Where to Stay in Asakusa, Tokyo: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Thinking about staying in Asakusa, but not sure where to base yourself? You’re in the right spot!

This corner of Tokyo is packed with character—lantern-lit streets, temple grounds, and riverside walks all within easy reach. But here’s the thing: each part of Asakusa feels a little different, and where you stay can really shape your trip. That’s where we can help!

We’ve wandered the area top to bottom, testing out the neighborhoods (and plenty of the food stalls along the way!) so you don’t have to guess. In this guide, we’ll break down the best spots to stay in Asakusa and share hotel picks we think you’ll love.

Let’s jump in and find your perfect base!

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Asakusa

Asakusa is one of Tokyo’s most traditional yet lively districts, where centuries of history meet colorful shopping streets and riverside scenery. At its heart is Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple, with Nakamise Street leading up to its iconic gates—a stretch lined with shops and food stalls that never seems to quiet down. 

The area is compact and easy to explore on foot, so you can wander between temples, izakaya, and cherry-blossom-lined parks at your own pace. Asakusa is also well-connected, with several subway lines and river cruises linking it to the rest of Tokyo. Slightly apart from the city center, it offers a more relaxed vibe, and choosing the right base here makes getting around simple and enjoyable.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas in Asakusa—along with a great mid-range hotel pick in each:

• Central Asakusa (Senso-ji & Nakamise) – This is the heart of Asakusa, with lantern-lit streets, buzzing izakaya, and Nakamise Shopping Street leading straight to the iconic Senso-ji Temple. A great mid-range option here is The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa, where you’ll find modern rooms and plenty of comfort just steps from the action.

• Hanakawado / Sumida Riverside – Quieter and greener, this riverside stretch is perfect for enjoying cherry blossom season and taking peaceful strolls along Sumida Park, while still being close to Tokyo Skytree and Senso-ji. For a welcoming base, HOTEL TOMOS ASAKUSA offers bright rooms with balconies and family-friendly layouts.

• Kaminarimon Gate Area – At the entrance of the Thunder Gate, this area is all about convenience, packed with food stalls, shops, and direct access to Asakusa Station. You’ll be well-placed at Hotel Gracery Asakusa, which combines sleek modern rooms with relaxing touches like soaking tubs.

• Nishi-Asakusa / Kappabashi – West of Senso-ji, this neighborhood is famous for “Kitchen Town,” where shops sell everything from Japanese knives to plastic food displays. Stay SAKURA Tokyo ASAKUSA fits perfectly here, with kitchenette-equipped rooms that suit food lovers and longer visits.

• Kotobuki / Komagata – Just south of Senso-ji by the river, this local-feeling area blends historic restaurants with quirky museums and quieter streets. For travelers wanting something a little playful, Henn na Hotel Premier Tokyo Asakusa Tawaramachi delivers comfort, variety, and great value.

Where to Stay in Asakusa

Central Asakusa

If you picture Asakusa, chances are this is the area you’re imagining—lantern-lit streets, bustling shops, and the striking red gates of Tokyo’s oldest temple. Central Asakusa is built around Senso-ji Temple, a 7th-century Buddhist landmark that draws both worshippers and visitors daily. 

Leading up to the temple is Nakamise Shopping Street, a lively stretch packed with stalls selling everything from traditional snacks to quirky souvenirs. It’s one of Tokyo’s oldest shopping streets, so browsing here feels like stepping into living history as much as a marketplace.

This is the heart of Asakusa, and it never really slows down. You’ll find izakaya spilling onto the sidewalks, retro taverns along Hoppy Street, and enough food stalls to keep you happily snacking all day. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to dive straight into the energy of the neighborhood and be within steps of its biggest attractions.

The area is also well-connected—you can hop on a river cruise from nearby Sumida Park or head to Tokyo Skytree in just a few minutes. Sure, it can get crowded, but the buzz is part of the charm. Central Asakusa blends centuries of history with an atmosphere that’s undeniably fun, making it one of the most iconic places to base yourself in Tokyo.

