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(http://asiatravelbug.com)
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-
content/uploads/2015/02/tokyo-kimono-asakusa.jpg)
Ladies in Kimono Asakusa, Tokyo
I will be sharing my reviews of Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, Park Hotel Tokyo and Hotel Nikko
Tokyo where I have personally stayed at in my previous visits to Tokyo. Hotel Sunroute Plaza
Shinjuku (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-sunroute-plaza-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
is my favorite among the three and you can learn the reasons why in this post.The other hotels
which I will be mentioning in this blog are the hotels which Ive thoroughly researched on and
would seriously consider to personally stay at in my future trips to Tokyo.
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/mount-fuji-view-park-hotel1.jpg)
Mount Fuji View from My Hotel Window in Park Hotel Tokyo (Zoomed In)
3 to 3.5 star hotels (local business hotels) USD 100 to USD 200
4 to 4.5 star hotels (local/international luxury hotels) USD 150 to USD 300
5 star hotels (international luxury hotels) USD 300 and up
Based on my personal experience traveling to Japan and Asia in general, hotels in Tokyo are of
great value with very high level of service standards even for 3.5 star hotels. For a USD 200/night
hotel in Tokyo, I need to pay at least USD 250/night in Hong Kong to get the same level of
hotel service and value. Hotel rates in Tokyo can be a real bargain if you compare it with similar
progressive cities like Paris or New York. Before I talk about the best places to stay in Tokyo for
tourists, let me share some tips to guide you before you book your Tokyo accommodation.
Hotels in Tokyo typically offer two types of rooms and it is important to distinguish one from each
other.
Double Room 1 double-sized bed with typical room size of 15 to 19 sqm. One side of the
bed is usually against a wall. Double rooms are typically suitable for couples.
Twin Room 2 twin beds with typical room size of 20 to 25 sqm if your hotel is within
Central Tokyo. You can get bigger twin rooms ranging 30 to 40 sqm in luxury hotels or in
areas farther from Central Tokyo. Twin rooms are approximately 30% much more
expensive than double rooms but the price is well justified since the room size is typically
bigger by 30%. Twin rooms are best travelers who place a lot of value in comfort or for
families traveling with kids.
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-
content/uploads/2014/07/street-food-dinner-yasukuni-shrine.jpg)
Cherry Blossom Illumination Yasukuni Shrine, Tokyo
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/JR-yamanote-line-tokyo.jpg)
Tokyo in a Nutshell | Photo Credit: eerkmans
(https://www.flickr.com/photos/eerkmans/179721258/in/photolist-9W7dCt-gT7So-acMEv-m3wxiU)
If it is not possible for you to book a hotel near the JR Yamanote line, just book a hotel within
walking distance to a Tokyo metro subway or rail station. Central Tokyo is well covered with train
and rail systems. As long as you stay near a train or metro station in Tokyo, you wont find the need
to take a taxi unless you have mobility issues.
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traveling together and are looking for alternative locations where to stay in Tokyo with family, you
may want to consider Asakusa, Odaiba or Tokyo Disney Area where hotels can offer bigger room
space.
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time1.jpg)
Where to Stay in Tokyo First Time (Note: The JR Yamanote station in Ginza is JR Yarakucho. Public
transportation to Mount Fuji goes to the general Mount Fuji area and not directly to the foot of the
mountain.)
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/shinjuku-tokyo-back-alley.jpg)
Bustling Shinjuku Tokyo | Photo Credit: Kevin Poh
(https://www.flickr.com/photos/kevinpoh/4563388587)
Here are the reasons why I considerShinjuku to be the best area to stay in Tokyo for tourists
especially for first time visitors.
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Great local Japanese atmosphere. Bustling nightlife. Restaurants and 100 yen shops
close very late at night.
Easy access to affordable shopping and restaurants.
Good variety of mid-range tourist hotels around the area.
Sights Nearby:Shinjuku Gyoen Park for cherry blossom picnics or for autumn foliage
sights. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Free Observatory to see Mount Fuji on a
cloudless day.
(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-
content/uploads/2014/04/hanami-picnic-shinjuku-gyoen.jpg)
Hanami Picnic in Shinjuku Gyoen Park
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Shinjuku is a huge commercial district in Tokyo and it houses the worlds busiest station
Shinjuku Station. Shinjuku Station divides the district between the West and East. If you are
traveling with kids and worried about the Kabukicho red light district, stay in West Shinjuku. I
stayed in West Shinjuku for a week before and never came across the Kabukicho area located in
the North East of Shinjuku Station.
(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Shinjuku-Station-Kimono.jpg)
Lady Commuter in Shinjuku Station Dressed in a Lovely Kimono.
