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<\/p>\nLooking for an insider\u2019s guide on the best area to stay in Tokyo? We get it, exploring one of the world\u2019s biggest cities can be daunting. But don\u2019t worry, we\u2019ve got the scoop on Tokyo\u2019s coolest neighbourhoods – from buzzing neon lights to crazy Kawaii cuteness.<\/p>\n
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\ud83d\udcf7\u00a0Jezael Melgoza<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n First off, we\u2019re talking about a megacity here, so it would be impossible to discuss every single neighbourhood. We\u2019ll focus on the best places to stay in Tokyo and the best things to do for backpackers. Yep, Tokyo is a perfect backpacking destination. Who wouldn\u2019t want to explore a city where futuristic technology and ancient traditions are a part of everyday life? It\u2019s no secret that the food is some of the best in the world \u2013 flavoursome fresh sushi and flaming hot ramen so spicy it comes with a health warning? Sign us up! The nightlife is every bit as crazy as you might expect, with tiny bars that only fit three people inside and restaurants full of performing robots (but don\u2019t worry, we\u2019ll come to that later). Almost 150 weird and wonderful hostels mean you\u2019ll always have a fun place to stay, that\u2019s kind on your wallet. The awesome Japan Rail Pass<\/a> for tourists makes it easy to explore the country further on a budget too. Sounds like backpacking perfection to us!<\/p>\n Each of Tokyo\u2019s neighbourhoods is like a city in itself, so you\u2019ll want to get all our local tips before choosing where to stay. There\u2019s the bright lights and fast pace of Shibuya, the centre of Kawaii in Harajuku, the wild nightlife of Shinjuku, the old-fashioned charm of Asakusa and the manga mania that\u2019s Akihabara, plus countless other neighbourhoods further off the beaten track. Each area attracts its own quirky subculture, and the different trends you\u2019ll spot around the city are what make Tokyo.<\/p>\n Getting around Tokyo is made possible by an extensive subway system that will become your best friend, once you\u2019ve mastered it. Traffic can be crazy (this includes people traffic, you\u2019ve seen Shibuya crossing right?!) and taxis are expensive, so stick to the underground. Train lines are operated by different companies, which is where it gets confusing \u2013 your best bet is to purchase a rechargeable smart card, as this can be used on all lines. Be prepared for some of the busiest trains you\u2019ve ever seen. As they say in Tokyo, \u201cthere\u2019s always room for one more\u201d!<\/p>\n Ready to discover your favourite bit of Tokyo? Here\u2019s our ultimate neighbourhood guide!<\/p>\n Shibuya: the best area in Tokyo to feel the city’s buzz<\/a><\/p>\n Harajuku: the best area in Tokyo for Kawaii culture<\/a><\/p>\n Shinjuku: the best area in Tokyo for nightlife<\/a><\/p>\n Asakusa: the best area in Tokyo to soak up some history<\/a><\/p>\n Akihabara: the best area in Tokyo to get your geek on<\/a><\/p>\n When you think of Tokyo, the image that comes to mind is probably the colourful neon billboards, towering buildings and huge crowds of people filling the streets of the world-famous Shibuya district. Shibuya is Tokyo\u2019s most energetic neighbourhood where you\u2019ll experience the city\u2019s hustle and bustle at its most intense. It\u2019s partly a commercial area and business hub, and it\u2019s home to the world\u2019s two busiest train stations \u2013 try navigating your way around those after a few too many sakes! At the same time though, it\u2019s creative and cool. Its electric atmosphere, unbeatable vintage shopping, quirky drinking holes and endless cafes and restaurants attract Tokyo\u2019s young and trendy crowd.<\/p>\n There\u2019s so much to discover in Shibuya away from the usual tourist checklist. Half the fun in this hectic neighbourhood comes from just exploring its winding, neon-lit streets and seeing what mad things you stumble upon\u2026 or what random items you can buy from a vending machine!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 Hope Warren<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Probably the most famous spot in Tokyo, no visit to the city is complete without battling your way across Shibuya\u2019s scramble crossing. This multi-way intersection just outside Shibuya station sees up to 1000 pedestrians cross in every direction every few minutes, so if you want to feel Tokyo at its busiest then look no further. This area is every travel photographer\u2019s dream come true, with dazzling billboards and video screens surrounding the never-ending sea of people. Pro tip: for the best photo and video opportunities, head to the roof terrace of the MAGNET shopping complex.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0Timo Volz<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Just around the corner, you can pay your respects to Japan\u2019s favourite dog at the Hachik\u014d Memorial Statue. Hachik\u014d was a Japanese Akita who used to meet his owner at the exit of Shibuya station every day when he finished work. After his owner passed away, Hachik\u014d continued to visit the station every day for nine years\u2026 is there something in our eyes?! He\u2019s become a Japanese legend and is commemorated with a bronze statue in the spot he used to wait.