Image courtesy of Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
Striking, modern and filled with rich culture and history, Tokyo is among the world’s most mesmerizing urban destinations, and perhaps first among Japan’s best places to stay. Nearly 38 million people from all over the world call Japan’s capital home.
“Tokyo is a melting pot of culture, history, tradition and modernity!” Fora X Advisor Alexandra Hepworth said. “Your senses will be assaulted (in a good way!) and you will see, feel and experience things unlike nowhere else on earth…Tokyo will leave you with a feeling of being in another world!”
With so many options and sights, deciding where to stay in Tokyo can be an intimidating task. Below, we dive into some of Tokyo’s must-visit districts and neighborhoods, with hotel recommendations and expert insights for each.
Chiyoda City and Tokyo Station (a.k.a. Marunouchi)
Image courtesy of Palace Hotel Tokyo
Chiyoda City is arguably the best part of Tokyo for sightseeing. The area is home to Japan’s Imperial Palace and its extensive and well-manicured grounds, over a dozen Fortune 500 companies, historical landmarks like the Edo Castle ruins and a buzzing array of luxury dining and shopping. As the literal and figurative center of Tokyo, Chiyoda offers variety and convenience. You can access virtually any other part of Tokyo — as well as the rest of Honshu (the main island of Japan) — from Chiyoda City via Tokyo Station in the Marunouchi subdistrict.
Marunouchi itself is one of Tokyo’s most prestigious business subdistricts. The area features a luxe mix of traditional Japanese and Western influences across its lineup of shops, restaurants and architecture. Many of Tokyo’s top hotels are nearby, as well. Just to the north — but still within greater Chiyoda City — you’ll find the quieter subdistrict of Otemachi, which is close to Tokyo Station and the rest of Tokyo and has a more tranquil vibe.
“Pro tip: Do not miss Ramen Street, which is underground at Tokyo Station,” Fora X Advisor Nadia Bess said. “I still dream of the best ramen of my life that I ordered via a vending machine in Japanese characters.”
She reminisced about the “fresh, handmade noodles and incredible broth” that were “out of this world!” (A Fora Advisor can put other foodie spots in Tokyo on your radar, with or without a guide to make sure you are visiting the best spots.)
Where to stay in Chiyoda City, Tokyo: Four Seasons Otemachi, Aman Tokyo, Palace Hotel Tokyo or Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Image courtesy of Aman Tokyo
Chiyoda City hosts many of Fora’s top hotel picks. These properties offer a blend of luxurious amenities, style and convenience. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi — Fora’s top-booked hotel in Tokyo — is a three Michelin-Key bastion of luxury and class. The hotel will feel familiar if you love Four Seasons properties, but this property in particular has refined design influences and a distinct Japanese personality.
“Not only is the service superb at the Four Seasons, its location in Otemachi, across from the Imperial Palace, is a calm oasis,” Fora Advisor Laura Kempe said. “This hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a modern hotel in a quieter location away from the constant hustle of other areas like Shinjuku or Shibuya.”
Aman Tokyo is a serene, minimalist sanctuary perched above the Imperial Gardens. This hotel offers near unbeatable skyline views and Mount Fuji on a clear day. (Aman was made for Japan.) Fora X Advisor Kristyne Wada described Aman Tokyo as “one of the top hotels in the world: The rooms are spacious and beautiful with a modern Japanese aesthetic.” She recommends this hotel for travelers who’ve already been to Japan, as they won’t want to leave the hotel. (And for something similarly luxe but with a more contemporary, youthful vibe, try Janu Tokyo.)
Image courtesy of Palace Hotel Tokyo
Palace Hotel Tokyo is a refined waterfront option that also overlooks the Imperial Gardens. It features a modern and elegant aesthetic, spacious rooms — not always a given in Tokyo — and exceptional dining. There are nearly a dozen restaurants, bars and on-the-go options, each specializing in a different cuisine. Esterre by Alain Ducasse boasts a fine French menu, while Wadakura is a masterclass in different styles of Japanese culinary tradition.
