Top 10 Homestay Vacation Rentals In Tokyo For The Perfect Family Vacation

Top 10 Homestay Vacation Rentals In Tokyo For The Perfect Family Vacation
Rachel
Rachel 
Updated
| 10 min read

Japan’s vibrant capital - Tokyo - is a popular tourist destination, famous for its contrasting mix of rich traditions alongside modern skyscrapers. Attractions vary from grand theme parks to anime and manga shops in Tokyo. Being the most densely populated metropolis in the world, the cost of living in the city is very high. Often, you find yourself having to book into small average hotel rooms of only about 10 to 12 square metres (107 to 129 square feet) from 100 USD per night in a decent location.

Instead of trying to compromise on space and comfort for an accessible location, check out HomeAway.com, a social marketplace where travelling “Guests” can locate and book cool vacation rentals owned by local “Hosts” in Asia Pacific. Book into exquisite accommodations on this vacation rental site, where you can find a vacation rental to feel at home in Tokyo. This article will provide you a list of the top family-friendly apartments in Tokyo, all at a fraction of the cost you pay for hotels of equivalent standard!

Stay within walking distance to Tokyo’s tourism hot spots for the ultimate convenience

The geography of central Tokyo is defined by the JR Yamanote Line, which runs in a loop around the city centre. Wards located inside the Yamanote loop are classified as being in the core of Tokyo, and they include the prime Chuo (Ginza), Shibuya and Shinjuku wards. Staying within walking distance to Tokyo’s city centre definitely brings you close to all the action in the bustling capital!

Stayed at this property?

1. Tetsu-law’s cosy Shibuya 1-bedroom apartment (from 80 USD)

Tetsu-law’s cosy 1-bedroom apartment is located close enough to the buzzing Shibuya, a trendy shopping and dining district with young locals, yet in a quiet neighbourhood for some privacy. You will find the 109 building, Uniqlo, Tokyu Hands, as well as numerous nice restaurants, cafés, shops and clubs conveniently located in the vicinity to cater to the different needs of the family. After a long day of fun, return home to a comfortable 30 square-metre (323 sq feet) 1-bedroom apartment, complete with kitchen and bathroom amenities for a good night’s rest. Your vacation becomes more wonderful when you have Tetsu-law, the amazing host who responds to your needs promptly and keeps the apartment clean and safe for your utmost comfort!

Tetsu-law’s cosy Shibuya 1-bedroom apartment

Address: Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 80 USD

Access: 5-minute walk to Shibuya Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

2. Micah’s apartment in Harajuku (from 94 USD)

The Harajuku district is famous for youth culture, especially on weekends where you will see fashionable youngsters in cosplay and hanging out in cafes and shops at Takeshita-dori. The grandest Meiji Jingu shrine and beautiful Yoyogi Park can also be found here. Located within this interesting area where traditional and modern culture come together, is Micah’s comfortable apartment with a beautiful little outdoor garden. You will also find lots of cool cafes, restaurants and supermarkets in the vicinity so it’s hard to go hungry when you are staying in such a great location!

Micah’s apartment in Harajuku

Address: Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 94 USD

Access: 4-minute walk to Harajuku Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

3. Ashley’s 1-bedroom Shinjuku apartment (from 95 USD)

A superb location is essential when travelling in a large and busy metropolis like Tokyo, so staying within the Shinjuku ward - the metropolis’ second centre, can save you time and confusion commuting around. In addition, an integrated bus terminal - BASUTA - recently opened at JR Shinjuku Station’s South exit. That means you can get to Shinjuku directly by limousine bus from both Narita airport and Haneda airport now! Ashley’s 1-bedroom apartment right next to Washington Hotel in Shinjuku is ideal if you are travelling in a family with young children. With the direct limousine bus, it’s definitely easier to stay here, especially when you have children or heavy luggage in tow. Furthermore, besides providing a free portable crib for your little one. Ashley can also recommend a great English-speaking babysitter who can take care of your kids in the apartment while you enjoy a romantic dinner with your spouse!

