Home to neon lights, mouth-watering food, EPIC shopping and vibey bars – a trip to Shinjuku will provide you with that classic Tokyo experience you’re looking for.
Known as Tokyo’s ‘Second Centre’, Shinjuku is a major hub within the wider metropolitan area. The world’s busiest railway station lies at its heart, keeping visitors well-connected to other destinations across Japan.
Shinjuku is a busy ol’ place with a shit load of people passing through every day. Home to the largest number of eating establishments in Tokyo (at nearly 6,000!), Shinjuku makes sure its visitors don’t get hungry. You’ll be eating ramen, tonkatsu, udon and more to your heart’s content.
As with many Japanese cities, deciding where to stay in Shinjuku can be difficult. This area is so diverse, so it’s important to get a sense of the place before you dive in and book your accommodation.
And how will you get a sense of the place, you may ask? Well, I’m happy you brought it up. Because that’s why I’m here! I’ve compiled the best areas to stay in Shinjuku and even categorised them by interest. You’ll even find the best places to stay and things to do in each to help you decide.
Whether you’re interested in culture, nightlife or shopping, there is a little area of Shinjuku perfect for you.
So let’s jump right in as I take you through the best places to stay in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
Where to Stay in Shinjuku
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studio-D | Modern Apartment in Shinjuku
This soothing abode was originally designed as a study space, but the owner has since decided to share it with international guests. You’ll have the entire studio to yourself, which includes a kitchenette and private bathroom. You’ll be right in the heart of Kagurazaka, the most historic district in Shinjuku.
Imano Tokyo Hostel | Affordable Hostel in Shinjuku
Japan is a notoriously expensive country, with Tokyo specifically among the most expensive cities in the world. Budget travellers need not fear, however, as there are still plenty of great hostels in Shinjuku on offer. Beds here come with privacy features to give you a little extra peace and quiet.
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand | Luxury Hotel in Shinjuku
Wow, this place is straight-up LUXURY. The room is decked out with quirky furnishings, making it perfect for sleeping or kicking back in style. The bathroom is spacious, spotless, and stocked with high end toiletries. The Sky Lounge offers epic Tokyo views and mouthwatering food, with complimentary drinks as the cherry on top.
Kagurazaka
Up in the northeastern edge of Shinjuku, Kagurazaka is one of the last remaining hanamachi in Tokyo. What’s a hanamachi? These are geisha districts where you can discover one of Japan’s oldest traditions. The entire neighborhood maintains a historic vibe, perfect for those looking for something a little unique.
Takadanobaba
Takadanobaba is close to Waseda University making it a popular district for students. It’s a little bit out of the way, but is still well connected to central Shinjuku by metro. As a result of these two situations, Takadanobaba is the most budget-friendly neighborhood in the area.
Kabukicho
Kabukicho is the most central district in Shinjuku. It takes up the entire eastern side of the JR Station, so it will likely be the first neighborhood you encounter in the area.
Yotsuya
Despite being right next to the centre of Shinjuku, Yotsuya is a surprisingly peaceful neighborhood. It’s mostly residential, so you’ll get a real feel for what it’s like to be a local in the city.
Top 4 Neighborhoods to Stay in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is an area of Tokyo, but a major hub in its own right. The main entertainment districts, while the outskirts offer more peaceful and budget-friendly options. The great thing about Shinjuku is that the metro system is pretty extensive, so you’ll be able to visit all of Tokyo’s neighborhoods during your trip.
Kagurazaka is one of the last Geisha districts in Tokyo, making it a totally unique destination. It’s on the outskirts of Shinjuku, but totally worth it if you want a completely different experience. For first time visitors, Kagurazaka gives you a fascinating insight into Japanese tradition, history, and culture.
If you would rather stay centrally, Kabukicho is located right next to the train station. The nightlife here is far more diverse than in central Tokyo, and there are also some fantastic shopping destinations in the neighborhood.
In contrast to Kabukicho, Yotsuya is one of the more peaceful neighborhoods. It’s home to a nationally famous garden and great family-friendly attractions. If you’re bringing the kids along with you, Yotsuya is a fantastic place to stay.
Takadanobaba is the main student district in the area. There’s no escaping how expensive Japan can be, but the large student and expat population here keeps restaurants and bars well priced. Its distance from central Shinjuku also means you’ll find some great offers on accommodation.
Still not quite decided? There’s so much to choose from in this super diverse part of the city. Keep reading for more in-depth guides to each neighborhood. We’ve also included our top accommodation and activity picks for each to help you plan your itinerary.
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1. Kagurazaka – Best Place to Stay in Shinjuku for a First Visit
Kagurazaka is one of the last remaining hanamachi (or geisha district) in Tokyo. The entire neighborhood maintains a historic vibe, perfect for those looking for something a little unique and wanting to get to know one of Japan’s oldest traditions.