There’s also the Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo, which is technically located in the ritzy Nihonbashi subdistrict of Chuo City. The distance from Chiyoda City is minimal, however, and the hotel still offers immediate access to the neighborhood’s offerings. Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo melds the brand’s classic (and luxurious) Hong Kong-centric design with Japanese aesthetics, and provides a comparable lineup of diverse fine dining restaurants. The Tapas Molecular Bar, for example, is a gastronomic experience where culinary art and chemistry come together to produce new takes on high-class dishes like caviar and steak tartare.
When you book Four Seasons with Fora, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.
Fora Perks at Aman Tokyo and Palace Hotel Tokyo include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora’s Mandarin Oriental Fan Club partner perks include $100 food and beverage credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Shinjuku
Image courtesy of Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
Shinjuku is Tokyo from the movies. Iconic neon lights, luxe hotels and an incredible array of clubs, restaurants and entertainment options line the district’s streets. If you want to see Tokyo at its most modern and electric, stay here. Some words of caution: This district is extremely popular. Even in slower months, you’ll be hard-pressed to find restaurants and bars without a wait — and the streets are nearly always crowded. Don’t let that discourage you, though. Shinjuku represents the best of Tokyo, so if this is your first visit to Japan, it’s a must.
Among many other highlights, you’ll find Shinjuku Gyoen Park and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory, where you can see Mount Fuji in the distance. If you want to escape the bustle, visit the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Fora X Advisor Alli Widman described the site as a “tranquil experience in a stunning urban oasis where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, traditional tea houses and peaceful walking paths.”
It’s easy to travel from Shinjuku to most of the major wards and districts of Tokyo via an impeccable public transit system. Shinjuku Station is the busiest ground transportation hub in the world, but efficiency reigns supreme here, so don’t let that fact discourage you from visiting.
Where to stay in Shinjuku, Tokyo: Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
Image courtesy of Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
Kimpton Shinjuku, our second most-booked hotel in Tokyo, is a stylish boutique property that melds contemporary Western fashion and art with contemporary Japanese design. It’s bold and artful, but not grandiose. The hotel is conveniently located near Shinjuku Station, providing easy access to the district’s best shopping, dining and nightlife — all while enjoying a relatively relaxed and sophisticated ambiance in its immediate surroundings (it’s also steps away from the starting line of the Tokyo Marathon).
“Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo provides a true urban retreat in one of Tokyo's most dynamic areas,” Fora Advisor Alli Widman said. “The service is outstanding, too: The concierge has a great pulse on restaurants.”
Fora Advisor Chloe Kletsa also praised Kimpton’s concierge team: “They will assist with all last-minute requests in a polite, efficient and friendly manner.” Chloe added, “This is common in Japan, but I found the Kimpton team went above and beyond to make this experience seamless for my clients.”
Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible
Shibuya
Like Shinjuku, Shibuya is amazingly energetic. In many ways, the two wards are very similar. Shibuya, however, places a little more emphasis on nightlife and entertainment. As such, the crowds tend to be younger, so this is where to stay in Tokyo if you’re looking for dancing, bar hopping and shopping. Also like Shinjuku, many of the streets in Shibuya are vibrant and buzzing, especially at night. Tens of thousands of people (if not more) pour through Shibuya daily.
“Flashing lights from the carousel of advertisements, mass crowds crossing the street, conversations all around and a general buzz of excitement in the air: This is the hustle and bustle of Shibuya,” Fora Advisor Laura Kempe shared. “For travelers looking for a truly Tokyo experience, a few days in Shibuya is perfect to live out your Tokyo dreams. There is something to do 24/7 and so many places to explore within Shibuya proper.”
