Planning a trip to Tokyo on a tight budget?
Wondering how much it would cost to stay at the most affordable hotels in the city?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The cheapest hotel in Tokyo can cost as low as $20 per night.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the cheapest hotels in Tokyo. We will cover everything from budget-friendly accommodation options to the best neighborhoods to stay in, and tips for saving money during your stay in the city.
Best Neighborhoods for Budget Travelers
Traveling to Tokyo on a budget? No problem! There are plenty of neighborhoods that offer affordable accommodation options for budget-conscious travelers. Here are the top three neighborhoods to consider:
Asakusa: Budget-friendly hostels and traditional ryokans
Asakusa is a great neighborhood for budget travelers who want to experience traditional Japanese culture. This neighborhood is home to many affordable hostels and traditional ryokans, which are Japanese-style inns. Some popular options include Khaosan Tokyo Origami, a cozy hostel that offers private and dormitory-style rooms, and Sadachiyo, a charming ryokan with traditional tatami rooms and a shared bathhouse.
In addition to its budget-friendly accommodation options, Asakusa is also known for its lively atmosphere and historic landmarks, such as the Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street.
Ueno: Affordable hotels and easy access to transportation
Ueno is another great neighborhood for budget travelers. It offers many affordable hotels and guesthouses, as well as easy access to transportation. Ueno Station serves multiple train lines, making it easy to explore other parts of Tokyo.
Some popular budget-friendly accommodation options in Ueno include the Capsule and Sauna New Century, a capsule hotel with a sauna and hot tub, and the Hotel Graphy Nezu, a stylish guesthouse with a shared kitchen and lounge.
In addition to its affordable accommodation options and transportation access, Ueno is also home to many museums and art galleries, including the Tokyo National Museum and the Ueno Royal Museum.
Shinjuku: Budget-friendly capsule hotels and guesthouses
Shinjuku is a bustling neighborhood with plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options. Capsule hotels are particularly popular in Shinjuku, and many offer affordable rates for travelers on a budget.
Some popular capsule hotels in Shinjuku include the Nine Hours Shinjuku-North, which offers sleek and modern capsules with personal TVs and free Wi-Fi, and the Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado Premier Tokyo Shinjuku Station, which offers a relaxing sauna and hot tub.
Guesthouses are also a great option in Shinjuku. The N’Fes Tokyo, for example, is a cozy guesthouse with private and dormitory-style rooms, as well as a shared kitchen and lounge.
In addition to its budget-friendly accommodation options, Shinjuku is known for its vibrant nightlife and shopping scene, with many bars, restaurants, and department stores.
Budget-friendly Accommodation Options
Traveling to Tokyo on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your accommodation. Tokyo offers a range of budget-friendly options that are both comfortable and unique. Here are some of the best budget-friendly accommodation options in Tokyo.
Capsule Hotels: Affordable and unique accommodation
Capsule hotels are a unique and affordable option for budget travelers. These hotels offer small, capsule-like rooms that are just big enough to sleep in. While they may seem cramped, capsule hotels provide clean and comfortable accommodations with all the necessary amenities. Some of the best capsule hotels in Tokyo include 9h Capsule Hotel Shinjuku and First Cabin Akasaka.
Hostels: Budget-friendly and social accommodation
Hostels are another popular option for budget travelers. They offer affordable accommodation with a social atmosphere, making them a great choice for solo travelers or groups. Hostels in Tokyo usually have shared dormitory rooms, but private rooms are also available. Some of the best hostels in Tokyo include K’s House Tokyo Oasis and Backpackers Hostel K’s House Tokyo.
Ryokans: Traditional Japanese inns at affordable prices
If you’re looking for a traditional Japanese experience, then staying in a ryokan is a great option. Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer a unique and authentic experience. While they may be more expensive than capsule hotels and hostels, they are still relatively affordable compared to other types of accommodation. Some of the best budget-friendly ryokans in Tokyo include Imano Tokyo Hostel and Ryokan Sawanoya.
Guesthouses: Affordable and cozy accommodation
Guesthouses are another great budget-friendly option for travelers. They offer cozy and comfortable accommodation with a homely atmosphere. Guesthouses in Tokyo usually have shared common areas, such as a kitchen and lounge, making them a great choice for those who want to socialize with other travelers. Some of the best guesthouses in Tokyo include Grids Tokyo Asakusa-Bashi and Bunka Hostel Tokyo.
Tips for Saving Money on Accommodation
One of the biggest expenses of any trip is accommodation, and this is especially true when visiting a major city like Tokyo. However, with a little bit of planning and research, it is possible to find affordable options that won’t break the bank. Here are some tips for saving money on accommodation in Tokyo:
Book in advance
One of the easiest ways to save money on accommodation in Tokyo is to book your stay in advance. By doing so, you can take advantage of early bird rates and secure a good deal before prices go up. Furthermore, booking in advance will give you more options to choose from, which means you can find the best deal for your needs. Some popular booking websites include Booking.com and Agoda.
Stay in less popular neighborhoods
Another way to save money on accommodation in Tokyo is to stay in less popular neighborhoods. While areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku are popular with tourists, they can be expensive. Instead, consider staying in neighborhoods like Koenji, Asakusa, or Nakano, which offer affordable accommodation options and are still well-connected to the rest of the city.
Consider alternative accommodation options
If you’re on a tight budget, it’s worth considering alternative accommodation options like hostels, capsule hotels, and Airbnb. Hostels are a good option if you’re traveling solo or with friends and are looking for a social experience. Capsule hotels are a unique Japanese experience and offer basic accommodation at a low price. Airbnb is also a good option if you’re looking for a more local experience and want to save money by cooking your meals at home.
Look for deals and discounts
Finally, it’s always worth looking for deals and discounts when booking accommodation in Tokyo. Many hotels and hostels offer discounts for longer stays or for booking during off-peak periods. You can also look for deals on websites like Hotels.com or Expedia. Additionally, some credit cards offer rewards or cashback for booking accommodation, so be sure to check if your credit card has any offers.
Conclusion
Traveling to Tokyo on a budget is definitely possible, especially if you know where to look for affordable accommodation options.
By following the tips and recommendations in this article, you can save money on your accommodation and have more to spend on exploring the city and trying out delicious Japanese food.
So, start planning your budget-friendly trip to Tokyo today and experience all that this amazing city has to offer!