West Shinjuku
Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-sunroute-plaza-
shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) (3.5*) I have personally stayed here in a
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standard twin room and can strongly recommend this hotel! Their twin standard rooms
are surprisingly spacious for Japanese hotel standards at 23 sqm. A word of warning
though, this hotel is extremely popular and its common for all rooms to get sold out
months in advance. I actually tried to book this hotel for my second trip to Tokyo as a
repeat guest, but was frustrated to know that all of their rooms have been sold out even if
I tried to book 1 month in advance. So better book at least 3 months ahead before your
arrival, even during off-peak seasons.Standard twin rooms start at USD 160/night while
economy rooms start at USD 115/night. Asiatravelbug recommends the standard twin
rooms for more space and is well worth the price difference. Check out live rates of Hotel
Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku in Agoda (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-sunroute-plaza-
shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)orBooking.com
(http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/sunroute-plaza-shinjuku.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit).
(http://www.agoda.com/hotel-sunroute-plaza-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Standard Twin Room (23 sqm) of Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-
sunroute-plaza-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) ~USD160/night
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This hotel sits on an unbeatable location tucked in a quiet street but just a minute away from all the
action. Family Mart and McDonalds are just a minute walk away. Shinjuku station, eateries, malls
and 100 yen shops are all within 10-minute walk radius. Airport limousine bus from Haneda or
Narita airport drops you right off in the lobby of the hotel. You just cannot go wrong with Hotel
Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku in terms of convenience. If you are a first time traveler to Tokyo wishing
to do day trips to see Mount Fuji using Hakone Free Pass, look no further, Hotel Sunroute Plaza
Shinjuku (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-sunroute-plaza-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852)is the hotel to stay.
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(http://www.agoda.com/jr-kyushu-hotel-blossom-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku (http://www.agoda.com/jr-kyushu-hotel-blossom-
shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) Twin Room (25 sqm) ~USD160/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
Although the airport limousine bus does not directly stop at Hotel Blossom
(http://www.agoda.com/jr-kyushu-hotel-blossom-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852), you
can get off or ride the airport bus at Shinjuku Station West Exit, which is just a good 5-minute walk
away. I have personally tried alighting at Shinjuku Station West Exit from the airport limousine bus
and the walk towards the area of Hotel Sunroute and Hotel Blossom is fairly easy even with a
luggage in tow.
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for families who want to feel the action in Shinjuku while having convenient transportation
options to Tokyo Disney, Hakone, Mount Fuji, Haneda Airport and Narita Airport. If you
are a family planning to see bothTokyo Disney and Mount Fuji in your trip, I highly
recommend you to stay inKeio Plaza Hotel Shinjukufor convenience. Lowest category
twin room rates start at USD 230/night. I think the strategic location of this hotel for first
timers in Tokyo well justifies its price.
(http://www.agoda.com/keio-plaza-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Keio Plaza Hotel Renovated Superior Twin Room (http://www.agoda.com/keio-plaza-
hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) at Main Bldg. (33 sqm) ~USD250/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
Some of my friends have stayed in Keio Plaza and have no complaints whatsoever except for the
long breakfast buffet lines. Just book a room without breakfast since there are a lot of affordable
eateries within 5 minutes walk from this hotel. The free shuttle for guests to Tokyo Disney requires
advance booking. Check out live rates of Keio Plaza Hotel Shinjuku in Agoda.com
(http://www.agoda.com/keio-plaza-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852). During non-peak
seasons, you might be able to book double rooms in this hotel for as low as USD 180/night.
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(http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/rose-garden-shinjuku.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit)
Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku (http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/rose-garden-shinjuku.html?
aid=393099&label=wtsit) Triple Family Room (31 sqm) ~USD220/night | Photo Credit: Booking.com
East Shinjuku
Best Western Shinjuku Astina Hotel (http://www.agoda.com/best-western-shinjuku-astina-
hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) (3.5*) If you do not mind staying in Kabukicho red
light district, this hotel is cheap with a great location just under 10 minutes walk away from
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the main Shinjuku Station. Double rooms start at USD 130/night while executive twin
rooms start at USD 170/night inclusive of breakfast.
(http://www.agoda.com/best-western-shinjuku-astina-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Best Western Shinjuku (http://www.agoda.com/best-western-shinjuku-astina-hotel/hotel/tokyo-
jp.html?CID=1649852) Executive Twin Room (27 sqm) ~USD170/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
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(http://www.agoda.com/citadines-shinjuku-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Citadines Shinjuku (http://www.agoda.com/citadines-shinjuku-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) Executive Twin Room for 3 Adults (28 sqm) ~USD 160/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
Read on the rest of this blog to learn more about staying in Ginza, Tokyo Station, Shibuya,
Asakusa, Odaiba, and Tokyo Disney Area.
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/ginza-at-night.jpg)
Ginza Intersection at Night
CID=1649852)(3*) The hotel sits right smack in the middle of Ginza and just 5 minutes
walk from Ginza metro station and 15 minutes walk from Tokyo Station. Deluxe twin rooms
are of decent 27 sqm size and one child under 16 years old can stay for free using
existing beds. Connecting rooms can be available upon request. Superior rooms start at
USD 145/night and deluxe rooms USD 180/night.
