11 Best Hotels in Tokyo, Japan

Attached to Hon-Kawagoe Seibu Station and close to the historical Ichibangai shopping street and JR/Tobu Kawagoe Station, this hotel is a convenient choice for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Rooms, though uninspired, are well-maintained, and some are occasionally given themes—featuring Moomin characters, say, or a tie-in with the Japanese music group, Glay. Dining options include a buffet breakfast on the top floor, restaurants specializing in regional Japanese and Chinese cuisine, and a lobby-level bar with classic cocktails and Japanese whiskies. 

Although the box-shaped Asakusa View is the largest Western-style hotel in the traditional Asakusa area, it isn't divorced from traditional culture—communal hinoki (Japanese-cypress) baths on the sixth floor overlook a Japanese garden. Rooms are basic, decorated in neutral tones, but single rooms can be small, starting at about 70 square feet. The suite rooms, on the 25th floor, have a view of the Senso-ji pagoda, the temple grounds, and the Tokyo Sky Tree tower. The hotel is a three-minute walk from the retro amusement park Hanayashiki.

Located in downtown Narita City, a very short walk from both train stations and close to Narita Omotesando, the shopping street leading to the beautiful Naritsan temple grounds, this minimalist property is the perfect base for some last-minute souvenir hunting and sightseeing. Other perks include a self-service laundry facility and a rate that includes a basic continental breakfast.

At one of the closest properties to the Tokyo Disney Resort, lots of natural light shines through a vast atrium, and all the recently renovated rooms rooms have sizable windows with views of either Tokyo Disney or Tokyo Bay. Eating options are limited to the all-day dining spot Le Jardin, a Japanese restaurant, and for guests with access, quick bites and drinks in one of two executive lounges.

As soon as you enter the grand, extravagant lobby, you and your luggage will be immediately taken care of, and, although rooms are spacious, the real highlights are the bathrooms with luxurious sinks and bathtubs big enough for two. You'll be spoiled for choice at lunch and dinner by a host of highly rated restaurants. The Grill on 30th is notable for its nighttime view of Tokyo Bay and is also open for breakfast.

Given its proximity to Narita Airport (15 minutes away on a free shuttle), this hotel is a solid choice for a one-night visit. All the rooms are no-smoking; if available, book one of the deluxe rooms, which are slightly larger and are done in neutral colors. Meal options include a Japanese restaurant, a Sichuan eatery, and the Terrace Bar for an evening cocktail. The breakfast buffet is a bit expensive but it offers a mix of Japanese and Western selections. Also, in case you forgot to get snacks for your flight, there is a 7-Eleven on the ground floor.

With a facade that follows the curve of the Tokyo Bay shoreline, the 15-story Hilton Tokyo Odaiba presents itself as an "urban resort" with European style. Dark-wood chairs and golden ornaments adorn the second-floor lobby, where large windows overlook the waterfront. The spacious rooms have a balcony and are decorated in pale yellow and beige textiles; select suites have whirlpool tubs. The Captain's Bar serves a large selection of whiskey and brandy. Access to the city center from here is cumbersome, but a boardwalk connects the hotel to a small park, an amusement area, and shopping destinations.

This slender tower a couple of minutes east of the Senso-ji complex is part of the affordable yet sleek OMO chain created by luxury brand Hoshino Resorts. In keeping with Hoshino's approach to design, rooms feature a contemporary blend of Japanese and Western sensibilities, incorporating light woods and natural tones that make compact spaces feel a little more expansive. Families could opt for the largest room, the Deluxe Quadruple, which is accented by tatami flooring. Beyond the design, what helps elevate the OMO3 above many other hotels in this price range are the little extras—the 24-hour food and drink station, the nightly Rakugo comedy show on the 13th floor, and free morning Asakusa tours with staff.

The surrounding parkland and the absence of any adjacent structures make the Park Tower a peaceful urban retreat, where a vertically impressive atrium lobby, with two glass elevators, gives a clear look into the building's hollow core. Guest rooms are somewhat generic but roomy for the price, with the corner doubles and twins being the most desirable, as they have the best views. Guests staying on the Premium Club Floor have free use of the lounge and spa and fitness facilities, and receive complimentary breakfast. Bathrooms with jetted tubs and separate full-stall showers are nice, modern touches. The Sky Lounge Stellar Garden on the 33rd floor offers cocktails and supreme night views of Tokyo Tower.

Just a three-minute walk from JR Shinagawa Station, the multi-tower Prince Hotel is in a sprawling entertainment complex with, among other things, an 80-lane bowling alley, an 11-screen movie theater, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis and golf centers, and an aquarium, but crowds definitely detract from the experience of staying here. Guest rooms, simply designed and featuring pops of earth- or jewel-tone color, are on the small side overall; indeed, singles can be truly tiny, with space for a bed and little else. Families should book a larger twin room to better accommodate the kids. The Top of Shinagawa Lounge has spectacular views of Tokyo Bay.

Most of central Tokyo is readily accessible by train from this hotel beside the city's most popular sports facility (check the summer baseball schedule), where entertainments include a small amusement park and a hot-springs spa. Although rooms are a tad tired and awash in beige, they're reasonably sized and feature a sports motif. The 43rd-floor Artist's Cafe offers live music and overlooks the the "Big Egg," home of the Central League's Yomiuri Giants. Batter up!