You’ll also find that Shibuya is well connected to the rest of Tokyo. Western travelers may have an easier time navigating here, as it’s common for businesses to employ English-speaking staff. Plus, many of the coolest hotels in Tokyo are found in, or at least near, Shibuya. Don’t miss notable landmarks like the Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shibuya Crossing — the busiest intersection in the world — and Yoyogi Park, to name but a few.
Where to stay in Shibuya, Tokyo: TRUNK (HOTEL) YOYOGI PARK
Image courtesy of TRUNK (HOTEL) YOYOGI PARK
The TRUNK (HOTEL) is a chic, boutique property that emphasizes sustainability and community. Sustainable design features include furniture made from reclaimed wood, hotel staff uniforms made from recycled materials and salvaged bikes for guests.
“For the curious, conscious and creative traveler, there is no better hotel in Tokyo than the TRUNK (HOTEL),” Fora Advisor Kay Hart said. “It's a destination in and of itself and it embodies the culture, creative spirit and vibe of Shibuya.”
Expect stylish, modern accommodations, a vibrant social atmosphere and curated experiences that merge modern design with local culture.
“It's a peaceful retreat overlooking Yoyogi Park that is away from the crowds, yet within walking distance to the hustle and bustle of Shibuya,” Fora Advisor Kristyne Wada, who noted that the hotel is one of her favorite places to stay in Tokyo, said. “The pool, jacuzzi and terrace are amazing to come back to after a busy day in Tokyo.”
Is it better to stay in Shinjuku or Shibuya?
Shibuya caters more to the nightlife scene; Shinjuku offers more mass appeal. It’s purely a matter of preference. Both districts offer a variety of hotels, restaurants and attractions for all types of travelers. Both are well connected to the rest of the city. A Fora Advisor can help you choose the district that best matches your desired itinerary and interests.
Ginza
Image courtesy of The Peninsula Tokyo
Ginza, a subdistrict of Chuo City, is one of the best places to stay in Tokyo for upscale shopping and fine dining. This ritzy neighborhood is home to dozens of luxe department stores, upscale boutiques and high-end restaurants (many of Tokyo’s best).
“Shopping lovers will delight in exploring this wonderful neighborhood filled with stores from around the world. With flagship stores from Uniqlo, Muji, Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Itoya (Japanese stationery), you can spend hours exploring all the budget and luxury offerings in this neighborhood,” Fora Advisor Laura Kempe said.
This is classic Tokyo with a lavish twist. The only major downside to staying in Ginza is that it’s somewhat removed from the rest of the city. By no means is staying in Ginza inconvenient, though; just expect to add slightly more time to a commute than you would if you stayed in Shinjuku or Tokyo Station.
Where to stay near Ginza, Tokyo: The Peninsula Tokyo
The Peninsula Tokyo is a great choice if you’re interested in exploring Ginza without sacrificing access to Chiyoda City. The property is in between the Imperial Palace Gardens and Ginza’s upscale boutiques.
Fora’s Peninsula PenClub partner perks include a ¥10,000 food and beverage credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Is it better to stay in Shinjuku or Ginza?
The debate between Shinjuku and Ginza is more substantial than deciding between Shinjuku and Shibuya. Ginza and Shinjuku are fundamentally different areas, whereas Shinjuku and Shibuya share many similarities. Discerning travelers may prefer the upscale nature of Ginza, but it’s worth noting that Shinjuku has a number of luxe hotels. A critical factor worth considering is Ginza’s proximity to attractions in Chiyoda City; if you’re interested in Tokyo’s city center (without wanting to stay there), Ginza may be your next best bet. On the other hand, Shinjuku offers a wider range of experiences and accommodations.
Roppongi
Roppongi is the bridge between Shibuya and Chiyoda. Here you’ll find some of Tokyo’s top museums, like the Mori Art Museum and National Art Center, Tokyo. There are also casinos, ritzy nightclubs and a spectrum of dining options ranging from quick treats to élite restaurants, all within walking distance from Roppongi Station. The district has a worldly feel, and everything from the hotels to the nightlife establishments cater to a global audience.
