3 Best Hostels in Tokyo, Japan – From Luxury Cafés to Backpacker Nightlife

Tokyo’s hostel scene is no joke – and we’re here to unveil the best hostels in Tokyo you won’t want to miss.

Seriously, with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. Especially when you are looking for a social hostel to meet people! But fear not, adventurous traveler, because we’ve already done the research for you. Get ready for a unique and unforgettable hostel experience where boredom is not an option.

After spending 3 months living in Tokyo and hopping from hostel to hostel, here are the very best I recommend, whether you’re looking for a relaxed traditional atmosphere, a place to socialize and party, or somewhere unique that will make your neon-lit futuristic Japanese dreams come to life.

Your Shortcut:

1. CITAN Hostel - best for solo travelers
2. UNPLAN Shinjuku - best for couples and backpackers
3. The Millennials Shibuya - best for Digital nomads

Money-saving tip: Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com. They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.

This is your answer to where to stay in Tokyo on a budget AND in style. We also extended this guide to another one: the best hostels in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

These budget accommodations come with a clean and cool design, relaxing areas, and even an in-house bar or Café where you will love to spend your time.

How social are these hostels? These are the most social hostels you will find. We have visited them all personally and had a blast. At the same time, keep in mind, they are not crazy party hostels, but great to meet fellow travellers.

We recommend using the Hostelworld App with their social features. Check our review of how the hostelworld app works.

This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…

• are tired of crappy hostels!
• want a social Hostel to actually meet people
• are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience

Read: the absolutely best hostels in Japan

Quick Introduction to Tokyo Hostels

Location: It is a mega city and the hostel location in Tokyo basically depends on one thing: How well connected is it with the rest of the city? The metro will be your best friend here. In our experience, choose a hostel that has a good metro line nearby. All our top 3 check this box! For each hostel we share the metro lines, too.

The average price for a bed: A bed in a dorm can cost 15$ – 45$ per night. Hostels in Tokyo can be quite “cheap” when choosing dorms – by Japanese standards. It is the cheapest Tokyo accommodation you will find!

A private room in a hostel in Tokyo has an average price of around 120$ per night. This is a rough average to give you an idea. Prices always depend on the season and holidays. Please always check the exact rates on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com. Even smarter is comparing hostel prices on Hostelz.com

Check-In and Check-Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3 pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11 am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

Overall Hostel Quality: The overall hostel quality in Tokyo and Japan is high. You will find beautiful high-end places like Boutique Hostels and Design Hostels. You also find low-budget hostels, great hostels for partying, and backpacker and youth hostel Tokyo choices.

Types of Hostels: Some hostels in Tokyo are mainly rented by Japanese workers on a monthly basis for their basic needs. They are clean with decent facilities, but not meant for socializing or making friends. This list only includes the best hostels in Tokyo that provide ample common spaces for socializing.

If you pick a different one not featured here, make sure to check out its most recent reviews to know what kind of atmosphere it provides!

🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

• How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
• 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
• How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide

The 3 Best Hostels in Tokyo are …

Let’s jump right into the coolest hostels in Tokyo.

1. CITAN Hostel – best for solo travelers
2. UNPLAN Shinjuku – best for couples and backpackers
3. The Millennials Shibuya – best for Digital nomads

These are our favorite hostels in Tokyo. We want to make your life even easier, so we put all accommodations on a map for you. We even added our own tips for favorite restaurants, things to see, and more.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🦸 Solo Traveler:	CITAN Hostel Tokyo
🙎‍♀️ best for Female Solo Traveler:	UNPLAN Shinjuku
🥳 Party Hostel:	Nui. Hostel & Bar Lounge
👩‍❤️‍👨 Couple Hostel:	CITAN Hostel Tokyo
👨‍👩‍👦 Family Hostel:	UNPLAN Shinjuku
👩‍💻 For Digital Nomads:	The Millennials Shibuya
🧘 Cozy Hostel:	Tokyo Hikari Guesthouse

1. CITAN Hostel 

CITAN Hostel offers a hipster-ish style, a fun bar, and a cafe with great food spread over a whopping 7-story building.

“On the first floor is BERTH Coffee, where you can enjoy our famed artisanal coffee and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the neighbourhood.”

