preloadThe-Tokyo-Metropolitan-Government-Building-Shinjuku

Shinjuku is the neon-lit nightlife hub of Tokyo, with endless opportunities for shopping, dining and entertainment. This urban playground caters to various tastes with hundreds of cafes, bars and restaurants interspersed between towering skyscrapers, huge department stores, electronic megastores and Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest transportation centres in the city.

Culture and recreation abound in this sleepless city ward, offering round-the-clock entertainment in the pulsing heart of Japan. Now you just need to decide where is the best place to stay in Shinjuku. With over 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve found the most popular hotels near Shinjuku’s top sights, such as Golden Gai, The Samurai Museum, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Korean Town.

Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Photo| Shinjuku, Metropolitan Government Building| SHUTTERSTOCK – SEAN PAVONE

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building sounds like it would be somewhere you’d go only if you were summoned, but it’s actually one of the best places to get a bird’s-eye view of Tokyo. Standing proudly at 243 meters tall, it’s one of Tokyo’s most iconic buildings with a free viewing observatory on its 45th floor.

Tips for Visiting Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

  • The best views can be seen early mornings in autumn and winter.
  • Go on a clear day to capture Tokyo Bay and Mt. Fuji vistas.
  • The North Tower observatory has a cafe and bar.

Best Hotels near Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Hilton Tokyo (400 metres)

Photo| Hilton Tokyo | Provided by HILTON TOKYO

Experience the best of modern Japan at Hilton Tokyo, where rooms combine traditional Japanese décor with modern amenities. Deluxe and Premium rooms boast a 30 square-meter space suitable for both leisure and business use while Executive Rooms and Suites add deep soaking tubs with access to one of Tokyo’s best Executive Lounge, featuring Mt. Fuji views.

Relaxation comes easy with the hotel’s long list of facilities, from the indoor pool to a 24-hour fitness gym with a Japanese bath and sauna. Practise your swing on the rooftop tennis court, then refuel with authentic Peking duck at DYNASTY or sushi at JUNISOH.

Hotel Highlights

  • Elegant sofa chairs and live Jazz at the English-style St. George’s Bar.
  • A complimentary shuttle to Shinjuku station or a 3-min walk to the Tokyo Metro subway.
  • Executive rooms and suites offer complimentary breakfast in the Executive Lounge.

Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 291 – USD 876
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 6-6-2 Nishi-Shinjuku 6-Chome, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Hyatt Regency Tokyo (220 metres)

Photo| Hyatt Regency Tokyo | Provided by ICE PORTAL

A 10-minute walk from Odakyu Department Store, Hyatt Regency Tokyo offers 17 various room styles. Budget-conscious travellers can book the 1 Queen Bed for 24-hour room service and a queen-size bed, while the 1 King Bed with View adds Shinjuku Central Park views. For a separate living area, upgrade to a Regency Suite.

You’re spoilt for choice with seven dining options, including expertly prepared cuisine from a Michelin-star chef at Cuisines Michel Troisgros. Sample freshly-baked desserts at the Pastry Shop or the selection of fine whisky at Eau de Vie before getting pampered at Joule Spa & Wellness.

Hotel Highlights

  • The skilled sushi chefs at Miyako and Kobe beef at Teppanyaki Grill.
  • An indoor swimming pool with a skylight roof and deck chairs.
  • The beautiful Tokyo skyline and Mt Fuji views at the on-site spa.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 327 – USD 519
Guest Rating: 8.4
Address: 2-7-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Location

Golden Gai

Shinjuku Golden gai, Japan Tokyo
Photo| Shinjuju Golden Gai| GETTYIMAGES

You’ll find some of Tokyo’s tiniest drinking dens in Golden Gai, where narrow alleys recall the city’s vibe back in the 1950s. It’s jam-packed with hole-in-the-wall establishments filled with locals happy to socialise and share their culture.

Tips for Visiting Golden Gai

  • Most bars don’t serve food, so go for dinner before drinks.
  • Bring cash, as many of the bars have a cover charge.
  • First-timers can head to Albatross, Kenzo’s Bar or Bar Araku.

