NEW! 9 Best Budget Hotels in Tokyo – Affordable Comfort in Prime Locations

Don’t let Tokyo’s reputation for expensive hotels put you off – my guide reveals the city’s excellent budget accommodation scene that most visitors never discover.

After thorough research and informed by my decades of visiting Tokyo, these hotels combine Japanese high standards of service with creative design, offering experiences that rival their pricier counterparts. You’ll find carefully vetted options that deliver exceptional value without compromising on comfort or location.

From converted traditional houses to contemporary hostels with a twist, I’ve curated this list of 9 of the best budget hotels in Tokyo based on two simple criteria: exceptional guest reviews rated 8/10 on or higher on Booking.com, while maintaining prices under ¥15,000 per night.

Located in the heart of Japan’s largest island Honshu, Tokyo blends urban excitement with unexpected pockets of affordability, making it affordable if it’s comfort without the luxury price tag you’re after. As this megalopolis continues to adapt to ever more diverse visitor needs, its budget hotel scene has evolved to offer surprisingly high-quality accommodation that rivals mid-range options in other major cities.

Whether you’re planning to explore the traditional Tokyo vibe of Asakusa, immerse yourself in Akihabara’s geek culture, or simply want a comfortable base for exploring Tokyo, choosing the right budget hotel can transform your Tokyo experience from adequate to exceptional.

From renovated warehouses and boutique hostels to reliable Japanese chain hotels with modern amenities, I’ve curated a list of nine of the most exceptional budget hotels, each of which has a customer rating of at least 8 out of 10 on Booking.com. and can be booked for ¥15,000 per night or less.

SEE ALSO: How Much Does It Cost to Spend a Day in Tokyo?

You won’t find some well-known budget chains like APA Hotels or Toyoko Inn on this list. While these offer reasonable budget accommodation across Tokyo, none of their properties achieve a guest rating of 8 out of 10 or higher. Many hover around 7.5 – which falls below my usual standard when choosing or recommending hotels.

But even though all the hotels included here are rated 8 or higher by guests, there are some very affordable options offering excellent value for money. All those included here can be booked for less than ¥15,000 per night.

Tokyo, often perceived as one of the world’s most expensive cities, actually offers a surprising array of affordable accommodation options that don’t compromise on comfort or convenience. Particularly when compared with other international capital cities.

As Japan’s capital continues to evolve to meet the different needs of an increasingly diverse range of travellers, it has developed an impressive selection of budget-friendly hotels that cater to cost-conscious visitors, if you know where to find them. And they do this while maintaining the high standards of cleanliness and service that Japan is famous for.

What sets Tokyo apart as a budget destination is its ability to offer affordable accommodation without sacrificing the essentials that make a stay comfortable. You can find clean, well-located hotels with friendly staff and modern amenities without breaking the bank.

Here’s my current pick of 9 of the best budget hotels in Tokyo, each rated 8/10 or higher by genuine guests, where you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay without excessive costs.

UNPLAN Kagurazaka stands out as a great example of of Tokyo’s modern budget accommodation in the capital’s charming Kagurazaka district (sometimes referred to as Tokyo’s ‘little Paris’), offering an impressive blend of comfort and affordability.

Located just a 3-minute walk from Kagurazaka Station, this thoughtfully designed hotel features private rooms with clever space utilisation and essential amenities.

The property’s greatest strength lies in its communal spaces and innovative facilities. You can enjoy a complimentary breakfast in the stylish common kitchen, while the rooftop terrace provides a peaceful retreat with views of the local neighborhood.

The hotel’s modern design incorporates traditional Japanese elements, creating an atmosphere that feels both contemporary and authentic. With its prime location and unwavering commitment to guest comfort, UNPLAN Kagurazaka has established itself as one of Tokyo’s finest budget accommodation options.

Wise Owl Hostels Tokyo perfectly balances style with affordability in the historic Hatchobori district. Housed in a converted warehouse, this property masterfully blends industrial design elements with comfortable modern amenities.

The property offers well-designed private rooms featuring custom-built wooden furnishings and premium mattresses. The standout feature is the ground floor café-bar, which serves as both a trendy local coffee spot by day and a casual bar by night.

Located just 3 minutes from Hatchobori Station, this hotel provides excellent access to both Tokyo’s business district and major tourist areas. The shared kitchen facilities are impressively equipped, while the rooftop terrace offers a peaceful space for morning coffee or evening relaxation.

Japanese chain group Mystays has established itself with modern hotels featuring distinctive interiors at very affordable prices.

