Whether you're eyeing Ginza's stylish streets or Asakusa's old-world charm, a perfect Tokyo hotel is waiting for you. Think of cozy tatami rooms, soothing onsen baths, and exquisite Japanese cuisine. Or perhaps you’d prefer to check into a plush hotel room after a long day of sightseeing, and shopping? Either way, the crew at Urban List has got you covered.
Trying to navigate which are the safest neighbourhood to stay? Firstly, Tokyo (and Japan in general) feel enormously clean and safe, making it ideal for a holiday with the whole fam, or a solo escape. If you want to sleep right amidst the action, we'd suggest Shibuya or Shinjuku every day of the week, with a huge variety of great hotels, restaurants and attractions so that you can enjoy the city on foot. If you want to tick off plenty of those tourist must-visits, Chiyoda City is ideal or if you're craving a little luxury, then perhaps Ginza is the area for you.
Wherever you choose, trust that we've compiled the ultimate list guaranteeing not only great locations, but also first-class amenities and stunning Japanese service and hospitality from the moment you check in.
Jump to section
Best Hotels In Central Tokyo
Ginza, Chuo City The Celestine Ginza
Ginza neighbourhood is known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment and the Celestine Ginza brings glamour to your doorstep without burning a hole in your pocket. If you're a cityscape person, you'll love the stunning view of the Ginza skyline and Tokyo Tower. A breezy 10-minute walk is all you need to get to the iconic Tokyo Tower.
If you fancy exploring the city, Shimbashi station is just around the corner. Find the Giant Ghibli Clock, rustic izakaya filled with the salarymen, and sip some sake at the Sake Plaza.
Ginza, Chuo City MUJI Hotel
Why limit yourself to a visit to Japan's flagship MUJI store when you can elevate your experience with a stay at the brand's hotel. Poised directly above the world's largest MUJI store, this refined and carefully curated hotel provides an oasis of minimalist tranquillity amidst the bustling Ginza shopping district.
Each room has been designed in MUJI's signature aesthetic and adorned with MUJI goods—from bedding to toiletries—all available for you to shop post-stay. Beyond the room, the hotel invites you to unwind in its in-house cafe and communal reading room, where Japanese breakfasts, as well as coffee and snacks are on offer.
Nihonbashi, Chuo City Mitsui Garden Nihonbashi Premier
Worry not about the rainy day at Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier. It is conveniently connected to the underground Shin-Nihon station and a one-minute strut from Mitsukoshimae station. The Sky Tree view will have you feeling on top of the world. And if you're a fan of chill vibes and good coffee during the holiday, the cute cafe on the first floor will become your favourite hangout spot during your downtime.
Nihonbashi is brimming with fascinating things to do. Discover its rich Edo history at the Nihonbashi Information Center, shop till you drop at COREDO Muromachi, or sample mouth-watering cuisines at the local restaurants. Mitsui Garden Hotel Nihonbashi Premier isn't just a place to stay. It's your gateway to an unforgettable adventure.
Best Hotels In Northern Tokyo
Sekiguchi, Bunkyo City Hotel Chinzanso
Staying at Hotel Chizanso is like having a vacation within a vacation. Wander through an ever changing but always beautiful garden and explore landmarks from different regions of Japan right there on the hotel grounds. Get lost amongst Kamakura stone lanterns, Kyoto's Shiratama Inari Shrine, or a historic pagoda from Hiroshima that's stood the test of time for 600 years.
The staff? Old-school hospitality is their game. Every corner of your stay will be nothing short of phenomenal. In short, Hotel Chizanso is your oasis. You could spend your whole Tokyo trip here and leave feeling like you've seen it all.
Yanaka, Taito City Hanare Yanaka
This 2018 Good Design Gold Award winner possesses a concept of ‘the whole town is your hotel', also known as 'town-yado'. Guest experience starts with a friendly reception at a cultural complex, setting the tone for a stay that's all about immersing yourself in local life. Step back in time as you trace the footprints of the past in Yanaka, a little-known neighbourhood that miraculously survived the bombing of Tokyo in WWII.
Fancy a relaxing soak before or after a long day? Grab a complimentary hotel voucher and head to Yanaka's Sentō for a traditional public bath experience. It's a beautiful way to embrace the city and live like a local.
