worth keeping on your radar! It’s especially handy for first-time visitors and anyone traveling around Japan by train.
Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi North Exit and Otemachi Station are both about a minute away and connected to the hotel by underground passageways, which is a lifesaver in the rain, summer heat, or when you’re dragging heavy luggage around!
And if you’re planning to take the Shinkansen to Kyoto, Osaka, Kanazawa, or northern Japan, this location makes things a lot easier. You can get to Tokyo Station without needing a taxi or transferring from another neighborhood, and the Narita Express stops here too.
Rooms are fairly spacious for central Tokyo and come with deep bathtubs for a relaxing soak after a long day of sightseeing. Some rooms overlook the railway tracks, while others offer views of Tokyo Station’s beautiful red-brick façade.
You’ll also find a gym, 24-hour business center, in-room body treatments, laundry service, and luggage storage. There are four restaurants on-site too, including a teppanyaki grill.
With the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Tower, and Tsukiji Market within easy reach, we think this is a fantastic base for exploring the city. Rooms start at around 58,000 JPY ($405 USD) per night–a bit of a splurge, but so worth it!
The Square Hotel GINZA


- Price range: $$
- Location: Ginza
- Best for: Couples, first-time visitors, and shoppers
- Close to: Ginza-Itchome Station, Higashi-ginza Station, Yurakucho Station, Ginza shopping streets, Kabuki-za Theatre, Tsukiji Outer Market, and Tokyo Station
- Standout features: Large gender-separated public bath, 24-hour gym, stylish modern rooms, cafe and bar, free bicycle rental, coin laundry, and rooms for up to three guests
If you’re after a stylish hotel in central Tokyo without paying typical Ginza prices, you’ll definitely want to check out the square hotel Ginza.
The rooms are cool and contemporary, but the real highlight is the large public bath on the second floor, free for guests and a treat after a long day of walking! There’s also a 24-hour gym, coin laundry, and a cafe-bar downstairs.
As for the location, Ginza-Itchome Station is just one minute away, while Higashi-Ginza and JR Yurakucho stations are both less than a 10-minute walk away (FYI: the Asakusa Line from Higashi-Ginza offers convenient connections toward Haneda Airport). You can even walk to Tokyo Station in about 15 minutes. Needless to say, it’s a super flexible base for day trips and getting to and from the airport.
Whenever you’re not on a day trip, though, you’ll still have plenty to do nearby the hotel. Ginza’s famous department stores, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance, while Tsukiji Outer Market is only about a 15-minute walk away (so a sushi breakfast is definitely on the cards!).
Rooms typically cost between 15,500 and 40,000 JPY ($100–$260+ USD) per night, which is a fantastic deal for a Ginza location.
remm Tokyo Kyobashi


- Price range: $
- Location: Kyobashi near Tokyo Station
- Best for: Couples on short stays, business travelers, and rail travelers
- Close to: Kyobashi Station, Tokyo Station, Ginza, Nihonbashi, Takaracho Station, and the Tokyo International Forum
- Standout features: Massage chair in every room, custom-designed mattresses, rain showers, direct subway access, coin laundry, and a Japanese and Western breakfast buffet
After a full day of walking around Tokyo, Remm Tokyo Kyobashi is exactly the kind of hotel you’ll be happy to come back to. The rooms are designed for rest and relaxation, with a massage chair, rain shower, and custom Silky Remm mattress in every one.
The location is another huge advantage. The hotel sits right beside Exit 6 of Kyobashi Station, giving you easy access to Ginza, Ueno, and Asakusa on the Ginza Line without changing trains. Tokyo Station is also only around a 10-minute walk away, so it’s an especially convenient choice if you’re arriving by Shinkansen or continuing to another part of Japan.
Closer to the hotel, the National Film Archive of Japan and Police Museum are both about two minutes away. You can also reach Ginza and the shops and restaurants around the Yaesu side of Tokyo Station in about 10 minutes on foot.
Like most hotels in Tokyo, the rooms are compact, but they’re modern and equipped with all the essentials. The hotel has 271 rooms, plus self-service laundry, vending machines, an ice maker, a microwave, and a currency exchange machine. We also love that this hotel offers a Japanese and Western breakfast buffet, plus a noon checkout time, which is always appreciated!
As for pricing, you can expect rooms to typically cost between 15,500 and 34,000 JPY ($100–$220+ USD) per night depending on the season.
Related Read: Want a more traditional stay? Check out our guides to the best ryokans in Tokyo and the best onsen hotels in Tokyo for unique stays with plenty of Japanese charm!
Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring


- Price range: $$$
- Location: Asakusa
- Best for: Couples and first-time visitors seeking a traditional stay
- Close to: Senso-ji Temple, Asakusa Shrine, Hanayashiki, Nakamise Shopping Street, Asakusa Station, and Kappabashi Kitchen Street
- Standout features: Natural black-water hot spring, gender-separated public baths, male dry sauna and female mist sauna, tatami flooring throughout, complimentary late-night ramen, Japanese breakfast buffet, and coin laundry
Just a 3-minute stroll from Asakusa Station, Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Tokyo, making it a great choice for couples and first-time visitors who want a traditional Japanese-style stay without leaving central Tokyo. This place has a lovely, authentic feel, with tatami flooring and an onsen, but you still get the comfort of Western-style beds instead of futons.
The location is another plus. Asakusa ROX Shopping Center, Denboin Garden, and Kinryu Park are all nearby, while Senso-ji is just a 3-minute walk away. You can even wander over early in the morning or later in the evening, once the daytime crowds have thinned out.
And whatever you do, don’t skip the basement bathing area! It uses naturally sourced black hot-spring water and has separate facilities for men and women, so it feels much more like a proper onsen than a standard hotel bath.
For us, it’s a great way to enjoy a more traditional side of Tokyo without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Prices typically range from 18,500 to 50,000+ JPY (around $120–$320+ USD) per night, which is a pretty good deal if you ask us!
Related Read: Love the traditional feel of Asakusa? Check out our complete guide on where to stay in Asakusa for our favorite areas and hotels for every budget!
Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno


- Price range: $$
- Location: Ueno
- Best for: Families, first-time visitors, and museum lovers
- Close to: Ueno Station, Keisei Ueno Station, Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo, Tokyo National Museum, Ameyoko, and Kappabashi
- Standout features: Panda-themed concept floor, rooms for up to three guests, exceptional station access, Italian-style breakfast buffet, coin laundry, massage treatments, and private bathrooms
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel with excellent transport connections, we definitely recommend checking out Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno.
This hotel is just a two-minute walk from the Asakusa Exit of JR Ueno Station and only one minute from the subway station. Keisei Ueno Station is also around six minutes away, giving you direct access to Narita Airport on the Skyliner. Trust us, that will make getting to the hotel with luggage (and setting off on day trips) much, much easier!
There’s plenty to do nearby, too. Ueno Park and its major museums are a 10-minute walk away, while Ueno Zoo is about a 15-minute walk. You can also browse the street food stalls, shops, and restaurants at Ameyoko, which is also within walking distance.
We always recommend this hotel for families because some rooms can accommodate up to three guests with a sofa bed. Families with younger children will also love the Panda Floor, which has Panda-themed rooms and hallways (so fun!).
In terms of pricing, you can expect rooms to typically cost between 18,000 and 45,000 JPY ($115–$290+ USD) per night depending on the room type and season.
Related Read: Once you’ve picked your hotel, check out our Tokyo itinerary for our tried-and-tested way to make the most of your time in the city!
Book your Airport Taxi in advance
Start your trip stress-free by booking your airport taxi before you arrive. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid overpriced fares and scams, and won’t have to worry about explaining your hotel address to a driver. Simply prebook your airport pickup online here, and your driver will be ready to take you directly to your hotel!
Top Activities in Tokyo


Once you’ve locked in your Tokyo accommodation, it’s time to plan the fun stuff! This city is packed with amazing experiences, and we made the most of our time by booking a few standout tours that gave us a deeper (and tastier!) look at Tokyo. From go-karting past famous landmarks to rolling sushi with local chefs, these are some of the highlights we still talk about.
- Take in some of Japan’s most iconic views – From Mt. Fuji’s snowy peak to the breezy Lake Ashi cruise, this day trip packed in so many epic views. We loved the ropeway ride and couldn’t stop snapping photos at every stop. Lunch was tasty, the vibes were relaxed, and ending with the bullet train was so much fun.
- Go on a food tour – Sampling our way through Tsukiji Market on this food tour was such a fun (and tasty) way to learn about Japanese food culture. We tried sushi, wagyu skewers, and omelets, and our guide shared great local tips and made everything easy to enjoy. Come hungry; you won’t want to skip a bite!
- Drive a go-kart through Tokyo – Zipping past Tokyo Tower and over the Rainbow Bridge in a full-on costume was absolutely wild (in the best way). This go-kart tour around Tokyo Bay felt like a mashup of sightseeing and real-life Mario Kart. The staff was awesome, the route was epic, and we couldn’t stop laughing the whole way through.
- Explore Tokyo with a private guide – This custom walking tour made Tokyo feel way less overwhelming. Our guide was super knowledgeable, flexible, and full of fun local tips. We hit shrines, side streets, gardens, and snack spots all in one smooth, six-hour adventure.
- Learn how to make sushi – This sushi rolling class was way more fun than we expected! The instructors were hilarious, the seafood was super fresh, and we actually learned to make nigiri and rolls like pros. It was hands-on, relaxed, and one of our favorite experiences in Japan.
Related Read: For even more ideas, we have a full list of the best things to do in Tokyo you won’t want to miss!
Renting a Car in Japan

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
Ready to hit the road? Discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!
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What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs in North America, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
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Tokyo is one of those cities where having the right hotel can make a HUGE difference! With so many neighborhoods and train lines to navigate, staying somewhere comfortable and well-connected means less time figuring out transport and more time eating, exploring, and soaking up everything this incredible city has to offer.
Before you go, check out all of our Japan travel guides for even more help planning your adventure. From detailed itineraries and epic tours to where to stay and what to eat, we’ve got plenty more tips from our travels. Or check out a few of our favorite blogs below to keep planning. Cheers!
5 Best Sightseeing Tours in Tokyo
4 Best Hakone Tours From Tokyo
The Services We Recommend
From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore Japan with confidence.
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