Staying here is a fantastic way to really embed yourself in Japanese history. It’s also well connected to the rest of Shinjuku and the Harajuku district nearby. Kagurazaka is a bit of wild card, but we’re certain you’ll love it.
studio-D | Elegant Penthouse in Kagurazaka
If you want to stay right in the center of Shinjuku’s Geisha district, look no further than this uber-modern studio. The peaceful interiors take their cue from Danish design, whilst large windows give you great views across the area. Whilst it is attached to a local home, the unit is entirely self-contained. According to reviews, the friendly owner is more than happy to give you tips.
Kagurazaka Station | Cute Flat in Kagurazaka
This central flat is right next to the metro station, meaning you’ll be well connected to the rest of Shinjuku. This cosy little bolt-hole is perfect for solo travellers and couples visiting the neighborhood. They also offer a substantial discount for those staying a month or longer.
Hotel Vintage Kagurazaka | Laid Back Hotel in Kagurazaka
This 4-star hotel near Tokyo’s train station offers chilled-out luxury at reasonable rates. Rooms are decorated in the traditional Japanese style and can host large numbers, making this a fantastic choice for families and groups. There are multiple temples within walking distance, and the Kagurazaka Metro Station is right on the doorstep. Many rooms come with city views – just ask for one when you book!
Things to See and Do in Kagurazaka
- Kagurazaka is one of the few remaining Geisha districts in Tokyo – head to Iidabashi, which is also the main shopping street in the area. it’s a great way to interact with the culture
- Another excellent cultural venue is the Kagurazaka Session House, where you can catch both traditional and modern performances
- Take a relaxing stroll around Shirogane Park and admire the cherry blossoms during the peak season – a perfect way to unwind in the heart of the city
- There are plenty of gorgeous restaurants and cafés on the streets adjacent to Iidabashi – especially if you want to try the local take on French pastries
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Takadanobaba – Where to Stay in Shinjuku on a Budget
Takadanobaba is close to Waseda University, making it a popular district for students. It’s a little bit out of the way, but is still well connected to central Shinjuku by metro. Consequently, Takadanobaba is the best neighborhood for those traveling on a budget. You’ll still have to prepare for Tokyo’s notoriously high prices, but staying in Takadanobaba will be a little easier on your wallet.
It’s also a fascinating area if you want something more authentic. There isn’t as much tourism in the area, meaning you’ll get to interact with a more genuine example of contemporary Japan. Make sure you set aside some time to visit the easy-going bars in Takadanobaba, even if you opt to stay elsewhere.
Nostalgic Home | Traditional House in Takadanobaba
Always wanted to stay in a traditional Japanese-style home? Look no further than this gorgeous little Tokyo AirBnB on the outskirts of Takadanobaba. Despite the cozy size, it can sleep up to six people. It’s common for people to share rooms in traditional Japanese housing, and in this case sharing can help you save even more money!
elm takadanobaba | Budget Budget Airbnb in Takadanobaba
This cozy apartment is perfect for two, offering everything you need for a great stay. It comes with a bathroom stocked with toiletries, plus a fridge, microwave, kettle, plates, and cutlery. With a 7-Eleven nearby, convenience is a breeze. It may be compact, but it’s spot-on with Tokyo standards!
Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand | Peaceful Hotel in Takadanobaba
Wow, this place is straight-up LUXURY. The room is decked out with quirky furnishings, making it perfect for sleeping or kicking back in style. The bathroom is spacious, spotless, and stocked with high end toiletries. The Sky Lounge offers epic Tokyo views and mouthwatering food, with complimentary drinks as the cherry on top.
Things to See and Do in Takadanobaba
- Tokyo Confectionary School offer some great day classes where you can learn how to make traditional Japanese treats
- Right next door to the train station you will find a small shopping centre – this is a great spot for grabbing bargains on local clothing and homeware brands
- Take a walk along the Kanda River – it runs right along the northern edge of the neighborhood, offering some serenity among the chaos of Tokyo
- Shinuchi Mikasa is our favourite restaurant in the area – offering some gorgeous Japanese noodles at very reasonable prices
3. Yotsuya – Best Area in Shinjuku for Families
Despite being right next to the centre of Shinjuku, Yotsuya is a surprisingly peaceful neighborhood. It’s mostly residential, so you’ll get a real feel for what it’s like to be a local in the city. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is to the west of the area, and attracts many people traveling through Japan throughout the year.
As a somewhat peaceful neighborhood ( by Tokyo standards), Yotsuya is an excellent choice for families. You’ll also find some great child-friendly attractions in the area that will keep the whole family entertained.
