We list the best hotels and accommodations in Tokyo as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews and we only listed places that have at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in Tokyo: Hotel Resol Ueno
Best boutique hotel in Tokyo: Hotel Celestine Ginza
Best luxury hotel in Tokyo: Hotel Park Hyatt
“A project of Tokyo University of the Arts, Hanare offers five immaculate tatami rooms in an old dormitory house, which has been tastefully upgraded to retain original features such as wooden beams.”
“Located in the historic Nihonbashi district just steps away from the venerable Mitsukoshi department store, this sophisticated hotel occupies the top floors of the soaring Nihonbashi Mitsui Tower, affording outstanding city views from its 38th-floor lobby, its restaurants, and guest rooms.”
Featured as Frommer’s Exceptional Choice in Tokyo.
“After a complete overhaul, the Capitol Hotel Tokyu reopened in 2010 in a 29-story, latticed-steel tower designed by the architect Kengo Kuma. The landmark property has three restaurants, a multilane lap pool and 251 rooms with rice-paper screens and views of the neighboring Imperial Palace or Akasaka skyline.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Tokyo, Japan.
“In creating its brand-new contemporary ryokan in the heart of Tokyo, Hoshinoya has barely put a foot wrong. This ryokan is all about insulating yourself from the city in a building that incorporates timeless craftsmanship and the best of traditional Japanese design and service.”
“One of the most magnificent properties in Tokyo, the Park Hyatt hovers over Shinjuku boasting some of the best views, finest restaurants, incredible bars, and stellar service. Refined and remarkable, this high-priced property just might be worth every penny.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Tokyo.
“A Peninsula hotel is like that frustrating friend who, no matter how hard you look, has no flaws. Not one. The Peninsula Tokyo is located in the city’s ritzy Ginza district, a stroll away from designer boutiques and Michelin-starred restaurants.”
“The Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills opened in 2014 on the top six floors of a new 52-story skyscraper. Expect Zen-like interiors and up-in-the-clouds views everywhere from the spa with multiple pools and the open-air rooftop bar to the 164 rooms and suites with wall-to-wall windows.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Tokyo, Japan.
“This five-star stunner takes up the top nine floors of the 53-story Midtown Tower (along with the first three levels), with views rivaling those of the Park Hyatt. The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo has a range of accommodation options, including a Japanese-style room.”
“Pocketed in between Shibuya and Harajuku, Trunk (Hotel)’s two low-rise buildings are four stories each. Hardly a stone’s throw from some of Tokyo’s most hipster streets, it’s a high cost, but you’re really booking a whole lifestyle.”
Featured in CN Traveler’s 2018 Hot List
“In a former warehouse, the Nui hostel has raised the bar for stylish budget digs in Tokyo. High ceilings mean bunks you can comfortably sit up in and there is an enormous shared kitchen and work space.”
“The folks who build Westin hotels snagged themselves a location to brag about when they set up shop in Tokyo’s residential Ebisu neighborhood. Sure, these are not luxury rooms, but they’re nothing to complain about and just a few strides from Yebisu Garden Place.”
“The Claska hotel is for travelers who crave designer digs. Its 18 rooms are divided into four categories: Japanese modern, tatami, weekly residence and “DIY” — the latter being custom creations of Japanese designers.”
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Fodors, CNN, Frommers, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Forbes, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Forbes, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CNN, Forbes, Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
CN Traveler, New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
CNN
Recommended by:
CNN, Lonely Planet, Telegraph
The land of the rising sun, Tokyo, the busy capital of Japan is an eclectic blend of traditional and modernity. Historical temples to skyscrapers jostle from space in the skyline. Although it is one of the busiest capitals, it is known for its law and order.
Shinjuku
The world’s busiest railway station holds testament to the popularity of this place. It is home to premier hotels and restaurants catering to the commercial crowd. Golden Gai boosts a fabulous nightlife. Japan’s biggest red light area is found here. There are several parks and departmental stores, and also the largest twin towers.