Pros

• Right in the center of Asakusa’s top attractions
• Endless food, shopping, and nightlife options just steps away
• Well-connected by public transport and river cruises

Cons

• Can be very crowded, especially during weekends and festivals
• Hotels here are often pricier due to the location’s popularity
• Busy nightlife areas can be noisy late into the evening

Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring – $$$

Onyado Nono Asakusa Natural Hot Spring is one of those hotels that feels like a retreat right in the middle of the action. The location is spot-on—just a short stroll from Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise Street, and Asakusa Station, but inside, it’s all about relaxation. 

The rooms are sleek yet traditional, with tatami-style touches, city views, and thoughtful amenities like tea makers and bidets. What really sets this property apart, though, is the natural hot spring bath and sauna, which make winding down after a busy day of sightseeing an absolute dream. 

Breakfast is a highlight here, with a mix of Japanese dishes and fresh fruit, and the hotel’s reputation for service is stellar. Rooms typically range from $160–$320 USD per night, making it a wonderful choice for couples or anyone wanting a little luxury with their Tokyo adventure. 

Check prices and book this luxury stay in Central Asakusa here!

The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa – $$

The Kanzashi Tokyo Asakusa is a stylish mid-range option that blends comfort with convenience. The rooms are modern and well-equipped, with air conditioning, city views, and thoughtful touches like work desks, kettles, and free WiFi. 

Guests love the on-site restaurant, which serves a hearty à la carte breakfast and American-inspired meals, while the outdoor terrace offers a nice spot to relax after a day exploring. The location is excellent too—you’re just a short walk from the Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Center, Asakusa ROX Shopping Center, and plenty of shrines and side streets worth wandering. 

It’s also close to Asakusa Station, making it easy to connect with the rest of Tokyo. Prices generally range from $100–$300 USD per night, which is a great value for such a central location. This is a solid pick for couples or travelers wanting modern amenities without overspending.

See the latest deals and secure this popular stay here!

Super Hotel Asakusa – $

Super Hotel Asakusa is a fantastic budget-friendly stay that doesn’t skimp on comfort. The rooms are compact, as you’d expect in Tokyo, but well-designed with private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and thoughtful extras like kettles, slippers, and free toiletries. 

Guests rave about the breakfast buffet, which includes freshly baked bread, miso soup, and a variety of Japanese side dishes—a great way to start your day without extra cost. The location couldn’t be better, just steps from Senso-ji Temple and within walking distance of Tokyo Skytree, shopping streets, and plenty of restaurants. 

With rates usually between $70–$240 USD per night, this hotel offers serious value in the heart of Asakusa. It’s a smart choice for couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants to stay central without stretching their budget. 

Book your affordable stay at Super Hotel Asakusa here!

Hanakawado / Sumida Riverside

If Central Asakusa is all about the energy, Hanakawado offers the perfect counterbalance. Tucked along the Sumida River, this area feels calmer and more spacious, with leafy parks, riverside paths, and a slower pace of life. It’s especially lovely in spring, when cherry blossoms at Sumida Park transform the waterfront into one of Tokyo’s most picturesque hanami spots. 

Families and couples who want easy access to the sights without being in the thick of the crowds will find this part of Asakusa ideal. You’ll still be within walking distance of Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street, but here the focus shifts to outdoor experiences. Take a stroll along the river promenade, hop on a Tokyo water bus cruise, or enjoy a picnic under the trees. 

The area is also a fantastic base for reaching Tokyo Skytree, which sits just across the river in nearby Oshiage. Historically, this riverside zone was a key hub for trade and transport, and today it maintains that connection through its ferry routes and community festivals.

Hanakawado and Sumida Riverside blends tranquility with convenience, making it a smart choice for travelers who want a quieter stay while still keeping Tokyo’s highlights close at hand.

Pros

• Peaceful riverside location with cherry blossoms and walking paths
• Easy access to Tokyo Skytree and water bus cruises
• Calmer atmosphere but still close to Central Asakusa attractions

Cons

• Fewer nightlife and dining options compared to central Asakusa
• Can feel quieter in the evenings
• Slightly longer walk to Central Asakusa’s main attractions

PROSTYLE RYOKAN TOKYO ASAKUSA – $$$

For travelers craving elegance by the river, PROSTYLE RYOKAN TOKYO ASAKUSA is a standout five-star property in Hanakawado. Rooms are spacious and stylish, many with balconies overlooking the Sumida River or Tokyo Skytree, and come with plush extras like bathrobes, work desks, and modern bathrooms stocked with high-quality toiletries. 

