Is the Shibuya Excel Hotel a Good Place to Stay in Tokyo?
Have you ever wondered if the Shibuya Excel Hotel is actually worth staying at when visiting Tokyo?
After years of arranging personalized trips for my clients through Trip To Japan, I've received plenty of feedback about where to stay in Tokyo. And honestly, the Shibuya Excel Hotel comes up frequently. So, is this popular hotel the right choice for your Tokyo adventure? Let me walk you through it, step by step.
Why Shibuya Excel Hotel caught my attention
When choosing hotels for clients, location is everything. And if you're aiming to be at the heart of Tokyo, the Shibuya Excel Hotel hits the bullseye. Situated directly above the Shibuya train station, you're instantly connected to pretty much anywhere in Tokyo. Want to explore Harajuku, Shinjuku, or Akihabara? Jump on a train and you're set.
But don't just take it from me—the buzz from customers who've stayed here consistently mentions convenience. I've even heard guests rave about the ease of getting around, especially those who've taken our recommended trip to see the spectacular views at Shibuya Sky, just a short stroll away.
Comfort without compromise
Let's talk about comfort—because being centrally located doesn't mean much if you can't get a good night's sleep, right? Luckily, Shibuya Excel Hotel delivers here as well. From the spacious rooms (by Tokyo standards, at least) to the genuinely comfortable beds, you're getting a restful stay. My clients often tell me the rooms feel surprisingly roomy compared to other central Tokyo hotels.
There's a balance of Western comfort with Japanese practicality. Bathrooms are clean and modern, and yes—they've got those famously high-tech Japanese toilets. If you've never experienced one before, you're in for a pleasant surprise.
The little touches that matter
One thing I've learned after countless bookings—it's the little details that guests remember. At Shibuya Excel Hotel, small gestures like complimentary bottled water, efficient check-in service, and friendly English-speaking staff make a huge difference. Travelers I've spoken to have noted how staff members genuinely seem to care, providing recommendations about local spots they love.
And speaking of recommendations, if you're keen to experience Tokyo's culinary scene, my customers who've stayed at this hotel have loved our guided food tour through Shibuya. Trust me—there's nothing like exploring hidden eateries right outside your hotel door.
Dining and nightlife—literally at your doorstep
Shibuya isn't just a place to rest your head—it's vibrant and alive well into the night. Shibuya Excel Hotel sits smack dab in the middle of it all. Step outside, and you've got restaurants, cafes, and bars stretching as far as the eye can see. Want ramen at 2 a.m.? You're covered. Craving sushi at sunrise? Easily done.
For nightlife enthusiasts, staying here means experiencing Tokyo after dark at its finest. I've covered the differences in nightlife between Shibuya and Roppongi in an article, detailing exactly why Shibuya could be the better option for many travelers. Many customers who've explored Tokyo’s nightlife tell me staying in Shibuya was their highlight.
But what about noise?
A fair concern I often hear is about noise levels. After all, Shibuya is Tokyo’s energetic hub. Here's the good news—despite being at the heart of the action, the Shibuya Excel Hotel manages surprisingly well in keeping rooms quiet.
Guests who are sensitive to noise have noted how effectively soundproofed their rooms were. Sure, if you're staying directly facing the busy crossing, there might be faint street noise, but it's rarely disruptive enough to affect sleep.
What others are saying online
I pay close attention to discussions online because they reflect real guest experiences. There's a good Reddit thread I've read where travelers shared both praise and minor gripes. One traveler mentioned specifically how the hotel’s location made exploring Shibuya incredibly easy—something echoed by many guests who've booked through my service.
Another noted the comfort of rooms, praising their spaciousness compared to similarly priced hotels nearby (Reddit).
For a more structured overview, TripAdvisor shows plenty of enthusiastic reviews. Travelers often emphasize the friendly staff, clean rooms, and unbeatable location. You can see a pattern emerging here—location, comfort, and convenience are constant highlights (TripAdvisor).
Is it worth the price?
Let’s address the elephant in the room—cost. Tokyo hotels aren't exactly known for being budget-friendly. The Shibuya Excel Hotel is priced moderately to high, depending on the season and room choice. But here's my straightforward take—given the convenience and the comfort, the hotel provides strong value. It's not the cheapest option in Tokyo, but if convenience is a priority for you, this is money well spent.