Best Hotels In Eastern Tokyo
Asakusa, Taito City OMO3 Asakusa By Hoshino Resorts
This new hotel gives you a front-row seat to the allure of the old and new Asakusa. The massive floor-to-ceiling glass windows are truly magical. To the west, a sweeping view of the historic Sensoji Temple grounds gives you an insight to Asakusa’s storied past. Then to the east, you’re greeted by the modern marvel of Tokyo Skytree. Both sights will take your breath away, day or night.
Staying here allows you to visit Asakusa’s landmarks outside the usual bustling hours. You can take your time to soak in the details and history without feeling rushed. If you’re travelling with groups of friends or family, OMO3 has got you covered with their spacious Deluxe Fourth Room, comfortable to fit up to four people.
Asakusa, Taito City Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa
Meet Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa, your charming home away from home in Tokyo's traditional heartland! Tucked away in Old Town Asakusa, it's a place where the past and present mingle with ease. Just step outside, and you'll find yourself amidst quaint local shops and enticing restaurants.
Inspired by the Zen of tea houses, the ryokan strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort. And yes, they provide yukata robes for guests. Fancy a stroll in traditional attire? This is your chance! Oh, and you can't miss the open-air rooftop bath that you can reserve all to yourself. It's blissful relaxation with a dash of luxury. The experience gets even better as your stay kicks off with a soothing tea ceremony and a refreshing foot bath.
Iidabashi, Chiyoda City Toggle Hotel
With a daring and inventive design, this aptly named establishment excels in tailoring your individual experience. The elevated beds and vibrantly hued rooms not only ingeniously maximise the compact space, but also infuse just the right amount of playful novelty.
The hotel's spirited design ethos extends to its onsite cafe and bar, where daily breakfast, drinks, and coffee on demand are an experience in themselves. Strategically positioned near the iconic Tokyo Dome, you're just a leisurely stroll away from indulging in a game of baseball or exploring nearby Kagurazaka, a district steeped in the city's rich history.
Best Hotels In Western Tokyo
Yoyogi, Shibuya City Hotel Century Southern Tower
With its doorstep literally at the Shinjuku Station's New South Gate, you'll be darting around the city like a local in no time. Jetting in from Narita Airport? No problem! The direct NEX (Narita Express) line has you covered. But don't rush off too quickly. The shopping paradise of Takashimaya Times Square and Lumine Shopping Centre is just a 10-minute wander away.
As night falls, you're smack in the middle of a buzzing nightlife scene, perfect for experiencing Tokyo after dark. And when you're ready to take on Harajuku and Shibuya, easy transport links make it simple. Hotel Century Southern Tower gives you a pass to all the action in Tokyo.
Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo
Nestled amidst the vibrant energy of bustling Shinjuku, the Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo stands out as a prime choice for those seeking a lavish experience without breaking the bank. While the rooms may lean towards the smaller side compared to their Western counterparts, they more than make up for it with their luxurious feel, oversized windows, and comprehensive array of Japanese-style amenities.
Strategically situated just a stone's throw away from the renowned Park Hyatt Tokyo, rest assured that this locale positions you perfectly to immerse yourself in all that the city has to offer. For those yearning for a respite from the urban hustle, the hotel's close proximity to the serene Meiji Shrine and the lush expanse of Yoyogi Park adds an extra layer of appeal.
Best Hotels In Southern Tokyo
Shinagawa, Minato City The Strings InterContinental
Located almost directly above Shinagawa Station, The Strings InterContinental offers a haven for discerning travellers seeking a strategic escape from the bustling tourist hubs of Shinjuku or Shibuya. Embracing a musical theme, the recently refurbished hotel features epic views out across Tokyo Bay, Tokyo Tower and Shinagawa Station, providing the perfect vantage point for sunset viewing.
For those needing a retreat after a day of exploration, the hotel's array of onsite restaurants, including a must-visit dedicated teppanyaki spot, ensures you’ll never need to venture out after dark.
Urban List Best Of has our highest stamp of approval—curated lists of the very best recommendations for you to eat, do, see, buy or book, carefully chosen by our Editors.
Editor's note: Urban List editors independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. Urban List has affiliate partnerships, and if you purchase something through the links in this article, we will earn a commission from those partners. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.