Guests love the hotel’s thoughtful mix of traditional and contemporary touches, from the Japanese-style suites with open-air baths to the private sauna rooms. Dining is another highlight, with a refined Japanese restaurant, a cozy bar, and a terrace where you can unwind with a drink after sightseeing. 

Plus, the location couldn’t be more convenient—you’re just a short stroll from Sumida Riverside Hall and Sumida Park’s cherry blossoms, with Asakusa’s main sights still within easy reach. Expect to pay between $200 and $1,500 USD per night, depending on room type, but the views and luxury touches make it a memorable splurge. 

Don’t miss out—book this riverside luxury stay here!

HOTEL TOMOS ASAKUSA – $$

HOTEL TOMOS ASAKUSA is a welcoming stay that combines comfort with convenience in Hanakawado. The rooms are modern and bright, with private balconies, streaming services, and thoughtful extras like kettles and toiletries. Family rooms and private entrances make this a versatile pick for both couples and small groups. 

Guests love the attentive service here! The 24-hour front desk and concierge team go out of their way to help with sightseeing tips or local restaurant recommendations. Location is another big plus: you’re just steps from the Great Tokyo Air Raid Memorial Monument, a short walk to Ushijima Shrine, and within easy reach of Sumida Park for riverside strolls. 

With rates typically ranging from $180 to $400 USD per night, it’s a solid mid-range option that delivers on comfort and service without straying into luxury prices. 

Find rates and availability for Hotel Tomos Asakusa here!

Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa – $

Hop Inn Tokyo Asakusa is a great pick for travelers who want comfort and convenience without overspending. Rooms are compact but well-equipped, featuring private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, and kettles—everything you need for a short and stress-free stay. 

Family rooms and Japanese-style options with tatami floors make this a flexible choice for couples, solo travelers, or small groups. The hotel also has a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and security, which guests appreciate. 

The location is hard to beat: you’re only a 2-minute walk from Hozomon Gate and just steps from Nitenmon Gate, with Senso-ji Temple and Asakusa Station close by. With rates usually between $80–$240 USD per night, it’s an excellent value for being right in the heart of Asakusa. 

See prices and book this affordable stay at Hanakawado here!

Kaminarimon Gate Area

At the very entrance to Asakusa’s most famous landmark, the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), this area is all about convenience. The gate, with its massive red lantern, is the iconic starting point of Nakamise Shopping Street, leading directly to Senso-ji Temple. Staying here means you’re right at the heart of the action from the moment you step outside.

This part of Asakusa is especially popular with first-time visitors and short-stay travelers, since it’s packed with hotels, restaurants, and tourist facilities, and sits right by Asakusa Station for easy access to the Ginza, Asakusa, and Tobu Skytree lines. 

From here, you can reach spots like Tokyo Skytree, Ueno Park, or even Nikko for a day trip. The area has a lively, almost festival-like atmosphere throughout the day, with endless opportunities for street food and souvenir shopping.

Of course, being this central comes with a trade-off—it’s busy, often crowded, and a little more commercial than other parts of Asakusa. But if you value location above all else and want to be within steps of the neighborhood’s biggest attractions, the Kaminarimon Gate area is hard to beat.

Pros

• Unbeatable location right at the Thunder Gate and Nakamise Street
• Excellent transport links via Asakusa Station
• Plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants catering to visitors

Cons

• Constantly crowded with tourists, especially during the day
• Hotels can be more expensive due to the prime location
• Less of a “local” feel compared to quieter Asakusa neighborhoods

The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic – $$$

The Gate Hotel Kaminarimon by Hulic is a stylish choice for those who want to stay right at the heart of Asakusa. Just a 2-minute walk from Kaminarimon Gate and Asakusa Station, the location couldn’t be more convenient. 

The rooms are sleek and modern, with dark-wood furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and thoughtful touches like writing desks and fridges. Guests rave about the rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of Tokyo Skytree—a perfect spot to enjoy a drink at sunset. On-site dining is another highlight, with a French-inspired restaurant and bar serving up elegant meals and drinks. 