<\/p>\n Shibuya is a shopper\u2019s paradise. One of the most popular streets, Centre Gai, is lined with eclectic shops and pachinko (pinball) parlours and is THE hang-out spot for Tokyo\u2019s young Gyaru subculture. The street also hosts regular parties and celebrations, and when Japan are competing in any international sporting event you can expect Centre Gai to erupt!<\/p>\n Speaking of shopping, do not miss the bright yellow, cartoonish building that houses Tower Records<\/a>, Japan\u2019s largest music store. Browsing all nine stories of this legendary institution is a must for music lovers in Tokyo, and if you\u2019re lucky you might even catch a J-Pop gig in the basement!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0@_ivy.wang<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n For an authentic night out in Shibuya, head to Nonbei Yokocho. This narrow, lantern-lit alleyway is jam-packed with tiny restaurants and intimate izakaya pubs that only fit a few people. Even the language barrier doesn\u2019t stop friendships forming in these close quarters! For something a little less\u2026traditional, check out Fight Club 428<\/a>. Your typical bar may not have a live boxing ring in the middle, but on a Tokyo night out anything goes!<\/p>\n Being Tokyo\u2019s busiest neighbourhood, you might expect Shibuya\u2019s dining options to be off the chain \u2013 and you\u2019d be right! From humble vending machines serving hot tins of soup to exclusive Michelin starred restaurants, Shibuya\u2019s got it all. Word of advice: start practising those chopstick skills now.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re after delicious sushi for a great price, head\u2026 well, pretty much anywhere. This is one thing you won\u2019t struggle to find in Tokyo! In Shibuya, you can\u2019t go wrong with Sushi-Go-Round on Dogenkaza. Not only do you get the quintessential Japanese experience of grabbing plates of freshly rolled sushi from a conveyor belt, it also gets rid of any awkwardness caused by trying to understand the menu, as long as you\u2019re adventurous. Plus, it\u2019s budget-friendly.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 Hope Warren<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n To satisfy your sweet tooth, try The World\u2019s Second Best Freshly Baked Melon Pan Ice Cream. Yep, that really is the name of the shop \u2013 the owner named it so because he says that the woman who taught him to make it is the best in the world, therefore he\u2019s second best! If you haven\u2019t tried this Japanese delicacy, you\u2019re in for a treat. The melon pan is a sweet, warm bun that\u2019s soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. It\u2019s served with ice cream or whipped cream sandwiched in the middle for a decadent snack.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0@garciajohnnico<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n For seriously cheap eats in Shibuya, burger chain Mos Burger is your new best friend. There are a few of these dotted around the city serving up fast food favourites with a Japanese twist, but what\u2019s special about the Shibuya branch is that they also serve bargain booze. You can grab a beer or glass of wine for \u00a5400, or about \u00a32.70 \u2013 very cheap by Tokyo standards.<\/p>\n Shibuya may be known for its \u2018love hotels\u2019, but don\u2019t worry, we\u2019ve got hostels that are more backpacker-friendly and less X-rated! If you want to stay in the heart of Tokyo\u2019s most buzzing neighbourhood while making sure you don\u2019t dip into your all-important ramen budget, we\u2019ve got the places for you.<\/p>\n A futuristic capsule hostel where you can control the facilities in your pod by a device you\u2019re given at check-in\u2026 could The Millennials Shibuya<\/a> be<\/em> any more Tokyo? Not only is the concept awesome, it\u2019s super social and perfect for solo travellers, with plenty of common areas and a 24-hour bar that serves unlimited free beer for an hour every night. It\u2019s got the perfect atmosphere balance for anyone who\u2019s looking to make friends, without being too rowdy.<\/p>\n Now, if you are looking for more of a party hostel, Wise Owl Hostel Shibuya<\/a> might be right up your street. Their epic 24-hour bar\/coffee shop opens out onto the street, so whether you\u2019re necking cocktails or recovering with a matcha latte it\u2019s a great spot to hang out and people watch. Their happy hour runs from 4-7, and you can get whisky sodas for \u00a5300, or \u00a32! It\u2019s also within walking distance to Shibuya\u2019s best bars and clubs, so when you want to continue the party you won\u2019t have to worry about missing the last train home or expensive taxis.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Even though it sits within the Shibuya district, Harajuku is a neighbourhood so unique, so iconic and so downright crazy that we think it\u2019s more than deserving of its own section in this guide. It\u2019s the hub of Kawaii culture in Japan, which is literally the love of all things adorable \u2013 prepare to enter a whole new world of cuteness!