Top reasons to visit Tokyo
- Diverse Cultural Experiences: Tokyo boasts a rich tapestry of culture, blending ancient traditions with modern life, evident in its temples, shrines, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
- Exciting Entertainment Options: From Tokyo Disneyland to a bustling nightlife scene, there's no shortage of fun for families and thrill-seekers alike.
- Vibrant Shopping Districts: Explore iconic areas like Shibuya and Nakamise Street, filled with unique shops and bustling markets.
- Stunning Day Trips: Convenient access to nearby cities such as Yokohama and Nikko offers a taste of Japan's natural beauty and history.
- Accommodation Variety: A wide range of lodging options caters to all budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller.
Find great hotels in Tokyo
Discover a diverse range of hotel accommodation options in Tokyo, catering to all types of travellers. From luxury hotels offering premium amenities to budget-friendly hostels and backpacker lodgings, Tokyo provides something for everyone. With a welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQIA community and a focus on business travel needs, you'll find the ideal base for your adventures in this vibrant city. Explore hotel reviews to help you choose the perfect room for your stay.
- Hotel Gracery Shinjuku: Nestled in the vibrant shopping district of Shinjuku, Hotel Gracery Shinjuku offers a unique blend of modern comfort and Japanese pop culture. This 4-star hotel, with a remarkable guest rating of 9.0, is famed for its Godzilla-themed terrace, providing an unforgettable experience for fans of the iconic monster. Guests can indulge in a range of amenities, including spacious rooms equipped with high-speed internet and flat-screen TVs. The location is ideal for those keen on exploring Tokyo's bustling shopping scene, with numerous shops and entertainment options just steps away.
- APA Hotel & Resort Ryogoku Ekimae Tower: Situated in close proximity to the historic Ryogoku district, this 3-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.0 and is a fantastic choice for travellers wishing to immerse themselves in Japan's rich culture. The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including breakfast and dinner services, ensuring guests are well-fed throughout their stay. On-site fitness facilities cater to those looking to maintain their workout regime, while the nearby metro station and local amenities provide convenience for exploring the area. The modern rooms feature flat-screen TVs for entertainment, making it a comfortable retreat after a day of sightseeing.
- APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower: Located in the heart of the lively Kabukicho area, APA Hotel Shinjuku Kabukicho Tower is a 3-star hotel with a commendable guest rating of 8.4. Ideal for shopping enthusiasts, this hotel places guests right in the midst of Tokyo's vibrant nightlife and retail offerings. The sleek and contemporary rooms are designed for comfort, featuring modern amenities to enhance your stay. With easy access to local attractions and public transport, it serves as a convenient base for discovering the dynamic spirit of Shinjuku.
Where to stay in Tokyo
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, offers a rich blend of culture and urban excitement, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore vibrant neighbourhoods like Shibuya and Asakusa, where friendly locals and unique shops await. Donโt miss nearby cities such as Yokohama for its stunning waterfront or Nikko for its natural beauty and historical temples. With a diverse itinerary, Tokyo promises an unforgettable holiday filled with adventure and cultural exploration.
- Shinjuku: Shinjuku is a vibrant neighbourhood located in the heart of Tokyo, renowned for its blend of urban excitement and family-friendly attractions. A bustling hub, it attracts visitors year-round, peaking in April, July, and September. Here, you'll find a plethora of shopping centres and outdoor spaces, making it ideal for families and city enthusiasts alike. Some notable highlights include the famous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a peaceful escape amidst the urban landscape, and the lively entertainment precinct of Kabukicho. Don't miss the iconic view from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building's observation deck.
- Shibuya: Shibuya is another iconic neighbourhood in Tokyo, famous for its bustling atmosphere and youthful energy. This area sees a surge of visitors, especially in April and during the winter months of December to January. Shibuya is well-known for its vibrant shopping scene, with numerous shopping malls and trendy boutiques. The famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest pedestrian intersections in the world, is a must-see, as is the Hachiko Statue, a symbol of loyalty. The nearby Yoyogi Park offers a lovely spot for outdoor relaxation and family activities.
