homestay Archives | Tokyo Cheapo

When we think of Tokyo apartments, the first image that springs to mind is cramped living quarters. In reality, the city’s real-estate scene has a lot to offer. In the center, on the outskirts, and near Tokyo’s main airports, here's a selection of excellent Tokyo Airbnb-style vacation rentals and apartments for your next visit. Pro tip: Looking for something different? Check out these unusual accommodation options in Tokyo. Jump to: Hotel vs. Airbnb Airbnbs in the heart of Tokyo Near Tokyo Disneyland Near Tokyo's airports Budget options For big groups For a traditional stay For a luxury stay Tips for booking and staying in an Airbnb in Tokyo Tokyo Airbnb FAQs Hotel vs. Airbnb For those who haven't stayed in an Airbnb before, you might be wondering what the main differences are between the two. While there are several, the biggest comes down to the experience you get. Here's a breakdown. Prices Airbnb rentals tend to be cheaper than hotels for those looking for long-term stays or accommodation for a bigger group, like a family of four or more. On average, a night in a single room or apartment costs anywhere between and , total. In comparison, a night in an average Tokyo hotel tends to be around - per person -- a bit cheaper if you are willing to stay in a capsule hotel. For those traveling solo or only looking a few nights' stay, a budget hotel may be the better option. This is because there are actually additional fees which come when booking an Airbnb. The most common is a cleaning fee, which covers the clean-up costs after you have checked out. There are also additional fees for those who want to add an extra guest, or bring a pet. Sometimes a service fee will be added as well. This fee, which is normally split between the host and the guest, goes towards helping Airbnb cover 24/7 customer support and other services. Location Many Tokyo Airbnbs, much like hotels, are located in convenient and desirable areas such as Shibuya and Shinjuku. However, most are closer to local metro stations than major JR stations. It's also important to keep in mind that Airbnbs are typically apartments or houses situated in or near residential neighborhoods, which means they may not offer the same level of security -- or ease of connections -- as a traditional hotel. Facilities There is a big difference between the facilities provided at an Airbnb vs. a hotel. In an average Airbnb, the main amenities include a basic kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, laundry facilities, and essential household items. Some places also offer outdoor spaces and other features. You can save money by cooking your own meals and generally enjoy more space. Depending on what type of Airbnb you book, you may get a more personalized experience. Some hosts make an active effort to provide great service, offering personal recommendations and even transport. However, in our experience in Tokyo, these types of hosts are rare, so expect to check yourself in and not hear much! In comparison, part of what you pay for at a hotel goes towards service. Staying at a hotel means you get immediate support, options for early check-in, and other services. Often, the amenities are of higher quality too, including public baths, onsite gyms, restaurants, and lounge spaces -- things you typically won't find in an average Airbnb. Should I stay in an Airbnb or a hotel? When deciding between an Airbnb or a hotel in Tokyo, consider the benefits of each. Airbnb is ideal for larger groups or longer stays, especially if you plan to be in Tokyo for a week or two. Many Airbnbs actually require a minimum of at least 2 nights. Ultimately, Airbnbs are perfect for those who don't mind catering to their own needs, want a more local experience, and seek the freedom and flexibility to live like a Tokyoite for a while. Central Tokyo vacation rentals Note: These Tokyo vacation and apartment rental listings are presented in no particular order. The prices listed can change, depending on the date and season. Shibuya 5-minute walk to Shibuya Station Approx. (price for 2-night minimum stay) Check availability Just a short walk from Shibuya Crossing, it doesn't get much more central than this one-bed, two-person apartment. This cozy studio apartment comes with a washing machine, kitchenette, including kettle and microwave, and a compact balcony. Located near to several restaurants and shops, this apartment couldn't be in a more convenient spot. There's even a jazz bar downstairs that plays live music nearly every night -- though this could be an issue for light sleepers. Shinjuku 5-minute walk to Shinjuku Station Approx. Check availability Offering both the excitement of the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku and the tranquil ambience of being in a quieter neighborhood, this easy one-bedroom apartment is an excellent choice for those who don't want to sacrifice location for budget. In terms of amenities, it has everything you need for a longer-term stay, including a kitchenette, washing machine, and enough sleeping space for up to four people (two beds). You can live like a local, in one of the city's most bustling neighborhoods. Roppongi 3-minute walk to Roppongi Station Approx. Check availability If you're chasing the EDM nightlife, then there's a pretty high chance you know about Roppongi, the city's slightly seedier, more international pocket. By day, the area is an excellent spot for fine dining and gallery hopping, giving you a taste of both sides of this more ex-pat populated neighborhood. This stylish four-person apartment combines modern minimalism with all the amenities you’ll need for your stay, like a washing machine, kitchenette, microwave, kettle and more. Ikebukuro 6-minute walk to Ikebukuro Station Approx. (price for 3-night minimum stay) Check availability A hub for shopping and entertainment, Ikebukuro is one of the most popular places to stay in Tokyo. With great access to both Haneda and Narita airports, as well as being on the central JR Line, it's also one of the most convenient areas for travelers. This one-bedroom apartment might be on the smaller side, but it's full of character. Bright and airy, it's only a 6-minute walk to Ikebukuro Station and comes with all the main amenities, including a washer, kitchen, and TV. Shimokitazawa 2 minutes to Shimokitazawa Station Approx. Check availability Shimokitazawa has become a popular neighborhood for those who want to experience the more "local" side of the city. Home to in-vogue cafés, vintage stores, and young, hip residents, it's also ideally positioned just a few stops from Shibuya. This cozy two-bed apartment is situated in the central shopping district of Shimokitazawa, with easy access to supermarkets, convenience stores, restaurants, and everything the area has to offer. With an open-plan kitchen/dining/bedroom area, it makes the most of the space it does have to ensure you'll have a comfortable stay. Shinagawa 12-minute walk to Shinagawa Station Approx. Check availability If you're looking for the ideal balance of centrality and easy access to Haneda Airport, then this stylish apartment located one stop away from Shinagawa Station is the best of both worlds. Kago #34 by Shukuba HOTEL is best suited to a couple, but can accommodate up to three guests. It's airy, light-filled, and the perfect place to escape to after a long day exploring the city. Tokyo Station 15-minute walk to Tokyo Station Approx. Check availability If you're planning to travel a lot and want a convenient base, this modern Japandi Cozy Studio in East Ginza could be the perfect choice. It accommodates two guests and comes fully equipped with essential amenities like a washer and microwave. Featuring a Japanscandi-inspired interior, it has a sleek, contemporary feel. It is ideal for tourists and digital nomads seeking somewhere minimalist and functional. Vacation rentals near Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea Coming to Tokyo Disney for that once-in-a-lifetime Mickey experience? We've picked out some of the best hotels in the areas near Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, but if you want a slightly more homey experience, rest assured there are plenty of Airbnb options in the area as well. Family retreat 10 minutes from Tokyo Disneyland 16-minute walk to Kasai Station, or a 10-minute drive to Disney Approx. Check availability Planning a family adventure to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea and want something close, convenient and spacious enough to sleep a crew of 8? Then this house situated less than a 10-minute drive away from Tokyo Disney Resort is a failsafe option. If you aren't driving, you can easily catch a direct shuttle to the park from the bus stop near to the property. With four bedrooms, one bathroom, and a full-sized kitchen, it's the ideal family retreat. Disney on a budget 4-minute walk to Kasai Station Approx. Check availability A 20-minute direct bus to Tokyo Disney Resort, and with easy bus access to both Haneda and Narita airports, this spacious one-bedroom apartment scores high points when it comes to transport convenience. With a fully stocked kitchenette, fridge, and all the other basics you'd expect from a self-service apartment rental, SG Premium Kasai ticks the boxes, while staying well within budget. Apartments near Tokyo airports Near Haneda Airport 7-minute walk to Sugiya Station Approx. (price for 2-night minimum stay) Check availability Booking a late-night flight into Tokyo, or an