Best Hotels near Golden Gai

Citadines Central Shinjuku Tokyo (150 metres)

Photo| Citadines Central Shinjuku Tokyo | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Citadines Central Shinjuku Tokyo boasts a prime location in Kabukicho, Shinjuku’s main entertainment area. Studio Double rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning and daily housekeeping, while the Studio Deluxe Twin also has an option for a third twin-size bed. 

On-site facilities include vending machines serving soft drinks and alcohol, a foreign exchange machine and launderette. Need a lift? The hotel can arrange a car hire, while the daily buffet breakfast at Stella Restaurant is the perfect start to your day.

Hotel Highlights

  • A small on-site restaurant serving daily breakfast and lunch buffets.
  • A separate living room with a two-seater sofa and plush armchair in the 1-Bedroom Executive Twin.
  • Within walking distance of entertainment, restaurants and boutiques.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 149 – USD 291
Guest Rating: 8.3
Address: 1-2-9 Kabuki-Cho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Shinjuku Kuyakusho-mae Capsule Hotel (60 metres)

Travelling on a tight budget? Stay at Shinjuku Kuyakusho-mae Capsule Hotel, a cosy hotel with mixed and women-only capsules. Each unit is equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, a small TV, alarm and dimmer, all operated by a simple control panel.

Take advantage of the sauna or relax at the business lounge, which features computers, printers, comfy couches and a flat-screen TV. There are also luggage storage facilities, vending machines and an on-site restaurant.

Hotel Highlights

  • Day-use and women’s only capsules are available.
  • Daily specials, snacks and beer served at the on-site restaurant.
  • A short train ride from Tokyo Dome and Tokyo Skytree.

Star Rating: 1*
Price: USD 59 – USD 95
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: Tokyo Bldg.3F, 1-2-5 Kabukicho, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Location

The Samurai Museum

The Samurai Museum-shutterstock_1112438945
Photo| Japanese Samurai armor for display| SHUTETRSTOCK – VICHEAN JINTAKAWEEKUL

Shinjuku’s Samurai Museum lets you explore the impressive history and culture of the great warriors of ancient Japan through fascinating exhibitions. Get up close to centuries-old armour, marvel at samurai swords or witness combat re-enactments and demonstrations by skilled swordsmen.

Tips for Visiting the Samurai Museum

  • Inquire about the free guided tours in English.
  • Make reservations for calligraphy lessons or a Japanese sword course.
  • Take photos of yourself wearing samurai armour, including a kabuto helmet.

Best Hotels near the Samurai Museum

Business Hotel Yamashiro (140 metres)

Photo: Business Hotel Yamashiro | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Save money by staying at Business Hotel Yamashiro, where you can immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture in beautiful Japanese-style rooms. Cosy Western-style rooms include flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges and microwaves as well as thoughtful touches, such as toothbrushes and green tea.

Alternatively, you can live like a local in the Japanese-style rooms, which include tatami mats, futons and traditional tables for dining. Looking for a truly unique activity in Tokyo? Experience an only-in-Japan dining experience at the famed Robot Restaurant, located 300 metres away.

Hotel Highlights

  • Western-style twin beds available as well as a Japanese-style triple room for groups.
  • On-site perks, including complimentary Wi-Fi and luggage storage.
  • Affordable rates and a prime location in Tokyo.

Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 100 – USD 125
Guest Rating: 8
Address: Shinjuku-ku Kabuki-cho 2-29-2, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

International Hotel Kabukicho (240 metres)

Photo| International Hotel Kabukicho | Provided by BOOKING.COM

A five-minute walk from Seibu-Shinjuki station, International Hotel Kabukicho is a small hotel with 16 rooms. There’s only one room category, a Double Room, which features a double or two twin-size beds.

After a long day of sightseeing, kick back on the two-seater sofa and watch quirky Japanese TV shows on the flat-screen TV or admire city views from your large window. Rooms also include air conditioning, electric kettles, microwaves and mini fridges.

Hotel Highlights

  • Has a 24-hour reception, vending machines and luggage storage.
  • Daily housekeeping service and free toiletries.
  • A 25-minute drive from Haneda Airport.

Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 91 – USD 204
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: Shinjuku, Kabukicho 2-12-2, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Location

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Photo| Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden| SHUTTERSTOCK – OXANA MILITSINA

Take a break from the bustling streets in the serene setting of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of Tokyo’s largest parks. It features scenic walking paths, spacious lawns and traditional Japanese landscaped gardens. Within its 58 hectares you can also meander through French Formal and English-style gardens.

Tips for Visiting Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

  • In spring, the garden is one of the best spots to see cherry blossoms.
  • Bring picnic supplies for a leisurely afternoon.
  • There’s an information centre, restroom facilities and a teahouse.

Best Hotels near Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower (one kilometre)

Photo| Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower | Provided by ODAKYU HOTEL CENTURY SOUTHERN TOWER

HotelsCombined visitors rave about the city views at Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower, which occupies the 19th through 35th floors of a gleaming skyscraper. Solo travellers can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and mini fridges in the Single Room, while families can add an extra twin-size bed in the Scenic Twin Room.

Self-service is king at this hotel, from the personal luggage carts and vending machines on every floor to the lobby-level convenience store. Soak up panoramic views of Tokyo while dining on Japanese or Western dishes at Southern Tower Dining or head to the bar for a quick nightcap.

Hotel Highlights

  • Each room boasts stunning views of the Tokyo city skyline.
  • Large windows, a separate sitting area and dining table in the Executive Room.
  • Teppanyaki and sushi at Horikawa and Chinese cuisine at Xenlon restaurant.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 245 – USD 380
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 2-2-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku (900 metres)

Photo| Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku is a one-minute walk from the Shinjuku train station and has a variety of elegant rooms to accommodate every budget. Get cosy in a Standard Single Room, which features a flat-screen TV, mini fridge and electric kettle or upgrade to a Deluxe King Room for a tatami mat floor and king-size Japanese-style bed.

Need a break from traditional Japanese cuisine? Visit Villazza, the hotel’s on-site Italian restaurant and bar, to enjoy classic Italian dishes. At night, you can wind down at the chic Cafe & Bar, which has a menu of antipasto, desserts and cocktails.

Hotel Highlights

  • The two twin-size beds and sofa bed in the family-friendly Twin With Sofa Bed Room.
  • A selection of meeting and conference rooms for business travellers.
  • A chic bar with intimate spaces and comfy seating.

Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 162 – USD 219
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: 2-3-1 Yoyogi, Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Location

Shin-Okubo (Korean Town)

Photo| Shin-Okubo area of Tokyo| GETTYIMAGES – KOKKAI

With K-Pop stars plastered on the storefronts, the shops in Japan’s Shin-Okubo (Korean Town) are known for selling popular Korean beauty products. Pop into one of the local restaurants serving authentic Korean cuisine, try authentic street food like Korean hot dogs or treat yourself at a dessert cafe.

Tips for Visiting Shin-Okubo (Korean Town)

  • If you’re a fan of meat, sample Korean barbecue or fried chicken with spicy red sauce.
  • Pair bubble tea with Hotteok pancakes served with various fillings, such as honey, cheese and red bean paste.
  • Pick up K-Pop merchandise, such as records and posters in one of the official shops.

Best Hotels near Shin-Okubo (Korean Town)

Tokyo Plaza Hotel (130 metres)

Photo| Tokyo Plaza Hotel | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Travellers in the know will want to stay at Tokyo Plaza Hotel, located in Tokyo’s hip Hyakunincho neighbourhood. Straightforward rooms feature flat-screen TVs, air conditioning and heating facilities.

Relax at the hotel’s on-site tea lounge, which turns into a lively bar in the evenings. Luggage storage can be found at the 24-hour desk and an American-style breakfast is served every morning.

Hotel Highlights

  • A daily breakfast with toast, eggs, bacon, sausage and juice or coffee.
  • Coffee and tea served throughout the day in the cafe bar.
  • A 15-minute walk from Hanazono Shrine.

Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 87 – USD 135
Guest Rating: 7.3
Address: Shinjuku-ku, Hyakunin-cho 2-15-1, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Empire in Shinjuku (240 metres)

Photo | Hotel Empire in Shinjuku | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Nestled in the heart of Shinjuku, Hotel Empire in Shinjuku is two kilometres from Tokyo’s city centre. Choose from a Single, Double or Triple Room, which all feature complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs with on-demand movies and private balconies.