<\/p>\n The pastel-coloured streets of Harajuku are lined with cosplay stores and quirky boutiques where you can kit yourself out in the latest Kawaii trends. The young people who hang out on Takeshita Street are world-famous for their street style, so you\u2019ll never be short of inspo \u2013 the more colourful, cartoonish and over the top, the better! Expect to see anime characters and cute mascots everywhere too, from street art to cuddly toys and life-sized models. Even the food in Harajuku is precious \u2013 between rainbow cotton candy and bunny rabbits made of ice-cream, it can be hard to put your camera away long enough to eat anything!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0@emmyb987<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Harajuku is wacky, weird and wonderful\u2026 and there\u2019s nowhere else quite like it.<\/p>\n The first thing you need to do in Harajuku is take a stroll down its main shopping avenue, Takeshita Street \u2013 what are you laughing at?! This street is the epitome of Kawaii and browsing through some of the independent boutiques will get you acquainted with Harajuku culture, plus give you the chance to grab some pretty sweet souvenirs. We\u2019re talking unique clothing items like fluffy platform boots, lollipop earrings and pink tutus (all the essentials), plus loads of vintage bits and bobs like retro Barbies, Furbys and My Little Ponies \u2013 kitsch heaven!<\/p>\n Harajuku fashion<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7 Hope Warren<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n When you\u2019ve shopped till you\u2019ve dropped, grab a coffee from one of Takeshita\u2019s cutesy cafes, sit outside and just watch the world go by. There\u2019s never a dull moment on this street! Just make sure you have your camera in hand, as you never know when Hello Kitty might stroll around the corner\u2026<\/p>\n If you need a break from the craziness, Yoyogi Park, Tokyo\u2019s largest green space, is just behind Harajuku metro station. This 134-acre beauty is a spot of total serenity within the hectic city, with vast fields, blooming botanicals and sparkling lakes. On Sundays this is where Tokyo\u2019s Rockabilly subculture hangs out, dancing to 1950s music in their leather jackets and quiffed hair. If you\u2019re lucky enough to visit Tokyo in spring, you\u2019ll get to see the pink cherry blossoms in bloom all over the park. Bucket list goals!<\/p>\n Also in the park is Meiji Jingu, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji. It\u2019s set within a dense green forest where you\u2019ll see plenty of locals relaxing, exercising and spending time with their families. The shrine is easily spotted by its huge wooden archway, which visitors say they feel peaceful immediately after passing through.<\/p>\n Meiji Jingu<\/em>\u00a0\ud83d\udcf7\u00a0Erik Eastman<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Part restaurant, part immersive theatrical experience \u2013 when in Harajuku you must pay a visit to the Kawaii Monster Caf\u00e9<\/a>. Stepping through the monster\u2019s mouth into this insane caf\u00e9 is like entering a parallel universe. There are five themed rooms, including the \u2018Sweets Go Round\u2019, a working carousel that\u2019s shaped like a big birthday cake and hosts live dance performances every 30 minutes, and the \u2018Mushroom Disco\u2019 where you can enjoy your lunch inside giant rainbow-coloured toadstools. The food is equally nuts \u2013 candy salads, seven-coloured spaghetti and chocolate chicken are on the menu. And of course, prepare to be served by a monster \u2013 but this is Harajuku, so even they\u2019re adorable!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0@la__mena<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Cheap eat alert: if you\u2019re not afraid to queue, you can try what have been called Tokyo\u2019s best gyozas at Harajuku Gyozaru. A bold claim indeed, but the constant flow of locals in and out of this no-frills eatery speaks for itself. There are just two options, crispy fried or gooey steamed, and a portion of 6 costs \u00a5300 (\u00a32).<\/p>\n Takeshita Street is famous for its crepes, and you can\u2019t miss the bright pink shopfronts with their huge displays showing every kind of crepe they sell (side note: when you return home from Japan you\u2019ll probably find it hard to order at a restaurant without seeing your meal made of plastic first). For something seriously indulgent, try cheesecake smothered in cream and wrapped in a pancake from Santa Monica Crepes. Hey, calories don\u2019t count when we\u2019re on holiday!<\/p>\n Did someone say all you can eat desserts? Yeah, Caf\u00e9 Ron Ron<\/a> did! Not only is this one of the prettiest cafes we\u2019ve ever seen, the desserts are out of this world AND get brought right to your seat via a conveyor belt. Eat your fill of beautiful sweets, including chocolate cupcakes, candy floss, macarons and fruity jellies. Totally worth the sugar-induced coma that you\u2019ll leave in.<\/p>\n Though there aren\u2019t (yet) any hostels in the heart of Harajuku, there are several to choose from in nearby parts of Shibuya if you don\u2019t want to be far from the Kawaii madness!<\/p>\n You\u2019ll find Almond Hostel & Caf\u00e9<\/a> on the other side of Yoyogi Park, an easy walk from Takeshita Street. Just like the park, the vibe at this hostel is peaceful and laid-back, so it\u2019s perfect for couples, digital nomads or anyone wanting a quiet stay. It\u2019s got a stylish coffee shop and co-working space downstairs where you can meet other travellers and plan your days, comfy capsule-style dorms for added privacy and spotless bathroom facilities. They even rent out skateboards so you can cruise Yoyogi Park in style (or publicly humiliate yourself, who knows?)