(http://www.agoda.com/mercure-hotel-ginza-tokyo/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Mercure Ginza Tokyo (http://www.agoda.com/mercure-hotel-ginza-tokyo/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) Deluxe Twin Room (27 sqm) ~USD 180/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
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(http://www.agoda.com/solaria-nishitetsu-hotel-ginza/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Solaria Nishitetsu Ginza (http://www.agoda.com/solaria-nishitetsu-hotel-ginza/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) (24 sqm) ~USD185/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
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(http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/park-tokyo.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit)
Park Hotel Tokyo (http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/park-tokyo.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit)
Shiodome Twin Room (21 sqm) ~USD170/night
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/tokyo-station.jpg)
Tokyo Station
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(http://www.agoda.com/hotel-ryumeikan-tokyo/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
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(http://www.agoda.com/the-tokyo-station-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Tokyo Station Hotel (http://www.agoda.com/the-tokyo-station-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) Queen Room (26 sqm) ~USD290/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
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Shibuya has a similar local bustling atmosphere as Shinjuku but with a younger crowd. If you see
people mostly in business suits in the streets of Shinjuku, you will see mostly students in uniform in
the streets of Shibuya. Sometimes, you can come across people in bizarre outfits too!If you are
young adults in early 20s or if you are family with teenagers, the atmosphere in Shibuya may
suit to your liking. Shibuya Station is also a major transportation hub in Tokyo making it easy to
connect to airports or anywhere within central Tokyo.
(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/yoyogi-park-street-performer1.jpg)
Yoyogi Park Street Performance
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(http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/dormy-inn-premium-shibuya-jingumae.html?
aid=393099&label=wtsit)
Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya (http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/dormy-inn-premium-shibuya-
jingumae.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit) (25 sqm) ~USD200/night | Photo Credit: Booking.com
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(http://www.agoda.com/shibuya-excel-hotel-tokyu/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Shibuya Excel Tokyu (http://www.agoda.com/shibuya-excel-hotel-tokyu/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) Twin Room (30 sqm) ~USD225/night
Are you traveling with a bigger family or travel group and need a lot of
space?
Read on the rest of this blog to learn why staying in Asakusa, Odaiba or Tokyo Disney Area can
be a great choice for you.
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Asakusa is a little slice of Kyoto in the heart of Tokyo. If you imagine your Tokyo vacation with
Japanese rickshaws and temples, Asakusa is the place to be. Although there arent many huge
malls around, there are lots of small shops and eateries in Asakusa. Asakusa is located in the older
part of Tokyo and is not within the JR Yamanote Line loop. So, the location is not as convenient as
Shinjuku, Shibuya, Tokyo Station or Ginza. However, Asakusa is just a 10-minute ride away to Ginza
via the metro Ginza line.If you are traveling with a group of friends or traveling with older
children, you can find affordable triple and quadruple rooms in Asakusa.
(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/asakusa-rick-shaw.jpg)
Human Powered Rickshaw in Asakusa Tokyo
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(http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/asakusa-view-tokyo.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit)
Asakusa View Hotel (http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/asakusa-view-tokyo.html?
aid=393099&label=wtsit) Triple Room (26 sqm) ~USD155/night | Photo Credit: Booking.com
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(http://www.agoda.com/the-gate-hotel-asakusa-kaminarimon-by-hulic/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852)
Gate Hotel Asakusa (http://www.agoda.com/the-gate-hotel-asakusa-kaminarimon-by-
hulic/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) Twin Room (24 sqm) ~USD165/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/odaiba-gundam-statue.jpg)
Odaiba Gundam Statue
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(http://www.agoda.com/hotel-nikko-tokyo/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Hotel Nikko Tokyo (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-nikko-tokyo/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Ocean Twin (40 sqm) ~USD150/night
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(http://www.agoda.com/grand-pacific-le-daiba/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Grand Pacific Le Daiba (http://www.agoda.com/grand-pacific-le-daiba/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) Twin Room (33 sqm) ~USD120/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
Both Hotel Nikko Tokyo and Grand Pacific Le Daiba are Tokyo Disney Good Neighbor hotels and
guests can have complimentary shuttle to Tokyo Disney. Both hotels are also right next to Daiba
monorail station which connects to Shiodome Station near Ginza.
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(http://asiatravelbug.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/tokyo-disney.jpg)
Tokyo Disneyland | Photo Credit: Amy Gustafson
(https://www.flickr.com/photos/amy_jane/8657010376)
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(http://www.agoda.com/hilton-tokyo-bay/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Hilton Tokyo Bay (http://www.agoda.com/hilton-tokyo-bay/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Celebrio Ocean Quadruple Room (40 sqm) ~USD250/night w/ Breakfast | Photo Credit: Agoda
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(http://www.agoda.com/sheraton-grande-tokyo-bay-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay (http://www.agoda.com/sheraton-grande-tokyo-bay-
hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) Triple Room (36 sqm) ~USD185/night | Photo Credit: Agoda
Both Hilton Tokyo Bay Hotel and Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel are within the Tokyo Disney
Resort area and are great family hotels in Tokyo. You also get all the perks of Tokyo Disney
Official Hotels as mentioned above if you stay in any of these two hotels.
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rooms can be granted if available and whether the hotels are serviced by the airport limousine bus.
The hotels listed below are generally safe for families with kids except for Best Western Shinjuku in
Kabukicho red light district.
