Is Shinjuku or Shibuya the Best Area to Stay in Tokyo?
Shinjuku & Shibuya are popular but not ideal for staying. Most tourist spots are in eastern Tokyo. Find better hotel areas in Asakusa, Ginza, or Tokyo Station!
Conclusion
No, I don’t recommend staying in Shinjuku or Shibuya. While these areas are often recommended due to their many hotels and train connections, they are too crowded, difficult to navigate, and far from most major tourist attractions. Instead, consider Tokyo’s east side (Akihabara, Asakusa, Nihonbashi, Ginza, Tokyo Station) or areas like Shinagawa and Roppongi for better convenience and access to sightseeing spots.
General Information
Shinjuku and Shibuya are major terminal stations, serving as important transport hubs with a high concentration of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. Many tourists choose these areas because:
- There are many hotels, from budget to luxury.
- They offer direct access to many train lines, including the Yamanote Line.
- They are vibrant nightlife districts, making them attractive for young travelers.
For these reasons, many travel guides recommend them as a place to stay. However, in reality:
- Shinjuku Station is extremely large and confusing, making train transfers time-consuming.
- Shibuya is packed with people, which can be stressful, especially with luggage or children.
- Most major tourist attractions are in eastern Tokyo, meaning you’ll spend extra time commuting.
Why Tokyo’s East Side Is Better for Sightseeing
Tokyo’s most famous sightseeing spots are concentrated on the east side of the city, including:
- Akihabara – Electronics, anime, and otaku culture
- Asakusa – Historic temples, traditional streets, and cultural experiences
- Imperial Palace – Beautiful gardens and historical significance
- Tokyo Skytree – The tallest tower in Japan with an observation deck
- Odaiba – A futuristic waterfront area with shopping and entertainment
- Ginza – High-end shopping and fine dining
Shinjuku and Shibuya, on the other hand, are located in western Tokyo and are more known for their nightlife and entertainment districts.
- Shinjuku – Business district, Kabukicho (Tokyo’s biggest nightlife area), and modern skyscrapers
- Shibuya – Trendy shopping, youth culture, and nightlife
- Roppongi & Ikebukuro – Well-known for nightlife, entertainment, and international influence
Unlike the east side, these areas do not have many historical sightseeing spots, as they are newer, urban entertainment hubs.
Best Area to Stay Based on Your Travel Style
| Traveler Type | Recommended Areas | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| First-time visitors | Tokyo Station, Ginza, Nihonbashi | Easy access to major attractions & transport |
| Budget travelers | Asakusa, Akihabara | Affordable hotels, good train connections |
| Families with kids | Tokyo Station, Shinagawa | Spacious hotels, easy train access |
| Nightlife lovers | Roppongi, Shinjuku (Kabukicho) | Clubs, bars, and late-night entertainment |
| Luxury travelers | Ginza, Marunouchi | High-end hotels, fine dining, shopping |
Budget Comparison
(Approximate hotel prices per night for 2 people)
| Area | Budget Hotels (¥) | Mid-Range Hotels (¥) | Luxury Hotels (¥) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku | ¥10,000–¥15,000 | ¥18,000–¥30,000 | ¥40,000+ |
| Shibuya | ¥12,000–¥18,000 | ¥20,000–¥35,000 | ¥50,000+ |
| Tokyo Station / Nihonbashi | ¥8,000–¥14,000 | ¥15,000–¥28,000 | ¥40,000+ |
| Asakusa / Akihabara | ¥6,000–¥12,000 | ¥14,000–¥25,000 | ¥35,000+ |
| Shinagawa | ¥7,000–¥13,000 | ¥15,000–¥27,000 | ¥38,000+ |
(1 USD ≈ 150 JPY, 1 EUR ≈ 160 JPY)
Best Areas by Season
- Spring (cherry blossom season 🌸): Stay in Ueno, Asakusa, or Ginza for easy access to parks.
- Summer (hot & humid ☀️): Stay in Tokyo Station or Nihonbashi for easy transport & air-conditioned shopping areas.
- Autumn (pleasant weather 🍁): Great for staying in historic areas like Asakusa or Akihabara.
- Winter (cold but less crowded ❄️): Tokyo Station, Shinagawa, or Ginza provide comfort and convenience.
Unexpected Factors & Disadvantages
- Shinjuku Station is confusing – Even locals get lost inside.
- Shibuya is crowded and noisy – Hard to relax, especially with kids.
- Hotels in Ginza or Nihonbashi may be quieter but close early – Fewer late-night food options.
Extra Travel Tips
- Traveling to Kyoto or Osaka? → Stay near Tokyo Station for an easy Shinkansen ride.
- Love shopping? → Ginza for high-end, Akihabara for electronics, Asakusa for traditional goods.
- Want a local experience? → Stay in Asakusa for a more traditional vibe.
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