The Best Hotels in Akihabara, Tokyo

On a budget but want to stay in the high-tech Akihabara ’hood? The Sakura Hotel Jimbocho offers six-bed dorms (including a female-only dorm) and private rooms that are warm, wallet-friendly sanctuaries from all the neon outside. Vibrant wall art and an on-site cafe provide a bit of flair, and staff are willing to go above and beyond.

Located in the centre of the district, Remm Akihabara offers contemporary rooms that have more real estate than their counterparts. The window-side showers provide great views and let in lots of natural light, the massage chairs are weird but fun, and the Japanese-style breakfast gets positive feedback. Located virtually on top of Akihabara Station, the Remm couldn’t be more conveniently located.

The Washington Hotel unites tight but handsome rooms. An in-house cafe, vending machines (serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), a trouser press, ice machine and laundry service are thoughtful amenities, and a location virtually next door to Akihabara Station means the utmost convenience. The on-site cafe serves a buffet-style breakfast that will get your day off to a flyer.

The Dormy Inn provides something of an oasis in the middle of Akihabara. Rooms have traditional touches, and all grant access to an in-house hot spring. Thoughtful amenities include a free washing machine and train station shuttle. And with easy access to shopping and dining, the location of the hotel couldn’t be better.

Originally born in the trendy neighbourhood of Koenji, BnA Studio is an art-centric hotel concept. The project was so popular that the owner launched this Akihabara offshoot. The hotel design has been created in collaboration with some of the most fascinating contemporary artists in the city, who also receive a cut of the profits. It’s been lauded as a fresh and immersive way to connect with (and support) the local art scene.

For something a little more classic, book a night or two at Hotel Ryumeikan Ochanomizu Honten, a luxury hotel that combines modern comforts with traditional Japanese design. Positioned just five minutes’ walk from JR Ochanomizu Station, the easy location offers access to the neon-drenched streets of Akihabara and the rest of the city. Non-guests can also pop by for tea at the elegant 1899 Ochanomizu Restaurant.

If it’s accessibility, comfort and affordability you’re looking for, then Hotel MyStays Asakusabashi is the place for you. A modern, no-fuss option, this hotel has an ideal location, meaning you’ll save money on transport for more important things (such as food). Sitting just one train stop from Akihabara and two subway stops from Asakusa, it offers both old-world charm and contemporary fun right at your doorstep.

If you’re the type of traveller who’s allergic to being trapped in a hotel room, a capsule hotel may be the best choice. Simple, affordable and easy to book, Glansit is a convenient option right in the heart of the action. Positioned just a 30-minute stroll from the historic Senso-ji Temple and less than five minutes from the centre of futuristic central Akihabara, it offers the best of both worlds.

A renovated toy warehouse, this contemporary hostel features both communal and private rooms and houses an excellent open-plan cafe and bar – perfect for work, play and making connections with like-minded fellow travellers. There’s also a shared kitchen (should you want to save on meals out) and a free-to-use library. A stylish rooftop made from recycled timber offers views of the Sky Tree and Sumida River.

Proving you don’t have to sacrifice style for affordability, Grids is a modern guesthouse with a warehouse-chic design and budget-friendly dorms and private rooms. There’s a trendy dining space that’s a cafe in the morning and a bar later on. There’s also a common room with a kitchenette, plus shared washing facilities.

Just one minute from Kuramae Subway Station and about 30 from Akihabara Station on foot, K’s House Tokyo is great for those who want to reach the heart of Akihabara with ease but desire something a little more hidden. This relaxed, affordable hostel almost feels like a shared house, great for those planning to set up a longer-term base.

For a more authentic Japanese experience, it’s worth considering a stay at a quaint guesthouse, and Tokyo Hikari is a wonderful choice. Offering both private and dorm-style rooms, this cosy laid-back hangout is next to Kuramae Subway Station and a stone’s throw from the Sumida River. If you’re looking for a little geek action, the heart of Akihabara is only about 20 minutes away by foot.