Note: Ive embedded summary information about each hotel in the table below just
hover your mouse on top of the heart and plus icons to get more details.
If you have any other suggestions on the best areas to stay in Tokyo, please feel free to leave your
comments in this blog.
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Have you picked the hotel where you will stay in Tokyo?
Asiatravelbug recommendsAgoda (http://www.agoda.com/city/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) for
best hotel rates in Tokyo.
Need help from your travel buddies to decide the best area to stay in
Tokyo? Share this article with them using the social share buttons
below!
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I have known Jetstar for a while but its only my first time to fly with this airline last month.
After researching for the best airline to fly from... Read More
(http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/my-first-jetstar-asia-experience-from-manila-to-osaka/)
http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/wheretostayintokyofirsttimebestareafamily/ 40/72
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Kyoto Itinerary with Side Trips to Osaka and Nara (Autumn Foliage Trip) While I was busy
browsing travel inspirations online in the middle of last year, I stumbled across... Read
More (http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/my-first-japan-trip-osaka-kyoto-and-nara-japan-travel-
itinerary/)
Haruka Icoca Card: Discounted Train Fare From Kansai Airport to Kyoto
(http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/haruka-icoca-kansai-airport-to-kyoto/)
ACTIVITIES
http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/wheretostayintokyofirsttimebestareafamily/ 41/72
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Kansai Airport Arrival After a very turbulent flight, we finally landed in Kansai International
Airport Terminal 1 close to 1:00 pm. Its quite surprising to see that the airport... Read More
(http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/haruka-icoca-kansai-airport-to-kyoto/)
53 Comments
family/?replytocom=280#respond)
Hi, have u tried shinjuku prince hotel? i cnt decide f we will stay at shinjuku
princd or hotel blossom.
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=290#respond)
Hi Melody,
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Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, I have not been to Shinjuku
Prince Hotel (http://www.agoda.com/shinjuku-prince-hotel/hotel/tokyo-
jp.html?CID=1649852). But I did a little bit of research and found out that it is
located right in Shinjuku Station with a basement entrance. Their room rates
look affordable but their standard rooms are very small at 15 sqm which
could be claustrophobic for 2 adults staying together, in my personal
opinion. Their 30 sqm deluxe rooms seem to be a better value for money
with rates starting from USD 150.
The inside of Shinjuku Station is a big maze (with lots of people) and I find it
easier to navigate by walking outside the station rather than inside. So, it is a
possibility that you will need sometime inside Shinjuku Station to locate the
entrance of Shinjuku Prince Hotel.
Newer hotels tend to have better rooms, better facilities and better service.
For this reason, I suggest Hotel Blossom (http://www.agoda.com/jr-kyushu-
hotel-blossom-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) over Shinjuku
Prince Hotel. Hotel Blossom is near Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, a good 5 to 10
minute walk from Shinjuku Station West Exit and navigating your way is
pretty much straightforward if you walk outside the station.
family/?replytocom=311#respond)
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=318#respond)
I think it will be better for your travel group to stay in hotel in Tokyo.
Space in Tokyo is really scarce is it is very rare to find a airbnb
condo which can accommodate 16 people. Actually, just like you,
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My friend with the same case as yours (travel group with more than
12 pax) booked multiple rooms in Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
(http://www.agoda.com/hotel-sunroute-plaza-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-
jp.html?CID=1649852) last year and have no complaints whatsoever.
I hope this helps and please do let me know if there is anything else
I could do to help!
-Tiffy
replytocom=281#respond)
Hi i just love the blog you shared. My family is also looking forward to visit japan
soon. And i think it would be helpful for us. Can you recommend a travel agent re
our visas?
Thanks & God bless us all.
Helen
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=282#respond)
Hi Helen!
Thank you for your message and Im happy that you found this blog useful.
My travel agent has office in Dusit Thani Hotel (Makati) and they got my
multiple entry Japan visa released in a matter of 2 business days.
Tiffy
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area-family/?replytocom=283#respond)
CLLC
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=284#respond)
Hi CLLC!
Ive just emailed the details of my travel agent to you, as well as the
service fee which I paid last year.
Thanks.
-Tiffy
Hi Grace! Thank you very much for your kind words. Ive just
emailed you the business name of the travel agent and I hope
you have received it!
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replytocom=286#respond)
My girfriend and I are visting Tokyo this coming March and maybe you can share
an advice as to how different Yoyogi and Yotsuya areas in Shunjuku are from
eachother. Im trying to choose between 2 hotels namely Mitsui garden hotel in
yotsuya and Hotel sunroute plaza in yoyogi. Hotel reviews are almost identical
but theres a slight difference in price. Thanks again and thanks in advance for
your feedback.
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=289#respond)
Hi JP! I am happy that you found this blog post useful in your Tokyo travel
planning.
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within the immediate area of Shinjuku Station have all been sold out, which
could happen during peak seasons in Tokyo.
