A well-maintained Japan Youth Hostel Association property on the 18th and 19th floors of a central Tokyo building, offering affordable dorm-style accommodations with breakfast included. The hostel has a traditional structure with rules (curfew, lights-out time) but offers remarkable central access and city views at a very competitive price.
Tokyo Central Youth Hostel is a Japan Youth Hostel Association (JYH) property occupying the 18th and 19th floors of a building in the Ichigaya district of Shinjuku-ku, one of Tokyo's most accessible central wards. The hostel sits roughly midway between Shinjuku and Akihabara, within easy reach of the Imperial Palace moat cycling routes and the major sightseeing corridors of central Tokyo.
The elevated building position gives the hostel an unusual distinction among budget Tokyo accommodations: sweeping city views extending toward the towers of Shinjuku to the west and the midrise expanse of central Tokyo to the east. The upper-floor location also reduces street noise, offering a quieter resting environment than most properties at this price point.
Accommodation is dormitory-style, as is standard for JYH-affiliated properties across Japan. Rooms follow gender-separated dormitory configurations maintained to the consistent standards of the association network, which has provided reliable budget lodging throughout Japan for decades. Breakfast — a simple Japanese set meal — is included in the nightly rate of approximately 5,250 JPY per person, providing an economical start to each sightseeing day without requiring guests to locate nearby cafes before exploring.
Shared facilities include a common lounge, coin-operated laundry machines, vending machines, and limited complimentary Wi-Fi. Luggage storage is available for guests arriving before the 15:00 check-in or departing after the 10:00 checkout. The hostel operates under JYH house rules, which include a nighttime curfew between 22:00 and 07:00 and defined lights-out conventions — policies that prioritise rest over social nightlife programming.
Transit access is among the hostel's strongest practical assets. JR Ichigaya Station, served by the Sobu and Chuo lines, is approximately five minutes on foot, providing direct connections to Shinjuku (two stops), Tokyo Station (four stops), and the Akihabara district. Tokyo Metro Ichigaya Station, serving the Yurakucho and Namboku lines, adds further coverage to Ginza, Roppongi, and Shibuya without requiring transfers.
The hostel suits independent travellers, students, and backpackers who prioritise a central location and low nightly cost over late-night flexibility or private facilities. It represents one of the most competitively priced options in central Shinjuku-ku for guests comfortable with shared accommodation and structured house rules.
Amenities
- Breakfast included
- Common lounge
- Complimentary WiFi (limited)
- Coin laundry
- Luggage storage
- Vending machines
Location
1-1 Kagawacho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 162-0002
Highlights
- Breakfast included in price
- 18th-19th floor city views
- Very central Ichigaya location
- Clean and well-managed facilities
Tips for visiting
- There is a curfew (22:00-07:00) — not suitable for late-night revelers
- Breakfast is a simple but filling Japanese set included in the rate
- JR Ichigaya Station is a 5-minute walk connecting to Shinjuku and central Tokyo
Accessibility
The hostel is located on the 18th and 19th floors of a building served by elevator, making vertical access manageable for guests with limited mobility. Dormitory-style shared rooms and communal bathroom facilities may present challenges for wheelchair users; guests with specific accessibility requirements are advised to contact the hostel directly at +81-3-3235-1107 before booking. The pavement route between JR Ichigaya Station and the building entrance is generally flat and navigable.
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Frequently asked questions
Is breakfast included in the nightly rate?
Yes, breakfast is included for all guests. It is a simple Japanese-style set meal served in the hostel's dining area and is factored into the quoted per-person rate of approximately 5,250 JPY per night.
Does the hostel have a curfew?
The hostel operates a curfew between 22:00 and 07:00, in line with Japan Youth Hostel Association standards. Guests should plan evening activities to return before 22:00, as late entry is not accommodated during curfew hours.
Which train station is nearest?
JR Ichigaya Station is approximately a five-minute walk from the hostel, with Sobu and Chuo line services toward Shinjuku and Tokyo Station. Tokyo Metro Ichigaya Station, serving the Yurakucho and Namboku lines, is also within walking distance.
Do guests need a Japan Youth Hostel Association membership?
Non-members may stay at JYH-affiliated properties, though members typically receive a discounted nightly rate. Temporary membership can be arranged at check-in or in advance through the Japan Youth Hostels association website at jyh.or.jp.
Are private rooms available at this hostel?
The Tokyo Central Youth Hostel operates primarily as a dormitory-style property consistent with JYH network standards. Guests seeking private rooms should consider alternative properties, as the accommodation here is designed for shared-room stays.