Shinjuku is one of the most popular areas to stay in Tokyo, but it is a huge neighborhood with lots of accommodation options. Finding where to stay in Shinjuku as a first-timer can be a headache. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find the safe places to stay in Shinjuku for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safest areas to stay in Shinjuku for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Shinjuku and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.
Shinjuku is one of the busiest and most vibrant areas in Tokyo, known for its bustling atmosphere, entertainment options, shopping districts, and tall skyscrapers.
This area is home to the Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest railway stations in the world, serving as a major transportation hub with multiple train and subway lines converging. It connects various parts of Tokyo and serves as a gateway to other regions in Japan.
Shinjuku has two different areas. The west of the Shinjuku Station is a quiet part of Shinjuku, where you can find skyscrapers, and huge leafy parks. These areas are the best locations for families and those who want a quieter atmosphere but still have easy access to major attractions and activities.
The east of Shinjuku Station, especially the Kabukicho area, is known for its vibrant nightlife scene. This area is best suited for those who want to be in the heart of the nightlife district. Also known as the red-light district, this area has numerous bars, restaurants, izakayas, and nightclubs.
Shinjuku offers a wide range of shopping opportunities, from department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya to the vibrant street markets of Kabukicho.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a large park in the area, offering a peaceful retreat with traditional Japanese, English, and French gardens. It’s a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing during the spring.
There are various cultural attractions, including the Samurai Museum, the Tokyo Opera City complex, and the Golden Gai area, known for its tiny, historic bars.
Is Shinjuku safe to visit?
Yes, Shinjuku is generally safe for tourists to visit and stay. As you travel to any destination, it is recommended to use common sense and be more cautious in the Kabukicho nightlife district. Touts may try to talk to you, just ignore them.
Where to stay in Shinjuku for the first time?
The best and safest areas to stay in Shinjuku for first-timers and tourists are Near Shinjuku Station, Nishi Shinjuku, Kabukicho, and Near Shinjuku Gyoen Garden. Accommodations can sell out quickly, so it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during the peak holiday season.
During my trip to Tokyo, I stayed at the mid-range Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku. The hotel has a prime location, within a short walk from the Shinjuku Station, and easily accessible from the airport. It is also a good price hotel, just remember to book far in advance to have the best deal.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Shinjuku for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Shinjuku, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Shinjuku have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
4 Safe areas to stay in Shinjuku for first-timers and tourists:
1. Near Shinjuku Station, best overall area for first-time visitors
Staying near Shinjuku Station is a popular choice for many tourists who want to be as close to the train station as possible. Shinjuku Station offers easy access to various train lines, including the JR Yamanote Line and Chuo Line, making it convenient for exploring Tokyo.
You’ll have easy access to the Kabukicho area, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which offers panoramic views of the city, and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Best places to stay Near Shinjuku Station for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): JR Kyushu Hotel Blossom Shinjuku, popular 4-star hotel in a prime location, in a quieter side of Shinjuku, but only a block away from the busiest street station and easy access to train station, department stores, and restaurants. Rooms are comfortable and in good size for Tokyo standard.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku, 4-star hotel, conveniently located very close to Shinjuku Station, Airport express stop, and Shinjuku Bus terminal. 15 mins walk from local points of interest like Gyoen Park, Kabukicho, Yoyogi Park and Isetan Department Store. Convenient base to get everywhere by walking and by trains. It has soundproof rooms, 24-hour front desk, and very good breakfast.
Luxury ($$$): Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo Premier Grand, 5-star hotel located in a quiet neighborhood, 10 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station, easy access to the busy streets of Shinjuku. Good base to do sightseeing during the day and go out at night. The hotel’s club lounge has a breathtaking view over Tokyo’s skyscrapers especially with the lights on at night.
Luxury ($$$): Park Hyatt Tokyo, a 5-star hotel located west of Shinjuku Station, offering spacious rooms with views of Mount Fuji or Shinjuku. It is 5 mins walk from Shinjuku Central Park, 15-20 mins walk from Shinjuku Station and Shinjuku Gyoen. The hotel has airport shuttle services, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and family rooms.
Luxury ($$$): Kimpton Shinjuku Tokyo, an IHG Hotel, 5-star hotel, conveniently located only 10 mins walk from Shinjuku Station, 10-20 mins to attractions like Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Kumano Shrine and Gyoen National Garden.
Budget ($): WPU Shinjuku, 2-star amazing hotel located in the heart of Shinjuku, close to a metro line, easy access to shopping malls, train stations, and the nightlife district of Shinjuku. It has luggage storage space, laundry services, and Air conditioning rooms.
Budget ($): Anshin Oyado Tokyo Shinjuku Ekimaeten – Male Only, great 1-star Capsule hotel features both private and dorm rooms for male. It is only a few mins walk from JR Shinjuku Station and Shinjuku 3-chome station. It has an internet café, public bath, and free breakfasts. Great base for solo travelers.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN SHINJUKU2. Nishi Shinjuku, best area in Shinjuku for family
Nishi Shinjuku is the quiet part of Shinjuku, located west of Shinjuku Station. It is a great base for families, business travelers, and tourists who want a bit quieter atmosphere while still being close to major train stations and nightlife districts.
This area is home to a significant number of high-rise buildings, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which has observation decks providing panoramic views of the city.