CITAN Hostel was born out of the café on the ground floor, starting as a coffee shop but quickly growing into a fun backpackers hostel. CITAN is the kind of hostel that is buzzing at all times of the day. Stay here if you want to meet people, enjoy awesome events, and have a good night’s sleep in a superb location in Tokyo.

It is a great hostel for travelers between the ages of 25 and 40, especially for solo travelers who love socializing.

Couples will especially love it here as they have awesome private rooms!

Some of their double rooms have very large windows with plenty of light and a nice view; that would be our best recommendation for traveling couples on a budget out there.

Perks at CITAN Hostel Tokyo:

• Free WiFi
• Weekly DJ & live music events
• Bar-lounge-dining (food, cocktails)

There are actually 130 beds here spread over 6 room types, including mixed and female dorms, single rooms, and king/queen privates that are not to miss.

What about the location?

Located in the Ginza/Tokyo Nihonbashi district, this area is renowned not only as a fashionable hub but also as a historic downtown, peppered with shops whose origins can be traced back over a century.

CITAN is only 600 meters away from the small and popular Suginomori Shrine. Four nearby metro and train stations offer great access to all corners of Tokyo. These nearby stations are namely: Higashi-Nihombashi Station, Ningyōchō Station, Bakuroyokoyama Sta., Bakurochō Station. Take a look at the map I’ve created for you.

This makes it super easy to get around Tokyo. Remember: Tokyo is massive. A “Top location” is basically defined by the metro connections you have nearby. CITAN has 4 different options; therefore it is pretty much perfect!

The best choice in Tokyo for:

• Solo travelers
• Couples

Book CITAN Hostel here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

2. UNPLAN Shinjuku

UNPLAN Shinjuku is one of the best hostels in Tokyo and in the Shinjuku area.

UNPLAN stands for:

• Unplanned travel: travelling by instinct
• Unplanned encounter – unexpected encounters
• Unplanned landscape – unforeseen scenery

Their common areas are just perfect for hanging out and meeting new people. This hostel’s interior design is also clean and so refreshing, with a cool rooftop that travelers love to hang out and socialize in – you might spend most of your indoor time there.

This Tokyo hostel has its own in-house bar and restaurant, and if you prefer to cook your own meal, their kitchen is well-equipped.

Ooh, don’t forget the beds. The beds are comfy, and the pods have curtains for your privacy. You can choose between mixed or female dorms. Private rooms are also an option.

Perks at UNPLAN Shinjuku:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Free WiFi
• Family rooms
• Laundry
• Lift
• Bar
• Good breakfast

Staying mid-week and worried you might miss out on the fun? Not here: every Wednesday, the staff organizes a Shinjuku night out!

Location of UNPLAN Shinjuku: in central Tokyo and with Taiso-ji Temple reachable within 500 meters. The property is close to several well-known attractions, 700 m from Full Gospel Tokyo Church, 700 m from Shinjuku Eastside Square, and 800 m from Genkyoji Temple.

Who stays at UNPLAN Shinjuku?

With such a good room choice, female solo travelers, couples, and older travelers frequently visit this hostel.

The pod-beds offer a chance for some alone & peaceful time, whilst the shared spaces create a really good atmosphere for meeting people if you want to. It’s really the best of both worlds merged into one!

What to expect at UNPLAN Shinjuku?

Unfortunately, there aren’t any lockers in the rooms here. Instead, you can put your things inside your pod bed and draw the curtain. There’s actually a space dedicated for this by the bed, plus a little safe where you can keep your highly valuable items.

Read about safety in hostels here.

If you have some laundry to do, you can use the laundry service at UNPLAN, which is a real lifesaver. Laundry service at a hostel is always a big plus for us.

BONUS: These guys provide a free phone with data service to help you settle before buying your local SIM card.

All you need to be prepared for is a great time because the hospitality of the staff at UNPLAN will handle the rest for you.

UNPLAN Shinjuku is recommended for:

• female solo travelers
• older travelers
• couples

Book UNPLAN Shinjuku here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

3. The Millennials Shibuya

The Millennials Shibuya is a top-class capsule hostel in Tokyo, perfect for the tech-savvy visitors craving modern-day luxuries. They offer Smart Pods that provide privacy, comfort, and convenience with their semi-double beds, soundless alarms, charging ports, storage spaces, and rolling screens.

