Hi Folks, 3 nights in Tokyo early in January, 2 adults , 2 teenagers. Flying in and out of Narita. We are looking for just a quick "taste" of Tokyo. We are looking for a recommendation for a central moderate level hotel. I know the wealth of information that lies out there amongst the fodorites so any othe tips would be appreciated as well.

What do you consider mid price? What is your budget?

Ryokan shigetsu- In a nice neighborhood that is convenient to subway and interesting sights, lots of shopping and dining options nearby, and feels like Japan.

The hotel is reasonably priced, and has Japanese style rooms with private bathrooms, plus a traditonal furo on the top floor. Good western and Japanese style breakfasts. You'll want two rooms though.

2 adults + 2 teenagers would most likely need two rooms, unless you stay in tatami rooms or suite.

We liked the Prince Park Tower - $180 per room. Book through luxury hotels of the world for upgrade. Our teens loved the in-house bowling. Very central, but you must take subway to restaurants (one stop away). Let me know if that's in your budget and I'll tell you more.

Its been two years, but the last time we stayed at Shigetsu, a room for 4 cost more than two double rooms (with two baths-- much nicer with teenagers!). I think because they have only a couple 4's.

i secnd Ryokan shigetsu (we were there in ocober 2006, very pleased ... they also have japanese breakfast for 1000 yen)
here's their site (cheapest to contact them direct):
http://shigetsu.com/

Thanks guys, I was prepared to pay up to $200 per room per night !! Appreciate the help.

you can get a double for about 180 US per night at this hotel....sometimes cheaper sometimes more depending on vacancies

http://www.keioplaza.com/index.html


Aloha!

thanks!!

any other thoughts ?

You might want to take a look at the Monterey Ginza. The rooms are small but immaculately clean and reasonably priced (around $120/night if memory serves). The location can't be beat...right in the middle of Ginza just a couple blocks from Tokyo Station and several subway stations.

I would also recommend Keio Plaza. It has no charm or personality and could be in any modern city anywhere BUT the rooms are huge by Japanese standards and it's well located with excellent amenities and services.

How is the access from Narita ?

You can either take a limousine bus (may make a few stops at nearby hotels on the way), or take a Narita Express to Shinjuku station (western exit) then walk (5-10min)/cab. The second option works only if you're avoiding rush hour and don't have much luggage to schlep around. Shinjuku station is incredibly big and crowded, though signs are reasonably clear.

If you stay there, there is a very good and reasonably priced udon noodle shop, right across from the post office.