Sakura Hostel Asakusa

A short walk from the subway and train lines, taking you through Asakusa’s famed Senso-ji temple area, is Sakura Hostel Asakusa. This newly built hostel, right in Tokyo’s tourist mecca, is not your typical backpacker’s – the architecturally conscious poured-concrete walls and photographic art featured in the halls and stairs can attest to that. Though there are no single rooms (they range from twin to dormitory style)and all bathroom facilities are single-sex and shared per floor, Sakura Hostel still manages to maintain a slightly more dignified atmosphere that is no less friendly and lively, perfectly suited to those looking for activity from the moment they leave their doorstep. Located just next door to the retro Hanayashiki amusement park, and in the eye-line of Senso-ji temple’s iconic pagoda, as well as the ever-growing Sky Tree, guests can get a triple-shot of Tokyo culture right out their window. The ground-floor lounge hosts laundry, kitchen and Internet facilities, as well as Wi-Fi access throughout the area (the WiFi is not, however, available in the rooms). Convenience store-style snacks and drinks can be purchased on premises, and a simple self-serve continental breakfast is available in the mornings.