The top neighborhoods in Tokyo to Airbnb, based on transport, atmosphere and things to do.
So you’re heading to Tokyo, and you’re booking your Airbnb accommodation. But which of the 23 wards would be the most strategic base from which to do your explorations? And where are half of these places, even? Figuring out where to stay can be a daunting task. The metropolis is always bigger than it seems — even for those of us who live here. To make things a bit easier, we’ve put together a guide to nine of the best places to Airbnb in Tokyo.
We’ve given thought to proximity to transport hubs (because you probably don’t want to end up stuck in the rice paddies), as well as the availability of things to do in the area and the general atmosphere. In no particular order, here are our top choices.
Shinjuku
This is one of the most central parts of Tokyo. Served by multiple train lines, including Tokyo Metro and the JR Yamanote Line (making getting around ultra convenient), Shinjuku is a bustling hub at all times of the day and night. Big on business and entertainment, you will always find something to do here. If you’re into nightlife, this is the place to be — even more so if you are looking for the LGBTQI scene. Shinjuku is a four-minute train ride from Harajuku, the designer Omotesando strip and Meiji Jingu (plus Yoyogi Park).
Shibuya
About 10 minutes away from Shinjuku by train is Shibuya, the place with that crowded pedestrian crossing. While you won’t be camping on the intersection, any Airbnb joint in this area will be thrilling in the way it gives you access to all of Tokyo’s major train lines, as well as an array of name-brand shops and themed bars. It’s a busy but convenient place. Shibuya is also only two minutes away from the Omotesando, Harajuku and Meiji Jingu area.
Ikebukuro
Often seen as the dowdy cousin of Shibuya and Shinjuku, Ikebukuro, just 10 minutes away, is a business and education district that is actually a great choice for accommodation. With the third busiest station in the country, all of the important shops and a big range of restaurants that serve up cheap lunch (think student prices), it makes an excellent base for travelers. Consider staying 10-15 minutes up the line (inching closer to Saitama), for example near stations like Tobu-Nerima or Itabashi, for lower rates with suburban charm and some quiet.
Tachikawa
On the western side of the prefecture is Tachikawa, a sprawling city about 40 minutes from Tokyo Station. With the Yokota Air Force Base nearby, Tachikawa has a decent level of English support — and, unrelatedly, a really nice park. It’s perfect for families and for adventures in nearby Ome, Okutama and Saitama.
Shinagawa
The last stop before the JR Yamanote Line loops back, Shinagawa is a little out of the way, but it’s got some great stores (you’ve got to explore the delis at the station) and is the perfect jumping-off point for trips into Yokohama and surrounds. If you don’t mind some train time, it’s a viable option.
Meguro
A ward filled with swank and much yen, Meguro is home to Tokyo’s celebs and hipsters (except the ones in Setagaya — see below). The neighborhoods of Nakameguro and Daikanyama are a couple of stops over from Shibuya and have a young, fun buzz. There are plenty of tucked-away eateries and interesting things to see. If you can secure a booking in Meguro, you’re bound to enjoy the experience — you get all the atmosphere of Tokyo, minus the inner city noise levels.
Roppongi
Roppongi’s reputation sometimes precedes it — kind of skeezy, not really a place to settle down. But it’s home to some of Tokyo’s hottest clubs, shops and galleries (just have a look at Roppongi Hills and you’ll get the idea), as well as Tokyo Tower. 15 minutes from Tokyo Station itself (which is in the centre of the CBD, and near the Imperial Palace), it’s a fairly convenient location that is ideal if you’re looking to paint the town red, repeatedly.
Setagaya
Home to the rest of Tokyo’s hipsters and half of its student population (there is some overlap), Setagaya — particularly Shimokitazawa — is an awesomely vibey area that comes highly recommended. It’s quiet enough, but has charming café after charming café, as well as books, art and fashion galore. Shimokita, as it’s affectionately known, is 10 minutes from Shinjuku, in the direction of Hakone (a hot spring resort you definitely want to check out).
Asakusa
About 12 minutes from Tokyo Station, Asakusa is a popular accommodation spot for travelers, particularly those seeking low-budget, backpacker-type lodgings. A major tourist destination thanks to Sensoji Temple, the old-school streets and buildings, and — more recently — Tokyo Skytree, this part of Tokyo is definitely one to visit, even if you end up staying elsewhere.
However, unless you’re planning on doing extensive exploration of Yokohama or Saitama, two of Tokyo’s neighboring prefectures, it’s not the most convenient place to book an Airbnb room, as you’ll be looking at longer travel times and fairly costly fares.
Staying out in Narita — where one of the main airports is located — is also not advised, unless you are crashing immediately before or after a flight.
By Carey Finn
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