Where to Stay in Tokyo: Budget Hotels in Best Areas

Tokyo is the pulsing heart of Japan – a blend of cool, traditional, and futuristic vibes. But it is huge and can be expensive for budget travellers,.

So it is tricky to find affordable yet good places to stay in Tokyo.

Shinjuku and Roppongi are party hotspots but aren’t budget-friendly. Shibuya has amazing food, but affordable hotels are hard to find there.

I understand – it’s often easier to figure out the best places to visit than where to stay in Tokyo on a budget.

After exploring Tokyo for a week, I can now help you find the best budget accommodations in the city’s nicest areas.

Here, I’ll show you how to find cheap accommodation in Tokyo, with prices starting from 6,500 yen per hostel bed to 13,000 yen room for two in business hotels and apartments.

Trust me, this range is considered cheap in pricey Tokyo!I’ll also cover which districts to consider and which ones suit different types of travellers.

Asakusabashi, Taito ward

• Perfect For: Budget travellers seeking traditional Tokyo vibes,
• Location: Calm, less touristy, near JR Station and the river. 5 min Subway ride to Asakusa and Akihabara.
• Transport: Asakusabashi JR Station connects to the Toei Asakusa and Chuo-Sobu Lines, making travel easy.
• Restaurants & Bars: Affordable izakayas, local food joints, veggie-friendly cafes, and plenty of 7/11s and Family Marts.

Why Asakusabashi?

Where to Stay in Asakusabashi?

Hotel Mystays Asakusabashi:

We stayed here for six nights and loved it! It’s one of the best budget-friendly hotels in Tokyo with great amenities. ! Mystays Asakusabashi got Compact rooms but incredibly efficient, just 100m from JR Station. The staff even helped with JR Pass delivery.

APA Hotel Asakusabashi Ekimae

This hotel is 200m from the station, great for families on a budget. APA in Asakusabashi is known for hearty Japanese breakfast they offer to the guests.

A16 Hostel Tokyo

It is located just by the Sumida River. So A16 Hostel is like dorm with river view. Perfect for backpackers and solo travellers, 200m from JR Station.

Akasaka, Minato Ward

• Perfect For: Budget couple travellers, backpackers seeking modern Tokyo.
• Location: Modern and chic, Roppongi, Tokyo Tower and Ginza are within 3km.
• Transport: Akasaka Station is served by Tokyo Metro, including a Harry Potter-themed station.
• Restaurants & Bars: Mostly upscale, but Kombinis are great for budget breakfast and coffee.

What is wow about Akasaka?

Akasaka might be known for its corporate offices, but it’s great for budget travellers too, with parks, shrines, and cheap eats. It has a mix of swanky hotels, capsule stays, and cool cobbled streets.

What I loved most was seeing this business side of Tokyo—it’s so different from the usual historical spots I explore.

Where to Stay in Akasaka?

9h Nine Hours Akasaka Sleep Lab

We stayed here for a night to try the capsule experience, and it didn’t disappoint. Separate floors for men and women, perfect for solo travellers – Read my review on 9h Nine Hours Akasaka Sleep Lab to know why I highly recommend

Hotel Livemax Akasaka Grande

Suitable for budget couple travellers. Guests praise Hotel Livemax Akasaka Grande for location in a quiet area, close to the metro, with nearby convenience stores.

Keio Presso Inn Akasaka

Budget-conscious travellers and family travellers appreciate Keio Presso Inn Akasaka convenient location, easy check-in, and comfy beds, though the rooms are on the smaller side—pretty standard for Akasaka.

Why Kanda in Tokyo is one of the best areas to stay?

Kanda might not be a tourist hotspot, but it’s full of local flavour! I loved the chill vibe—no tourist crowds, just university students and cheap eats.

It’s close to Akihabara, Marunouchi, and Nihonbashi (amazing for mochi and wagashi). Plus, you’ve got cool spots like Jimbocho Book Town nearby.

Where to stay in Tokyo Kanda

Hotel Mystays Kanda

A business hotel chain (I stayed at the one in Asakusabashi). Hotel Mystays Kanda is known for being affordable, it’s just 450m from Kanda JR Station, with a Family Mart next door for quick coffee and breakfast. Guests love its convenience.

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kanda

Family-friendly and only 300m from Kanda JR Station. Guests rave about Sotetsu Fresa Inn Tokyo Kanda breakfast and appreciate the daily housekeeping, which is rare for Tokyo business hotels.

