Where to Stay in Shinjuku: 5 Best Areas & Hotels 

Planning a trip to Shinjuku and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place!

Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s most exciting neighborhoods with its bright lights, buzzing streets, and incredible food. It makes the perfect base, but it’s actually a pretty big area in its own right, which is why we’ve broken it down into five different areas to help you find your perfect spot. 

We’ve also included our favorite hotels in each area, from sleek skyscraper stays to more traditional spots with local character. So whatever your budget and travel style, we’ve got you covered. Let’s find your ideal stay! 

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Shinjuku 

The best part about staying in Shinjuku is that you’re so well-connected. Shinjuku Station is the busiest station in Tokyo, and the entire world, for that matter! You can reach pretty much every corner of the city from here so it’s an ideal launchpad for sightseeing, as well as taking day trips outside of Tokyo. As for getting around Shinjuku itself, it’s very walkable, and there are smaller trains you can hop on for longer distances. 

• Shinjuku Station – The area around Shinjuku Station is perfect for first-time visitors because it’s one of the best-connected spots in Tokyo and has endless shops and entertainment options! Just steps from the south exit, Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku is a clean, modern stay with comfy beds, quiet rooms, and excellent value right in the heart of the action.

• Nishi Shinjuku – Just west of the station, this is Tokyo’s “skyscraper district” with lots of big hotels and office towers, but there are plenty of green spaces, bars, and casual eateries too. WPÜ HOTEL Shinjuku is a 6-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, offering affordable rooms, a cozy lounge, a shared kitchen, and prime access to SanPark Mall.

• Kabukicho – This is Tokyo’s most famous nightlife area, and it’s full of bright lights, bars, late-night ramen joints, and quirky entertainment. Shinjuku Prince Hotel puts you right in the heart of it all, with comfy rooms, city views, and a café, restaurant, and shops—all just steps from Seibu-Shinjuku Station.

• Shin-Okubo – Tokyo’s Koreatown is north of Shinjuku Station, and it boasts lots of affordable eats and budget-friendly stays, as well as a thriving K-pop culture. For a stylish mid-range pick with minimalist rooms, a cool terrace, and a social café, Hotel Cen is just steps from Shin-Okubo Station and perfect for trend-savvy travelers.

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden – The gardens offer a quieter vibe (by Shinjuku standards, anyway) while still providing easy access to the rest of the city. Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo offers bright, apartment-style stays just minutes from the gardens—perfect for families, longer visits, and anyone craving space and serenity.

Where to Stay in Shinjuku, Japan

Shinjuku Station 

The area around Shinjuku Station is the most convenient base in Tokyo—no contest! This is the busiest train station in the world, serving over 3 million passengers a day. Major lines like the JR Yamanote, Chuo, and Narita Express all pass through here, so you can reach anywhere in the city (and even day-trip spots like Mt. Fuji) with ease.

We love this area because it’s not just super convenient, it’s also home to a ton of entertainment options. You’ll find endless restaurants, shopping malls like Lumine and Takashimaya Times Square, karaoke bars, and convenience stores on every corner. It’s a non-stop, high-energy part of the city, but we find it a very easy place to stay because you’ve got everything you could want or need right at your fingertips! 

Despite the crowds, it’s surprisingly easy to navigate on foot. Landmarks like the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and the retro Omoide Yokocho izakaya street are right nearby. Trust me, the latter is an absolute must-visit while in Tokyo! 

Whether you’re catching an early train, shopping late into the evening, or just soaking up the buzz of Tokyo, you’re in the thick of it all here. If you want to be central, connected, and never far from the action, staying near Shinjuku Station is a smart and exciting choice!

Pros

• Best train access in Tokyo
• Tons of restaurants, shops, and attractions nearby

Cons

• Very busy and crowded
• Hotels can be a bit pricier due to the prime location

Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower – $$$

Just a 1-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower is not only a super convenient place to stay, but its rooms also offer epic views of Tokyo! It’s sleek and modern, not to mention close to major attractions like the gorgeous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the Meiji Jingu Shrine.

For us, this place wins in terms of location and comfort—what’s not to love? Double rooms at Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower typically cost between $230 and $400 USD (33,000 and 57,000 JPY) per night.

Check prices and availability at Booking.com!

Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku – $$ 

Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku is a slick hotel just a short walk from Shinjuku Station’s south exit. It’s modern, clean, and caters well to both tourists and business travelers. The rooms are compact, which is standard in Tokyo, but they’re well-designed and quiet with comfortable beds.

The location is a major perk of staying here. You’re just steps away from train lines, shopping malls, museums, and convenience stores. Plus, you can change or cancel your booking up to three days before your stay. All in all, we think this place offers great value for money!

Rooms here start at $150 USD per night for a double room and range up to $550 USD per night for a triple room.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Queen Annex – $ 

Hotel Queen Annex is a quirky and budget-friendly hotel just east of Shinjuku Station. Despite its affordable price tag, they really deliver the VIP treatment. You get welcome drinks on arrival, and there’s an impressive range of beauty products in the bathroom. This place was definitely designed with female travelers in mind! 

The rooms are compact, but the design is part glitzy, part futuristic. I particularly love the fact that there are TVs hung above the bathtubs, so you can really enjoy a relaxing soak! 

The hotel is within walking distance of the station, the Hanazono Shrine, the National Garden, and Omoide Yokocho. Basically, Tokyo is your oyster when you stay here! Rooms here cost between $120 and $200 USD per night.

Book this great-value hotel here!

Nishi Shinjuku

Nishi Shinjuku is Tokyo’s sleek, modern skyscraper district. It’s just west of Shinjuku Station and it’s a great alternative if you want to stay central without being right in the thick of the chaos. This area is packed with high-rise office buildings, polished hotels, and upscale business centers, but there’s more here than meets the eye.

You’ll also find green spaces like Shinjuku Central Park, quiet side streets, local izakayas, and trendy cafés that give the area a more laid-back vibe. While we do prefer the vibrancy of Shinjuku Station, we think that this is a great spot for travelers who want a calm, clean, and slightly more refined atmosphere.

And Nishi Shinjuku is still super convenient! It only takes about 10 minutes to walk to Shinjuku Station and there are plenty of subway stops here, so getting around Tokyo is easy. You’re close to major landmarks like the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (which has a free observatory, just FYI), and there are lots of restaurants, bakeries, and bars tucked between the towers.

Overall, this is a quieter, more grown-up part of Shinjuku. If you want easy access to the city while escaping the late-night crowds of Kabukicho, Nishi Shinjuku is a smart, stylish choice.

Pros

• Calmer and more spacious than central Shinjuku
• Great views from high-rise hotels and observation decks

Cons

• Fewer traditional tourist sights or nightlife spots
• Can feel more business-like and less atmospheric

Hilton Tokyo Hotel – $$$ 

Hilton Tokyo Hotel is a polished option in the heart of Nishi Shinjuku. The hotel sits in one of the area’s skyscrapers and offers stunning views of the Tokyo skyline, especially from the upper floors. It’s connected to Nishi Shinjuku Station via an underground walkway and is also within walking distance of Shinjuku Station.

The rooms here are very spacious by Tokyo standards, with plush beds, workspaces, and sleek bathrooms. There are several on-site restaurants and bars, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and even a rooftop tennis court. It’s like its own mini resort in the heart of the city! Rooms here start at $275 USD per night and can go up to $900+ USD for an executive suite.

Check availability and book your stay here!

WPÜ HOTEL Shinjuku – $$

Just a 6-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, WPÜ HOTEL Shinjuku offers a friendly and reasonably priced stay in a prime location. It’s super close to Shinjuku SanPark Mall, so it’s ideal for those who want to shop ‘til they drop—when in Tokyo, right?

Meanwhile, the hotel itself boasts a cozy lounge and shared kitchen, as well as an on-site restaurant. Plus, it has a flexible policy if you need to reschedule your booking and there are single rooms available, which is perfect for solo travelers trying to keep their costs down. Conversely, there are also triple rooms, which are handy for groups!

Prices here range between $110 and $350 USD (16,000 and 50,000 JPY) per night, depending on room size.

Check availability and reserve your stay here!

The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku – $

The Knot Tokyo Shinjuku is a budget-friendly hotel with a bit of an industrial-chic vibe located right next to Shinjuku Central Park. It blends Tokyo cool with smart design, and it has a great local feel while still being within easy reach of major train lines and city attractions.

