Hotels in Shinjuku Area, Tokyo

Ready to step into the incredible world of Tokyo? This urban wonderland is like no other, blending the electrifying nightlife of Roppongi with the historical charm of the Edo period and the fantastic realms of anime culture. Imagine sipping cocktails under the neon glow of chic bars, exploring the old-world streets where samurai once walked, and wandering through the very scenes that look exactly like your favorite anime. So pack your bags, dust off your walking shoes, and let Tokyo be your ultimate playground!

Getting Around Tokyo

Tokyo, the capital of Japan, draws a myriad of international travelers each year. Most international flights touch down at Narita International Airport (NRT).

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Location: Situated in the eastern suburbs of Tokyo, roughly 66 kilometers (41 miles) from the city center.

Go to the city center: The airport is linked to downtown Tokyo via the Narita Express (NEX) train, which whisks you to Tokyo Station in just 53 minutes. Alternatively, you can take Airport Limousine Buses or Taxis directly into the city.

Tips: If you're arriving on a red-eye flight, consider staying at one of these nearby hotels that offer airport shuttle services for a more leisurely start to your trip.

Haneda Airport (HND)

Location: Nestled in the southern part of Tokyo, approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) from the city center.

Go to the city center: Haneda Airport is served by the Keikyu Line and Tokyo Monorail, which take around 30-45 minutes to reach central Tokyo stations like Shibuya or Hamamatsuchō. The airport is also accessible via Airport Limousine Buses and Taxis.

During your visit to Tokyo, you can also choose these ways to get around:

Metro: Runs from approximately 5:30 AM to just past midnight, with fares ranging from ¥180 (about $1.1) for short trips to ¥930 (about $6) for longer journeys. Tickets can be purchased using cash, Transportation IC Card, or mobile payment apps like Suica or Pasmo.

[ Tips: Suica is a transportation IC card designed for short-term foreign tourists to Japan, valid for 28 days. The price ranges from ￥1,000~￥10,000 (about $6.4~$64). If you download the Suica app, you can just use phone to pass through the ticket gate. ]

Taxis: Easily hailed on the street or through apps, with a base fare of ¥410 (about $2.6) for the first 1 kilometers. Rates increase per kilometer thereafter, and it costs about ￥600 (about $3.8) to travel 5 kilometers (excluding waiting time and nighttime extra charges).

Buses: A budget-friendly option, there is a single fare within the 23 wards of Tokyo：¥210 (about $1.35) for adults and ¥110 (about $0.7) for kids.

Must-Visit Attractions in Tokyo

Tokyo is packed with amazing attractions like Tokyo Disneyland, where your fairy tale dreams come true; Tokyo Tower, offering breathtaking views of the city; and Shibuya Sky, where you can soak in the bustling energy of Shibuya Crossing from above.

Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo Disneyland – it's not just any Disney park! Here, you'll find exclusive attractions like "Space Mountain" with its breathtaking twists and turns, and "Cinderella Castle" that glows beautifully at night. The park's total of more than 2,000 characters all use electronic sound action devices developed by Japan, making visitors feel as if they are actually on the scene.

Where to Stay: If you're looking to maximize your playtime, we highly recommend staying at hotels located nearby these parks that offer convenient shuttle services, like Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel First Resort, Tokyo Bay Maihama Hotel and Spa&Hotel Eurasia Maihama.

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower is a true icon of the city, standing tall and proud with its sleek, red-and-white design. From the observation decks, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city. But did you know the best spot to view Tokyo Tower? Head to the Zojoji Temple, just a short walk away. The temple's peaceful gardens and serene atmosphere make it a great spot to take a break and soak in the beauty of the tower from a different perspective.

Shibuya Sky

For a thrilling perspective of Tokyo's famous Shibuya Crossing, head to Shibuya Sky. This stunning observatory is located on the top floors of the Shibuya Scramble Square building and offers panoramic views of the city. Imagine standing 400 meters above the ground, watching the world's busiest intersection come to life below you – it's a sight that will leave you breathless!