“This upscale neighborhood is a personal favorite, and where I would advise first-time visitors to stay in Tokyo,” Fora Advisor Kaya Flostrand said. “Famous for its shopping, restaurant and club scene, the Roppongi Hills also offer some amazing views of the city and the chance to walk around its leafy streets without the massive crowds in Shibuya and its likes. It is very well connected, however; so visitors can easily explore Tokyo by day and retreat to Roppongi by night.”
Where to stay near Roppongi, Tokyo: Janu Tokyo or Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Image courtesy of Grand Hyatt Tokyo
Janu Tokyo, a sister concept helmed by Aman, is a wellness-focused luxury retreat in the newly established Azabudai Hills area of Roppongi. The property is delightfully fresh, and offers an updated take on traditional Japanese design. Despite opening in March 2024, Janu Tokyo is already one of Fora’s top-booked hotels in the city.
“Modern, fresh and one of the newest kids on the (Tokyo) block, Janu has had a fantastic start on the scene,” Fora Advisor Laura Kempe said. “With amazing food, modern interiors and a fantastic location in the new Azabudai Hills neighborhood, this is the perfect hotel for the discerning traveler.”
Alternatively, Grand Hyatt Tokyo — another top-booked hotel in Tokyo — offers a similar degree of luxury and accessibility, as it’s only a few minutes from Roppongi Station on foot.
“Grand Hyatt Tokyo is the perfect choice in Roppongi,” Kaya said. “The rooms are very spacious by Tokyo standards, and have a Japanese understated elegance to them.”
Fora Perks at Janu Tokyo include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Asakusa
Asakusa is an older part of Tokyo. Consider Asakusa one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Tokyo if you want an experience more representative of everyday life in urban Japan. It’s easy to get lost here amongst the rows of streets lined with stores, cafés and coffee shops, but that’s also the appeal of Asakusa. It’s a great place to explore Tokyo’s culture outside of the glamour of its more popular districts. The downtown area is easily walkable and there’s no shortage of authentic dining options, especially of the casual variety (tempura, yakitori, etc.).
Asakusa’s lived-in vibe earns comparisons to Kyoto. If you’re only able to visit one major city during your vacation to Japan, sojourning to Asakusa amidst trips to Shinjuku or Shibuya is an exciting compromise.
Akihabara and Ueno
Akihabara (a.k.a. Akihabara Electric Town) is one of the most unique places to visit in Japan because of its embrace of Japanese pop culture. The downtown area is filled with gaming halls, street-food vendors and stores selling collectibles. At night, Akihabara comes to life with colorful streets and energetic crowds. Meanwhile, nearby Ueno is fairly low-key, with a variety of museums, parks and traditional architecture to explore. Together, the two districts offer a snapshot of traditional-meets-modern Japanese culture. This is where to stay in Tokyo for culture enthusiasts who want something with more of a local feel compared to Shinjuku or Shibuya.
Odaiba and Tokyo Bay area
The Tokyo Bay area is actually a collection of many different districts and wards, spanning from Minato (Downtown Tokyo) and Shiadome to western Chiba, where you’ll find Tokyo Disneyland. One of the more notable areas also happens to be one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo for families: Odaiba, an artificial island connected to Minato. Odaiba is heavily Westernized, but there’s a variety of attractions kids and families can enjoy, from the Disney resort to massive entertainment centers and more.
“A little secret: Haneda airport is the airport to fly in and out of (instead of Narita),” Fora X Advisor Nadia Bess shared. “It's significantly closer to Tokyo and the immigration lines are significantly shorter.”
Ask a Fora Advisor where to stay in Tokyo
With dozens of districts, each offering its own unique version of Tokyo, deciding where to stay in the city can be an overwhelming task.