Shibuya
It translates into “Astringent valley” and is famous for its Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Garden. The shopping malls cater to the young and happening crowd. Top hotels and vibrant night-clubs attract a huge influx of tourists. It is the favourite destination for the ones from Hollywood.
Ginza
It is one of the posh localities with stores of opulent designer labels and boulevard housing famous hotels. It is considered to be one of the most expensive areas with cafes and bars offering gourmet food to the eminent crowd.
Kenji
It offers the much-needed respite from the cacophony that rest of Tokyo has to offer. Look street is famous for its bargaining and affordable bed and breakfast options.
Odaiba
It is an artificial island which can be accessed by Japan's first futuristic train. It is an advanced entertainment zone, providing a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji from the Ferris wheel and robotic interaction at the museum. You can enjoy the sights while dining at the famous sushi bars along the quay.
Also check out our travel guide about the best areas to stay in Tokyo.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Tokyo, then go for Hotel Park Hyatt. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Tokyo, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Tokyo, you should check out Hotel Celestine Ginza. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Tokyo, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Tokyo, then book Hotel Resol Ueno. It's an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It's in a good location, it's been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Tokyo.
If you're looking for a great hostel in Tokyo, then you should check out Hostel Nui. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it's in a good location. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Tokyo.
Try Guesthouse Hanare if you're looking for a delicious breakfast at a hotel in Tokyo. It has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try The Ritz-Carlton Hotel or Hotel Park Hyatt. Both hotels offer amazing views of Tokyo according to recent customer reviews.
For a 3-star hotel you have to pay around $130 per night and for a 4-star hotel you would be looking at $210 per night. If you're after a luxury 5-star Tokyo hotel then you can expect to pay around $450 per night.
teamLab Planets TOKYO: Digital Art Museum Entrance Ticket. Explore the immersive exhibits within teamLab Planets TOKYO, a must-see attraction on any visit to Tokyo. Discover digital art installations made of lights, sounds, and different materials to delight all five senses. Price: $31.
Tsukiji Fish Market Visit with Sushi Making Experience. Take a closer look at the fascinating world of sushi, extending from the ocean to your plate, during this 4-hour sushi-making class and a visit to the outer Tsukiji fish market. Price: $136.
Mt Fuji and Hakone 1-Day Bus Tour by Bus. Admire the natural beauty of Hakone and relax over lunch with views of the highest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji. Climb aboard a boat for a scenic tour on Lake Ashi and go for a ride on an aerial tram above Owakudani Valley. Price: $140.
More things to do in Tokyo
Japan is more than just a country with weird food and crazy mascots. It is a complex, intriguing country with plenty to explore. There are so many things to do in Tokyo that it can be overwhelming for any first-time visitor. The city has something for everyone, from the nerd in all of us to the cat lover within. Anyone who loves modern architecture will be blown away by the buildings in Tokyo. And anyone who loves cats will have their dreams come true in one of its famous cat cafes. This ultimate Tokyo travel guide will introduce you to the best things to see and do in this amazing city!
Where to Stay
Tokyo is a massive city, so it’s important to choose the right area to stay in. You can’t explore the city properly if you’re always worried about getting to a different part of the city. If you do choose to stay in Shinjuku, you’re in luck. This is one of the best areas in Tokyo, as it has something for everyone. Explore the city’s history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum, eat at the best restaurants in Tokyo and visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. There are also lots of shopping centers in the city and the famous Kabukicho red-light district if you’re up for a little bit of nightlife. If you’re a big fan of modern architecture, stay in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district or the surrounding areas. There are plenty of buildings from the 1950s to the 1990s that you won’t find anywhere else.
We recommend you read our guide about where to stay in Tokyo. It provides an excellent overview of the most popular areas, highlighting the main attractions and hotel recommendations for each area.