Hostel Den

Perfect for backpackers, located 1km from Kanda JR Station. Guests enjoy the free drinks from 7-8 PM at Hostel Den, making it a great place to socialise with other travellers ( They don’t have private rooms, only dorm rooms – SO not meant for couples)

Ariake, Koto City

• Perfect For: Mid-range travellers, families seeking Tokyo Bay views.
• Location: A waterfront ward in Tokyo with skyscrapers, Toyosu Market and Odaiba are within 2km.
• Transport: Ariake Station is connected to the Yurikamome line, a fully automated train, which links to Toei and Tokyo Metro lines at other stations.
• Restaurants & Bars: Mid-range sushi bars, ramen, and udon spots.

Where to stay in Ariake?

Sotetsu Grand Fresa Tokyo-Bay Ariake

Great views of Tokyo Bay, with close access to Tokyo Big Sight, TeamLab Planets, and Ariake Tennis Park. Guests say that Sotetsu Grand Fresa Tokyo-Bay Ariake rooms are small but clean.

Far East Village Hotel Tokyo Ariake

Quiet and modern, with great staff. Close to Toyosu Market and DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. Far East Village Hotel Tokyo Ariake rooms are compact typical to Tokyo rooms but well-designed is what guests say.

Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel

Perfect for family travellers who seek Tokyo Bay views. Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel got convenient access to Odaiba and Rainbow Bridge.

Is Ariake got the best Tokyo Bae View?

Tokyo is usually all shrines and skyscrapers, but don’t miss Tokyo Bay to the east—welcome to Koto City!

I spent a day here during my Tuna Auction and Toyosu Market tour, plus soaked in Tokyo Bay views at Ariake.

It’s got a chill vibe—less hectic than Shibuya, but still fun with spots like the mini Statue of Liberty and Ghibli clock. Ariake is perfect for those wanting bay views without breaking the bank.

Sangenjaya, Setagaya Ward

• Perfect For : Families travelling with kids, couple budget travelers culture enthusiasts, nature lovers
• Location: Serene and charming residence focused, Shibuya wihtin3 km.
• Transport: Tokyu Setagaya Line run by private line.
• Restaurants & bars: Mid range Sushi bars, ramen and Udon restaurants.culture enthusiasts and nature lovers

Is Sangenjaya, Setagaya Ward the calmest areas in Tokyo?

One of the quietest and most serene neighbourhoods I’ve explored in Tokyo is Setagaya. It’s a residential area with smaller buildings (a relief from Tokyo’s skyscrapers) and more greenery.

I can imagine loving walks here as a kid. Setagaya also has a few gems like the Totoro cream puff shop and Gotokuji, the famous cat temple.

These spots aren’t crowded like the overhyped Tokyo Tower, giving Setagaya a perfect balance of local charm and tourist attractions.

Where to stay in Sangenjaya

The Masters Stay Setagaya Kyodo:

Perfect for couples, families, or long-term travellers seeking a peaceful spot. Modern amenities, quiet surroundings, and just a 9-minute walk from Miyanosaka Station. So The Masters Stay Setagaya Kyodo make it convenient yet calm, near Gotoku-ji ( The Cat doll) Temple.

The b sangenjaya

Perfect for budget-conscious travellers, this hotel is well-located just 3 minutes from Sangenjaya Station, The b sangenjaya with clean rooms and close access to restaurants, is an excellent base for couple and family travellers on budget.

Tokyu Stay Yoga

Best suited for families and long-term stays, with rooms featuring washing machines and mini kitchens. Guests love the convenience, especially with Yoga Station ( it is a train station name, not yoga studio) 1-minute walk away. So Tokyu Stay Yoga is ideal for extended stays for those seeking affordable accommodation options in Tokyo.

Unique Hotels in Tokyo for Budget Travellers

Book and Bed Hostel, Shinjuku

This is a quirky capsule hotel in Tokyo that’s a paradise for book lovers. Each bed is tucked into a large bookshelf, surrounded by walls of books. Book and Bed Hostel, Shinjuku is Instagrammers and readers favourite.

Manga Art Hotel , Akihabara

It is a perfect for manga and anime fans! Sleep in cosy bunks surrounded by over 5,000 manga books, with both English and Japanese options available. At Manga Art Hotel , Akihabara you can read all night long while enjoying a unique dormitory-style stay.

Henn na Hotel Tokyo Asakusabashi

Looking for a fun, robot-themed stay? Hen na Hotel is ideal for families with kids! Robots handle check-in, with human staff on hand if needed. Guinness World Records certified it as the first robot-run hotel. Guests love the cleanliness, sky and river theme interiors.

Famous Hostels in Tokyo

Citan Hostel, Nihonbashi

Ideal for couples, solo travellers, and backpackers, offering both dorms and private rooms. Located near the Hibiya and Asakusa Lines, it’s perfect for easy access across Tokyo.