Located just a 5-minute walk from Akasaka Subway Station (Chiyoda Line), Hotel Mystays Premier Akasaka offers modern, well-equipped rooms with free WiFi. Each air-conditioned room includes a flat-screen TV, fridge, electric kettle, air purifier, complimentary nightwear, slippers, and toiletries. All en suite bathrooms feature bathtubs and hairdryers.

After exploring Tokyo, you can unwind on the terrace or enjoy a relaxing massage. The hotel provides 24-hour front desk service, free luggage storage, an on-site fitness center and restaurant. A convenience store is conveniently located on the ground floor, with plenty of dining options within a 5-minute walk.

Major attractions like the Mori Art Museum, Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Tower (a personal favourite of mine) are approximately 25 minutes away by public transport, while Haneda Airport is a 50-minute train ride. With a couples’ rating of 8.7, this hotel is particularly praised for its excellent location.

Nui. Hostel & Bar Lounge stands out in Tokyo’s budget accommodation scene for its nice balance of social atmosphere and comfortable privacy. Located in the traditional Kuramae neighbourhood, this converted warehouse space maintains its industrial charm while offering modern comforts.

The property features thoughtfully designed private rooms, each equipped with comfortable beds and personal reading lights. The real highlight is the ground floor bar lounge, housed in a dramatic double-height space that serves as a popular gathering spot for both passing travellers and Tokyo residents alike.

Just 4 minutes from Kuramae Station, this hotel offers excellent access to both the traditional atmosphere of Asakusa and the modern energy of Akihabara – Japan’s pop culture paradise.

The Share Hotels Lyuro Tokyo Kiyosumi offers a peaceful riverside location without sacrificing urban convenience. This beautifully designed property occupies a renovated building overlooking the Sumida River, providing unique water views rarely found in Tokyo’s budget accommodation.

Rooms include comfortable private options with river views, all featuring clean, minimalist design and essential amenities. The property’s café-restaurant serves excellent coffee and simple meals, while the riverside terrace provides a perfect spot for morning yoga or evening relaxation.

Located 6 minutes from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station, this hotel offers easy access to the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo and the area’s famous coffee shops.

Hotel Graphy Nezu offers a unique budget accommodation experience in Tokyo’s cultural Yanaka district. This renovated modern property combines hotel comforts with a residential atmosphere, creating a home-like feel rarely found in budget city hotels.

The property features stylish private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, each decorated with minimalist Japanese design elements and essential amenities. The hotel’s shared kitchen and lounge areas provide excellent spaces for relaxation or casual interaction with other guests.

Located just 5 minutes from Nezu Station, this hotel puts you within easy walking distance of the historic Yanaka Cemetery, Ueno Park, and numerous traditional shops and cafés. The neighborhood’s artistic atmosphere perfectly complements the hotel’s creative design philosophy.

Dormy Inn Premium Shibuya Jingumae offers a unique combination of budget-friendly rates and premium amenities in Tokyo’s trendy Shibuya district. This business hotel chain has perfected the art of providing excellent value through smart service priorities.

The standout feature is the top-floor natural hot spring bath (onsen), offering a relaxing end to each day of your explorations. Rooms are compact but well-equipped, featuring comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, and amenities like pajamas and quality toiletries.

The hotel also offers a complimentary late-night ramen service! (a feature of some Dormy Inn Premium hotels) and a simple breakfast option.

Located 8 minutes from Shibuya Station and 5 minutes from Harajuku Station, this hotel provides exceptional access to Tokyo’s fashion centers, shopping districts, and transportation connections.

Located in the heart of Tokyo, Glamping Tokyo Asakusa offers a unique 2-star accommodation experience in air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. Built in 2020, this modern hostel features a shared lounge and an on-site restaurant, with select rooms offering terraces with city views.

The property boasts an good location just 80 meters from the Edo Taito Traditional Crafts Center. Other nearby attractions include Asakusa Fujiasama Shrine, Nitenmon Gate, and Asakusa ROX Shopping Center. Tokyo Haneda Airport is 23 km away.

With couples giving the location an outstanding 9.2 rating, this centrally positioned hostel provides the perfect base for exploring Tokyo’s vibrant Asakusa district.

Located just a 5-minute walk from Minowa Subway Station and 20 minutes from historic Asakusa, Andon Ryokan combines award-winning architecture with authentic Japanese hospitality.

This distinctive ‘ryokan’ features traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami flooring, futon bedding, TV, DVD player, and free wired internet, while bathroom facilities are shared.

Take part in cultural immersion through tea ceremony and flower arrangement classes, relax in the hot tub, or explore Tokyo using the ryokan’s bicycle rental service. A launderette is available on-site for convenience. The property serves delicious made-to-order Western breakfasts in the common kitchen.