And for those considering luxury stays or something slightly different, Oyster.com has a thorough breakdown of rooms, amenities, and services at the Shibuya Excel Hotel. It's worth checking out their detailed review to see exactly what you'd get for your dollar.
Who exactly should consider staying at Shibuya Excel Hotel?
In my experience, this hotel fits travelers who put convenience above everything else. It's ideal if you're short on time or prefer minimizing travel logistics. Families, in particular, find it perfect because being directly connected to the station simplifies exploring Tokyo with children. No fuss, no dragging tired kids across busy streets—you're instantly on the train.
Solo travelers also appreciate the hotel for similar reasons. It’s incredibly easy to venture out alone without worrying about complicated routes. Whether you’re off to explore Meiji Shrine or shopping around Harajuku, you’ve got immediate access to trains.
Not just tourists—the hotel works for business too
Something I didn't expect initially but quickly learned from clients—Shibuya Excel Hotel is excellent for business travelers. The easy commute to major Tokyo business hubs like Shinjuku or Marunouchi makes it a smart choice. Plus, rooms are set up practically, featuring reliable Wi-Fi and comfortable desk spaces for catching up on work.
A client mentioned recently how much easier their trip became once they stayed at this hotel. Meetings ran smoother, mornings were less rushed, and evenings were enjoyable thanks to nearby restaurants and bars.
Nearby attractions you shouldn't miss
Besides Shibuya Crossing—literally steps away—the surrounding area offers more than just hustle and bustle. I always recommend a stroll to Shibuya Sky, where you'll witness one of the best panoramas in Tokyo. Many travelers staying at Shibuya Excel Hotel have praised this as a highlight of their trip. Check out my detailed thoughts on visiting Shibuya Sky.
If nightlife intrigues you, don't skip the local bar scene. I personally recommend our Shibuya pub crawl tour. It's a fantastic way to explore local bars safely, meet new people, and enjoy Tokyo after dark.
Experience Tokyo's nightlife on a bar-hopping tour: enjoy drinks, meet new friends, and explore the city's vibrant bars and clubs. Book now for a fun night!
Dining at the hotel—worth it?
The Shibuya Excel Hotel itself has dining options that might tempt you to stay in. Their breakfast buffet often receives praise from travelers I've booked for. It features a nice mix of Western and Japanese dishes, ensuring you'll find something tasty no matter your preference.
However, given Shibuya's endless dining choices, you'll likely spend more time eating out. After all, you're in Tokyo—food paradise awaits outside your door!
Alternative hotels nearby
If you want something a bit newer or trendier, the Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel Tokyu could be an interesting alternative. It's similar in comfort but offers a slightly fresher atmosphere. Clients have mentioned its chic, modern rooms and convenient location next to Shibuya Stream—a popular new shopping and dining complex.
From customer feedback I've received, many find this hotel ideal if they're interested in exploring Tokyo's trendy side. There’s also a great visual walkthrough online if you're curious—check out this helpful YouTube tour of rooms and facilities.
Potential downsides of staying here
No hotel is perfect, and the Shibuya Excel Hotel isn't an exception. One minor complaint I've heard revolves around hotel decor feeling slightly dated. While rooms remain comfortable and clean, some travelers feel they're due for a modern refresh.
Additionally, during peak tourist seasons like cherry blossom viewing in spring or New Year’s holidays, rates can jump significantly. If budget is tight, this might push the hotel out of comfortable price ranges.
So, should you book it?
If you've followed along until now, you probably see where I'm going—Shibuya Excel Hotel is absolutely worth considering. It's the convenience factor that continually impresses my clients. With direct train access, ample comfort, and plenty of entertainment just steps away, it truly enhances a Tokyo visit.
Yet, if you're after ultra-luxury or cutting-edge design, other options might suit you better. This hotel shines brightest for travelers prioritizing practicality, comfort, and convenience. It's a reliable choice that won't disappoint.
Final thoughts
From what I’ve seen, travelers who choose this hotel rarely regret their decision. Tokyo is massive, busy, and sometimes overwhelming. Having a comfortable, conveniently located base can completely change your experience—for the better.
Remember, planning a trip to Japan can sometimes feel overwhelming, but that's exactly why I'm here to help. Whether you decide on Shibuya Excel Hotel or somewhere else, my team at Trip To Japan is ready to guide you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out, and let's get your Tokyo adventure planned today.