The hotel also has a bakery, a café, and a trendy bar/restaurant on-site, which is great for grabbing a bite or drink without venturing too far. There are two subway stations just a few steps away, plus Shinjuku and Hatsudai train stations, so it’s very well-located while still being relatively affordable.

Rates here range from $130 to $375 USD per night, depending on the dates and room category.

Browse room options and book your stay here!

Related Read: Once you have a hotel, check out our 1-day Shinjuku itinerary for ideas on how to best explore this area!

Kabukicho

Kabukicho is Shinjuku’s wild side! It’s known as Tokyo’s entertainment and red-light district. As you’d expect, it’s bright, loud, and full of character. So if you’re after buzzing nightlife, neon lights, and late-night ramen, I highly recommend staying here. 

Kabukicho is located just northeast of Shinjuku Station, and it only takes about 8 minutes to walk there, but it has a totally different vibe. The area is packed with karaoke bars, clubs, and some of Tokyo’s craziest themed cafés. If you’re keen to do a deep dive into modern Japanese pop culture, this is the place to do it. 

One of our favorite parts of this area is Golden Gai, another of Tokyo’s notorious party spots! It’s a grid of six different streets, which are packed with hundreds of tiny bars, many of which have their own theme. 

I’m sure that you won’t be shocked to hear that Kabukicho isn’t the most peaceful place, but it is so much fun! We think it’s perfect for night owls, party lovers, and travelers who want to experience Tokyo’s playful, edgy side. That said, it can be overwhelming for some, and not every corner feels family-friendly. But if you’re coming to Tokyo to dive into its nightlife and don’t mind some sensory overload, Kabukicho really delivers.

Pros

• Amazing nightlife, bars, and entertainment
• Close to Shinjuku Station

Cons

• Noisy and crowded, especially at night
• Not ideal for families or light sleepers

Hotel Groove Shinjuku – $$$

Hotel Groove Shinjuku is a sleek and modern hotel that blends bold design with unbeatable location. It’s part of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, right in the heart of the action, and offers stylish rooms with panoramic city views. The interiors are colorful, creative, and inspired by music and art.

There’s a rooftop bar, several dining options, and even a live entertainment space, so you can enjoy Kabukicho’s nightlife without ever leaving the building. And despite being in one of the busiest parts of the city, the rooms are well-insulated and peaceful once you’re inside. Rates typically range from $350 to $900+ USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Shinjuku Prince Hotel – $$

Shinjuku Prince Hotel offers comfort and convenience right in the middle of Kabukicho. It’s located just steps from Seibu-Shinjuku Station and only a short walk from the main Shinjuku Station, making it ideal for getting around the city.

The rooms are comfortable and decently spacious, with soft beds and big windows that overlook the city lights. The hotel has a café, a restaurant with skyline views, and even a little shopping arcade downstairs. It’s a dependable mid-range option that feels both lively and secure. Rates usually range from $175 to $800 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Chuo – $

APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Chuo is a great budget option if you want to stay right in the heart of Kabukicho without breaking the bank. The rooms are small, like most APA properties, but they’re modern, spotless, and come with comfy beds and high-tech toilets.

It’s within walking distance to Shinjuku and Seibu-Shinjuku stations, as well as Golden Gai and a ton of late-night restaurants. It’s also perfect for those who want to save most of their budget for partying but still have a comfy place to rest afterwards. The hotel also has a public bath and on-site laundry facilities, which are a bonus for longer stays. Expect to pay between $100 and $180 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Make the most of your trip with our 3-day Tokyo itinerary here! It’s packed with iconic sights, local eats, and experiences you won’t want to miss.

Shin-Okubo 

Shin-Okubo is Tokyo’s vibrant Koreatown. It’s just one stop north of Shinjuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line, but it offers a totally different vibe to that area! We absolutely love this energy because it’s bursting with energy and full of mouthwatering street food. Oh, and it’s affordable, too, with cheaper food and accommodation options than other parts of Shinjuku.

Although this area is cheaper than other parts of Shinjuku, it’s truly a pop culture heaven. The main streets are lined with K-beauty shops, Korean BBQ joints, and bubble tea stands, so both your skin and your stomach will be happy. There are also lots of shines to the legendary Korean boyband, BTS, and themed cafes where the staff dress up as K-pop idols. I think it’s such a fun area to explore!