<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 Almond Hostel & Cafe<\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Remember how we spoke about the buzzing, neon-glowing streets of Shibuya? Well Shinjuku isn\u2019t all that different \u2013 these two electric neighbourhoods just a few kilometres apart are like two sides of the same coin. Just think of Shinjuku as Shibuya\u2019s wild, rebellious sibling and you\u2019ll get the idea. \ud83d\ude09<\/p>\n As Asia\u2019s largest entertainment district, there is always something going on in Shinjuku. The fun literally never stops in this intense 24-hour zone. It\u2019s not unusual for shopping malls, restaurants and even cinemas to be open all night long \u2013 and packed full at that! If you arrive in the middle of the night and realise you forgot your toothbrush\/phone charger\/Pok\u00e9mon cosplay, there\u2019s nothing you can\u2019t pick up from a Shinjuku department store at 3am.<\/p>\n But what Shinjuku is really famous for is partying. It doesn\u2019t matter if it\u2019s in tiny dive bars or exclusive nightclubs, if it goes all night it\u2019s a real Shinjuku party. This is Japan\u2019s nightlife capital and things tend to get messy. A tip for you: don\u2019t try and keep up with the locals\u2019 sak\u00e9 drinking abilities. It will end badly!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 Hope Warren<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n It\u2019s only right to start a list of things to do in Shinjuku by telling you where you should head for the best nightlife. There are more bars and clubs around than you can shake a stick at, but to drink with the locals in some seriously cool establishments, head to Golden Gai. This tight maze of streets is home to dozens of tiny drinking dens, most of which only sit 4-5 people and offer a no-frills, authentic Japanese experience. Just walk round and see which ones take your fancy \u2013 they\u2019re pretty random and sometimes themed around anything from horror movies to punk rock. Some will ask a cover charge and some only accept locals, so finding the best is pot luck and all part of the fun!<\/p>\n Sake sippin’ in Golden Gai<\/em> \ud83d\udcf7 Hope Warren<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Tokyo\u2019s red light district, Kabukich\u014d, is also in Shinjuku. You can\u2019t miss the flashing red archway that leads to its main street. Expect seedy bars galore, but visit for the absolutely unmissable Robot Restaurant<\/a>. Yes, you heard that right. Only in Japan! As you munch on a bento box, a 90-minute show will unfold that involves lasers, ear-popping J-Pop and ginormous dancing robots. We won\u2019t give anything else away, but make sure you add this to your Tokyo itinerary.<\/p>\n Kabukicho\u00a0\ud83d\udcf7 Manuel Velasquez<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If you haven\u2019t got a chance to swing by Seoul on your Asian adventure, head to Shin Okubu, Tokyo\u2019s Koreatown, for the next best thing. Get your dose of Korean culture with real-deal Korean BBQ restaurants and K-pop venues, plus you can load up your backpack with Korean beauty products for a bargain!<\/p>\n Pssst\u2026 did you know you can get a panoramic view of Tokyo from 200 metres high without spending a penny? Head to the observation decks of the Metropolitan Government Building<\/a> for a jaw-dropping view that costs big \u00a3\u00a3 elsewhere in the city. It\u2019s open till 11pm and a sunset visit is highly recommended. Just don\u2019t forget your camera!<\/p>\n Does the phrase \u2018Piss Alley\u2019 get your tummy rumbling? Err no, us either, but stick with us here. This street by Shinjuku station\u2019s west exit, officially known as Omoide Yokocho, squeezes together lots of tiny bars and cheap restaurants, a bit like Golden Gai. It\u2019s known for its street food, particularly yakitori which is skewered, barbecued meat \u2013 you\u2019ll smell it as soon as you enter the alley! Skewers cost less than \u00a31 so don\u2019t be shy. And if you\u2019re feeling adventurous, there\u2019s a hole-in-the-wall that sells grilled horse penis\u2026<\/p>\n ‘Piss Alley<\/em>‘\u00a0\ud83d\udcf7\u00a0 Chris Yang<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Ramen competition in Tokyo is pretty tough, but Fu-unji by Shinjuku station is approved by the strictest purists. They\u2019re famous for their tsukemen \u2013 a kind of ramen where the noodles are served separately for dipping in the broth. The specialty dish costs \u00a51000 (about \u00a36.50), and you order on a machine as you enter\u2026very Tokyo! This little down-to-earth spot looks unassuming from the outside, but you\u2019ll be able to spot it by the queue. Don\u2019t worry, it\u2019s worth it.<\/p>\n As much as we love Japanese food, for stubborn sugar cravings you need to check out Caf\u00e9 Aaliya. The signature French toast in this underground caf\u00e9 is nothing short of legendary. Thick and chunky, soft and gooey with a caramelised coating that melts in the mouth\u2026 we\u2019re drooling just thinking about it! You can choose between cream, ice cream and a range of toppings and sauces to finish it off. That\u2019s our kind of brunch!