Plus, they offer a range of amenities like towels, toiletries, and even free tea and coffee that can be availed anytime. And to sweeten the deal even more, they provide unlimited free draft beer every day from 5:30-6:30 pm.

Their place is a place to work, play, socialize, cook, and relax which provides an amazing and social hostel experience in Tokyo.

This Tokyo hostel has the following facilities: 

• Coworking area (with speedy wifi and private booths)
• Shared kitchen
• Common lounge

Location: offers its guests easy access to iconic landmarks like the Hachiko Statue, Shibuya109, Yoyogi Park, NHK Studio Park, Shibuya Center Town, and Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Book The Millennials Shibuya here

Check prices at:
Hostelworld | Booking.com | Hostelz.com

What’s the best party hostel in Tokyo?

Most hostels in Tokyo aren’t really in nightlife-heavy areas. So if you’re looking for a party hostel, I recommend staying at a place that is well connected to the party areas – the 3 hostels mentioned above are all well connected (obviously).

Otherwise, here are our specialized top Tokyo hostels for party travelers:

1. Hostel Bedgasm
2. Nui Lounge and Bar
3. Wise Owl Hostels Shibuya

We also have an extension of this guide: coolest party hostels in Tokyo.

1. Hostel Bedgasm

With its name alone, Hostel Bedgasm promises a wild experience, and it absolutely delivers.

The bar offers nightly free drinks to get everyone pumped up for adventures in Tokyo, while the terrace and lounges provide the perfect chill spots. Plus, it’s conveniently located near the metro and plenty of other nightlife hotspots.

If you’re looking for both a kickass and laid-back party hostel in Tokyo, this is it.

Book Hostel Bedgasm here

Compare prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com | HostelZ

2. Nui. Hostel & Bar Lounge

This hostel chain is also a bar and café.

The nightlife is fun and chill, and they even have live music once in a while. If you are a bar-type of person and love to mingle Nui. Hostel is our top place.

This would be the coolest place to have a few drinks and meet travelers and locals alike. It is also home to a super stylish bar that attracts a hipster scene.

Below is a video of the nightlife at Tokyo Party Hostel Nui.

Book Nui Hostel here

Compare prices at: Hostelworld

3. Wise Owl Hostel Shibuya

#3 on the list of partying hostels is Wise Owl Hostel Shibuya.

Wise Owl is a fun backpackers Hostel in Tokyo with an in-house bar. They even serve happy hour, so make sure you keep an eye on their blackboard – and be back on time.

This is surely one of the best hostels in Shibuya, Tokyo.

The motto of Wise Owl Hostel is something we had to share.It sums up what to expect:

”What you need is not a mediocre amount of sleep
It should be a good, short sleep from an exhausting, enriched experience
No time for sleep
Experience Tokyo
Whether night or day, heighten your sensibilities
That is how a journey should be”

Book Wise Owl Hostel Shibuya here

Compare prices at: Hostelworld | Booking.com

Best Hostels in Tokyo for Couples: CITAN Hostel Tokyo

Traveling as a couple? You are certainly looking for cheap accommodation to stay in Tokyo as a couple with a private room and maybe an en suite bathroom.

The best hostel in Tokyo for couples is CITAN Hostel Tokyo.

It is a quality hostel with spotlessly clean and cozy private rooms.

Remember, as a couple, you most likely want a double bed, not two separate single beds (at least, that’s what we’re assuming?)

So make sure you check the room type and bed you are about to book.

Many hostels and even hotels list two single beds as double rooms. Or they push together two single beds. That can be super annoying.

Worry not; at CITAN Hostel, all beds are extra large in their private rooms.

More cool hostels in Tokyo for couples with private rooms are:

• The Share Hotels Lyuro Tokyo Kiyosumi – with economy double room option

More Tokyo Hostels worth a mention

This is not a complete list of all the best hotels in Tokyo.

We always try to bring you only the three absolute coolest hostels in Tokyo, Japan, and worldwide.

So we hope you don’t mind if we keep going a little further. Tokyo has so many nice Japanese hostels to experience, after all.