It’s incredibly well-located, too. It’s so close to Shinjuku Station, a quick train ride over to Harajuku or Shibiya, and just a 10-minute walk from Kabukicho (aka party central). We think it’s the perfect area for younger travelers and pop culture travelers to stay in. The streets do get crowded on weekends, the area has a fun and welcoming vibe. 

Pros 

• Fun, energetic, and full of character
• Great food and easy train access

Cons 

• Can get noisy and packed on weekends
• Limited traditional sightseeing spots nearby

Rosenheim Tokyo Shinjuku – $$$ 

Rosenheim Tokyo Shinjuku is a homely hotel located right between Shin-Okubo and Kabukicho, offering easy access to both. The design is contemporary with warm tones, soft lighting, and plenty of color and character! The rooms are fairly simple, but they come with private kitchens or kitchenettes, and there are on-site laundry facilities, which are great if you’re here for a while!

This place feels more like a self-catered stay than a hotel. The staff are super friendly and the rooms and suites are pretty spacious by Tokyo’s standards, so if you’re looking for a comfy and convenient place to stay, the Rosenheim fits the bill. Rooms here typically range from $155 to $530 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Cen – $$ 

Hotel Cen is a trendy mid-range hotel just a short stroll from Shin-Okubo Station. It’s got a minimalist, urban vibe with concrete walls, sleek lines, and a cool terrace that’s perfect for hanging out after a day of sightseeing. Rooms are compact but cleverly designed, and some even come with record players or pops of street-art flair.

Downstairs, there’s a café that does a nice (and inexpensive) breakfast and has a lively, social feel. It’s a great pick for those who want to be in the middle of the action and have a stylish place to crash. Rates usually run between $140 and $350 USD per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Rembrandt Cabin Shinjuku Shin-Okubo – $

Rembrandt Cabin Shinjuku Shin-Okubo provides a clean and budget-friendly capsule stay! A capsule stay is actually a pretty iconic experience in Japan, and Rembrandt Cabin makes it comfortable for first-timers who might be nervous about it!

Plus, it’s an ideal way for solo travelers and backpackers to save money without sacrificing comfort. The cabins are compact but cozy and have creature comforts like air conditioning and free WiFi. Plus, the hotel offers a super central location just a 17-minute walk from the Golden Gai nightlife hub.

It’s also just a 3-minute walk from Shin-Ōkubo Station, so it’s a very convenient base for exploring the rest of Tokyo. Cabins here usually cost between $95 and $120 USD per night.

Book your budget stay in Shinjuku here!

Related Read: Check out our guide to the 10 best things to do in Shinjuku here for even more can’t-miss experiences to round out your trip!

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

What’s great about Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is that it’s a calmer pocket of Shinjuku, but it’s still within walking distance of lively areas like Kabukicho and Shin-Okubo. It’s centered around one of the city’s most beautiful gardens, so it’s perfect if you want a more scenic experience without being far from the action. It’s ideal for couples and families who want to enjoy Shinjuku’s lively vibes without being in the heart of the chaos.

And as for the garden itself, it’s massive! I love strolling through it and admiring the Japanese, French, and English landscape styles. It’s especially stunning in spring, when cherry blossoms bloom in full force, but it’s lovely year-round with seasonal flowers, shaded walking paths, and quiet teahouses. Staying nearby gives you easy access not just to the park, but also to art galleries, coffee shops, and local bakeries. 

It’s a great base if you’re looking for a relaxing home base while still enjoying Tokyo’s central neighborhoods. The high energy of Shinjuku’s other districts can be intimidating, so I think that staying around the National Garden is a great way to ease yourself in.

Pros 

• Scenic area
• Walkable to central Shinjuku and transit hubs
• Quieter than other parts of Shinjuku

Cons

• Fewer nightlife and entertainment options
• Can feel too quiet for travelers seeking an energetic vibe

illi Tas Shinjuku – $$$ 

illi Tas Shinjuku is an industrial-chic aparthotel that’s just a short walk from Shinjuku Gyoen. It’s modern, peaceful, and ideal for longer stays or travelers who want more space and independence. Each unit has a sleek kitchenette, dining space, and even laundry facilities, which is perfect if you’re traveling as a group or with kids.