The Shinjuku ward is also a cool place offering so much to do. You can shop, dine, visit attractions till you drop without travelling out of the hub. For example, take a relaxing stroll in the Shinjuku Central Park or visit the Japan Sword Museum if you are into history. Stroll through the park and you will see the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building where you can get an amazing view of Tokyo from the top of the towers. When you just feel like escaping from all the action in the busy hub, return to the cosy apartment for a good night’s rest!

Ashley’s 1-bedroom Shinjuku apartment

Address: Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 95 USD

Access: 10-minute walk to Shinjuku Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

Tokyo Tour Guide

Ayano Totsuka

Ayano Totsuka

Hello! I am Ayano, a local host in Tokyo. I have been living in Tokyo for over 10 years, so I know a wide range of restaurants, bars, cafes, and tourist spots! Leave your Tokyo sightseeing to me. I have traveled to various countries and had unforgettable experiences. Being passionate about traveling, I really want to take you to the captivating places in Tokyo. As photography is my hobby, I will capture beautiful photos that will become lasting memories. Join my tour and let's explore Tokyo together!

Tours by Ayano

Get close to Old Tokyo for a taste of Japanese culture and history

To the northern and eastern part of the JR Yamanote Line is the downtown of the Edo Period, known as Shitamachi (下町) to the locals. Here, you will find important cultural and historical attractions in Tokyo, such as the famous Tokyo Sky Tree and temples in Asakusa, National Museums in Ueno and the last original tram line in the city. Check these accommodations out if you are a heritage buff!

Stayed at this property?

1. Shoji & Coco’s 2-bedroom apartment near Tokyo Sky Tree (from 77 USD)

Shoji & Coco’s clean 2-bedroom apartment is within walking distance to the famous Asakusa and iconic Tokyo Sky Tree, as well as direct train access to both Haneda and Narita airports. It is fitted with a Western double bed in 1 room, 3 traditional Japanese futons in the other bedroom, and other amenities in a typical home. The thoughtful couple has prepared English instruction manuals so that you will be able to use the amenities such as microwave and washing machine with ease. Feel free to ask for their assistance if you need any help during your stay!

Shoji & Coco’s 2-bedroom apartment near Tokyo Sky Tree

Address: Sumida, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 77 USD

Access: 4-minute walk to Oshiage Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

2. Fumio’s 2-bedroom Old Town apartment (from 92 USD)

Looking for a place that is in the heart of the Old Town? Then staying at Fumio’s recently renovated 2-bedroom apartment is your best bet. Sandwiched between Ueno and Asakusa, Fumio’s apartment is just right next to the Inaricho Station. Furthermore, Ueno Park - the country’s most popular city park founded in the Meiji era, is just a 10-minute walk away. Why not take a refreshing morning stroll to Asakusa everyday to witness the modern yet traditional side of Japan? Marvel at the pretty cherry blossoms in the park if you visit in Spring. Your children age 6 or below can stay together with you at no extra charge in this bright and airy apartment on the top floor of the building!

Fumio’s 2-bedroom Old Town apartment

Address: Taito, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 92 USD

Access: 1-minute walk to Inaricho Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

3. Brad’s 3-bedroom family apartment (from 150 USD)

At 70 square metres (753 sq feet), Brad’s 3-bedroom family apartment in the historic downtown of Tokyo is the place to stay for a big family of up to 6 people. Located just above the JR Machiya Station, this apartment is nestled within the shopping and dining district of the Old Town, but you can still enjoy some quiet family time in this bright and roomy apartment. There is also a bus stop just across the road, where you can board a bus easily to get to the Asakusa temples easily. In case your kids get bored and don’t know what to do in the apartment, play some DVDs on the player, kindly prepared by Brad to keep them occupied. With such superb service and amenities provided by the English-speaking friendly host and his family, you’ll definitely feel at home here! Staying at Brad’s surely gives you more value for your money compared to staying in a classy hotel, isn’t it?

Brad’s 3-bedroom family apartment

Address: Arakawa, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 150 USD

Access: 2-minute walk to Machiya Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

Experience real Tokyo life in these residential areas in Central Tokyo

Staying in the residential areas may not sound appealing at first, because you want to save time and money by being where most of the city attractions are. But there are advantages like getting a bigger space for the same amount of rental you pay in the city centre, living like a local and so on. Furthermore, in a highly-developed metropolis like Tokyo, the public transport network is wonderful, which means you are connected easily and quickly anywhere. So check out these apartments in the residential areas and you may be in for a surprise!