If I were you, I will go ahead and book rooms in Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
(http://www.agoda.com/hotel-sunroute-plaza-shinjuku/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) even if the price is a little bit higher than Mitsui Garden in
Yotsuya. You get to save time in commuting between Yotsuya and Shinjuku,
which means you will have more time to explore, more time to shop and
more time to enjoy Tokyo. PS. The double rooms in Sunroute are compact,
18 sqm, which is the typical size of double rooms in mid range Tokyo hotels.
If you value space, you may want to book their 23 sqm twin rooms.
family/?replytocom=295#respond)
The idea of the hotels location being sandwhich between the edge of
shibuya and shinjuku districts and also having much action within that
location will allow us to maximize our Tokyo experience.
Its also pleasing to learn that the airport limo bus drops off directly to
Sunroute plaza Shinjuku.
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=304#respond)
Have a safe trip and Im sure you will enjoy Tokyo as much as I did!
-Tiffy
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area-family/?replytocom=291#respond)
hello ,
Im set to go narita this august for 8 days, i want to see heritage place ,
landscaping and rich culture , please teach me ? Thank you
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=307#respond)
Hi Gerald,
Thanks for dropping by and Im excited to know that you are bound for
Tokyo this year. Please feel free to check out Asiatravelbugs Tokyo itinerary
(http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/tokyo-itinerary-7-days-japan-travel/) to know
the must visit places in Tokyo.
replytocom=292#respond)
Hi Tiffy, thank you for writing this article. I thought is what near impossible to
travel to Japan with my toddler and infant and be able to see the city life. But with
this article, I feel more confident that it could be done and would we very
convenient!
I did want to know if I stayed at sunroute plaza shinjuku hotel, will I be able to
take a convienient transportation with my kids from sunroute plaza hotel to
Tokyo Disney theme park?
Thanks,
Mary
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=306#respond)
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Hello Mary! Thank you for dropping a message in my blog. Since you have
little kids with you, staying in Keio Plaza Shinjuku
(http://www.agoda.com/keio-plaza-hotel/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852)
maybe more convenient to your needs. This hotel has free shuttle to Disney
for guests, which needs to be pre-booked in advance. Also, some Mount Fuji
tours start from this hotel so staying in Keio maybe the most convenient if
you want to avail Mount Fuji bus tours, visit Disney while still being very
close to the local action in Shinjuku.
If you are not planning to go to Hakone and Mount Fuji, you may want to
consider staying in Ginza instead which is quite close to Tokyo Station. Cabs
between these two areas are not too expensive since they are just next to
each other.
replytocom=293#respond)
hi tiffy,
thank you for the blog. find it very informative and useful. can i also get some info
on the travel agency and visa assistance, including the price? my sisters and
friends are planning to go to japan too.
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thanks,
mutya
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=309#respond)
Hi Mutya,
Ive just emailed you the name of my travel agent and some other Tokyo
travel tips!
area-family/?replytocom=294#respond)
HI..will be going to Tokyo ds oct 29 . how can we get there in the city fm narita
airport. bus or taxi.
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=305#respond)
Hello Bebe! Taxi is very expensive in Japan and it costs between USD 250
to USD 300 for one way taxi ride between Narita Airport and central Tokyo.
So taxi is not recommended.
Im not sure which part of Tokyo will you be staying but if coming from Narita,
you can take Narita Express train (NEX) (http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/nex/) or
Airport Limousine Bus (https://www.limousinebus.co.jp/en/) which will only
cost a fraction of your taxi fare. If you will be staying in a hotel serviced by
the Airport Limousine Bus, then taking the bus will be the most convenient
way to transfer between Narita and central Tokyo.
Just save your airport taxi budget for your next airplane ticket to Japan.
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replytocom=296#respond)
Hi,
Thank you for your blog , very useful. If travelling with family, what hotel would
you recommend and can I have info on the travel agency for visa assistance
Thanks,
dodie
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=310#respond)
Hi Dodie,
Thank you very much for visiting my blog! Choosing the hotel to stay will
depend on how many you are, whether you are with young or adult children
and what activities you would like to do in Tokyo. If you will be able to
provide more information, then I might be able to pinpoint which hotel may
work best for you. But as a first time visitor, I recommend you to pick a hotel
either in Shinjuku or Ginza.
Thanks!
-Tiffy
family/?replytocom=301#respond)
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=302#respond)
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Hi Marisa! If you will be traveling on a free and easy basis and within Tokyo
only, I suggest that you do the hotel booking on your own and use mass
public transportation (trains) to save money. Agoda
(http://www.agoda.com/city/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) and Booking.com
(http://www.booking.com/city/jp/tokyo.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit) have
good hotel rates in Tokyo. Majority of the hotels there offer free
cancellations too to allow more flexibility in case you change your mind at a
later time.
Private transfers are rare in Japan and my understanding is that these are
not usually offered by travel agencies, unless you are on a private group bus
tour. The trains and metro systems in Japan can overwhelming at first, but
with some advance research (check out hyperdia.com), you should be able
to get the hang of it. The signs in trains and stations are mostly bilingual in
Japanese and English.
replytocom=312#respond)
Hi,
I have stayed at both the JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku and the Hotel
Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku in January 2015.