On-site facilities include luggage storage, vending machines and a small coffee shop. Visit the on-site restaurant for Japanese specialties or the 24-hour front desk for restaurant recommendations. Art lovers shouldn’t miss seeing Van Gogh’s famous Sunflowers painting at the nearby Seiji Togo Memorial Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Museum of Art.

Hotel Highlights

  • A five-minute walk from Shin Okubo train station, which has a direct train link to Haneda Airport.
  • Private balconies with city, garden or mountain views in every room.
  • A 15-minute drive from the Imperial Palace.

Star Rating: 1*
Price: USD 73 – USD 241
Guest Rating: 6.8
Address: Shinjuku-ku, Hyakunin-cho 1-15-33, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Location

Hanazono Shrine

Photo| Hanazono Jinga Shrine in Shinjuku| SHUTTERSTOCK – MIAHI-BOGDAN LAZAR

Hanazono Shrine is a large Shinto shrine in the heart of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district. Step inside to embrace its peaceful setting and learn how the Edo-period landmark is dedicated to Inari, the kami of world success and fertility.

Tips for Visiting Hanazono Shrine

  • Traditional festivals are held here monthly, while every Sunday there is an antique market.
  • Eating and drinking are not allowed on-site, so visit the street-food stalls nearby before you visit.
  • It is less than a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station.

Best Hotels near Hanazono Shrine

Hotel Sunlite Shinjuku (290 metres)

Photo| Hotel Sunlite Shinjuku | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Hotel Sunlite Shinjuku offers excellent value for money with its budget-friendly Single, Double and Twin rooms. On-site perks include complimentary Wi-Fi, while every room also includes a flat-screen TV and mini fridge.

Tuck into healthy Japanese cuisine at the European-style restaurant, Floret, which also serves a Western breakfast every morning. Catch up with friends and family at the Internet Corner, get powered up at the Mobile Phone Charging Station or wash your clothes at the Laundry Corner.

Hotel Highlights

  • Daily specials and buffet-style cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
  • A common room, computer area and laundry facilities.
  • An extra twin-size bed in the family-friendly Triple Room.

Star Rating: 3*
Price: USD 89 – USD 253
Guest Rating: 7.2
Address: Shinjuku 5-15-8, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Imano Tokyo Hostel (400 metres)

Photo| Imano Tokyo Hostel | Provided by BOOKING.COM

Imano Tokyo Hostel offers laid-back accommodation with its mixed-gender and single-sex dorms. Bunk beds include private curtains, plug sockets and individual lights for comfort and privacy, while the four-bed Family Room is ideal if you’re travelling with kids. 

The hostel’s Cafe & Bar serves Japanese and Western-style breakfast options, in addition to beer, wine, whiskey and sake at night. There’s also a lounge space located on each floor with complimentary Wi-Fi, as well as a laundry facility.

Hotel Highlights

  • Japanese high balls, a mix of whiskey and soda, served at the on-site bar.
  • A variety of room types to accommodate a range of travellers.
  • A 15-minute drive from Tokyo Tower.

Star Rating: 2*
Price: USD 64 – USD 218
Guest Rating: 8.5
Address: 12-2, Shinjuku 5-Chome, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan

Hotel Location

Discover the Best of Shinjuku District at These Top Hotels

To see the best of Japan’s vibrant Shinjuku district it’s important to situate yourself near its top cultural sites and attractions. Complementing Japan’s rich culture, the Shinjuku district offers a range of affordable and luxury hotels to suit any style or budget. The most popular hotels include on-site restaurants, cosy bars and multiple room types to accommodate solo travellers, couples and families.

Where do you want to stay in the Shinjuku district? Let us know in the comments below.

About the author

Charity De Souza Born and raised in Orlando, Florida, I have been travelling with my battered backpack full-time for over a decade. My favourite travel memories include skydiving in Switzerland, wine tasting in Portugal, road tripping through Iceland, snorkelling in Indonesia and watching a sunset in the Sahara Desert.

Explore more articles