Tokyo is so large that where you stay determines which city you experience. Two visitors staying in Asakusa and Shibuya respectively are effectively in different cities — same transit network, completely different character. Here's how to choose.
Shinjuku: The Default Hub
Best for: First-time visitors who want everything accessible, maximum transport connections, and don't mind density. Character: Tokyo at its most intense — Japan's busiest station, skyscraper west side, Kabukicho neon east side, Golden Gai bars, Shinjuku Gyoen garden. Never boring, never quiet. Transport: JR Yamanote, Chuo, Sobu lines; Odakyu to Hakone; Keio to Shimokitazawa; direct bus to Hakone and Mt. Fuji area. Accommodation range: Budget to ultra-luxury. Downside: The area immediately around the station is characterless by day and intense by night — you need to walk 10–15 minutes to reach interesting streets.
Asakusa: Old Tokyo Character
Best for: Visitors who want atmosphere, traditional character, and the feeling of older Tokyo. Character: Senso-ji temple, rickshaw pullers, craft shops, Sumida River, Skytree backdrop. The most photogenic neighborhood in Tokyo and the one most foreigners imagine when they think "Tokyo." Transport: Asakusa Line (Narita Express connection), Ginza Line, Tobu to Nikko. Slightly less central than Shinjuku — budget extra transit time to west Tokyo destinations. Accommodation: Budget to mid-range; excellent hostels. Downside: Touristy by day; relatively quiet at night compared to west Tokyo.
Shibuya: Contemporary Tokyo
Best for: Visitors interested in contemporary culture, fashion, and nightlife. Character: The Crossing, department stores, Daikanyama and Nakameguro walking distance, young creative energy. Transport: JR Yamanote; Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line; direct access to Shimokitazawa, Sangenjaya. Accommodation: Mid-range to luxury dominant; good design hotels. Downside: Expensive food options near the station; need to walk to find good local restaurants.
Roppongi: Arts and International
Best for: Art enthusiasts, international business travelers, those who want sophisticated nightlife. Character: Mori Art Museum, National Art Center, Tokyo Midtown, international restaurant scene. Transport: Hibiya and Oedo subway lines; central but slightly awkward for outer Tokyo day trips. Accommodation: Luxury dominant. Downside: The tourist nightlife district adjacent to the arts area is very different in character — choose your specific street carefully.
Ueno/Akihabara: Museum and Tech
Best for: Museum lovers, solo travelers, anime/electronics enthusiasts. Character: Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, Ameyoko market, proximity to Akihabara's electronics and pop culture district. Transport: JR Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku; excellent connections to Asakusa and Tokyo Station. Accommodation: Budget to mid-range; excellent value compared to Shinjuku. Good choice for budget travelers who want central access.