Service here is top-notch too, with concierge assistance, in-room massage options, and a 24-hour front desk. Prices typically range from $160–$1,000 USD per night, depending on room type, making this a fantastic splurge for travelers who want both style and unbeatable convenience. 

Browse room options and reserve this luxury stay here!

Hotel Gracery Asakusa – $$

Hotel Gracery Asakusa is a reliable and comfortable option for those who want a modern stay close to the Kaminarimon Gate and Senso-ji Temple. The rooms are bright and thoughtfully equipped, featuring flat-screen TVs, kettles, and private bathrooms with soaking tubs—a nice perk after a long day of sightseeing. 

The property also offers family rooms, making it a versatile pick for couples or small groups. Guests highlight the friendly, bilingual staff and the convenience of having both Asakusa’s attractions and public transit within easy reach. 

Tokyo Skytree and the Ryogoku Sumo Stadium are just a short hop away, so it’s a great base for exploring beyond Asakusa, too. Prices typically range from $150–$360 USD per night, offering solid value in such a central location. 

Reserve your stay at Hotel Gracery Asakusa here!

APA Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon – $

APA Hotel Asakusa Kaminarimon is a no-fuss, budget-friendly stay with an unbeatable location. Just a 2-minute walk from both Kaminarimon Gate and Asakusa Station, it’s perfect for travelers who want maximum convenience at a reasonable price.

Rooms are compact but smartly designed, featuring flat-screen TVs, kettles, fridges, and private bathrooms with bathtubs—a small luxury after a day on your feet. APA’s signature mattresses and dual pillows add comfort, while extras like free toiletries, slippers, and instant coffee make the stay more welcoming.

The hotel also provides handy amenities like coin laundry, vending machines, luggage storage, and even halal and vegetarian breakfast options, which is a thoughtful touch. Rates usually range from $80–$230 USD per night, offering excellent value for such a central base.

Check availability and grab this budget-friendly Asakusa stay here!

Related Read: Need help planning your trip? See our 3-day Tokyo itinerary for our favorite activities, hidden gems, and a can’t-miss day trip!

Nishi-Asakusa / Kappabashi

If you love food, shopping, or simply exploring a neighborhood with a more local feel, Nishi-Asakusa is a fantastic base. Tucked just west of Senso-ji Temple, it’s home to Kappabashi Dougu-gai—Tokyo’s famous “Kitchen Town.” 

This lively street is lined with over 160 specialty shops selling everything from razor-sharp Japanese knives to lacquerware, ramen bowls, and the quirky plastic food displays you see in restaurant windows. Even if you’re not shopping, browsing here is an experience in itself.

Compared to Central Asakusa, the vibe in Nishi-Asakusa is calmer and less tourist-heavy. The streets here are filled with smaller restaurants, hidden izakaya, and cozy cafés, making it an excellent spot for travelers who enjoy wandering off the main drag. Foodies especially will appreciate being in the middle of Tokyo’s kitchen supply hub while still being within walking distance of Senso-ji and Ueno.

The area also connects easily to Tawaramachi Station and offers slightly more affordable accommodation options than the Kaminarimon or Nakamise areas. For travelers who want quieter evenings, excellent food, and a taste of everyday Tokyo life, Nishi-Asakusa is an underrated gem.

Pros

• Famous Kappabashi “Kitchen Town” shopping street
• Quieter atmosphere with plenty of local restaurants
• Good value hotels compared to central Asakusa

Cons

• A bit further from Kaminarimon and the riverfront
• Lacks the nightlife buzz of central Asakusa
• Main draw (Kappabashi) is more for shoppers than sightseeing

Asakusa View Hotel – $$$

Asakusa View Hotel is a standout mid-to-luxury option in Nishi-Asakusa, combining comfort with some of the best views in the neighborhood. Its Art Deco style gives it a touch of charm, while the floor-to-ceiling windows in many rooms frame striking panoramas of Tokyo Skytree or the city skyline. 

Rooms are spacious by Tokyo standards, with modern bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and all the essentials for a relaxing stay. Guests love the dining options here, with a French and Cantonese restaurant on the 27th floor, a buffet on the 26th, and casual cafés throughout the property. 

The location is convenient too. It’s directly connected to Asakusa Station and within a short walk of Senso-ji Temple and Kappabashi Street. Rates usually range from $340–$1,000 USD per night, depending on the room, making it a great choice for travelers looking to splurge on comfort and views.