I preferred the Blossom hotel as I felt the same price room (the cheapest single
room) was larger there and better laid out. The room furnishings seemed to be of
a higher quality and there were more free bathroom amenities.
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Thank you for your wonderful website! I am planning a solo trip to Osaka and
Kyoto in June and will be sure to consult your site.
Cheers
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=316#respond)
Thank you Nikki for sharing your wonderful experience about JR Kyushu
Hotel Blossom Shinjuku! This is a very helpful information to the other
readers. Indeed, Hotel Blossom looks like a very good alternative to
Sunroute in Shinjuku!
area-family/?replytocom=313#respond)
Hi tiffy , thank you so much very useful.can you share with me also your travel
agency pls. My family is planning to visit tokyo in july.
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=317#respond)
Hi Teresita,
Ive just sent you an email regarding the travel agency for Japan visa. I hope
this helps.
replytocom=315#respond)
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Youre heaven sent Tiffy! coming across your asiatravelbug.com, it saves me a lot
of time doing researches for our Japan trip on June. This trip is our advance 18th
birthday (Oct.) gift for my daughter who has been requesting a Japan trip from
the time she started cosplaying 4 years ago. I want this to be a super
memorable one for her better than having a debut party ( well, she never really
wanted one) . She wants to see/go to places where the cosplayers are seen
frequently and fashion malls that sells nice and cheap clothes. We also plan to go
to Kyoto, Osaka, Disneyland and Mount Fuji. Please advise where to get an
accessible, convenient and affordable hotels. Is 5D/4N enough for the activities
that we are planning to do.? How much does your travel agency charges for visa
assistance?
Thanks Tiffy, may you continue to be a blessing to others! God Bless!
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=321#respond)
Hi Miva,
Thanks for your kind words! In your case, I would recommend you to stay in
Shibuya. You may want to check out Shibuya Excel Tokyo Hotel
(http://www.agoda.com/shibuya-excel-hotel-tokyu/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?
CID=1649852) for your accommodation. This hotel is in Shibuya station so it
is very convenient for airport transfers via NEX train and exploring central
Tokyo using the JR Yamanote line. Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya
(http://www.booking.com/hotel/jp/dormy-inn-premium-shibuya-
jingumae.html?aid=393099&label=wtsit) could be a cheaper Shibuya hotel
alternative, but the number of rooms available there are rather limited. The
crowd in Shibuya are mainly teenagers so this is something which your
daughter may really like.
Apart from Shibuya, I suggest you to wander around Akihabara to see the
bizarre / otaku side of Tokyo. Ive seen cheap cosplay clothes in the Don
Quijote store in Akihabara.
Try to schedule your trips to Shibuya and Akihabara during weekends to
increase your chances of seeing cosplayers. Feel free to check out my
Akihabara tour (http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/akihabara-only-in-japan-tokyo/)
blog.
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I think 5D/4N is sufficient for Tokyo only and you can probably squeeze in a
day either in Tokyo Disney or see Mount Fuji. With this tight timing, I do not
suggest you to include Kyoto and Osaka to your itinerary otherwise you will
spend more time in commuting rather than enjoying Japan. Kyoto warrants a
separate trip.
Sure, I will email you the name of the travel agency which assisted me in my
visa before.
replytocom=319#respond)
thanks for your blog, can you please share your travel agency in dusit and how
many days will you recommend for a stay in japan, that will be able to see all
those places you mention.
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=320#respond)
Hello Kye! Thanks for dropping by. I suggest 1 week in Tokyo if it will be your
first time. You can check out my Tokyo itinerary
(http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/tokyo-itinerary-7-days-japan-travel/) and just
pattern your travel plans from there.
replytocom=322#respond)
hi tiffy, loved your article so much, we are a family group of 5 adults going to
tokyo and osaka this april in time for the cherry blossom. Any advice on how to
take the shinkansen from shinkuku where we are staying in tokyo to osaka. And
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(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=339#respond)
The Shinkansen going to Osaka from Tokyo stops in Tokyo Station. From
Shinjuku Station, you have to take the JR Chuo line to Tokyo Station which
will take about 15 minutes. I suggest you to allot 1 hour or so in commuting
between Shinjuku and Tokyo Station since these two are massive stations.
There is high probability of getting lost. But dont worry, you can always ask
young Japanese people for directions in case you cant find your way
around.
If you have time, you should spend sometime in Kyoto and Nara too since
these two places are really known for beautiful cherry blossoms in Japan.
I have been to Osaka before on a separate trip but just for 2 days. I made
Osaka a pitstop to go to Kyoto. I might go back to Osaka this year for a
second try and will definitely share my experiences for the benefit of the
readers.
Please feel free to share your cherry blossom experience in Japan when you
are back!
I wish you and your family a fun and unforgettable cherry blossom trip in
Japan!
-Tiffy
replytocom=323#respond)
hi!
nice article! hope to visit japan soon with these tips
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(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=335#respond)
Thank you for your kind words TP! Im sure you will enjoy Japan as much as I
did.
