Tokyo Travel Guide: Confusing Points When Planning an Itinerary
Planning a trip to Tokyo can often be overwhelming when it comes to accommodation. With so many options—hotels, Airbnbs, guesthouses, and more—it can be difficult to decide where to stay. This is especially true for first-time visitors. Based on my recent trip to Tokyo, I’d like to honestly share the key factors I considered when choosing a place to stay. Honestly, don't they all look pretty similar? That is why I’m here to share tips on how to find the perfect place for you, drawing on my personal experiences and research.
What is the perfect accommodation for you traveling alone?
If you are traveling alone to Tokyo, a guesthouse can be a good choice. If you want to meet new people in an unfamiliar city, a guesthouse is an excellent option. Accommodation is affordable, and you can naturally interact with other travelers. However, if you value personal time, it is better to consider Airbnb or a hotel rather than a hostel. This is because you can secure your own space and spend your time as you please.
What if you are short on budget?
If you are on a limited budget, guesthouses or Airbnbs can be good alternatives. You can stay in a guesthouse for around 30,000 to 50,000 won per night, and Airbnbs often offer spacious accommodations at prices lower than hotels. Airbnbs are particularly advantageous for groups of travelers. However, you should consider that private space may be limited in guesthouses. If you desire a quiet and private rest, a hotel or Airbnb might be a better choice.
How important is transportation convenience?
Tokyo has an excellent public transportation system, so getting around is not difficult regardless of where you stay. However, it is advisable to choose a location based on your travel purpose. If you want to enjoy shopping and gourmet food, the areas around Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza are good choices; if you prefer to relax in a quiet and peaceful place, the areas around Asakusa, Daikanyama, and Shimokitazawa are ideal. If you plan to focus your trip on major tourist attractions, the areas around Shinjuku, Ginza, and Tokyo Station are convenient. I personally prefer staying near Shinjuku. It is easy to travel because transportation is convenient and there are many great restaurants and shopping malls nearby. I particularly enjoyed the lively atmosphere at night. Of course, accommodation in Shinjuku tends to be expensive, so it is a good idea to consider other areas within your budget.
Things that change after actually using it
Based on my experience staying in various accommodations, I will share a few things you must check when choosing a place to stay.
- Read reviews carefully: Reviews from other travelers are very useful for identifying the pros and cons of an accommodation. It is especially important to check recent reviews.
- Check Room Size: Room sizes in Japan are often smaller than in Korea. This is especially true for small accommodations in Tokyo. Please carefully check the accommodation photos and room dimensions.
- Check amenities: Verify that necessary facilities, such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and toiletries, are available. It is especially recommended to check if the products are identical to those used in Korea.
One standard you must not give up on
When choosing accommodation for my trip to Tokyo, the most important factor for me was cleanliness. No matter how good the location or price, if the place isn't clean, it diminishes the enjoyment of the trip. That is why I carefully read reviews and made an effort to select accommodations that frequently mentioned cleanliness. It is especially important to thoroughly check the condition of the bedding and bathroom.
Additionally, the level of noise within the accommodation is an important factor. Since Tokyo is a vibrant city even at night, it is advisable to choose a well-soundproofed place if you are sensitive to noise. You should take this into consideration, especially around Shibuya and Shinjuku, as noise can persist late into the night.
Accommodation Selection Guide by Travel Style
Ultimately, what suits whom? If you are traveling alone, a guesthouse allows you to interact with diverse people and add to the fun of your trip; if you are traveling as a couple, a quiet and atmospheric Airbnb offers a comfortable rest. For a family trip, a hotel with spacious rooms and various amenities would be ideal. I hope you choose the best accommodation that fits your travel style and budget.
Points to note
When booking accommodation, it is important to carefully check the refund and change conditions. In particular, it is advisable to choose a place with flexible terms, considering the possibility of changing your travel schedule. Additionally, it is recommended to plan your trip by checking transportation and amenities near the accommodation in advance to ensure a convenient experience. Specifically, when booking, be sure to check if the accommodation offers services such as welcome tea or snacks. Although it is a small gesture, it can significantly enhance your satisfaction with your trip.
source
Refer to various online communities and travel-related websites.
Updated as of April 12, 2024. (Prices, stock, benefits, etc. are subject to change.)
Disclaimers and Caution
This information is for illustrative purposes only, and prices, rooms, and benefits are subject to change based on dates and promotions. The optimal itinerary may vary depending on your personal schedule, mode of transportation, and travel companions. Please check cancellation, refund, and tax/fee conditions before making a final reservation.
Selection Criteria
- First, determine 'who will use it' (beginner/advanced/family/team), and then look at the specifications.
- If figures are available, prioritize the comparison table; otherwise, summarize based only on general principles.
- Before purchasing or making a reservation, please check the refund/change conditions one last time.
Verification Memo
- I organized this based on the figures/items in the comparison table.
- Content not included in the comparison table was added only from a general perspective, such as 'cautions/checkpoints'.
- External URLs/direct links are not included, and unverified figures are not used.
Update
Updated as of April 12, 2026. (Prices, stock, benefits, etc. are subject to change.)
Source and verification memo
- I used the comparison table data (price/rating/reviews, etc.) at the top of the page as the primary basis.
- Additional tips are supplemented with general principles based on web search, and external links are not displayed.
- Uncertain information was expressed as 'generally/usually' without being definitive.