Turn Table, Shibuya

Great for couples and solo travellers, with private rooms and dorms. Close to Shibuya Station, it connects easily to the JR Yamanote and Hanzomon Lines for exploring Tokyo.

Wise Owl Hostels River Tokyo, Sumida

Perfect for couples and budget travellers, offering dorms and private rooms. Near Oshiage Station, with access to the Hanzomon and Asakusa Lines. Guests love the riverside vibe.

Tips to find Budget places to stay in Tokyo

Business hotels: These no-frills hotels cater to business travellers and budget tourists, often offering reasonable prices. Expect small but tidy rooms, fully equipped bathrooms, and heated toilet seats – perfect for budget accommodation in Tokyo.

Capsule hotels: These offer small, pod-like sleeping spaces at low prices, perfect for solo travellers. If there are two of you like us, the cost of two pods equals a business hotel room for two.

Hostels: Many hostels in Tokyo provide dormitory-style or small private rooms at affordable rates. Remember, hostel etiquette in Japan is quite different. I stayed at a hostel in Kawaguchi near Mt Fuji – It was more formal than other hostels worldwide.

Manga cafes: On a super-tight budget? Some cafes offer overnight stays in cubicles with comfy chairs and internet access.

Stay in outer neighbourhoods: Skip expensive areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ryogoku, and Roppongi for cheaper options.

Check distance to subway station: Make sure to check how far the hotel is from the nearest subway station. Tokyo’s subway and rail network is the cheapest and best way to get around. If staying in outer areas, being close to the station is essential.

Book in advance: Prices tend to rise closer to your travel dates, so book early.

Look for promotions: Many booking sites offer deals and discounts.

Consider longer stays: Some places offer weekly or monthly rates that are cheaper per night.

Visit during off-peak seasons: Avoid cherry blossom season and major holidays for lower rates. We visited Japan in December, and hotel prices were at least 40% lower than during sakura season.

Avoid Airbnb in Tokyo: Airbnb is legal in Tokyo, but with many restrictions. Plus, locals dislike their apartment being used for Airbnb. It should be your last option for budget stays in Tokyo.

Check for curfew hours: Many hostels or budget hotels may have curfew hours. If you inform them in advance, they’ll provide you with a main gate entry card.

Guesthouses: Staying with locals in guesthouses can save money. It’s not like in Thailand; Tokyo requires an official application process to stay with local families.

How much cash do I need in Tokyo per day?

As a traveller in Tokyo, you’ll need 6500 – 8000 yen per day per person on a low budget, and 9500 – 18000 yen per day per person for a mid-range budget.

Low budget Breakdown 6500 – 8000 Yen

• Accommodation: 3,000 – 5,000 yen per night (hostels, dormitories)
• Breakfast:600 yen (convenience store, fast food)
• Lunch: 700 – 800 yen (convenience stores, cheap fast food)
• Dinner: 500 – 1,000 yen (ready-to-eat meals, budget restaurants)
• Sightseeing: 500 yen (free attractions, shrines, temples)

Mid Range budget Breakdown 9500 – 18000 yen

• Accommodation: 6,000 – 12,000 yen per night (business hotels)
• Breakfast: 500 – 1,000 yen (coffee shops, breakfast sets)
• Lunch: 800 – 1,500 yen (lunch sets at restaurants)
• Dinner: 1,000 – 2,500 yen (regular restaurants)
• Sightseeing: 500 – 2,000 yen (temples, museums)

How much did we spend on 7 days in Tokyo as a couple?

As budget couple travellers, we spent 98000 yen for two people for 7 days in Tokyo during December 1st week 2022.

This included accommodation, 100% Tokyo subway coverage, cheap street food, local cafes, izakayas, and mainly convenience store (Kombini) breakfasts and coffee.

We mostly chose tourist attractions without entry fees.

For example, we skipped the less impressive Tokyo Tower and opted for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free aerial view of the city.

Tours like the Sumo training morning sessions and some cool things we bought are not included in the above budget.

---

Conclusion

Least Touristy Area for cheap Hotel Deals in Tokyo: Asakusabashi

Best Area for Budget Couples Travelling in Tokyo: Asakusabashi and Kanda

Top Neighbourhood for Families and Groups Travelling on a Budget Sangenjaya in Setagaya ward.

Tokyo District with the Coolest Bay Views: Ariake in Koto City

Ideal Neighbourhood for Young Adults and Budget Couples Seeking Hostel Beds and Private Rooms: Akasaka and Kanda

Accommodations in best Shopping Districts of Tokyo : Ginza and Shibuya (Expensive)