That being said, here are more good Tokyo hostels we think are worth your time:

• Sakura Hostel Asakusa (weekly activities & all-you-can-eat free breakfast)
• Little Japan Hostel Tokyo (offers mixed-gender and female-only dorms)
• Tokyo Hikari Guesthouse (good for families and group travelers)
• Imano Tokyo Hostel (in-house coffee shop)

Sakura Hostel Asakusa

Weekly activities & all-you-can-eat free breakfast are some things you’ll experience at Sakura Hostel Asakusa.

They have common areas that you will surely love. The staff is just one call away if you want recommendations on what to do and where to go while in Japan. They are friendly and accommodating.

Perks at Sakura Hostel Asakusa:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Private parking
• Free WiFi
• Good breakfast

Location: Sakura Hostel Asakusa is just a 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station and the famous Senso-ji Temple. Asakusa’s famous Nakamise Street is a pleasant 7-minute stroll from the hostel.

Book Sakura Hostel Asakusa here

Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Little Japan Hostel Tokyo

Little Japan offers mixed-gender and female-only dorms.

This hostel is cute and small. It is smaller compared to other hostels, but they have standard accommodations like the others.

Comfortable dorms and very clean bathrooms. The in-house cafe is also great.

Perks at Little Japan Hostel Tokyo:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Free WiFi
• Family rooms
• Restaurant
• Bar

Location: Situated a 7-minute stroll from Asakusabashi Station on the Chuo-Sobu Line and Toei Asakusa Line. Tokyo Station is also only a 10-minute train ride away. Akihabara, Asakusa, and Ryogoku train stations are all within a 2-minute train ride. Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Roppongi train stations are all within a 30-minute train ride.

Book Little Japan Hostel Tokyo here

Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Tokyo Hikari Guesthouse

Tokyo Hikari Guest House is a cozy and unique hostel situated in a hip and peaceful area of Tokyo, just a minute’s walk from Kuramae Subway Station. It features private rooms and dorm beds, with air-conditioning and extra-long beds.

Bathrooms and toilets are shared, but don’t worry; they’re always clean and stocked with a free hairdryer. The shared lounge, decorated with warm sunflowers and equipped with free WiFi, tea, and cooking facilities, is perfect for meeting new people.

Plus, it leads to a small and sunny garden, creating a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere. The host is extremely friendly and speaks fluent English, always willing to help with suggestions on the best places to eat and explore. 

Book Imano Tokyo Hostel here

Compare prices at: Booking.com | HostelZ

Imano Tokyo Hostel

Imano Tokyo Hostel is spotless and well-maintained. The staff here are awesome and helpful! It’s a good quiet hostel for travelers looking for a more low-key environment.

There is an in-house coffee shop, which is perfect for meeting new people. It is very convenient.

There are other common areas, but they are located near the sleeping quarters, which is kinda awkward hanging around because you might disturb other guests.

Perks at Imano Tokyo Hostel:

• Non-smoking rooms
• WiFi available in all areas
• Restaurant
• Free WiFi
• Family rooms
• Very good breakfast

Location: Located in the lively Shinjuku area. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is 1 km from Imano Tokyo Hostel, while Meiji Shrine is 2.3 km from the property. Haneda International Airport is a 50-minute train ride away.

Book Imano Tokyo Hostel here

Compare prices at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

What about the cheapest hostels in Tokyo?

Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Tokyo.

1. Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Tokyo
2. add your dates
3. Order the listings by price

Simple as that.

Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels. They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.

Another smart Tip: Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.

What to Know before you go to Tokyo

If this is your first time traveling to Tokyo, there are a few useful and important things to know and consider before you arrive.

Here is a list of what we think will be helpful for your planning and backpacking in Tokyo.

Best Areas to Stay in Tokyo

It is always difficult to know what is the best area for a traveler to stay in Tokyo (or any other city in the world) when you have no inside information.

We receive many messages with the question:

What neighbourhood should I stay in when visiting Tokyo?

The answer will depend on your interest in visiting the city.

People have different priorities: nightlife, visiting popular landmarks, enjoying the local life…

Therefore, here we collect the best areas to stay in Tokyo depending on your preferences:

• Bustling nightlife: Shibuya
• Shopping and central location: Ginza
• Great place to experience Japanese culture: Asakusa
• Food lover: Akihabara
• History and cultural area: Ueno
• Nightlife, crowds, and Neon Lights: Shinkjuku
• Touristy popular neighborhood: Roppongi
• Central location: Tokyo Station

Don’t get too crazy about different neighborhoods and the perfect place.