<\/p>\n Let\u2019s be honest, you probably won\u2019t do that much sleeping in Shinjuku \u2013 there\u2019s too much going on and no one wants a case of the dreaded FOMO. But you\u2019ll still need somewhere to stash your backpack, meet up with other travellers and probably recover from your Golden Gai hangover. That\u2019s where these hostels come in! Stay at one of these if you don\u2019t want to worry about missing the last train home (or waiting for the first one in the morning).<\/p>\n Unplan Shinjuku<\/a> is one for the cool kids. Stylish minimal design, gallery space, basement bar and coffee shop\u2026this hostel ticks all the trendy boxes. Its best features though are its top-notch, modern facilities. They\u2019ve really thought of everything, including free \u2018travel buddy\u2019 smart phones in every pod bed that you can take out and explore the city with to avoid roaming fees. We\u2019ve seen the future of hostels, and we like it!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 Unplan Shinjuku<\/em><\/p>\n A great spot for solo travellers in Shinjuku is Imano Tokyo Hostel<\/a>. The atmosphere is perfect for meeting other backpackers, especially in the bar \u2013 cheap beer always helps, as do the awesome events they host like takoyaki cooking classes.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for somewhere zen to chill out amid Shinjuku\u2019s craziness then you\u2019ll love Hikari House<\/a>. It\u2019s a guesthouse run by a local family, so you can expect warm, homely vibes. It also has the major bonus of being located in Koreatown, an area that\u2019s quickly becoming one of Tokyo\u2019s trendiest spots.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Tokyo is a city of many faces – it\u2019s not all flashing billboards and hustle and bustle you know! For a taste of old Tokyo, head to the historic neighbourhood of Asakusa where the pace is very different. It\u2019s home to the city\u2019s oldest Buddhist temple, a towering Shinto shrine and plenty of peaceful, green spaces, so it\u2019s the perfect area to explore if you need a break from the bright lights. You might feel like you\u2019ve travelled back in time as you wander through side streets, past izakaya pubs, calligraphed signs and kimono-clad women, but look up and you\u2019ll spot skyscrapers like the Asahi beer tower and Tokyo Sky Tree. This blend of old and new is one of the things that makes Tokyo so exciting, and nowhere is it more obvious than Asakusa.<\/p>\n Asakusa has some of Tokyo\u2019s most famous sights, delicious food (obviously), amazing hostels and a vibe that\u2019s totally unique\u2026 what\u2019s not to love?!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 Manki Kim<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n The most famous thing to do in Asakusa is visit the magnificent Sens\u014d-ji, Tokyo\u2019s oldest temple. This icon was built over 1300 years ago and is instantly recognisable by the massive red lantern that hangs from its gate. It somehow manages to feel serene and spiritual despite being one of Tokyo\u2019s most popular attractions, but if you are worried about crowds it\u2019s best to visit in early morning or evening. Don\u2019t leave without having your fortune told by the ancient Buddhist act of kau cim \u2013 you shake a bucket until a stick comes out, then match the number of your stick to a slot in the wall that will contain your fate. The results are in, and we have travel in our future\u2026<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0Jeremy Stenuit<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If you want to shop for traditional Japanese trinkets, Asakusa has you sorted. Nakamise Dori, the street than runs up to Sens\u014d-ji, is lined with dozens of vendors in beautiful stalls that copy the architecture of the temple. Disclaimer: don\u2019t expect to feel the zen Sens\u014d-ji vibes here \u2013 like any Asian market it\u2019s loud and chaotic, but that\u2019s what makes it fun! Just around the corner, Nishi-sando is a covered shopping arcade with half the tourists. In here you\u2019ll find authentic kimonos and Samurai clothing, plus lots of hole-in-the-wall ramen restaurants for some amazing cheap eats.<\/p>\n Nakamise Dori<\/em>\u00a0\ud83d\udcf7 Hope Warren<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n For a way cooler (and cheaper) day out than Tokyo Disneyland, why not visit Japan\u2019s oldest amusement park? Hanayashiki has been operating in Asakusa for over 150 years. It feels as though it\u2019s been frozen in time, creating an aesthetic that\u2019s equal parts cute and creepy – its vintage fairground rides and retro carnival games have serious photography potential. Entrance to the park is only \u00a51000, which is less than \u00a37 \u2013 you won\u2019t be meeting Mickey on that budget!<\/p>\n We already mentioned shopping on Nakamise Dori, but this also happens to be the best place in Asakusa to get your hands on some street food. The vendors here sell all sorts of yummy snacks, from squidgy dumplings to sweet potato jelly, but you really need to try Ningyo Yaki, AKA doll cake. These little sponge cakes are filled with a sickly sweet azuki bean paste, and in classic Japanese style are pressed into all sorts of cute shapes, like teddy bears and dolls. Kawaii AND delicious!