early one out from Haneda Airport, and just need somewhere clean, comfortable and convenient to stay? Then this one-bedroom apartment is an easy choice. Comfortable and cozy, the rental apartment features a separate bedroom and living room, offering a peaceful place to unwind before your long travels. The nearest station, Sugiya Station, is directly connected to Haneda International Airport, with a travel time of just 6 minutes. Near Narita Airport 15-minute drive to Narita Station Approx. Check availability Ideal for families and bigger groups, this cozy house accommmodates up to 5 guests across two bedrooms. While it isn't the most accessible from the station, this Airbnb stands out for the hosts' exceptional service, offering free transportation to and from Narita Airport. With such warm, personal service, it's the perfect way to start or end your journey in Japan. Budget Tokyo Airbnb options Studio-sized space near Shinjuku 10-minute walk from Daitabashi Station Approx. Check availability If you are on a budget but still want to be near the hustle and bustle, this one-room apartment is just what you need. Designed for 2 guests, it offers all the basic amenities for a comfortable stay. The sofa doubles as a bed for the right, so your living and sleeping space are combined. Plus, the apartment is conveniently located near several supermarkets, making it perfect for guests who prefer to cook. Cheap and cozy near Nakano Station 1-minute walk from Nogata Station Approx. Check availability If you're willing to compromise on space, this one-bedroom rental could be a great option. Just a short bus ride from Nakano Station, the room comes with a double bed, TV, washer, and a fully stocked kitchen. With easy access to Shinjuku and plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, it offers a compact and convenient space. For big groups Ueno apartment for 10 10-minute walk to Ueno Station Approx. (price for 2-night minimum stay) Check availability With one main bedroom and the capacity to sleep up to 10 people, this room in a boutique hotel offers a centrally located apartment in Ueno that's the perfect big-group option. Full of character and some interesting interior choices, it has a kitchen, fridge, bathroom, and communal dining area. It should be a top pick for groups of friends or bigger families who want to make the most of their time in the city. Skytree adjacent for 8 2-minute walk to Oshiage Station (Skytree) Approx. (price for 2-night minimum stay) Check availability It's not common to find such a spacious apartment in central Tokyo, but this place, less than a 5-minute walk from Skytree, is a great find. Ciel-home201 has room for 10 people spread across 4 double and 2 single beds, a living area and a decent-sized kitchen. It’s only a few minutes from Oshiage Station, which services several different train lines to get you zipping across the city. Plus, it has an amazing view of the towering Skytree. For a more traditional stay Modern ryokan 7-minute walk to Keisei Hikifune Station Approx. (price for 2-night minimum stay) Check availability Sumida City is where you'll find this traditionally inspired one-bedroom rental. The interior blends classic ryokan style with modern comforts, offering the best of both worlds. It feels new and fresh while maintaining a sense of timelessness. The best bit? It comes complete with an outdoor bath. Traditional chic 2-minute walk to Otorii Station Approx. (price for 2-night minimum stay) Check availability This one-bedroom apartment is relatively new, having been constructed in late 2019. Sakura Stay Otorii's elegant interior design is effortlessly chic with traditional Japanese motifs (think sliding paper-covered windows and light wooden finishes), with minimalistic modern taste. It's cozy but doesn't at all feel cramped. Not far from Haneda Airport, it's great for those wanting to prioritize comfort and convenience without sacrificing style. For a luxury stay Villa with a pool 4-minute walk from Ichinoe Station Approx. (price for 2-night minimum stay) Check availability It's rare to find such a spacious spot with a swimming pool in Tokyo. This modern villa not only offers great access to Disneyland and central Tokyo, but can also accommodate up to 8 guests. In addition to its clean, contemporary interior with subtle Japanese touches, you can enjoy a BBQ and dining outside by the pool. It's the perfect summer getaway -- without leaving the city. Luxury near the beach Approx. , excluding fees Check availability Located in Chiba, this luxurious private villa offers a peaceful retreat just a short distance from the city. Sleeping up to 6 guests, it features a pool, sauna, BBQ deck, and tennis court, ensuring a lavish retreat. Best of all, it's only 1-minute walk