This is a rough idea for you, but all three hostels in Tokyo mentioned have a convenient location.

Our top 3 hostels in Tokyo are located near a public transport stop, which you will use anyways to get from one point to the other!

Getting around Tokyo

If you’re anything like us, you’ll love exploring big cities on foot. It’s a fantastic way to immerse, especially in such a place as Tokyo which stands out from many other cities worldwide!

So yes, Tokyo is a walkable city with many interesting things to see. But if you’re short on time, then you’ll need to buy a pre-paid Suica or Pasmo card for public transport (you can buy them at any metro station).

For the budget-savvy traveler who likes good deals:

The Tokyo transportation system is one of the best in the world, but if you’re used to buying tourist metro passes to save some money, I’m here to issue a big heads up: not all lines are owned by the same subway operators in Japan.

If you buy a JR pass, for example, you can use the JR lines for free, but not the other metro lines in Tokyo.

Depending on where your hostel is located and which areas you want to check out, a different pass like the Tokyo subway pass might be a better option (it can be used on both Toei and Tokyo Metro lines but not JR lines).

I think that buying passes is a great idea because transportation is expensive, but you need to research to determine which pass is more logical for you to buy! Pick a hostel, check out a map of Tokyo with the main subway lines, and see what works best for you. 

Alternatively, if you’re on a tight budget, you can figure out how to get from point A to point B using the lines of your choice without relying on google maps – this might mean a long journey to reach your destination, but it will be cheaper. 

To sum up, if you don’t fancy walking:

• Subways and trains are the best ways to get around Tokyo
• Taxis are reliable but super expensive
• We don’t recommend buses for short-term visitors (they’re not frequent)

How long to spend in Tokyo?

It’s impossible to get bored of Tokyo and run out of things to do. So, even spending seven days here is not too long! (I’ve spent 90 days there, and I’m already planning when to return). Many people spend 2-3 weeks exploring the entirety of Japan, with 3-4 days set aside for Tokyo.

You will have to consider what kind of traveler you are.

For example, young and enthusiastic solo travelers can easily see all of the main sights in 3-4 days.

Adults and couples that enjoy a slower pace might prefer 5-7 days to take their time. Have a look at our map and discover what there is to see. This will help with deciding how long to stay.

When is the best time to visit Tokyo?

The most important thing to be aware of here is the typhoon season between July and October.

As expected, flights and accommodation are cheaper during this period. But is it worth it if you’re going to spend your entire time soaking wet?! Maybe not.

So instead, we recommend visiting in the months of March, April, and November. Late October can also be a good time when the rains start to slow down and before the tourist crowds arrive.

What to plan for your trip to Tokyo, Japan

I’m a big fan of having no plans and the flexibility this provides while traveling. But Japan is a big exception, especially if you’re traveling here during the popular spring season. While you might get away with a more flexible lifestyle in winter and summer, spring and autumn tend to bring travelers that want to experience cherry blossoms or the yellows and oranges of fall.

This means fewer accommodation options as you are near these seasons and fewer tickets and reservations available for popular activities.

I was recently in Tokyo for the Sakura season and went to the popular ninja restaurant in Asakusa, only to find out that it was fully booked for the entire month.

Other fully booked places included Teamslab and a couple of Owl cafes. So if you’re a free spirit, I recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out on amazing experiences (and lower prices).

Solutions to sold-out experiences and Tickets in Tokyo

If you want to do something fully booked, there are still a couple of hacks you can use.

If you can’t find tickets to a museum or exhibition (ex: Teamlabs, or any museum really) because the tickets are sold out, you might still be able to find a couple of tickets on third-party websites like Klook.

If they’re even sold out on Klook, you can try your hand by searching through other third-party websites, but they will usually be more expensive.

If you want to head over to a popular place that is fully booked, please note that most gimmicky cafes and restaurants in Tokyo have an alternative, either in another neighborhood or on the city’s outskirts.

For example, I wanted to go to an owl cafe when I was there, but the ones in Chiyoga and Harajuku were fully booked for two weeks. A quick search on Instagram led me to another owl cafe (Cafe Fuwafuwa) in Yokohama, which is around 45 minutes by train from Shinjuku.

My point is, don’t despair; more often than not, you might be able to find an alternative to whatever it is you want to experience in Tokyo with a quick Google or Instagram search.

