Still wondering what to do in Tokyo? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Tokyo and book your hotel today!
Welcome to Tokyo, one of the world’s most fascinating cities—a sprawling metropolis where ancient traditions and temples exist seamlessly alongside glittering skyscrapers and neon-lit modernity. It is a destination of endless discovery, offering countless experiences for every visitor.
You can gaze out from the dizzying heights of the Tokyo Skytree observation tower for panoramic views, or step back in time in the historic district of Asakusa to visit the magnificent Sensoji Temple, the city's oldest temple. Explore the serene tranquility of the Meiji Jingu (Shinto Shrine), set within a peaceful forest, before diving into the high-fashion energy of districts like Shibuya or Shinjuku. Tokyo’s mix of tranquil gardens, historic museums, and cutting-edge culture makes it an unparalleled global city.
Tokyo is immense, so selecting a hotel in an area with excellent transport links is the most crucial decision. The city’s efficient train and subway networks mean you can easily reach attractions from almost anywhere, but being near a hub is key.
The areas of Shinjuku and Shibuya are excellent choices for first-time visitors. Shinjuku is a massive hub with endless shopping, dining, and direct access to one of the world's busiest railway stations, making day trips simple. Shibuya is famed for its iconic crossing and trendy atmosphere, ideal for experiencing modern youth culture.
For those who prefer a quieter, more historical base, the Asakusa or Ueno districts are perfect. Asakusa is close to the Sensoji Temple and maintains a traditional, low-key atmosphere. Ueno offers great access to the large Ueno Park, home to the Tokyo National Museum and other major art and science museums, making it a cultural anchor.
Tokyo is served by two major airports, Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND), both linked to the city via excellent rail and bus services. The city's transport system, anchored by the high-speed JR lines and the intricate Tokyo Metro, is efficient and world-class. A hotel near a major JR Station will make both intra-city travel and transfers to airports and other Japanese cities straightforward and fast.
Hotel prices in Tokyo are remarkably stable, but they surge dramatically during major Japanese holidays. The most expensive times to book are during Golden Week (late April/early May), the Obon Festival in mid-August, and the New Year period. These holidays see immense domestic travel demand.
For the best value, plan your trip during the shoulder seasons of March/April (avoiding Golden Week) or October/November, when the weather is ideal and tourism is manageable. A unique tip for Tokyo is to look for hotels slightly outside the main JR Yamanote Line loop, perhaps in districts like Ikebukuro or Shinagawa. While still major hubs with excellent transport links, these areas can sometimes offer better rates than the absolute prime locations of Shinjuku or Shibuya.