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0@martin.konyx<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If you\u2019re not all sugared out, head over to Suzukien to try \u2018the most intense matcha gelato in the world\u2019. This ice cream parlour has gained a bit of a cult following thanks to its seven variations of matcha (green tea) infused gelato. Matcha newbies can start with number one, the mildest, lightest option, but only hardcore matcha-heads dare to try the bright green hues of number seven. Mix and match two scoops to balance it out.<\/p>\n Soba is a bit of a specialty in Asakusa, so when you\u2019re in the neighbourhood make sure you get your noodle fix. There are soba restaurants all over the place, but a local fave that you can rely on is Namiki Yabusoba. Enter through traditional sliding doors and dine legs-crossed on the floor \u2013 there are no forks hidden away here! The noodles are tasty, the broth is delicious and the tempura is next-level crispy.<\/p>\n At the end of a long day\u2019s exploring, make like the local workers and hang out in the down-to-earth izakaya bars of Hoppy Street. The street gets its nickname from Hoppy, the cheap alcoholic drink that\u2019s served in all of its bars. They also all serve their own version of \u2018nikomi\u2019, a hearty and filling beef stew that\u2019ll fill you up for cheap – enjoy it outside on ramshackle tables while you bump elbows with the regulars.<\/p>\n Hoppy Street<\/em>\u00a0\ud83d\udcf7\u00a0Chris Chan<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If you\u2019re loving the sound of Asakusa then you\u2019re in luck, as this is the area of Tokyo with the most hostels. It\u2019s cheaper to stay here than in the buzzier neighbourhoods and there are plenty of budget dining options, plus the vibe is way more laid-back and backpacker friendly.<\/p>\n Sakura Hostel Asakusa<\/a> is perfect for solo travellers, with loads of group events to join in with including Geisha shows, sushi rolling classes, Japanese calligraphy lessons and sumo wrestling \u2013 that\u2019s watching, not competing! The location couldn\u2019t be more perfect, just a short walk from Sens\u014d-ji and Nakamise Dori so you can make sure you beat the crowds. Plus they do an epic all you can eat breakfast spread for \u00a5350 (\u00a32.50), what a bargain!<\/p>\n Hostel Bedgasm<\/a> know how to get the party started, with free drinks every night in the bar and an epic rooftop terrace where backpackers hang out after their adventures, so it\u2019s easy to meet people. In case you\u2019re wondering, the concept of Bedgasm is \u2018a feeling of euphoria when climbing into bed at the end of a long day\u2019 \u2013 we can relate!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 The cosy bar at Hostel Bedgasm<\/em><\/p>\n For an authentic guesthouse experience, check out Sukeroku-no-yado Sadachiyo<\/a>. This beautiful ryokan is decorated with Japanese antiques and there are no beds, only traditional tatami mats. All rooms are private, with en-suites and tea brewing facilities, but there\u2019s also a large granite public bath which one of our guests described as \u201cmagical\u201d. Stay here to be transported back in time to the Edo era.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Have we died and gone to nerd heaven? Nowhere else on earth is as dedicated to all things geek as Tokyo\u2019s Akihabara. It\u2019s the birthplace of Otaku culture, which is an obsession with, among other things, manga, anime, electronics and gaming \u2013 trust us, you\u2019ll be pretty familiar after a few hours in this \u2018hood!<\/p>\n The area gained its nickname \u2018Electric Town\u2019 when it started selling electronics after WW2, and nowadays there\u2019s no bit of tech that you can\u2019t find here, with multi-storey electronics shops on every street. Chuo Dori, the neighbourhood\u2019s main shopping street, is lit up by the glowing neon lights of arcades and pachinko parlours, so if you\u2019re a gamer you\u2019ll be right at home. Everywhere you look you\u2019ll spot people cosplaying as popular comic book characters, and Tokyo\u2019s Otaku\u2019s hanging out around the many anime and manga stores. If there was ever a place to embrace your inner nerd, this is it!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7 IQRemix<\/a> on Flickr<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Akihabara is a world-class shopping hub, and the first store you need to hit up is Mandarake<\/a>, the biggest manga and anime store in the world. This place is INSANE, with eight stories selling every comic book and every bit of merch you could ever dream of, including a whole floor dedicated to vintage video games. Prepare to feel the nostalgia as you browse through Nintendo 64 and SNES classics! There aren\u2019t many souvenirs cooler to take home than a rare find from Mandarake.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0IQRemix<\/a> on Flickr<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n You\u2019ll probably be in the mood for a spot of gaming after this, so head to one of Akihabara\u2019s famous arcades. If you\u2019re an old-school gamer, Super Potato is the place for you, with retro options like Super Mario Bros., Pacman and the Legend of Zelda available to play. For a bigger selection, Club SEGA is king – you can\u2019t miss its iconic red facade on Chuo Dori. Aside from spending what will probably turn into hours playing Sonic The Hedgehog, you can also experience VR gaming \u2013 not for the faint hearted.