How to get a sim card in Tokyo?

Getting a sim card in Tokyo is a bit annoying, which is why I recommend reserving one from Klook or Airalo.

They tend to have unlimited data, and you can pick them up from either airport (Haneda or Narita) or the popular nearby train station of your choice. They’re also cheaper.

Where to eat in Tokyo?

Food in Japan is guaranteed to be delicious, regardless of where you eat.

If you’re not big on restaurant research, I recommend using Google reviews to find restaurants: Japanese people love leaving restaurant reviews, so these tend to be highly accurate.

Alternatively, walk around if you come across a restaurant or bar with a long queue; these always tend to be worth the wait.

Any Discounts?

You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.

It is completely free to join!

How to book?

The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

Read: Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld

We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Tokyo best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.

The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app.

Download the Hostelworld App here

Scan the QR Code with your Smartphone to download the Hostelworld App from the App Store - like a real Hostel Geek!

Our Favorite Hostels in Tokyo put on a map + sights

Let us have a look at the hostels put on a map.

We also included the main tourist attractions that many people want to visit during their holidays. This makes it easier for planning your backpacking Tokyo trip.

The main hot spots to see are:

• Sensoji Temple
• Hachiko Memorial Statue
• Tokyo Tower
• Ueno Onshi park
• Imperial Palace
• Dempoi Temple
• Asakusa Shrine
• Skytree
• National Museum of Nature and Science
• Tsukiji Fish Market
• National Museum of Western Art
• Meiji Shrine
• Kabukiza Theatre
• Shibuya crossing
• Tokyo Disneyland

Read our article fun things to do in Tokyo to know what to do in Tokyo.

All recommended hostels are located near a metro stop and well connected.

You can get to every single sight with public transport.

Here you have also a link for buying Metro pass in advance.

FAQs

Here we share with you the most asked question:

Flights to Tokyo?

We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.

More Hostels in Japan and Asia

For those on a longer voyage: check out our huge guide on best hostels in Japan with itinerary, fun things to do in Tokyo and all 5 Star Hostels in Asia.

We also created more best hostels guides to help you. Check out:

• An extension of this guide: best hostels in Shinjuku, Tokyo
• coolest party hostels in Tokyo
• best hostels in Kyoto
• coolest hostels in Osaka
• best hostels in Kobe
• best hostels in Hiroshima
• best hostels in Sapporo
• best hostels in Fukuoka
• Cup of Tea Hostel in Takayama – 5 star hostel

Other countries and cities outside of Japan include:

• complete guide to best hostels in Taiwan
• 3 best hostels in Seoul
• 3 best hostels in Busan
• 3 cool hostels in Beijing
• best hostels in Shanghai
• top hostels in Hong Kong and finally
• 6 coolest hostels in Hawaii

Also, watch out for the latest guide that we are working out about best hostels in Tokyo Shinjuku.

Over to you

Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!

Your question will help us to improve this Tokyo guide.

Last note: Our commitment

This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.

Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks

Safe travels,
The Hostelgeeks team

CLOSED: Book and Bed Asakusa (Library in style)

Update: Our former #2 hostel has permanently closed.

One of the most unique hostels in Tokyo for sure. This is where every book lover’s dream comes true.

If you are one of those people who would love to carry a horde of books with you every time you step out to travel, then Book and Bed Asakusa must be on your bucket list.

The unique and amazing concept of housing a hostel amidst a collection of books by Book and Bed in Asakusa draws many travelers from across the globe.

Choose from a wide variety of bunk beds in each mixed dorm.

The hostel offers a single bed in a mixed dorm and extra comfortable double bed pods.

You can choose from the options at your convenience.

Travelers who have stayed at Book and Bed Asakusa have found the staff to be very friendly and helpful in times of need. The hostel also has a bar on-site if you want to grab a drink without leaving your book or your hostel!

Clean and pristine showers are available for all occupants, and there are specific female-only showers too. The hostel offers a free WiFi facility for all occupants.

The best part about each pod in the dorm is that it is neatly tucked away behind a book shelf.

The pods are spacious and cozy at the same time.

Offering luxury and comfort for a very reasonable amount, this one-of-a-kind hostel is a must-visit.

Even if you want to visit only for a couple of days.