The design is clean and minimalist with natural textures and calming tones. The rooms are well laid out to maximise the space, and the hotel is close to quiet parks, small cafés, and just a few blocks from the garden entrance.

Expect to pay between $250 and $950 USD per night depending on the apartment unit and season.

Read the great reviews and book your stay here!

Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo – $$ 

Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo is a bright, contemporary hotel just a few minutes’ walk from Shinjuku Gyoen. It’s great for travelers who want the comforts of an apartment-style hotel while still being close to major transport lines and city sights. It’s a true home from home!

The location strikes a nice balance between quiet and convenience. There’s no restaurant on-site, but you’re surrounded by local cafés, supermarkets, and bakeries. I think it’s particularly well-suited for families and longer stays. Rates start from $185 USD per night for a studio double and range up to $420 USD per night for an executive double.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Wing International Premium Tokyo Yotsuya – $ 

Hotel Wing International Premium Tokyo Yotsuya offers excellent value for money just south of Shinjuku Gyoen. It’s located in a quieter, residential area, but it’s still very well-connected. The property is steps from Yotsuya Station and a short train ride to Shinjuku, Shibuya, and beyond.

The rooms are compact but comfortable, with cozy beds, clean bathrooms, and layouts that make good use of space. There’s a small restaurant on-site serving Italian food, and you can opt to enjoy the breakfast buffet each morning.

This place may not be fancy, but it’s a solid budget choice for travelers who want to be close to greenery without paying Shinjuku prices. Small double rooms start at $100 USD, but rates can go up to $385 USD per night for a full suite.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Want to see how Shinjuku stacks up to the rest of the city? Check out our full guide on where to stay in Tokyo here to discover the best neighborhoods and hotels across the city!

Top Activities to do in Tokyo

Once you’ve locked in your Shinjuku stay, you’re perfectly positioned to experience the best of Tokyo. Shinjuku is one of the city’s major hubs, and it’s just a quick train ride from top attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable day tours across Tokyo. Whether you’re into food, culture, or adrenaline-filled adventures, these highly rated tours make it easy to dive right in. Just be sure to book ahead—many of these experiences fill up fast, especially on weekends!

• See Mt. Fuji and Hakone in one epic day – This full-day tour took us from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and Hakone by bus, then zipped us back on the bullet train. We cruised Lake Ashi, rode the Hakone Ropeway, and soaked in jaw-dropping views of Mt. Fuji. It’s a long day—but totally worth it!

• Hit Tokyo’s top sights on a bus tour – If you want to cover a lot without wearing out your feet, this one-day Tokyo bus tour is a lifesaver. We hit spots like Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, the Imperial Palace, and more. Great for first-timers who want a no-fuss overview of the city.

• Drive a go-kart through Tokyo streets – Yes, it’s legal—and it’s ridiculously fun. This go-kart tour through Tokyo Bay was a huge highlight. We dressed up in costumes, zipped past landmarks, and got tons of cheers from pedestrians. You’ll need an international driving permit, but the adrenaline rush is so worth it.

• Take a deep dive into Tsukiji Fish Market – This foodie walking tour gave us a true taste of Tokyo’s culinary roots. Our guide walked us through Tsukiji’s lively outer market, sampling fresh sashimi, grilled seafood, and Japanese omelets. It’s a fun, flavorful, and very filling morning for curious eaters.

• Bar hop through Shinjuku’s hidden alleys – Tucked behind neon signs and crowded intersections are some of Tokyo’s coolest little bars. This guided bar hopping tour took us to tiny, tucked-away spots in Shinjuku—places we’d never find on our own. Each bar had its own vibe, and the food and drinks were on point!

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!

With so many exciting corners to explore, Shinjuku truly has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you want bright lights and big nights, peaceful gardens, or K-pop cafés and sizzling street food, there’s a part of this buzzing district that fits your vibe. Choosing the right home base makes it so much easier (and way more fun) to dive into all that Tokyo has to offer.

Before you wrap up your plans, don’t forget to check out our other Japan blogs here for more travel tips, itinerary ideas, and hidden gems beyond Shinjuku. Or check out a few of our most popular guides below to help you make the most of your adventure!

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