Cheap Hotels in Tokyo

Tokyo may be renowned for its high-end electronics and vibrant fashion, but this bustling city also has an enormous number of great-value and free attractions for the traveler on a budget. Tokyo is no stranger to tourists of all types, so you’ll easily find a wealth of cheaper activities to ensure you have a stimulating time in this colorful city. Gorgeous parks, tranquil shrines, great food at affordable rates, ancient Buddhist temples, and invigorating nightlife all await you in Tokyo.

Things to see in Tokyo

Senso-ji Temple is Tokyo’s largest and oldest Buddhist temple, and entry is free of charge. It also contains Asakusa Shrine, dedicated to the temple’s founders, and now one of Tokyo’s top attractions. Another sight worth checking out is Shibuya Crossing. At this famous junction, shoppers, business people, locals, and tourists heave together, waiting for the lights to all turn red simultaneously. It’s a Tokyo tradition to get lost in the famous “scramble” as everyone crosses the road at the same time. Take a walk round Yoyogi Park, a meeting place for all sorts of clubs and social groups, to see colorful hip hop dancers and rockabilly music gangs hanging out. Admission to the park is free and bikes can be rented for further exploration. For the best low-cost nightlife in Tokyo, head to the Golden Gai, where 6 interwoven alleyways teem with 200 shanty-style bars, nightclubs, and food joints.

Cheap/economy hotels in Tokyo

There are an endless number of budget hotels in Tokyo that are well-established and cater to visitors of all kinds. Affordable accommodation in Tokyo varies in type, but most have one thing in common—amazing services. You’ll find free WiFi in many of Tokyo’s discount hotels as well as helpful staff who can assist you with booking tours and tickets. Bike rentals and laundry services are also common. Some establishments have bars, lounges, cafés, and even roof terraces on which to unwind. With the great amenities available, you won’t be disappointed when planning a low-cost vacation in Tokyo.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Asakusa is the center of the traditional shitamachi, or low city. This walkable neighborhood is where old Japan best survives. Stay here to be surrounded by temples, traditional food, and a more homey, residential atmosphere. The area around Ueno Park is also popular for cheap hotels in Tokyo. Home to iconic cherry blossom trees, several museums, and even a zoo, this stunning public park allows you to experience the city’s unique natural beauty. Shinjuku is the center of the city’s bustling nightlife and entertainment, so choose a hotel here to be close to the action, with some of the best restaurants in Tokyo right on your doorstep.

How to get to Tokyo

Tokyo has two airports. Narita is the most-used for international flights, but Haneda is closer to the city, so keep an eye out for connecting flights. From Haneda you can be downtown in just 15 minutes by train. From Narita, this will take about 1 hour, but cheaper trains run to Nippori and Ueno in around 1.5 hours. The Super Shuttle bus also goes to Ueno and Asakusa and is a great budget option. Buses and trains connect to all of Japan’s major cities also, and Tokyo’s metro system is one of the best in the world for city travel.