Best Social Hostels In Tokyo For Socialising, Exploring and Partying
Tokyo may be one of the busiest cities in the world, but it’s also one of the easiest places to meet other travellers – provided you know where to stay. Whether you’re looking for a late-night party, a casual chat in a bar or a friendly, communal atmosphere, these social hostels are the perfect starting point for your Tokyo adventure.
Here are the best hostels in Tokyo, from music bars to rooftop bars, where contacts are easy and the atmosphere is always lively.
1. Citan Hostel: the best for introverts looking to socialise
nihonbashi
The Citan is ideal for travellers who want to socialise in peace rather than party. Although not your typical ‘youth hostel’, it has a fantastic music bar which is particularly lively on Friday nights, attracting locals and backpackers alike. The hostel café is a great place to chat, work or just people-watch. If you’re a bit of an introvert or looking for a more relaxed way to meet people, the Cita is the perfect balance.
are you a little shy? Check out our tips for making friends in hostels, even if you’re an introvert.
2. UNPLAN Shinjuku – The best for social butterflies
📍 Shinjuku
If you want to meet people every night, UNPLAN Shinjuku is the place to be. This friendly hostel offers evening events – from bar nights to film screenings to walking tours – that make it easy to network with fellow travellers. The bar and lounge have a fun and relaxed atmosphere, and its location in the lively Shinjuku district means the party doesn’t stop at the hostel door.
do you like activities? Check out the hostel’s 13 events where you can meet new people in no time.
3. Nui. Hostel & Bar Lounge – The best place for coffee and socialising
📍 Kuramae
Nui. Thehostel is for those who want to be sociable without compromising on cosy ambience. The hostel sits above a chic bar-café open to the public, often packed with creatives, digital nomads and curious locals. On the top floor, you’re likely to find a host of tourists chatting, laughing and meeting up for drinks or dinner in the evening. Nui is the ideal place for travellers looking to get close to the authentic Tokyo scene and make meaningful connections.
4. Toco Guesthouse – The best warm and communal experience
📍 Iriya
If you’re drawn to honest conversation above the chaos of a hostel bar, Guesthouse Toco is a charming, traditional-style hostel with a warm communal soul. The welcoming kitchen is often the point of contact, and the small bar offers another opportunity to meet other travellers. Guests often comment on how ‘homely’ the atmosphere is, and many find it hard to leave. It’s not a party hostel, but it’s full of human contact.
not used to travelling alone? Here’s how to travel alone without feeling lonely.
5. DEN Guesthouse – Ideal for getting together and playing on the roof terrace
nihonbashi
TheDEN hostel offers the perfect blend of social energy and Tokyo style. With games in the communal areas and an open, friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to strike up a conversation. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, ideal for evening drinks, conversation and city views. Centrally located, comfortable and communal, DEN is the best choice for travellers looking to make new friends without the chaos of a hostel.
want to turn strangers into fellow travellers? These hostel tips for solo travellers will help you make lasting connections.
6. GrapeHouse Koenji – Ideal for women travelling alone
📍 Koenji
For women only
For women travelling alone and looking for safety, warmth and community, GrapeHouse Koenji is a hidden gem. This women-only hostel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and guests praise the special energy of the space. It’s not about wild nights, but comfort, support and meaningful connections. Perfect if you want to explore Tokyo and return home each evening to a peaceful and comfortable space.
Tokyo’s hostels are as diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re looking for rooftop beer, late-night chats, music-filled lounges or simply a warm kitchen where you can share stories over tea, there are hostels for every type of traveller. Choose the atmosphere that suits you and let Tokyo (and other hostel travellers) do the rest.
Download the Hostelworld app and start meeting people as soon as you’ve booked your stay
Staying Social in Tokyo? Here’s What Everyone’s Asking 🙋♂️
🧍♀️ Is it easy to make friends in Tokyo hostels if I’m shy?
Yes! Many Tokyo hostels have chill environments where it’s easy to strike up low-pressure conversations, whether it’s over breakfast in the kitchen, during a rooftop hangout, or in a cozy bar. Places like Citan Hostel and Guesthouse Toco are especially great for introverts who want connection without the party atmosphere.
✈️ I’m traveling solo to Tokyo for the first time. Will I feel lonely?
Tokyo is a fantastic destination for solo travellers. Many of the hostels on this list cater specifically to solo guests and create plenty of opportunities for connection. With social events, communal spaces, and shared dorms, it’s easy to meet others, even if you’re exploring the city solo by day.
🎒 What’s the best area in Tokyo for social hostels?
Shinjuku, Nihonbashi, and Kuramae are popular areas for social hostels. Shinjuku is lively and full of nightlife, perfect if you want to party. Nihonbashi and Kuramae offer more relaxed vibes, but still feature great hostels like Hostel DEN, Citan, and Nui. Hostel that draw in sociable crowds.
🛏️ Which Tokyo hostel is best for female solo travellers?
GrapeHouse Koenji is a women-only hostel with a warm, homey atmosphere that’s ideal for solo female travellers. Guests often say it feels like a second home: safe, welcoming, and filled with like-minded people.
🤝 How can I turn hostel strangers into real travel buddies?
Start by hanging out in common areas, joining hostel events, or simply saying hello to your dorm mates. Most people staying in hostels are open to chatting and exploring together.
🤗 Read our solo travel tips on turning strangers into travel buddies
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