Shinagawa Station is one of Tokyo’s premier transit hubs, serving the Shinkansen bullet train and located as close as 11 minutes away from Haneda Airport via the Keikyu Line. It is an exceptionally popular base not only for sightseeing and business trips, but also for weekend family getaways.
However, first-time visitors and returning travelers often ask me questions like these:
- “Shinagawa Station has a Takanawa Exit and a Konan Exit—which side should I choose?”
- “Which hotels are easiest to navigate with strollers or large suitcases?”
- “Where can I find family-friendly hotels or quiet, luxury spots for a relaxing evening?”
When my family visited from the US or when we traveled around Japan, I spent countless hours comparing hotels. Growing up in America with its spacious hotel culture and living in Japan with its attentive hospitality (omotenashi), I’m excited to share real, practical tips for picking the perfect hotel!
In this guide, I’ll break down 7 top-recommended hotels around Shinagawa Station in detail, making it super easy to choose the right one for your trip!
Must-Read for First-Timers! 3 Easy Steps to Choose the Right Hotel in Shinagawa
Shinagawa Station is a massive transit hub with huge daily passenger traffic. To ensure a smooth stay without regrets, keep these three key steps in mind!
Step 1: Understand the Two Station Exits (Takanawa Exit vs. Konan Exit)
Once you exit the ticket gates at Shinagawa Station, you’ll find two main exits: the Takanawa Exit (West Exit) and the Konan Exit (East Exit).
- Takanawa Exit (West Exit) Area:
- Features: A greener, open area featuring the Prince Hotel complex and the historical Gotenyama area.
- Best for: Families wanting entertainment like aquariums, travelers looking for serene Japanese gardens, or those using Haneda Airport.
- Tips: You will need to cross Route 15 (Daiichi Keihin), and there are gentle slopes (like Zakuro-zaka) leading up into Takanawa. It is smart to check your route beforehand if you have heavy luggage or a stroller.
- Konan Exit (East Exit) Area:
- Features: A modern business district lined with skyscrapers. A covered pedestrian walkway extends right from the station entrance.
- Best for: Smooth transfers to the Shinkansen, staying dry on rainy days, or enjoying stunning high-rise city views at night.
Step 2: Consider Transport & Luggage (Important Construction Note!)
When my parents visited from the US with huge suitcases, their biggest challenge was navigating steps, curbs, and station stairs.
⚠️ Crucial Local Tip: Shinagawa Station is currently undergoing major long-term redevelopment and construction work. Because of this, elevators connecting train platforms to the gates are limited and can experience long lines during peak travel hours.
If you have young kids, heavy bags, or a stroller, allow extra travel time when getting off trains. Choosing a hotel with direct station access or complimentary shuttle buses will drastically reduce your stress!
Step 3: Choose Based on Amenities (Breakfast, Separate Bathroom, Entertainment)
Whether you want a deep soak in a Japanese-style separate bathroom, need nearby entertainment to keep kids happy, or want a quick breakfast before catching an early Shinkansen, setting your priorities early makes finding your ideal hotel a breeze.
7 Top Recommended Hotels Around Shinagawa Station
Here are 7 fantastic hotels around Shinagawa Station that I confidently recommend as a local resident!
1. The Strings Tokyo InterContinental by IHG
Directly connected to Shinagawa Station! A sanctuary of luxury above the city skyline
Located on the upper floors of Shinagawa East One Tower, directly connected to Shinagawa Station’s Konan Exit. You can reach the lobby without opening an umbrella, even on rainy days.
- Rooms & Views: All guest rooms and the lobby are located on the 26th floor or higher. The moment you step in, you’ll be awed by the soaring glass atrium! Floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping panoramic views of Tokyo Tower, the train yards, and Odaiba.
- Dining: Excellent dining options including Italian Grill “Melodia”, creative Chinese cuisine at “China Shadow”, elegant afternoon tea at “Rhythmos” Cafe & Bar, and “Kazahana” Teppanyaki. Breakfast buffet is served in a sunlit atrium space.
