Shinjuku or Shibuya are the most convenient bases for a first visit, as both sit on the JR Yamanote loop line around the centre.
- Shinjuku: the biggest rail hub, hotels at every price, lively at night.
- Shibuya: youthful, great shopping, close to Harajuku.
- Ueno – Asakusa: cheaper, near Senso-ji temple, handy for the Skyliner from Narita.
- Tokyo Station – Ginza: upscale, convenient for the Shinkansen to Kyoto and Osaka.
Note: Tokyo hotel rooms are often very small; check the room size if you travel with big suitcases.