“There is a reason why Tokyo is consistently a crowd favorite for any traveler,” Fora Advisor Laura Kempe said. “Tokyo truly does offer something for everyone: You can choose your own adventure and shop until you drop, dive into history around the city, live out your food critic dreams as you eat your way through the city, marvel at the amazing everyday technology, find pockets of nature to explore or simply wander around exploring each neighborhood; Tokyo is an incredible city and one that should be on your travel list.”
This is where planning and booking your stay in Tokyo with a Fora Advisor comes in. Your advisor can narrow down your options — per your travel preferences and budget — highlight the best experiences and dining and ensure the logistics of your itinerary are ironed out.
Where to stay in Tokyo: FAQs and tips
Read on for more information on where to stay in Tokyo.
How many days in Tokyo is enough?
Tokyo is one of the largest, most culturally rich and exciting cities in the world. You could spend years here and not see everything. But obviously, that’s not exactly reasonable: We recommend spending at least a week in Tokyo.
“Planning is key, as the massive size of the city and the crowds can be overwhelming,” Fora Advisor Kaya Flostrand said. “It is important to not cram days with high-intensity activities. Aim for balance so you don’t run out of steam on day two of the trip.”
In a similar vein, Fora Advisor Kay Hart shared a pro tip: “Have your hotel and one or two dinner reservations secured, but go with an open mind and very little agenda because the beauty of the city is that it's hard to get lost and end up somewhere you don't love.”
What’s the best month to visit Tokyo? What’s Tokyo’s climate like?
Image courtesy of Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
There’s not one particular best month for visiting Tokyo, but the most popular times to visit include March through May and November. Spring tends to coincide with Tokyo’s cherry blossom season (it varies year to year), and both periods enjoy milder weather. September and October enjoy lovely temperatures, as well. You can also expect routine downpours, as this is typhoon season. Finally, summer and winter in Tokyo can be amazing if you don’t mind warmer or colder temperatures, respectively. This is offset by smaller crowds and more affordable rates.
(Our guide to the best months to visit Japan covers the country’s climate in more detail.)
Is it easy to get around Tokyo? Is the city walkable?
Yes. Tokyo is a massive city — one of the world’s largest by population and area — so walking from one side of the city to the next isn’t feasible. That said, walking around within a given district is doable. You also get to enjoy one of the world’s most efficient public metro systems. (It’s wise to stay near a train or metro station.)
Is it easy to visit Tokyo with kids?
“Easy” may not be the right word, but Tokyo is certainly worth visiting with children. On one hand, crowds, labyrinthian streets and high energy can make exploring Tokyo with little ones a daunting task. On the other, Japan’s capital is one of the most exciting destinations in the world. There is so much to do here whether you’re visiting with family, flying solo or enjoying a group adventure in Tokyo.
Is Tokyo safe? Are locals friendly to travelers?
Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world. Locals in Tokyo are very friendly and polite toward respectful travelers. Violent crime and petty theft do exist, but they’re surprisingly rare for a city as large as Tokyo. Like anywhere, exercise caution.
Can you visit Mount Fiji from Tokyo? If so, what’s the best area to stay?
You can visit Mount Fuji — as well as Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone — from Tokyo as a day trip. It takes about 2–2.5 hours by train or bus, depending on your chosen route. Regarding where to stay in Tokyo for the best access to Mount Fuji, Shinjuku offers the most direct route, but staying in one of the other districts above shouldn’t add much more than 30 minutes to your travel time.
Can you visit Kyoto or Osaka from Tokyo?
Technically, you can visit Kyoto or Osaka from Tokyo as a day trip; bullet trains cut travel times to about 2.5 hours between Tokyo and either destination. However, this only gives you a few hours to experience these cities. If you’re visiting to check a box and don’t mind spending between 4–5 hours on a train, visiting Osaka or Kyoto this way may be worth it. Otherwise, we recommend devoting at least a couple days each to Osaka and Kyoto.
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