If you're planning a trip to Japan, one of the most important decisions you'll make is where to stay and what kind of accommodation to stay in. Japan offers a wide range of accommodation styles, from traditional ryokans to modern hotels. In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the most popular types of accommodation in Japan, and rank them according to their unique features and amenities.
Ryokans - For those seeking a traditional Japanese accommodation experience
Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that offer a unique cultural experience. These inns feature tatami-matted rooms, futon beds, and communal baths, making them a great option for travellers looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. Some ryokans also offer "kaiseki", a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner served in your room or in a communal dining room.
Beds and chairs are generally at floor level in a ryokan, so staying at a ryokan could be an issue for travellers with mobility issues.
Ryokans will expect guests remove their shoes and slide into slippers in the foyer before entering. Due to the age of the buildings, many ryokans have extremely thin walls, so visitors will need to be mindful of their noise levels.
Most ryokans will not have a private shower room, and as such, visitors may need to share a communal bathing room with other guests.
While it is most common to find ryokans in the Japanese countryside, large cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, and even Tokyo also have ryokans.
Ranking: 9/10 for cultural experience and authentic atmosphere.
Capsule Hotels - Experience the life of the Japanese salary-man
Capsule hotels are a unique type of accommodation that are popular among budget travellers. These hotels feature small, capsule-like spaces that are just big enough for a single person to sleep in. Most have charging points inside the capsule, and some even have a small TV. Capsule hotels usually offer shared facilities like bathrooms, lounges, and occasionally saunas and hot tubs. Think of it like a dormitory with slightly more privacy when sleeping.
Capsule hotels became popular with the Japanese salary-man in the 1980s. It's common for Japanese office workers to stay in a cheap capsule hotel if they miss the last train home, due to working overtime, or partying with co-workers. Due to demand, some of these hotels will provide accommodation for men only.
These unique hotels are often found in large cities, and are great for travellers on a budget who don't mind sleeping in a small space. Be sure to book a capsule hotel that offers a safe storage space for luggage.
Ranking: 7/10 for affordability and unique experience.
Business Hotels - Perfect for the travelling worker
Business hotels are designed with the needs of business travellers in mind. They are usually located in urban areas near train stations and business districts, and often offer basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast. These hotels are often small and affordable, making them a good option for travelers on a budget, although the décor is often quite bland and dated. I consider business hotels a great no-frills option when travelling alone.
Many business hotels in Japan will provide a cheap and basic buffet breakfast in the morning, but we sure to arrive early, as some stop serving breakfast at 9am. As these hotels are most often used by travelling workers who need to arrive at work early, there is often little demand for breakfast in the later hours of the morning.
Ranking: 7/10 for affordability and convenience.
Western-Style Hotels - For those who like modern amenities and convenience
Western-style hotels in Japan are the same as those found in other countries. They offer comfortable rooms and modern amenities, some of which may include fitness centers and swimming pools, plus a variety of dining options within the hotel. Western-style hotels are often located in urban areas, but can sometimes be found in more rural areas as well. Western hotels are the best option for people who want privacy and/or have limited mobility.
As Western-style hotels are often frequented by foreign tourists, there is generally English speaking staff available to assist with check-in, check-out, and and provide extra assistance if needed.
Ranking: 9/10 for comfort and convenience.
Minshukus - A taste of the traditional Japanese life
Minshukus are similar to ryokans in that they offer a traditional Japanese experience, but are more similar to a bed-and-breakfast. These lodgings are typically run by families located in the deep Japanese countryside, offering simple, traditional rooms with tatami mats and futon beds. Some minshukus also offer traditional Japanese home-cooked meals for guests served either in the room or in a shared dining hall. Most of these traditional styles of accommodation only offer communal bathing, so perhaps not great for those looking for privacy.
Guests at minshukus will be expected to abide by traditional Japanese manners, such as taking shoes off before entering the establishment and keeping the noise down. Some minshukus will even have a curfew, where external lights will be turned off, and in some cases, doors locked. Many owners of the minshuku accommodation style may only have very basic English skills, so some patience may be required if your Japanese isn't great.
Those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle can experience a traditional minsuku experience at this minshuku in Kyoto, or this one in Nagano.
Ranking: 7/10 for affordability and cultural experience, and possible slight inconvenience.
Love Hotels - A quirky option for couples
Love hotels are a unique type of accommodation that are popular among couples. These hotels offer themed rooms, often with large beds and hot tubs, and are typically rented by the hour. While they may seem seedy to some, love hotels are actually very popular in Japan, and are considered a fun and unique way for couples to spend time together. Many have a wide range amenities available at no extra cost.
Love hotels are often well-located in city centre, and rooms are spacious. However, guests will need to keep an open mind when booking this style of accommodation, due to the nature of the hotels.
Guests should be aware that many love hotels will unfortunately not accept same-sex couples.
Ranking: 7/10 for uniqueness and novelty.
Hostels - The backpacker's favourite place to stay
Hostels in Japan are similar to those found in other countries, offering affordable dormitory-style accommodation for budget travelers. Many hostels in Japan also offer private rooms for those who prefer more privacy. Hostels are a good option for travellers who want to meet other travellers and don't mind sharing facilities like bathrooms and kitchens. The level of cleanliness in the majority of Japanese hostels is unbeatable. Hostels in Japan are generally Western style accommodation, although some hotels offer Japanese style rooms with futons.
Hostels are often well located in city centres, although some may be located a few stops from the centre due to rising costs. Those located in the city can get quite rowdy on Friday and Saturday nights.
We recommend Hostel World for booking hostels in Japan.
Ranking: 6/10 for affordability and social atmosphere. 7/10 for those who remember to bring earplugs.
Temple Stays - For those seeking a zen experience
Temple stays are a unique way to experience Japanese culture and spirituality. These stays involve spending a night or two at a Buddhist temple, where you'll often be invited to participate in meditation and other temple activities. Temple stays are usually very basic, with shared facilities and simple meals, although some offer private facilities and multi-course meals.
As usual at traditional Japanese accommodation, guests will be expected to abide by traditional Japanese customs, and temple stays often have an early curfew.
One of the best places to do a temple stay is in Koyasan (also called Mount Koya), Wakayama. I recommend Souji-in, for a peaceful stay and delicious food.
Ranking: 9/10 for spiritual and cultural experience.
Your opinion on the best type of accommodation in Japan
Which style of accommodation would you choose to stay at on your trip to Japan? Let us know down in the comments!
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I have never tried the capsule hotels, this looks more spacious and perfect for me since I'm a lil bit claustrophobic. The Ryokans are more of my vibe, love this article, so many different options.
Capsule hotel is something i really want to try in Japan, although it will be a challenge with my restless toddler. The traditional Japanese inns look amazing
When I visit Japan one day, I would definitely want to stay in traditional Ryokan! Although capsule hotels look nice and budget friendly, I'm a bit worried they will be claustrophobic
It's my goal to stay in a Ryokan when I eventually visit Japan! There is something so dreamy and serene about Japanese interiors. The Love Hotels surprised me though... how kitsch 😂 might have to add those to the list too, just for fun!
Very interesting post. I've never been to Japan, so was surprised to find such unusual types of accommodation. Will definitely consider these tips when traveling to Japan.