Harajuku

No trip to Tokyo is complete without a visit to Harajuku. Take a stroll down Takeshita Street, where you'll find shops selling everything from the latest fashion trends to quirky souvenirs. Don't forget to snap a photo in front of the iconic Harajuku Crossing, where you'll see cosplayers, street performers, and fashionistas all coming together to celebrate the city's unique spirit.

Best places to stay in Tokyo

Shinjuku: The Heartbeat Hub

Shinjuku is Tokyo's pulsing heart. Imagine bustling streets, neon lights, and endless dining options! Stay here for its electric vibe and easy access to Shinjuku Gyoen, a serene green oasis. Plus, Shinjuku Station is a transportation wonder—you can go anywhere from here.

Shibuya: Trendy & Vibrant

Shibuya is where the young and hip hang out. Scramble Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, is your front-yard attraction. Fashion boutiques, trendy cafes, and Hachiko Square's loyal dog statue give it a unique charm. Stay here to be in the thick of Tokyo's cool culture, with Shibuya 109 and Harajuku just around the corner.

Roppongi: The Glamour Spot

Roppongi shines with its high-end shops, sleek bars, and world-class art galleries. Think Tokyo Tower illuminating the night sky and stylish hotels offering rooftop views. It's where Tokyo's international flair meets Japanese elegance. Perfect for those who crave a mix of luxury and culture, with easy access to Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Midtown's extensive entertainment.

Better to know before visiting Tokyo

Currency: Japan's currency is the yen (¥), and you'll need it for everything from grabbing a snack at a convenience store to shopping for souvenirs. You can easily exchange your US dollars at the airports, banks, or currency exchange booths around the city.

Payment Methods: Cash is king in Tokyo, but don't worry, credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. Just keep some yen on hand for smaller purchases and convenience stores.

Languages: While English isn't widely spoken, Tokyo is becoming more and more friendly to international visitors. Many signs and menus have English translations, and you'll find plenty of helpful locals willing to lend a hand with directions or translations.

Emergency Contacts: In case of an emergency, here are the numbers you'll need: Police: 110; Ambulance: 119 (for both fire and medical emergencies).

Bowing: This traditional greeting is still widely practiced in Japan. A slight bow of the head is a respectful way to greet someone.

Quiet Please: Tokyo's public transport is incredibly efficient, but it's also expected to be quiet. Keep conversations to a whisper and avoid loud phone calls.

Weather in Tokyo

Tokyo's climate is like a rollercoaster ride, with warm, humid summers and chilly, crisp winters, plus a cherry blossom-filled spring and a colorful autumn.

The best time to visit Tokyo is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is mild and comfortable, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Time in Tokyo

Tokyo is in the Japan Standard Time zone, which is UTC+9.

Note: During Daylight Saving Time (DST) in the US, which typically runs from March to November, the time difference will change by one hour for those cities that observe DST.

What to eat in Tokyo

Tokyo's food scene is a melting pot of influences, drawing from its rich history and also incorporating international elements. It's all about fresh, high-quality ingredients, meticulous preparation, and a delicate balance of flavors.

Ramen (拉麺): Slurp on a steaming bowl of noodles in a savory, savory broth, topped with tender slices of pork, soft-boiled eggs, and a sprinkle of green onions. It's a hearty, comforting meal that's perfect after a long day of exploring.

Sushi (寿司): Experience the art of raw fish with bite-sized pieces of fresh tuna, salmon, and eel, served on vinegar-flavored rice and adorned with a dollop of soy sauce and a touch of wasabi. It's a sensory delight that's a must-try for anyone visiting Tokyo.

Takoyaki (たこ焼き): These savory, golden-brown balls of octopus and dough are cooked to perfection in a special pan and served with a sweet, tangy sauce. They're crispy on the outside and soft and gooey on the inside, making them a delicious street food snack.