- Mom & Expat Perspective: English-fluent international staff provide top-notch hospitality. Direct, flat access from the station makes it completely stress-free for wheelchair users and travelers with large bags. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat!
👉 The Strings Tokyo InterContinental by IHG
2. Shinagawa Prince Hotel
Aquarium, cinema, & more! An entertainment mega-hotel for the whole family
Just a 2-minute walk from Shinagawa Station’s Takanawa Exit! Boasting one of Japan’s largest room capacities (approx. 3,500 rooms), this massive complex is packed with entertainment facilities.
- On-Site Entertainment: Features the famous “Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa” aquarium with stunning light-and-sound dolphin shows, a multi-screen cinema (T-Joy PRINCE Shinagawa), and a bowling alley! My 4-year-old daughter absolutely loves the dolphin show here.
- Choosing Your Tower: The hotel is divided into Main, Annex, N, and East Towers.
- Families & Sightseeing: The Main Tower offers great views and variety, while the Annex Tower is close to the cinema and ideal for families.
- Business / Solo: The N Tower features a dedicated lounge for working travelers.
- Mom & Expat Perspective: Excellent family amenities including nursing rooms and crib rentals. The famous “Luxe Dining Hapuna” buffet serves a vast array of Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes. The lively atmosphere means you won’t have to worry about kids making a little noise!
3. Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa
Relax in a 20,000 m² Japanese garden—A serene hotel rich in history and elegance
Located up a gentle slope (Zakuro-zaka) from Takanawa Exit, this classic luxury hotel offers quiet sophistication removed from city bustle.
- Serene Japanese Garden: The highlight is the breathtaking 20,000 m² (approx. 5-acre) traditional Japanese garden. Enjoy seasonal flowers, koi ponds, and historic structures like the Kannon-do hall. Beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage!
- Refined Rooms & Club Lounge: Rooms feature modern decor infused with Japanese aesthetics. Guests with Club Lounge access (“Hanamiya”) can enjoy matcha tea, traditional sweets, and evening drinks overlooking garden greenery.
- Mom & Expat Perspective: Whenever my family and friends visit from abroad, this hotel wows them completely. It seamlessly blends traditional Japanese beauty with modern luxury. Perfect for couples, seniors, and travelers seeking a peaceful Japanese retreat.
4. Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa
All rooms feature private balconies! A stylish city resort with modern design
Adjacent to Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa, sharing the beautiful Japanese garden, but featuring sleek modern architecture designed by renowned architect Togo Murano.
- Private Balconies: Rare in central Tokyo, every single room comes with a private outdoor balcony! You can step outside, feel the breeze, and enjoy views of the garden or city skyline.
- Dining & Summer Pools: Features “Slope Side Diner ZAKURO” with live cooking stations, plus Japanese and Chinese restaurants. In summer, guest pools including a poolside lounge offer a refreshing city resort vibe.
- Mom & Expat Perspective: Spacious rooms with balconies give families plenty of breathing room. The three Prince hotels in Takanawa are connected through the central garden, allowing you to wander through the lush greenery anytime.
👉 Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa
5. Tokyo Marriott Hotel
A sophisticated global sanctuary nestled in historic, green Gotenyama
About 5 minutes by car/bus from Takanawa Exit. Located in historic Gotenyama, once a hunting ground for Tokugawa shoguns, offering global Marriott-standard luxury.
- Free Shuttle Bus Access: Offers a frequent, free shuttle bus (approx. 5 min) right from Shinagawa Station Takanawa Exit! Extremely convenient for guests with large suitcases or strollers avoiding hills.
- Spacious Rooms: Every room is exceptionally roomy (38 m² / 409 sq ft minimum) with high ceilings and sleek modern decor. The soaring “Lounge & Dining G” lobby atrium serves fabulous afternoon tea and dining.
- Mom & Expat Perspective: Flawless English-language service and global hospitality make international travelers and expat families feel right at home. The neighboring Gotenyama Garden is a peaceful spot for morning walks.