Best places to stay in Nishi Shinjuku for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Hilton Tokyo Hotel, 5-star hotel located in a fair location in Shinjuku. Within a short distance from Shinjuku Central Park, Metropolitan Government Building, and the Shinjuku Skyscraper District. It is connected to Tochomae Subway Station, and the hotel offers a free shuttle to Shinjuku Station. Easy access to the limousine bus from/to Haneda Airport and Narita Airport.
Mid-range ($$): Daiwa Roynet Hotel Nishi-Shinjuku PREMIER, 4-star hotel conveniently located within only 5 mins walk from Nishi Shinjuku station, offering trains to the Shinjuku JR line. Easy access to a variety of restaurants and cafes. You can find a 7 eleven in the basement.
Mid-range ($$): Hyatt Regency Tokyo, 10 star hotel conveniently located right next to Shinjuku Central Park, 10 mins walk from Shinjuku Station. It is linked to Tochomae Subway Station and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building. It is a pleasant 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Train Station. It has limousine buses from/to the international airports of the Narita and Haneda.
Budget ($): THE KNOT TOKYO Shinjuku, a very popular beautiful 3-star hotel in a great location near a huge park, easy access to public transportation. It is a bit of a walk to Shinjuku station ( 20 mins away) but it is in a nice area of Shinjuku. If you don’t mind walking, this is a great base.
Budget ($): yksi SAUNA & STAY, good value for money accommodation located in the quieter part of Shinjuku, close to major areas but far enough away to have a good night’s sleep. Easy walk to Shinjuku station and Kabukicho. You can find many cool restaurants and izakaya nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN NISHI SHINJUKU3. Kabukicho, best area in Shinjuku for nightlife
Kabukicho is renowned for its energetic nightlife. It is home to numerous bars, nightclubs, karaoke joints, and entertainment venues. If you enjoy a lively and vibrant atmosphere, this area is ideal for nighttime activities.
The district is known for its entertainment options, including host and hostess clubs, pachinko parlors, and various adult-oriented establishments. While it’s known for its red-light district, it’s also a hub for diverse entertainment experiences.
Kabukicho is centrally located, making it easy to access other popular areas in Shinjuku, such as Shinjuku Golden Gai, Omoide Yokocho, and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Best places to stay in Shinjuku in Kabukicho for first-timers:
Luxury ($$$): Bellustar Tokyo, A Pan Pacific Hotel, 5-star hotel located on the east side of the Shinjuku Station, close to the red light district, Okubo Park, Seibu Shinjuku PePe Shopping Mall and Samurai Museum. The hotel has paid airport shuttle services.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Groove Shinjuku, A Parkroyal Hotel, popular 4-star hotel located in the lively Kabukicho neighborhood of Shinjuku, nearby Choko-ji Temple, Korea Museum and Studio Alta. The hotel has Superb breakfast, and amazing views of the city from the rooms. Great location if you like the buzzing side of Tokyo.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, 4-star hotel conveniently located within 3-5 mins walk from Seibu Shinjuku Station, JR Shinjuku Station’s east exit, and the Golden Gai. The hotel has a good breakfast buffet, laundry services, and comfortable rooms.
Budget ($): Hotel Kabuki, a 3-star hotel located very close to Golden Gai and Hanazono shrine. Easy access to Kabuki-cho, and Shinjuku Station. It has good sound-proofing, so you can have a good night’s sleep in this popular night-life district.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN KABUKICHO4. Near Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a beautiful and expansive park in Shinjuku. Staying near Shinjuku Gyoen allows you easy access to the park, which features a variety of gardens, including Japanese, English, and French landscapes. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, picnics, or simply enjoying nature.
In addition to the natural beauty, the park is home to cultural attractions such as traditional tea houses and historical buildings. It offers a blend of natural and cultural experiences.
Best places to stay Near Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden:
Mid-range ($$): Mitsui Garden Hotel Jingugaien Tokyo Premier, popular 4-star hotel near Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and the iconic Tokyo Olympic village. Easy access to Shinjuku, Aoyama, Harajuku. convenient base for shopping and sightseeing. Short walk to Sendagaya station for JR lines.
Mid-range ($$): Citadines Shinjuku Tokyo, 4-star hotel conveniently located within 57 mins walk from Shinjuku Gyoenmae Subway Station and Shinjuku-sanchome Subway Station.
Budget ($): Tokyu Stay Shinjuku, 3-star hotel in the middle of Shinjuku, a short walk from Sanchome Subway Station and Shinjuku Gyoen Park.
Budget ($): Dash Living Shinjuku, 3-star non-smoking aparthotel in central Tokyo, close to Taiso-ji Temple, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Takatsukisan Chozenji Temple. Lawson’s, and many restaurants, izakayas can be found nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN SHINJUKUIn conclusion, Near Shinjuku Station, Nishi Shinjuku, Kabukicho, and Near Shinjuku Gyoen are the best places to stay in Shinjuku for first-timers and tourists. These are generally safe and well-connected areas that provide plenty of accommodations and easy access to public transportation.
You can continue reading about other Japan in these articles:
- Best areas to stay in Tokyo first time
- Best areas to stay in Shibuya
- Best places to stay in Japan for the first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Shinjuku, Tokyo. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.