10 of the best Airbnbs in Tokyo, from a zen garden art house to the central city

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Tokyo is the most populous city on Earth, with 37 million people in the greater area. In this sense, it’s the perfect Airbnb city. Tokyo’s enormous population means there are a lot of options to choose from, and you’ll get pretty competitive rates for your night’s stay. Here are some of the best Airbnbs in Tokyo that will put you close to the best izakayas, nightlife, and entertainment districts. These units are perfect for experiencing the urban Tokyo lifestyle without breaking the bank, saving you that extra cash for eating as much ramen and yakitori as possible.

Entire serviced apartment in Chuo City

Lodging operator Spatium runs this cozy unit that is ideal for experiencing Tokyo and Japanese hospitality all in one. The rental is in a hotel but feels more like an apartment complete with a chabudai, a low-legged dining table that’s found in traditional Japanese homes. It’s a short walk from this Airbnb to numerous train stations, restaurants, cafes, and attractions like the Art Aquarium Museum and Kabukiza Theatre. The host also offers discount rates for those who want to stay for an extended period of time.

Price: $118 per night

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BnA art suite and zen garden

This unit is designed by the art group 51.3 G-Wave — led by prominent Japanese artist Taku Sato — and by architect Keigo Fukugaki, who is also responsible for the Facebook and Pinterest offices in Tokyo. This Airbnb in particular, as the name suggests, is highlighted by a zen garden and artistic design. You’d be hard pressed to find an apartment anywhere that’s more outfitted for the perfect Instagram. Here, you have easy access to central Tokyo, though the most memorable part of your trip may be this apartment.

Price: $215 per night

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Entire apartment near Shinjuku

In the grand tradition of Tokyo apartments, this unit is small and efficient. It has everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a workspace, kitchen, slippers, full bed, and a traditional Japanese futon that doubles as the couch. It also provides a free pocket Wi-Fi device, so you can get online not only while chilling by the bedside flatscreen television but also as you stroll around the surrounding area. The location is ideal. Shinjuku is a short walk from this rental, and nearby subway stations give you easy access to other neighborhoods.

Price: $41 per night

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H20 Stay Morishita

Four people can stay in this luxuriously spacious (by Tokyo standards) apartment in Morishita. It’s walking distance to Kiyosumi Garden and the Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as multiple subway stations that allow you to zip around the inner city without too much hassle. The apartment itself features a double bed and a fold-out couch, along with Wi-Fi and kitchen necessities. The operator runs multiple units in the same building; each have the same setup but slightly unique aesthetics.

Price: $129 per night

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Skytree view entire apartment in Koto City

Part of the appeal of staying in the heart of any city is the views, right? Spend your pre- and post-activity relaxation sessions on the balcony of this epic private room staring out at Tokyo’s legendary skyline. The quaint room features a double bed and two Tokyo-perfect floor mattresses, along with a kitchen, bathroom, and a washing machine. The unit is efficient and affordable, and what it lacks in over-the-top luxury it makes up for as the perfect place for stays in Tokyo that last longer than a few days. The other perk is its proximity to any type of cuisine you could want, be that unagi or sushi, a big plate of fried noodles or a juicy burger. The Oshiagi train station is nearby, as are the tourist attractions of eastern Tokyo.

Price: $55 per night

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Luxury two-bedroom penthouse near Imperial Palace

Tokyo is an expensive city, making the fact that you can rent this luxurious two-bedroom penthouse in a Japanese Kundanshita hotel for a fraction of the cost of the Four Seasons all the more impressive. Located in the Chiyoda area near downtown, the 914-square-foot apartment sleeps up to seven people and offers walkable access to eight different train lines at nearby stations. Also nearby are tourist stops like the Imperial Palace, the Science Museum, and multiple parks in which to escape the urban chaos.

Price: $183 per night

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Glass house in Shinjuku with roof balcony

There’s something to be said for 360-degree views of one of the world’s most breathtaking cities. Two adjacent bedrooms with three beds sleep up to six in this spacious multi-floor rental, capped by a rooftop balcony that offers that stunning view. The open concept of the apartment and its minimalist decor give it a modern feel often absent from affordable rentals in Tokyo, and while you’re right in the heart of Shinjuku, this rental offers security and privacy.

Price: $403 per night

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Yagoda Yangidori West open-air bathhouse

Experience a private Japanese bathhouse in this entire-home rental that is among the most traditional, culturally rich rentals available in Tokyo on Airbnb. The home has a bedroom, kitchen, living room, and common area. But the highlight is upstairs — here, you’ll find an open-air bath area on the terrace. The host allows only two guests, making it a perfect rental for a couple or solo traveler. Cafes, shops, and fine dining are all available a short walk away or you can hop on the train to Shinjuku and other trendy areas. For an additional charge, the host can arrange airport transfers for you, as well.

Price: $311 per night

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Ikebukuro Shinbo elite all-intelligent villa

Here, you’ll enjoy a rooftop deck and flower garden until 6:00 PM, and an elegantly designed and constructed home to call your own during your stay in Tokyo. The house is bright and the living decor adds a touch of natural charm while staying in the world’s biggest city. Take advantage of the jacuzzi tub and rooftop grill, and the fully equipped kitchen, bathrooms, and living space suitable for up to eight guests. The house also has fast WiFi and plenty of room to spread out and get some rest after a day exploring the city.

Price: $154 per night

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Ascott Marunouchi Tokyo

Budget lodging is nice, sure, but sometimes you just want to ball out like a rockstar when visiting one of the world’s legacy cities. This is the unit in which to do just that. High above the city, you’ll look-out over central Tokyo. The luxury apartment is inside a mixed-use development with nice restaurants and shopping on site, along with a train station. If you’re here on business, traveling in a group for a bachelor party or bachelorette party, or otherwise need a fancy spot to crash, this unit in the central business district has you covered. Up to four guests can come together to cover the cost.

Price: $1,091 per night

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A version of this article was previously published on September 15, 2014, and was updated on March 26, 2021, with more information.