TOKYO
Japan
QUICK TAKE
Tokyo is easier than you think and harder than you expect. The trains are perfect, English signage is everywhere, and convenience stores solve most problems. But booking the right ryokan, getting into good restaurants, and understanding neighborhood personalities — that's where guidance pays off.
WHERE TO STAY
FOR THE FIRST-TIMER
STAY IN
Shibuya or Shinjuku
WHY
Best train access in the city — you can reach anywhere in 20 minutes. Shibuya is younger and more walkable; Shinjuku has the best food scene. Both put you in the energy without overwhelming you.
OUR PICK
Trunk Hotel (Shibuya) or Park Hyatt Tokyo (Shinjuku)
~$200-350/night
FOR THE DESIGN/CULTURE SEEKER
STAY IN
Aoyama, Nakameguro, or Yanaka
WHY
Aoyama has galleries and architecture. Nakameguro has the canal, coffee culture, and boutiques. Yanaka feels like old Tokyo with temples and craft shops. These neighborhoods reward slow mornings.
OUR PICK
Hotel Allamanda Aoyama or Hanare in Yanaka
~$180-400/night
FOR THE RYOKAN EXPERIENCE
STAY IN
Day trip to Hakone or stay in Yanaka
WHY
True ryokans in central Tokyo are rare and often tourist-oriented. For the real experience, book 1-2 nights in Hakone (90 min away) for onsen and kaiseki. Or try a machiya-style stay in quieter Yanaka.
OUR PICK
Gora Kadan or Hakone Ginyu (Hakone)
~$400-800/night (includes dinner and breakfast)
SKIP THESE
- × Hotels in Roppongi
Nightlife district that's lost its edge. Feels dated and foreigner-focused. The interesting Tokyo is elsewhere now.
- × Airport hotels in Narita
Narita is 90 minutes from the city. Unless your flight is at 6am, stay in Tokyo and take the early Skyliner.
- × Giant international chains in Ginza
Sterile and overpriced. Ginza is for shopping, not sleeping. The neighborhood empties out at night.
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TEXT US YOUR DATESLast updated: January 2025 · Prices are approximate