Stayed at this property?

1. Jason’s 3-bedroom log-cabin apartment (from 111 USD)

Feel welcomed by the specially designed log-cabin concept once you step into Jason’s fully furnished large 3-bedroom apartment in the north. The luxuriously spacious and uniquely designed property is hard to find at such a reasonable price in Tokyo! Furthermore, you can soak your troubles away in a traditional Japanese public bath just 5 minutes away. A large grocery store, 3 convenience stores, pharmacy, local and fast food restaurants, and florist are all within easy reach from the apartment as well, Experience the daily life of a Tokyoite by staying in this quaint and quiet neighbourhood, while being connected to the buzzing city via quick train ride at the nearby station.

Jason’s 3-bedroom log-cabin apartment

Address: Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 111 USD

Access: 5-minute walk to Itabashi Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

2. Kim’s designer penthouse apartment (from 131 USD)

Ever dreamt of staying in a luxurious penthouse apartment with gorgeous views of natural scenery? Make your dream come true by booking a stay at Kim’s designer penthouse apartment located on the 20th floor of a tower mansion overlooking Mount Fuji from the balcony! This spacious 2-bedroom apartment is in a tranquil neighbourhood with splendid city views, yet closely connected to major tourist attractions. Should you visit in spring, marvel at the line of lovely cherry blossom trees just a few minutes’ walk from the home. You will also find numerous local restaurants serving delicious Japanese cuisine, convenience stores, and supermarkets right beside the private apartment, as well as a 2-storey Uniqlo department store 5 minutes away.

Kim’s designer penthouse apartment

Address: Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 131 USD

Access: 2-minute walk to Itabashi Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

3. Kiyoshi’s 1-bedroom apartment in Otsuka (from 82 USD)

Just 5 minutes away from the nearest train station where you can go anywhere in town quickly is Kiyoshi’s 32 square-metre (344 sq feet) comfortable apartment in Otsuka. Otsuka is one station away from Ikebukuro station and a 22-minute ride from JR Tokyo Station. Kids and the young at heart will love its proximity to Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo, where you can get your hands on your favourite Pokemon characters at the biggest Pokemon centre in Japan! Kiyoshi is an awesome host, who will provide complimentary transfers for you at the nearest train station, and also go out of his way to ensure your holiday plans are smooth.

Kiyoshi’s 1-bedroom apartment in Otsuka

Address: Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 82 USD

Access: 5-minute walk to Shin-Otsuka Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

4. Maki’s spacious 2-bedroom apartment (from 92 USD)

If you are travelling in a big group of up to 7 people, Maki’s spacious 2-bedroom apartment is the ideal choice for you in the heart of Tokyo! It is located just a stone’s throw away from Komagome Station, on the east side of JR Yamanote Line, only a 20-minute train ride to Tokyo Station. This airy 52 square-metre (559 sq feet) apartment is tastefully decorated with a nice balcony view of its surroundings. Immerse in the beauty and tranquility at the famous Rikugien Garden and Kyu-Furukawa Garden within 10 minutes on foot from the apartment. You can also check out the local shopping street just 1 minute away. Furthermore, Maki, the thoughtful host, has kindly provided beautiful Yukata and Anime costumes in the apartment, so have fun trying them out and taking photos with your family for beautiful memories!

Maki’s spacious 2-bedroom apartment

Address: Toshima, Tokyo, Japan (see map)

Price: from 92 USD

Access: 3-minute walk to Komagome Station

Map Location

Stayed at this property?

Create lovely holiday memories with these homes away from home

Skyscrapers of Shinjuku 2009 January
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Morio used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Stay in style and experience living like a local by booking one of the above gorgeous homes in Tokyo. Create wonderful memories with your family through interacting with the awesome hosts and exploring the varied range of sights the city has to offer. A perfect family vacation in one of the world’s most expensive cities need not be a strain on your wallet anymore with these top homestays from Homeaway.com.sg!

Stayed at this property?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Rachel has forgotten when and exactly how she caught the travel bug. What she does remember is the triumphant feeling she enjoys when she sees the fascinating world out there with her own eyes. She...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Explore Tokyo
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.