Tokyo hotels — Expedia and Hotels.com

A city of distinct neighbourhoods rather than one centre — pick the area first, then the hotel. Shinjuku or Shibuya for proximity to nightlife, department stores, and the JR Yamanote line that loops central Tokyo; Asakusa for traditional atmosphere at lower prices (typically 20–30% cheaper than Shibuya for equivalent comfort); Ginza for premium shopping and the Imperial Palace. Cherry-blossom season (late March–early April) is the largest price spike of the year and books out 6+ months ahead. October–November is the secret value window: comfortable autumn temperatures, fall colours in the parks, and rates drop sharply after Halloween. From Narita, the Skyliner to Ueno is 41 minutes for ¥2,570; from Haneda, the Monorail or Keikyu Line is 25 minutes and around half the cost. A 7-day JR Pass only pays back if you leave Tokyo at least once.

Typical nightly rate: £110–£380