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0IQRemix<\/a> on Flickr<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Okay, this next one is nuts even for Tokyo. What if we told you that you could dress up as your favourite Super Mario character and race through the streets of Akihabara on a go-kart? Well, if you\u2019ve got a valid driving license and a spare \u00a360 in your budget, Maricar<\/a> will make your wildest Mario Kart dreams come true. Oh Tokyo, how we love you and your bonkers ways. Please note that you will need an international driving permit to take part, but if you have a licence you can easily apply for one of these for free before your trip.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re lucky enough to visit when the Mottainai Flea Market<\/a> is in town then you\u2019re in for a treat. This market is all about environmentalism and reducing waste to counter Japan\u2019s consumerist culture. You can pick up cheap vintage clothes, as well as second hand books, records and games. Look here to find out market dates<\/a>.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0IQRemix<\/a> on Flickr<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Another thing Akihabara is famous for is its crazy themed cafes. There are loads to choose from, but one of the highlights is the AKB48 Caf\u00e9 & Shop<\/a>, dedicated to everyone\u2019s favourite 48 member strong Japanese girl band of the same name. Visit to immerse yourself in hardcore J-pop fandom\u2026 it\u2019s pretty intense! Screens all over the cafe show the band\u2019s music videos and live performances and they even serve the girl\u2019s favourite dishes, so you can pretend you ARE an AKB48er\u2026 Other themed cafes have more of an Otaku vibe, like the Final Fantasy Caf\u00e9, where the attention to detail in the decor, and dishes like dragon eyes sushi and ninja cocktails will impress fans of the legendary game. There\u2019s also the Gundam Caf\u00e9<\/a>, based on a well-known anime series about a giant robot that\u2019s a huge part of Japanese pop culture.<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0@magdalenwidjaja<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n If you\u2019re a sucker for adorable desserts, then you\u2019ve probably realised by now you\u2019ll be in heaven in Tokyo. The freshly baked cheese tarts from\u00a0Pablo Mini<\/a>\u00a0taste every bit as good as they look. If you pass by the serving hatch of their cute yellow brick store outside the station, be sure to grab something \u2013 you won\u2019t regret it! The cherry mochi flavour is heavenly, as is the matcha and the strawberry\u2026 who are we kidding, we\u2019ll take one of everything!<\/p>\n \ud83d\udcf7\u00a0@alanwayne<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n Akihabara is also a hotspot for great ramen joints. Close to the station, Menya Musashi Iwatora is known for its rich, flavoursome ramen that\u2019s topped with huge chunks of crispy chashu pork and a soft boiled egg\u2026 is it lunch time yet? It\u2019s one of the most popular spots in the neighbourhood and a bowl of their signature stuff only costs about \u00a37 \u2013 you and your wallet can thank us later.<\/p>\n If after reading this, you\u2019re now sure there\u2019s an Otaku inside of you and you\u2019re ready to connect with the rest of your tribe, you\u2019re gonna need to stay in Akihabara! Tokyo\u2019s Electric Town has some epic budget-friendly hostels where your geekiest self will feel right at home.<\/p>\n &And Hostel<\/a> is one of them. Technology is at the forefront of this \u2018smart hostel\u2019, but in Akihabara are you really surprised? Bathroom, dorm and common room facilities are all super-modern, but most importantly you\u2019ll be given a device that can control various facilities throughout your stay, such as check-in, air conditioning, security and \u2018sleep management\u2019. We\u2019re not entirely sure what that last one means, so you\u2019ll have to stay to find out \ud83d\ude09.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re travelling solo, GRIDS Hostel Akihabara<\/a> is a solid choice. You can hang out with travellers from around the world in the cool bar and lounge downstairs, and the outdoor terrace is the perfect place to spend Tokyo summer nights. GRIDS has all the social atmosphere of a party hostel with the added bonus of private, capsule-style dorms that mean you\u2019ll always get a good night\u2019s sleep.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We hope that after reading our insider guide you\u2019re feeling equipped to take on Tokyo, and now know which neighbourhood is the hood for you. #YouGotThis! It doesn\u2019t matter if you love the buzz of Shibuya, embrace Kawaii in Harajuku, party your socks off in Shinjuku, take it easy in Asakusa or channel your inner Otaku in Akihabara, one thing\u2019s for sure\u2026 your trip to Tokyo will be one you\u2019ll never forget!<\/p>\n Now it\u2019s time to put these plans into action\u2026 check out our full list of hostels in Tokyo<\/a> to get the ball rolling!<\/p>\nJump straight to:<\/h2>\n
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![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Where-to-stay-in-Tokyo-875x875.png\")