6. Toyoko Inn Shinagawa-eki Takanawa-guchi
Steps from the station! Top value and reliability for budget-conscious travelers
Just a 2-minute walk from Takanawa Exit. A budget staple offering prime location at wallet-friendly rates.
- Clean & Functional: Compact, sparkling clean rooms with free Wi-Fi, perfect for resting up or catching up on work.
- Free Breakfast: Includes Toyoko Inn’s signature complimentary breakfast with hot rice, bread, miso soup, and side dishes to fuel your morning!
- Mom & Expat Perspective: Located just across the street from Takanawa Exit, making it impossible to get lost—even for first-time visitors arriving late at night. Ideal if you prefer spending your budget on sightseeing and dining rather than lodging!
👉 Toyoko Inn Shinagawa-eki Takanawa-guchi
7. Miyako City Tokyo Takanawa
Separate bathroom in every room & Simmons beds! Focused on supreme comfort and sleep
About a 7-minute walk from Takanawa Exit (also walkable from Takanawa Gateway Station). A premium lifestyle hotel operated by the Kintetsu Group.
- Separate Japanese-Style Bathrooms: All guest rooms feature a private, separate bathroom with a deep soaking tub and wash area! Unlike cramped unit baths, you can enjoy a relaxing soak just like in a Japanese home. A massive plus for parents bathing young children!
- Simmons Beds & Guest Lounge: Beds co-developed with Simmons ensure deep, restful sleep. Plus, all guests enjoy access to a cozy Guest Lounge offering complimentary coffee, tea, and refreshments.
- Mom & Expat Perspective: Modern, quiet, and spotlessly clean with warm wooden accents. An incredible hidden gem for solo travelers, business trips, or families wanting comfortable baths!
Local Mom’s Insider Tips: Navigating Shinagawa Station Like a Pro
Here are a few local tips to make your journey around Shinagawa Station smooth and stress-free!
1. Station Construction & Elevator Access Tips
Shinagawa Station is currently under extensive renovation, which can affect how you move around with luggage:
- Platform Elevators: Due to ongoing construction, platform elevators are limited and can get crowded. If you have heavy suitcases or a stroller, factor in an extra 5 to 10 minutes when changing trains or exiting the gates.
- Konan Exit side: Elevators lead directly from the main concourse walkway down to street level and connected office/hotel complexes.
- Takanawa Exit side: Elevators and ramp routes are near Wing Takanawa (to the left of the exit) and near the Keikyu Line turnstiles. Note that pedestrian signals across Route 15 can take a few minutes.
2. Nursing Rooms & Baby Care Facilities
- Ecute Shinagawa (Inside Station): Inside the ticket gates, you’ll find baby changing tables and private nursing spaces.
- Shinagawa Prince Hotel: Features clean, fully-equipped baby care rooms inside the lobby area.
3. Early Morning & Late Night Food Spots
Ecute Shinagawa inside the station and Preseo (Keikyu side) feature bakeries, cafes, and bento shops open early in the morning—perfect for grabbing coffee, fresh sandwiches, or bento boxes before boarding the Shinkansen!
Quick Summary: The Best Shinagawa Hotel for Your Travel Style
Here is a quick breakdown to help you pick the best hotel for your travel needs:
| Travel Style / Priorities | Recommended Hotel |
| Direct station access, rainy days, city views, anniversaries | The Strings Tokyo InterContinental by IHG |
| Aquarium, cinema, family trips, lively fun | Shinagawa Prince Hotel |
| Serene Japanese garden, traditional elegance, couples, seniors | Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa |
| Private balcony in every room, stylish resort vibe, girls’ trip | Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa |
| Global luxury, spacious rooms, free shuttle bus | Tokyo Marriott Hotel |
| Steps from station, free breakfast, high budget value | Toyoko Inn Shinagawa-eki Takanawa-guchi |
| Separate Japanese bath in every room, deep restful sleep | Miyako City Tokyo Takanawa |
Shinagawa Station offers an amazing variety of hotels tailored to every travel style. Choose the one that best fits your itinerary and preferences, and enjoy a wonderful stay in Tokyo!