Apart from the books and the bed, Book and Bed Asakusa is a great place to meet like-minded book enthusiasts.

All the books in the hostel are of an eclectic nature, thus catering to the literary and intellectual needs of a wide variety of minds.

Many travelers meet others over a book or a brew at the Book and Bed Asakusa.

Location of Book and Bed Asakusa:

Book and Bed Asakusa is just 300 meters from the station, which connects to all major parts of Tokyo.

A train ride of 30 minutes will take you to many major attractions in the city.

This neighborhood is an excellent option for travelers who love visiting temple towns and witnessing history in an archaic nature.

The Dempoin Temple, Sensoji Temple, and the Asakusa Shrine are merely 10-15 minutes of walking time to reach. The location of the hostel also conveniently puts it closer to Tokyo Skytree (known as the Tokyo Tower), parks and gardens, as well as the Japan Imperial Palace.

Who stays at Book And Bed?

Travelers and book enthusiasts from all walks of life head to the Book and Bed in Asakusa.

Of late, many travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, and countries such as Australia and New Zealand have been flocking in to check out the concept of this book-themed hostel while visiting Tokyo.

Many Japanese Travelers also love to stay here.

Besides, if you are traveling with a book enthusiast to Tokyo, you can definitely consider Book and Bed Asakusa for its high-end amenities and its proximity to several tourist sites.

What to expect at Book and Bed?

The staff here speaks English, which makes it all the more convenient for travelers.

The one thing you need to know beforehand is that there is no hard and fast rule regarding the number of books you can sneak into your bed.

Just pick what you like and tuck away in a corner.

Keep a tab on the clock if you want to avoid missing out on exploring the city because in a hostel as comfy as this, you are bound to have a good time.

Be aware there is no kitchen at Book and Bed.

CLOSED: Grids Tokyo Akihabara (Great for couples)

Update: Unfortunately, Grids Akihabara permanently closed in August 2020.

Love a good old backpacker hostel with clean facilities?

Head right to Grids Hostel in Akihabara. Grids serve as a hotel and a hostel for travelers visiting Tokyo.

There are no mixed dorms available, just female dorms or male dorms.

Grids is perfect for hosting groups of guests. The dorms are big; they cater to 20 people. That is why we strongly recommend this hostel to couples and groups of friends willing to stay in private rooms/ dorms.

One can stay in a private room with a shared bathroom or choose a quadruple room with 4 Pods and a shared bathroom if visiting as a group.

If you want complete privacy, then Grids offers a Quadruple room with a private bathroom too.

The hostel offers every combination of rooms, making it a convenient place for families and individuals alike.

The ambiance of the hostel is stark and neat, with sturdy pods designed for maximum comfort.

The front desk is open 24 hours to assist with your needs, and the staff communicates in English to serve travelers better.

You can approach the front desk for any queries or even take their help to plan your day out in Tokyo.

Besides, the hostel offers free WiFi to all guests.

CLOSED: Bunka Hostel Tokyo

Update: This hostel is closed; we leave this content for your information.

A very clean, modern, and comfortable hostel right in the middle of Asakusa. Bunka Hostel Tokyo is in the middle of all the shopping areas, with easy access to Sensoji and the rest of the area.

The minimalist style of the hostel makes it really beautiful and refreshing. The facilities are always clean.

They offer dormitory rooms and private rooms. The beds are comfortable so good sleep is possible!

Perks at Bunka Hostel Tokyo:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Free WiFi
• Family rooms
• Restaurant
• Laundry
• Lift
• Bar

Location: 5-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express and Tobu lines. The famous Sensoji Temple is a 5-minute walk from Bunka Hostel Tokyo, while Tokyo Sky Tree Tower is a 3-minute ride away from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Line. The nearest airport is Haneda Airport, 17 km from the property.

CLOSED: Khaosan Tokyo Kabuki

Update: This hostel is closed, and we leave this content for your information.

Khaosan Tokyo Kabuki is a home away from home type of guesthouse. Amazingly, they won a lot of hostels and booking awards.

It is not a party hostel, but the social vibe is great. This is perfect for people who are on a budget and are good backpackers traveling together.

The staff is extremely helpful and friendly. The hosts are really cool.