from Kujukuri Beach. With its modern design, this is the perfect getaway for larger groups seeking a more serene side of Japan. Note: You'll need to rent a car or drive your own to access the villa. Tips for booking and staying in an Airbnb For a smooth and safe experience, we recommend following this advice when staying in an Airbnb. I've heard things changed with Airbnb in Tokyo. What's the Minpaku Law? The Minpaku homesharing law passed in 2017 and was aimed at providing a legal framework for the private-sector accommodation market. Since Japan was apparently in dire need of rooms for the upcoming 2020 Olympics, it was expected that the law would make it easier for short-term rentals to operate -- but it did add quite a few more hoops that prospective Airbnb hosts needed to jump through. Property owners who wished to continue operating were required to submit lengthy and complex registration documents which involve a series of potential barriers. Landlord permission, on-site inspections and strict health and safety requirements are just some of the requirements for approval which, if granted, results in a registration number. If you are concerned, just check that your rental has that number. How can I verify that an Airbnb listing is legitimate? To ensure that the Airbnb you have selected is legitimate, first look for the rental number. After that, look at recent reviews and the listed photos, to see if they align with each other. Additionally, all communication and bookings should take place within Airbnb. Hosts should not ask to contact you outside the platform -- if they do, it could be a sign of a scam. Finally, just like with anything in life, if the listing seems to good to be true, it probably is. What should I do if I encounter issues with my Airbnb host? Ideally, Airbnb prefers hosts and guests to resolve issues between themselves first. In the case that you find something wrong with the property, you should report it within the first 72 hours of your stay. If the host does not respond or the issue is still not resolved, that's when you should contact Airbnb customer support. What should I look for in an Airbnb listing to ensure a good experience? There are a few methods you can use to find a good Airbnb. The most straightforward is by filtering your search to "Superhost". Superhosts are hosts who consistently provide high-quality service for guests. There are a few things hosts have to achieve to get this certified badge on their profile including constant high-ratings, fast response rates, low cancellation rates, and fast bookings. By booking a listing owned by a superhost, you are pretty much guaranteed good service. Other tips include: reading the reviews, looking closely at the photos, and searching the location on Google Maps. Popular and highly-rated Airbnbs will often be booked months in advance -- so that's something else to consider as well. How to find more affordable Airbnb listings in Tokyo? Airbnb has a feature where you can filter your budget, meaning it's easy to find a budget place. For your best chance on saving money, it is recommended to book as far in advance as possible -- at least four weeks. Prices change depending on the date and naturally, just like with hotels, they tend to go up in price during spring and fall. Just after peak tourist and holiday seasons, including Golden Week and Obon, are you likely to find cheaper rates. Tokyo Airbnb FAQs Which neighborhoods are most recommended for first-time visitors to Tokyo? Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa, and Ueno are all popular areas for first-time visitors, offering great accessibility, culture, and nightlife. However, neighborhoods along the Yamanote Line, like Harajuku and Ikebukuro, also make excellent bases for exploring Tokyo, as they are convenient and offer plenty of things to do. What is the average price range for Airbnbs in Shibuya and Shinjuku? You can find Airbnbs in Shinjuku and Shibuya for as little as per night. However, a nicer Airbnb, with better amenities, will more likely cost around per night. How do I communicate effectively with my host if there are language barriers? When contacting a host via Airbnb, you can use the built-in translation feature to message them in their native language. However, many Airbnb hosts in Tokyo also speak English, among other languages. You can check which languages the host speaks on the accommodation listing. Pro tip: For more cheapo-approved sleeping options, see our comprehensive Tokyo accommodation guide While we do our best to ensure it's correct, information is subject to change. This post was first published in 2016. Last updated in April 2025, by Jane Pipkin and the editorial team.

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