- Ginza: Ginza stands as Tokyo's upscale shopping district, combining luxury retail with cultural experiences. This neighbourhood experiences high visitor traffic, particularly in March to April and October, making it a favourite for both tourists and locals. Ginza is lined with high-end boutiques, department stores, and gourmet dining options, catering to a sophisticated audience. Highlights include the historic Kabukiza Theatre, where you can catch traditional Kabuki performances, and the spacious Ginza Six shopping complex. The area's mix of modernity and tradition makes it an essential stop on your Tokyo itinerary.
Things to do near Tokyo
Shopping
Discover Tokyo's Shibuya 109, a trendy shopping hub renowned for its youthful fashion and eclectic boutiques. Head to Nakamise Street in Asakusa, a vibrant market where you can find traditional souvenirs and snacks, adding a cultural touch to your shopping adventure.
Recreation
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden offers peaceful strolls amid beautiful landscapes, featuring traditional Japanese gardens and expansive lawns. For rejuvenation, the Oedo Onsen Monogatari provides a unique hot spring experience, complete with various baths and relaxation areas, allowing you to unwind in a tranquil atmosphere.
Adventure
Experience the Arimino Course, a thrilling zipline and ropes course located 22.5km from Tokyo, offering an exhilarating outdoor adventure amidst nature. Alternatively, enjoy the Yokohama Air Cabin at Sakuragicho Station, a scenic cable car gondola ride 27.4km away, perfect for families seeking adventure and breathtaking views.
Nightlife
Experience Tokyo's vibrant nightlife at the iconic Shinjuku Golden Gai, where narrow alleys are lined with tiny bars. For a lively atmosphere, visit Roppongi, known for its clubs and late-night venues. Alternatively, explore the unique themed bars in Akihabara for a quirky twist on nightlife.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tokyo
Tokyo provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy free attractions like Shibuya Crossing, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Ueno Park. For transport, utilise the extensive train and subway systems, which are cost-effective. The best times to visit for lower prices are January to February and September, with Tuesday offering the cheapest hotel rates. Consider booking a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia for better savings. Combining flights and accommodation in a package can also yield significant discounts. Always filter options by price to secure the best deals.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Tokyo are January to February and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Tokyo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Tokyo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Tokyo is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expediaโs search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable options and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Tokyo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Tokyo
Tokyo is an ideal destination for family and outdoor-themed holidays, offering a blend of cultural experiences. Notable attractions include Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, the iconic Tokyo Tower, and various urban parks, shrines, and temples. Families can enjoy leisure activities at Tokyo resorts, while those seeking entertainment will find ample options in the city's vibrant landscape, ensuring a memorable visit for all types of travellers.
- Tokyo Disneylandยฎ: Step into a whimsical world at Tokyo Disneylandยฎ, where enchanting attractions and captivating entertainment await. With its family-friendly atmosphere, this theme park offers a delightful blend of classic Disney magic and unique Japanese charm, making it a treasured escape for visitors of all ages.
- Tokyo Skytree: Ascend to new heights at Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Japan, and marvel at breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape. This modern tower embodies contemporary design and serves as a hub for shopping and dining, providing an immersive urban experience.
- Shibuya Crossing: Experience the buzz of Shibuya Crossing, one of the world's busiest pedestrian intersections. Surrounded by vibrant shops and restaurants, this iconic tourist precinct captures the dynamic spirit of Tokyo, offering an exciting outdoor vibe amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
Best time to go to Tokyo
The best time to visit Tokyo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Tokyo
Arriving in Tokyo is convenient with two major airports: Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT). Haneda Airport is approximately 14.5km from central Tokyo, with excellent hotels nearby, such as The Prince Park Tower Tokyo and Imperial Hotel, both offering complimentary shuttle services. Narita International Airport, located about 57.9km from the city, has several good hotel options, including Hotel Nikko Narita and Hilton Tokyo Narita Airport, providing easy access to the airport. Additionally, Ibaraki Airport (IBR) is about 80.5km away, with hotels like Mito Plaza Hotel and Hotel Route Inn Ishioka serving travellers seeking proximity to this airport.