Perks at Khaosan Tokyo Kabuki:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Family rooms
• Free WiFi
• Laundry
• Lift

Location: Just 200 m from Asakusa Subway Station. Kaminarimon Thunder Gate and Nakamise-Dori Street are 100 m from the hostel, and Sensoji Temple is a 5-minute walk away.

CLOSED: Khaosan Tokyo Origami

Update: This hostel is closed; we leave this content for your information.

You must try their stunning pod beds. Khaosan Tokyo Origami is in central Asakusa.

The common area is spacious enough to cater travelers who want to unwind, play board games and chill with other backpackers.

Facilities are spotless and well-maintained.

Perks at Khaosan Tokyo Origami:

• Non-smoking rooms
• Free WiFi
• Family rooms
• Lift
• Heating
• Very good breakfast

Location: Located in central Asakusa, Khaosan Tokyo Origami is a 5-minute walk from the iconic Kaminari-mon Gate and Senso-ji Temple. Tokyo Origami Khaosan is a 5-minute walk from Asakusa’s Nakamise shopping street.

Closed: Kaisu Hostel – Japanese Style

Kaisu Hostel was formerly the Shimazaki restaurant with performing Geishas. It’s the absolute best hostel Tokyo has to offer!

Later, the restaurant converted and opened its doors to travelers from all over the world.

Kaisu Hostel is just 5 minutes away from Akasaka railway station. The hostel is known for its traditional Japanese-style rooms.

Many travelers rated the hostel for its clean dorms and friendly staff. That’s not all my travel friends. You are likely to experience the best of comfort during your stay.

Each pod in the dorm offers privacy and comes with outlets, reading lamp and even a locker for your personal belongings.

Kaisu has a variety of options for travelers. The hostel offers:

• 6-bed mixed dorm
• 14-bed mixed dorm
• 10-bed female-only dorm
• Japanese style twin room

Read: Understanding the different hostel room types

All dorms and the private room have shared facilities (toilets and showers).

As it is quite a small hostel, it is a great way to meet people worldwide.

If you are keen on socializing, then you can blindly choose the 14-bed mixed dorm as it is the best way to meet a lot of new people under one roof, quite literally.

For women who are uncomfortable with the idea of a mixed dorm (or are willing to avoid snores), the option of a 10-bed female-only dorm comes in handy.

Read: pros and cons of female dorms.

There are shared showers for all dorms and specific female-only showers for the female-only dorm.

The cleanliness is beyond perfection, promising guests a comfortable stay in the hostel.

Kaisu Hostel also offers a private room with high ceilings and windows that allow natural light to enter into the room. These private rooms retain as much of the traditional Japanese interiors as possible.

Location:

Kaisu Hostel is located 5 minutes from the Akasaka railway station, making it a convenient stay option for travelers visiting the city often.

The best part about the location of Kaisu is that a lot of serenity surrounds it. The neighborhood, called Minato, is more of a clean and pretty location than the busy city center.

Minato is an excellent choice if you want to experience local cuisine and culture. Besides, the people of Minato are super friendly towards travelers.

Do you love the city but hate the chaos?

Then this is your best quiet hostel in Tokyo for a while. Easy to meet people and enjoy a cozy hostel vibe.

Who stays at Kaisu Hostel?

Young travelers, solo-travellers, and backpackers frequent the hostel!

Kaisu is a great place to stay if you are backpacking through the Japanese capital.

Because of its cleanliness, safety, and other standards, Kaisu also sees a lot of solo female travelers throughout the year.

With people pouring in from all over the world, this place is one of the happening hostels to network and socialize with other like-minded individuals. Remember, we mentioned many Tokyo hostels are not as social. This one is good for meeting people.

What to expect when staying here?

You need not worry about internet connectivity as Kaisu offers high-speed WiFi as a compliment to all guests checking in. You can plan your day ahead by browsing for things to do in Tokyo or even use it at your convenience to call friends and family back home.

Actually, the speed of WiFi is no issue in Japan at all.

Thinking about lack of privacy? Worry not.

Kaisu Hostel offers privacy with blinds for each pod and also provides the option of safe storage.

All you need to do is chill and experience the magic of Tokyo.

Remember to leave your footwear outside the room if you opt for one of the traditional Japanese-designed interiors of a private room.

Apart from that, Kaisu provides everything you could possibly need.

This is the best Tokyo hostel for:

• female solo-travelers
• backpackers