-Tiffy
replytocom=327#respond)
Hi Tiff,
We are having a 6 day trip to tokyo this coming May. Our schedule will also
include an overnight stay in kyoto. A friend told me to buy a JR pass since we will
be traveling to kyoto. Then what are Suica cards for? I have travelled to tokyo
before but we joined the tour, this time we want to explore it on our own. Can
you help us?
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=337#respond)
Hi Josie!
The Suica card is a prepaid reloadable transit card which you can use to pay
fare if you ride JR trains, Tokyo metro and other rail lines. The Suica card can
also be used in convenience stores. If you have been to Hong Kong, the
Suica card is much like the Octopus card.
My understanding is that the JR pass only covers JR trains and not Tokyo
metro. Train and railway systems in Japan are pretty complex and they are
owned by different companies. In order to get to point A to point B in Tokyo,
it is highly likely that you will need to make some transfers between JR train
and Tokyo metro line which are operated by two different rail companies.
Given this, the Suica card will give you much more convenience and
flexibility since you are not only restricted to JR trains.
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The JR pass gives a lot of value if you will be visiting multiple regions in
Japan. If you will be visiting Kyoto only, purchasing a non-JR pass
shinkansen ride may come out a little bit cheaper. Also, I suggest you to stay
at least 2 nights in Kyoto to maximize your shinkansen train fare. In my
personal opinion, Kyoto and Osaka warrant a separate 1 week trip. There are
a lot of things to see in Kyoto and an overnight stay might not be enough.
family/?replytocom=329#respond)
Hi,
My family (2 adults and 2 children 8 and 6 yrs old) is planning a trip to Japan
from 28Apr to 06May. Our flight is Mla-Osaka-Mla only. We plan to go around
osaka, Kyoto from 29Apr-03May and plan to go to Tokyo from 03May to
06May.Where do you suggest we book our hotel if one of our plan is to see
disneysea?
(/blog/where-to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=336#respond)
Hi Dennis,
I suggest you to have two bases in your trip. One hotel base either in Kyoto
or Osaka, and another hotel base in Tokyo. Since the main purpose of your
Tokyo side trip is to see Disney only, I suggest you to book your hotel in
Hilton Tokyo Bay (http://www.agoda.com/hilton-tokyo-bay/hotel/tokyo-
jp.html?CID=1649852) which is within the immediate area of Tokyo
Disney/Disneysea.
You might need to spend your last night in Osaka since your departure will
be from Osaka.
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I hope this helps! I wish you and your family a safe trip to Japan!
-Tiffy
replytocom=338#respond)
Dear tiffy,
My husband daughter and i will tour japan from march 21 to 27 . WE would like to
visit the following places : shibuya march 21 to 22 then proceed to shinjuku
march 22 to 23 then ginza 23 to 24. We will then proceed to kyoto fr the 24th to
26 then to osaka on the 27th for one day. We will then depart to our home
country on the 28th. It will be our first time in japan and i want my 24 year old
daughter to remember this very much wished for trip. I am so confused whether
to buy the jr pass . Will this pass be useful with regards to our itinerary . What is
the best way to explore the above places. The more i read themore i got
confused. Pls help us. She would like to see cultural shows too.
Thanks a lot
to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=344#respond)
The difference between the price of 7 day JR pass and a round trip
shinkansen ride between Tokyo and Kyoto is just about 1000 yen. Will you
be departing from Narita/Haneda Airport in Tokyo or from Kansai Airport in
Osaka? If you only need a one way transfer between Tokyo and Kyoto, then I
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Your itinerary looks doable but you have to start your day early. You dont
need to change hotels within Tokyo since Shibuya, Shinjuku and Ginza are
reachable via JR Yamanote line.
For activities, you might want to check the cultural experiences offered by
GoVoyagin (https://www.govoyagin.com/things_to_do/japan?
acode=asiatravelbug). Ive tried GoVoyagin before for their Akihabara tour
and it was great!
I hope my answer helps! I wish you and your family a happy trip to Japan!
-Tiffy
family/?replytocom=340#respond)
Dear Tiffy;
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Also, can you please refer me to your travel agency who could process my visa.
By mid may this year, I will comeback again to Tokyo with my kids and my
husband.
By the way, do you think I can still book a hotel even if I plan to go 4th week of
March?
Thanks much!
Marites
to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=343#respond)
Hi Marites! Ive personally seen Don Quijote stores sell second hand
designer bags when I was in Tokyo, so you might want to go there and see
for yourself. Don Quijote is a chain discount store in Japan and there is a
branch in Shinjuku. You may also want to try Komehyo and Daikokuya for
second hand luxury bags, but Ive never been to these stores yet.
Your travel date at the end of March is super peak when cherry blossoms are
forecasted to start to bloom. Just last week, I helped a personal friend find a
hotel in Tokyo (Shinjuku) for the end of March and it was extremely difficult
to find mid-range accommodation for 1 week. We ended up splitting the stay
between two luxury hotels in Shinjuku. But there is some chance that you
maybe able to find accommodation in non-central Tokyo hotels but it is
highly likely that you may need to do split hotel bookings. If you are not
intending to see cherry blossoms, I suggest you to combine your itinerary in
your mid-May trip when hotel choices are not as sold out as the last week of
March.