Just a 10-minute journey from downtown Ueno, Andon Ryokan offers an accessible yet authentic Japanese experience, earning an 8.4 location rating from couples.

Note: although billed as a ‘ryokan’, Andon is very much an urban take on the more serene retreats that typically represent the traditionally wooden Japanese inns.

When comparing Tokyo’s budget accommodation options, it’s clear that each property brings its own interpretation of affordable hospitality to the table. While some focus on central locations and essential amenities, others emphasise design elements or specific facilities like hot springs.

The distinction between properties primarily lies in their approach to service and location preferences. Some offer excellent access to major transportation hubs, while others provide closer connections to specific neighborhoods and local experiences.

Price points across these establishments generally range from ¥8,000 to ¥15,000 per night, with seasonal variations and room types influencing rates. What stands out consistently across all nine properties is their commitment to cleanliness, helpful service, and smart design that makes the most of the sometimes limited space.

Whether you prioritise location, specific amenities, neighborhood atmosphere, or overall value, Tokyo’s budget hotel accommodation offers enough variety to satisfy your needs while maintaining the high standards expected of Japan’s hospitality sector.

Q1: What makes Tokyo an attractive budget destination compared to other major cities?

Tokyo distinguishes itself through its exceptional standards of cleanliness and service, even at budget price points. While famous for its expensive hotels, Tokyo offers remarkably well-maintained budget accommodations that often exceed the quality of mid-range options in other major cities.

You’ll find spotless facilities, reliable amenities, and helpful staff even at properties charging under ¥10,000 per night.

Q2: What are the defining characteristics that qualify a hotel as a “budget” option in Tokyo?

The hotels highlighted in this guide are selected based on several key factors: prices under ¥15,000 per night, high guest ratings (8 or higher on Booking.com), essential amenities (reliable WiFi, clean bathrooms, comfortable beds), convenient access to public transportation, and helpful staff.

While they may not offer luxury services, they often excel at providing comfortable, clean, and well-located accommodation at reasonable prices.

Q3: What types of room sizes can I expect at Tokyo’s budget hotels?

Room sizes in Tokyo budget hotels tend to be compact, typically ranging from 12-18 square meters for standard rooms. However, the spaces in this selection of budget hotels are thoughtfully designed to maximise functionality through features like elevated beds with storage underneath, wall-mounted amenities, and clever bathroom designs.

Keep in mind that Tokyo hotel rooms are generally smaller than Western equivalents, even at higher price points, if you have lots of large luggage these may not suit your needs.

Q4: How important is hotel location when staying in Tokyo on a budget?

Location can significantly impact your overall travel budget. Properties near major stations like Shinjuku or Tokyo Station might cost more per night but can save you money on transportation. Consider that a 30-minute train ride in Tokyo can cost ¥330 each way.

Hotels in areas like Asakusa or Ikebukuro might offer better rates while still providing excellent access to the city’s transportation network.

Q5: How do Tokyo’s budget hotels maintain such high standards of cleanliness and service at lower price points?

Japanese budget hotels achieve this through clever design of efficient use of space, smart staffing, and automated systems where appropriate. Many properties focus on providing essential services excellently rather than offering a wide range of additional amenities.

Q6: What amenities can I expect to find in Tokyo’s budget hotels?

Most budget hotels in Tokyo offer reliable WiFi, air conditioning, comfortable beds, private bathrooms with toiletries, and basic essentials like hair dryers and refrigerators. Many also provide additional amenities such as laundry facilities, vending machines, and simple breakfast options (sometimes for an additional fee).

Some chains like Dormy Inn have become known for specific extras, such as hot spring baths or complimentary ramen in the evening.

Q7: Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of when booking budget hotels in Tokyo?

The culture of maintaining high standards regardless of price point also plays a significant role not only in Japan’s hospitality industry but across most service sectors.

Unlike some other countries, Tokyo’s budget hotels generally maintain transparent pricing. Most quoted rates include taxes and service charges. However, be aware that some properties may charge additional fees for late check-in or amenities like in-room refrigerators or safes. Always check the hotel’s policy on these extras before booking.

Q8: What is the best time to book these budget hotels for the best rates?

Booking at least 3 months in advance typically offers the best rates, 6+ months for stays during cherry blossom (sakura) season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (mid-October to mid-December). Note that particularly during sakura season it is common for hotels to significantly increase their prices.

Mid-January to early March and late May to late June often offer the most competitive rates. Remember that prices can double during major holidays like Golden Week (early May) and New Year’s.

I also have a guide called The Best Time To Visit Japan – All You Need To Know you might like to check out.

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