Check current rates and book your stay at Asakusa View Hotel here!

Stay SAKURA Tokyo ASAKUSA – $$

Stay SAKURA Tokyo ASAKUSA is a stylish mid-range choice that blends convenience with comfort. Rooms are compact but well-equipped, offering kitchenettes with microwaves and refrigerators—perfect for travelers who like the option of preparing quick meals. 

Each room also comes with a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, and thoughtful touches like slippers, toiletries, and kettles. The location is a big plus: you’re just a short walk from Kappabashi Street, Asakusa ROX Shopping Center, and Kinryu Park, with Senso-ji Temple and other landmarks still within easy reach. 

Guests appreciate the helpful multilingual staff, along with extras like luggage storage and family-friendly room layouts. With nightly rates typically between $120 and $400 USD, it’s an excellent value for those who want a little more independence while staying central.

See current deals and book this stay here!

APA Hotel Asakusa Tawaramachi Ekimae – $

APA Hotel Asakusa Tawaramachi Ekimae is a practical, budget-friendly stay just steps from Tawaramachi Station and within walking distance of Senso-ji Temple. Rooms are compact but functional, featuring APA’s signature comfort mattresses, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with bathtubs and bidets. Thoughtful extras like slippers, toiletries, and kettles add convenience for short stays.

One of the standout features here is the open-air bath on the 14th floor, free for guests to use—a welcome treat after a day of exploring. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant, vending machines, and a 24-hour front desk with luggage storage and currency exchange.

With easy subway access, you can reach Tokyo Skytree, Ueno, or central Tokyo without hassle. Nightly rates can start as low as $100 USD, making this a solid value for travelers who want comfort and location without overspending.

Check prices for APA Hotel Asakusa Tawaramachi Ekimae here!

Kotobuki / Komagata

South of Senso-ji Temple along the Sumida River, Kotobuki and Komagata offer a quieter and more authentic side of Asakusa. This neighborhood blends tradition and quirkiness. 

On one hand, you’ll find the historic Komakata Dozeu restaurant, serving classic loach hotpot since the Edo period, while on the other, there’s the unexpected World Bags & Luggage Museum, showcasing everything from vintage trunks to modern designer pieces.

The streets here feel far less crowded than around Kaminarimon or Nakamise, which makes it a great pick for travelers who want a more local vibe while still being within walking distance of Asakusa’s major sights. It’s also well-connected: Asakusa Station and Kuramae Station are both nearby, putting the rest of Tokyo within easy reach. For food lovers, there are plenty of traditional restaurants along the river, and you’ll often see locals heading out for dinner rather than just tourists.

Hotels in Kotobuki and Komagata tend to be excellent value compared to the more central parts of Asakusa, making this area especially appealing for longer stays or budget-conscious travelers.

Pros

• Quieter, more local atmosphere near the Sumida River
• Excellent value hotels compared to central Asakusa
• Mix of historic dining and quirky attractions

Cons

• Less nightlife and shopping compared to Nakamise or Kaminarimon
• A little further from Senso-ji’s main entrance
• Fewer English-language services in some restaurants

KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Tawaramachi – $$$

KOKO HOTEL Residence Asakusa Tawaramachi is a versatile stay that works well for both families and longer visits. The property offers spacious, apartment-style rooms with kitchens, washing machines, and tatami areas—features that make it stand out in central Asakusa. 

Guests can choose from layouts with futons, bunk beds, or sofa beds, making it easy to accommodate groups of different sizes. Inside, you’ll find practical comforts like flat-screen TVs, kettles, work desks, and modern bathrooms with bathtubs. The 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and private check-in add to the convenience, while thoughtful extras like free toiletries and slippers make it feel homey.

The location is another highlight: you’re just a short walk to Honpo-ji Temple, Matsuba Park, and Kappabashi Street, with Senso-ji Temple still within easy reach. With nightly rates usually between $200 and $600 USD, it’s a smart pick for travelers who value space and self-sufficiency in the heart of Tokyo.

Check room options and secure this stay here!