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replytocom=341#respond)
Hi Tiffy
I find your blog so informative. We will be considering the places you recommend
in your blog in finalizing arrangements for our May visit to Osaka and Tokyo. Our
group of 9 will be travelling Mla-Osaka-Tokyo-Mla. Could you also recommend
for affordable accommodations in Osaka? and maybe an itinerary for a 2 day visit
in Osaka too?
I would appreciate getting the name of your agent too who could assist in the
processing of our visa application. Are visa applications to Japan only processed
through travel agencies?
Tonette
to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=342#respond)
Hi Tonette,
Thank you for dropping by! I would recommend you to stay in Namba district
in Osaka for convenience. Its a happening area with lots of eateries and
small shops around. Ive personally stayed in Swissotel Nankai Osaka
(http://www.agoda.com/swissotel-nankai-osaka-hotel/hotel/osaka-jp.html?
CID=1649852) which just sits on top of the Namba station and I recommend
it for its convenience. If you are looking for more affordable hotel
alternatives, try either Cross Hotel Osaka (http://www.agoda.com/cross-
hotel-osaka/hotel/osaka-jp.html?CID=1649852) or Namba Oriental Hotel
(http://www.agoda.com/namba-oriental-hotel/hotel/osaka-jp.html?
CID=1649852). These two hotels are just minutes walk away from Namba
station.
Im not sure if you are with kids. Maybe you want to spend a day in Universal
Studios? If not, you can spend one day visiting Osaka Castle and having a
food trip in Namba area (Dotonbori/Shinsaibashi).
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Thanks and I wish your travel group a happy trip to Japan! Happy travel
planning!
-Tiffy
replytocom=345#respond)
Hope you could give me some tips. Truth to be told, this will be my first trip
abroad and I was tasked to handle our planning.
to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=346#respond)
Hi Leanne! I am happy to hear that you chose Tokyo as your first travel
destination abroad! Definitely, you made an excellent choice.
I think you are booking your hotel rooms too early. Based on my
experience, hotel inventories are generally available to book online 6
months before your travel date. You can try to check your preferred Tokyo
hotel in Agoda (http://www.agoda.com/city/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) or
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Booking.com (http://www.booking.com/city/jp/tokyo.html?
aid=393099&label=wtsitC) sometime late August to book your hotel. So,
please do not forget to bookmark this blog post for your future reference.
February is not peak season in Japan so you should be fine booking your
hotel 3 months ahead from your expected arrival. But booking your hotel 6
months ahead wouldnt hurt if this will make you more comfortable and put
your mind at peace.
I hope this helps and please feel free to let me know if you have any other
questions Leanne!
-Tiffy
replytocom=352#respond)
Thank you for your great infor on visiting Japan for the 1st time.
I tried to you all the link you provided to book the hotel from date 11 April till 16
April.
All the hotel is fully booked. Is there any other alternative on that. I will be
traveling with my partner.
Any recommendation. Hope you can help me.
Thank you
Terence
to-stay-in-tokyo-first-time-best-area-family/?replytocom=355#respond)
Hi Terence!
April is super peak season and its common for all prime hotels to get sold
out months in advance. Its best to book at least 3 months ahead if you
are heading to Japan for spring or autumn.
http://asiatravelbug.com/blog/wheretostayintokyofirsttimebestareafamily/ 64/72
3/22/2015 WheretoStayinTokyoFirstTime&TokyoFamilyHotels
Anyway, I checked the available hotels for your travel dates in Agoda and I
recommend these two hotels:
1. Hotel Niwa Tokyo (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-niwa-tokyo/hotel/tokyo-
jp.html?CID=1649852) This hotel has great service but not really right
smack in a tourist area. However, Tokyo station is just 10-15 minutes ride
away with two quick train transfers.
2. Hotel Villa Fontaine Shiodome (http://www.agoda.com/hotel-villa-fontaine-
tokyo-shiodome/hotel/tokyo-jp.html?CID=1649852) This hotel is located in
Shiodome business district 10 minutes walk away from the southern edge of
Ginza and Tsukiji fish market. I have personally stayed in Shiodome district
(Park Hotel Tokyo) before and I find the area to be a good alternative if all
good hotels in Ginza and Shinjuku are sold out. Theres Don Quijote just a
few minutes walk away which is great for cheap shopping 24/7. Shiodome
Station is within JR Yamanote line so its easy to get anywhere in Tokyo from
Shiodome. You can book Hotel Villa Fontaine Shiodome here
(http://www.agoda.com/hotel-villa-fontaine-tokyo-shiodome/hotel/tokyo-
jp.html?CID=1649852).
P.S. Dont forget to book your pocket wifi in advance as it can sell like
hotcakes during spring. I recommend Pupuru wifi and you can book it here
(http://www.pupuru.com/affiliate/P09/14).
I hope this helps and I wish you and your partner a great 1st trip to Tokyo! Im
sure this will not be your last trip to Japan.
-Tiffy
area-family/?replytocom=356#respond)
Dear Tiffy
Terence
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