Condo Yotsuya | Minimalist House in Yotsuya
Condos aren’t easy to find in Tokyo, especially in Yotsuya. This compact home was designed with tourists in mind. The interiors are modern, whilst still making use of traditional Japanese furniture arrangements. It can sleep up to 10 guests across three bedrooms but the small size keeps it affordable, even for smaller families. The Tokyo Toy Museum is only a five to ten minute walk away.
Citadines Shinjuku | Stylish Aparthotel in Yotsuya
Citadines Shinjuku is a short walk away from local attractions, but remains peaceful in the evenings. It is an aparthotel, so you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Shinjuku Station is a seven minute walk away, and the National Garden is also easily reached on foot.
Hotel Keihan Tokyo Yotsuya | Best Budget Hotel in Yotsuya
The rooms and bathrooms might be on the smaller side, but they’re sleek and well-designed. The alleys around the hotel buzz with cool spots to eat and chill in the evening. The staff are super friendly, and the room is a comfy haven after a day of exploring. Plus, it’s a stone’s throw from the train station – getting around couldn’t be easier.
Things to See and Do in Yotsuya
- Visit Tokyo Toy Museum, where you can enjoy a journey through the history of toys and childhood in the country.
- Unleash your creative spirit in this fantastic Japanese painting workshop hosted by a local artists just north of the Toy Museum
- Bento Boxes are another creative tradition, this time involving food! Learn how to make your own character lunch boxes in this cute little workshop
- Yotsuya is a truly cosmopolitan area known for its decadent French and Italian cuisine. Café La Boheme is an excellent introduction to culinary scene here.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Kabukicho – Vibrant Nightlife District in Shinjuku
Kabukicho is the most central district in Shinjuku. It takes up the entire eastern side of the JR Station. Kabukicho is vibrant and bustling, and is well and truly the neighborhood that never sleeps. This is a great neighborhood for discovering a little bit of everything that Shinjuku has to offer.
Kabukicho is the red-light district of Shinjuku and is also home to some of the busiest nightlife. Just to the east is Shinjuku ni-chome, the heart of gay nightlife in Tokyo. This is a truly diverse region and in many ways a great reflection of the city as a whole.
Shinjuku Apt | Dreamy Apartment in Kabukicho
This studio is a solid choice for two in central Tokyo. The location is unbeatable – just a few minutes walk to the train and smack bang in the middle of Shinjuku. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the spacious bedroom and bathroom, a rare find in central Tokyo. The host is super responsive and ready with a ton of recommendations and hidden gems in the area.
Imano Tokyo Hostel | Lively Hostel near Kabukicho
One of the few hostels in Tokyo that hasn’t been converted into a pod hotel, this is actually among the cheapest options in the entire metropolitan area. Despite these great prices, it’s a well kept hostel with modern technology and fantastic guest reviews. They host a couple of social events throughout the week where you can meet fellow travellers. This is our top pick for backpackers in Shinjuku.
JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom | Indulgent Hotel in Kabukicho
Connected to Shinjuku JR Station, it doesn’t get much more central than this! This 4-star hotel oozes cool, with brooding interiors and stunning skyline views. The main shopping district in Shinjuku is a five minute walk away, making this a popular choice for retail enthusiasts. Rooms are also among the most spacious in Shinjuku.
Things to See and Do in Kabukicho
- Start your night off right with some of the best cuisine in Shinjuku thanks to this tour – you’ll also hit up some of the most popular drinking spots with locals
- If you want to sample a piece of Japanese culture, learn about Samurai and train as a master swordsman in this incredibly popular experience
- Shinjuku i-Land Tower dominates the skyline of Shinjuku – it is surrounded by famous artwork, including pieces by Robert Indiana and Roy Lichtenstein
- Just outside the station you’ll find a small cluster of hip nightlife – we love ‘B a o B a b’ as a starting point, but make sure to check out their neighbors
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Shinjuku
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Shinjuku and where to stay.
What To Pack For Shinjuku
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Shinjuku
Shinjuku is a bustling and vibrant area to stay within Tokyo that has so much to offer. Whether you’re interested in ancient traditions, buzzing nightlife or diverse cuisine, there’s truly something for everyone in Shinjuku.
For us, the neighborhood that really stands out is Kabukicho, as it’s home to some of the most exciting nightlife and shopping destinations in Tokyo. You’ll never be short of things to do here, and proximity to the JR station means getting around is easy as pie.
That being said, all of the neighborhoods mentioned in this guide have their own benefits. Whether you’re after bustling city streets or well preserved history, we hope we’ve helped you narrow down your options for your upcoming trip to Shinjuku.
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Japan.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Shinjuku.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Japan instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Japan.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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