Henn na Hotel Premier Tokyo Asakusa – $$

Henn na Hotel Premier Tokyo Asakusa Tawaramachi offers a playful twist on modern hospitality with comfortable rooms and a few unexpected touches. Accommodations are cozy yet well-equipped, featuring air conditioning, refrigerators, bathrobes, and private bathrooms with bathtubs. Family rooms are available, making it a good choice for couples or small groups.

The hotel has a terrace, restaurant, and bar, serving everything from Japanese and European dishes to Indian cuisine—perfect for travelers who want variety without leaving the property. Guests especially appreciate the friendly service and easy access to nearby attractions like Kuramae Shrine, Asakusa ROX Shopping Center, and Eiken-ji Temple.

Nightly rates typically range from $120–$360 USD, offering excellent value in such a convenient location near Tawaramachi Station. For travelers who want comfort, dining variety, and a touch of quirkiness, this hotel is a solid choice.

See current deals and reserve your room here!

APA Hotel Asakusa Ekimae – $

APA Hotel Asakusa Ekimae is a smart budget-friendly choice with a prime location near Asakusa Station and just a short walk to Senso-ji Temple. Rooms are compact but efficiently designed, featuring APA’s signature comfort mattresses, flat-screen TVs, desks, and private bathrooms with bathtubs. Small touches like slippers, toiletries, and a fridge add convenience for short or solo stays.

Guests can enjoy Japanese cuisine at the on-site restaurant, with à la carte breakfast options available each morning. The 24-hour front desk provides bilingual support, luggage storage, and helpful service, making it easy for international travelers.

With rates usually ranging from $80–$260 USD per night, this hotel offers excellent value for those who want comfort and accessibility without overspending. Whether you’re sightseeing around Asakusa or hopping on the subway to central Tokyo, it’s a reliable base.

Check availability and book APA Hotel Asakusa Ekimae here!

Related Read: Once you’ve sorted your accommodation, check out our detailed guide on how to spend five days in Tokyo here to help plan the perfect itinerary around your stay in Asakusa.

Top Activities to do in Tokyo

Now that you’ve found your ideal hotel and location in Asakusa, you can plan the rest of your trip! With so many things to do in Tokyo, we get how overwhleming it can be to narrow down options. To make your life a little easier, I’ve picked out five excellent activities that will highlight Tokyo’s lively energy!

• See a sumo show – Located in the heart of Asakusa, this sumo show is one of the best activities in the area! It is a theatrical performance by retired sumo wrestlers showcasing their wrestling skills. It’s entertaining for sure, and with dinner included, it’s one great night!

• Take a food tour of the Tsukiji Fish Market – This food tour of the Tsukiji Fish Market is one of the most unique experiences you can have! This market is where top sushi chefs buy fish for their restaurants, and you can sample their fresh purchases right there at the many food stalls. Talk about appetizing!

• Go-kart through Tokyo – Take your Mario Kart skills to the next level and enjoy this go-kart tour! Dress up in fun costumes and zip thorugh the busy streets, stopping for selfies to commemorate this silly activity!

• Sightseeing bus tour of Tokyo – Cover more ground as you join this sightseeing bus tour! This is great if you’re short on time, as you’ll pass by Tokyo’s top sights, stopping to explore ancient temples and modern skyscrapers, and even cruise along Tokyo Bay!

• Take a day trip to Mt Fuji – You can see Japan’s most famous sight on this day trip to Mt Fuji and Hakone! Departing from Tokyo, all the logistics are taken care of for you. Simply sit back, take in the views, and learn all about the history of this stunning mountain!

Related Read: Looking for more activities? See our top things to do in Asakusa blog and add a few more to your itinerary!

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

• Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
• Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
• Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
• Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
• Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
• A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
• Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Asakusa is such a fun part of Tokyo and one of our favorite areas to stay. From historic temples and shopping streets, to the wide range of restaurant options, and more – it’s hard to be bored here! Luckily, there are tons of hotels to fit your travel style and budget, so you’ll be sure to find the perfect stay.

If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Japan blogs. We have more where to stay guides if your travels continue, as well as city itineraries, and helpful travel tips. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

Where to Stay in Ginza, Tokyo: 5 Best Areas & Hotels

Renting a Car in Japan: 15 Things to KNOW + My Personal Tips

10 Best Things to do in Shinjuku, Tokyo

The 15 Best Ryokans in Tokyo