<\/p>\n1. Shibuya \u2013 the best area in Tokyo to feel the city\u2019s buzz<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Where-to-stay-in-Tokyo-Shibuya-657x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhat to do in Shibuya<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Shibuya-Crossing.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Shibuya-@_ivy.wang-Tower-Records-875x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPlaces to eat in Shibuya<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-eat-in-Shibuya_Sushi-go-round-875x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-eat-in-Shibuya-melon-pan-ice-cream-@garciajohnnico-875x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nBest hostels in Shibuya<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Best-hostels-in-Shibuya-Wise-Owls.jpg\")
<\/p>\n2. Harajuku \u2013 the best area in Tokyo for Kawaii culture<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Where-to-stay-in-Tokyo-@emmyb987-Harajuku-875x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhat to do in Harajuku<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Harajuku-shopping.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Harajuku-Meiji-Jinju-shrine.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPlaces to eat in Harajuku<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Harajuku-@la__mena-Kawaii-Monster-Cafe-700x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Harajuku-from-old-blog-post.jpg\")
<\/p>\nBest hostels in Harajuku <\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Best-hostels-in-Harajuku-Almond-Hostel-and-Cafe.jpg\")
<\/p>\n3. Shinjuku – the best area in Tokyo for nightlife<\/h2>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Where-to-stay-in-Tokyo-Shinjuku.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhat to do in Shinjuku<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Shinjuku-Golden-Gai.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Shinjuku-Kabukicho.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPlaces to eat in Shinjuku<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-eat-in-Shinjuku-Piss-Alley-584x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nBest hostels in Shinjuku <\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Best-hostels-in-Shinjuku-Unplan.jpg\")
<\/p>\n4. Asakusa – the best area in Tokyo to soak up some history<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-stay-in-Tokyo-Asakusa.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhat to do in Asakusa <\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/What-to-do-in-Asaukusa-Senso-ji.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Things-to-do-in-Asakusa-Nakamise-shopping-street.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPlaces to eat in Asakusa <\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-eat-in-Asakusa-Ningyo-Yaki-@martin.konyx_.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-eat-in-Asakusa-Hoppy-Street.jpg\")
<\/p>\nBest hostels in Asakusa <\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Best-hostels-in-Asakusa-Hostel-Bedgasm.jpg\")
<\/p>\n5. Akihabara – the best area in Tokyo to get your geek on<\/b><\/h2>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Where-to-stay-in-Tokyo-Akihabara.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhat to do in Akihabara<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/What-to-do-in-Akihabara.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/What-to-do-in-Akihabara-Club-Sega.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/What-to-do-in-Akihabara-arcades.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPlaces to eat in Akihabara<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-eat-in-Akihabara-@magdawidjaja-Gundam-Cafe-700x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Places-to-eat-in-Akihabara-@alanwayne-Pablo-Mini-875x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nBest hostels in Akihabara<\/b><\/h3>\n
![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Best-hostels-in-Akihabara-And-Hostel.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"Where](\"https:\/\/www.hostelworld.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Where-to-stay-in-Tokyo-neighbourhood-guide-657x875.jpg\")
<\/p>\nWhere to next?<\/b><\/h2>\n
\ud83c\udf1f\u00a0The 13 best hostels in Tokyo<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n
\ud83c\udf1f\u00a0Bullet trains, blossoms and bento boxes: the ultimate guide to backpacking Japan<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n
\ud83c\udf1f\u00a0Where to stay in Kyoto: a neighbourhood guide<\/b><\/a><\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":59,"featured_media":136467,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"hw_related":"[{\"id\":25197,\"score\":0.814999999999999946709294817992486059665679931640625,\"hook\":\"\"},{\"id\":45681,\"score\":0.80120000000000002327027459614328108727931976318359375,\"hook\":\"\"},{\"id\":1294464,\"score\":0.8002000000000000223820961764431558549404144287109375,\"hook\":\"\"},{\"id\":13666,\"score\":0.73309999999999997388755446081631816923618316650390625,\"hook\":\"\"},{\"id\":13237,\"score\":0.72309999999999996500577026381506584584712982177734375,\"hook\":\"\"},{\"id\":4453,\"score\":0.6933000000000000273558953267638571560382843017578125,\"hook\":\"\"}]","footnotes":""},"categories":[9473],"tags":[264393,264397,264453,264335,264361],"class_list":["post-117090","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-travel-tips","tag-asia","tag-japan","tag-tokyo","tag-travel-guides","tag-where-to-stay","wpbf-post"],"yoast_head":"\n