A Quick History of Japan
The history of Japan is as complex as the country itself. This is why it is easy to understand why travelers should look at an ultimate Tokyo travel guide before they go. The country has had a rich history, with the earliest signs of civilizations dating back to around 10,000 BC. It was during these times when Japan first saw its first civilizations emerge. Japan’s history is one that is intertwined with China’s, as the two countries have been in a relationship with one another for millennia. China and Japan have had strong relations with one another since the 7th century, with cultural exchanges occurring between the two countries. The 1600s saw Japan enter a period of isolationism, with the Tokugawa shogunate ruling the country from 1603 to 1867. It was during this time that a strict social hierarchy was put in place, with the Emperor at the top and the “heimin”, or commoners, at the bottom. The period of isolation ended in 1853, and the country has since become one of the most advanced and richest nations in the world.
Cafes for Cats, Runs and Co.
If you’re a cat-lover and you’re visiting Tokyo, you cannot miss out on the famous cafes that are filled with adorable kitties. You’ll find these cafes all over the city, but there are two that are particularly worth visiting: The first is the Cat Cafe and the second is Toritori. These two cafes are among the most famous cat cafes in the whole of Japan, and they are located next to each other in Tokyo’s trendy Shibuya district. If you want to spend the day surrounded by cats, these cafes are perfect. You can relax with a cup of tea or coffee while you play with the cats, or bring your own cat to the cafe if you’re a crazy cat parent like me!
Another place in Tokyo that is a must for cat lovers is the Nekobukaro Cat Sanctuary. It is a non-profit organization where you can interact with stray cats and learn more about their lives in the city. You can even take a stroll through the cats’ houses and learn more about the organization’s efforts to sterilize and care for stray cats in the city. After you’ve explored the kitty houses, you can enjoy a coffee or tea in the cafe on the grounds. This is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with loved ones or just by yourself.
If you like to work out while traveling and you’re visiting Tokyo, then you have to visit Runners Café. It is a nice little café where you can relax, talk to other runners and enjoy a couple of drinks and snacks. They also have a few books that you can borrow if you are looking for some inspiration. If you’re looking for a more intense workout, then you have to visit the Fitness Café. It is a fitness studio where you can work out with a trainer while enjoying a nice cup of coffee or a bowl of delicious noodles. If you’re visiting with friends or family, you can book a private session. They also have special sessions for women when is a great place for you to bond with your friends.
Must-See Museums in Tokyo
Tokyo has many great museums that are worth visiting during your stay.
The Tokyo National Museum is a fantastic place to learn about Japanese art and culture. It is home to some of the most iconic pieces in Japanese art, including the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue, 12th-century sculptures of the Buddha and an intricately carved 16th-century wooden casket. The Tokyo National Museum is a great place to learn more about Japanese art and culture.
The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a fantastic place to learn more about Japan’s history. It is located in the Sumida district and is a wonderful place to learn more about the city’s rich past. One of the most interesting parts of the museum is its focus on the Edo period. This period of time was characterized by strict rules and social hierarchies. The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a great place to learn more about the city’s past and also to see some wonderful examples of Japanese architecture and design.
Another fascinating museum worth a visit is the Metropolitan Art Museum. This museum is located in the Ueno district of Tokyo and is home to many artistic masterpieces from different eras. You can see everything from modern paintings to ancient Japanese pottery and statues. The Metropolitan Art Museum is a great place to explore different artistic styles and periods.
Key Tokyo Sightseeing Areas
If you have eight days to explore Tokyo, you should spend four days exploring the city, two days exploring the surrounding areas and one day at each of the museums. This will allow you to see the must-see places in Tokyo, as well as explore some of the nearby towns and villages. You could start off exploring Tokyo’s districts and see some of the most important temples and shrines in the city. You could then explore the “Golden Triangle” of Tokyo, which is made up of Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ginza. You can then explore the quieter districts of Tokyo, including Yanaka, Nezu and Sendagi. You can then visit some of the nearby towns and villages, including Kamakura, Hakone and Fuji. You can then finish off your stay in Tokyo by exploring a few of the most famous districts, including Shinjuku, Shibuya and Ginza.
Conclusion
Tokyo is a city with something for everyone. There are so many things to do in Tokyo that it can be overwhelming for any first-time visitor but the capital of Japan has something for everyone.
If you like our list of the best hotels in Tokyo, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Shanghai or the best hotels in Seoul.