Looking for a unique and budget-friendly stay in Japan? Discover the best capsule hotels in Japan, across Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and beyond—offering comfort, convenience, and cool design for solo travelers and adventurers.
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A capsule hotel: what is it?
A capsule hotel is cheap accommodation in Japan that consists of small boxes or boxes that have a bed , and sometimes a few extras like a television or an alarm clock.
Although they are small, these capsules are also modern, comfortable, practical . They often include access to facilities within the hotel such as the spa or sauna, if these services are offered.
The price of capsule hotels usually ranges between ¥6000-8500 per night (€ 45– 50). This amount normally includes high-speed Internet access as well as basic facilities such as toilets and showers. There are also more extravagant and expensive luxury hotels.
The growth of Japanese capsule hotels
The word “kapusera” (capsule) was assimilated into the Japanese language in the 1960s. This word was chosen by the company that opened the first capsule hotel in 1979 : the “Capsule Inn Osaka”.
The designers defined a model of success, used by many other entrepreneurs afterwards. Japan now has hundreds of capsule hotels , and this system has even made its way overseas.
The first Chinese capsule hotel was inaugurated in 2012, and the first European capsule hotel opened in Belgium in 2014.
Rules and use of capsule hotels
Most capsule hotels have either women-only or men-only areas . There are a series of general rules that customers must follow:
- Wear slippers inside : Most hotels have lockers near the entrance where guests leave their shoes and exchange them for slippers. The key for the shoe lockers is often left at reception.
- Bathrobe : Visitors are usually given a bathrobe to change into. It is not considered rude to walk around the hotel dressed in this manner.
- Cover your tattoos : many capsule hotels have shared baths, usually separate for men and women. To use these baths, it is recommended to cover your tattoos if possible.
- Be quiet and courteous : the walls are thin and you are very close to your neighbors. Try to be as quiet as possible to respect other customers.
The best capsule hotels in Tokyo
1. Nine Hours Narita Airport
Located right inside Terminal 2 of Narita Airport, Nine Hours is a go-to option for travelers in transit or anyone who’s missed a flight. It offers modern capsules you can rent by the hour, with access to lockers, showers, and a quiet lounge area. Breakfast is also available. It’s incredibly convenient and earns solid reviews for its clean design and location, rated 8.1/10 on Booking.com, with prices starting from ¥5,200 per night.
2. First Cabin Akasaka
First Cabin Akasaka is just a 1-minute walk from Akasaka Station (Chiyoda Line), offering compact, stylish capsules with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and safety deposit boxes. Essentials like slippers, toiletries, and towels are included.
Facilities include shower booths, a lounge, vending machines, and coin laundry. Guests can also borrow humidifiers and LAN cables at the 24-hour front desk.
Located near plenty of restaurants, it’s a 16-minute walk to the National Diet Building, 16 minutes by train to Tokyo Station, and about 40 minutes to Haneda Airport.
3. Resol Poshtel Tokyo Asakusa
Situated in the vibrant Asakusa district, Resol Poshtel Tokyo Asakusa offers a modern and comfortable capsule hotel experience. Guests appreciate its clean facilities, friendly staff, and convenient location near popular attractions like Senso-ji Temple and the Asakusa ROX Shopping Center. The hotel provides air-conditioned capsules with free Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms. With a high rating of 9.4 out of 10 based on over 3,000 reviews, it stands out as a top choice for travelers seeking a blend of traditional Tokyo charm and modern amenities.
4. The Millennials Shibuya
Located in the heart of Shibuya, The Millennials Shibuya redefines the capsule hotel concept with its sleek, high-tech design. Each capsule features a reclining bed, personal projector, and storage space, controlled via an iPod touch. The hotel also offers communal areas, including a lounge and kitchen, fostering a social atmosphere. Its prime location and innovative facilities make it a favorite among tech-savvy travelers.
5. Anshin Oyado Premier Shinjuku Station
Anshin Oyado Premier Shinjuku Station provides a luxurious capsule hotel experience tailored for male guests. Situated near Shinjuku Station, it offers easy access to Tokyo’s bustling city life. The hotel features amenities such as large public baths, saunas, massage chairs, and a relaxation lounge. Guests commend its cleanliness, comfort, and the attentive service provided by the staff. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking relaxation and convenience in the heart of Tokyo.
The best capsule hotels in Osaka
1. Capsule Inn Osaka
The very first capsule hotel is still in operation. Rooms are only available for males over 19 years old. It is conveniently located just 350 meters from Umeda Subway Station and 1 km from Osaka Station .
Here you will find a sauna, massage services and a comfortable lounge. Each room has a TV and breakfast is available for an extra charge.
2. Shell Nell Namba
This chic capsule hotel in Namba offers separate accommodations for men and women, along with a trendy café serving a delicious breakfast. Pods are outfitted with TVs, USB ports, and cozy beds for a restful night. Rated 8.2/10 on Google and priced from ¥5,000, it’s a modern, comfy spot near Osaka’s action.
3. Capsule Hotel Acro Dotonbori
Sitting right in the heart of Osaka’s buzzing Minami district, Acro Dotonbori is a stylish option just one minute from Namba Station. It features gender-separated floors, spacious sleeping areas, and private shower rooms. With an Agoda rating of 8.6/10 and rates from ¥6,200, it offers both comfort and unbeatable location.
Best Capsule Hotels in Kyoto
1. The Millennials Kyoto
One of the trendiest capsule hotels in Kyoto, The Millennials offers a futuristic experience right in the heart of the city. Located just a short walk from Kawaramachi Station, this ultra-modern stay is perfect for digital nomads and design lovers. Each capsule is equipped with a reclining SmartPod bed, personal tablet, and privacy screens. The hotel features shared lounges, co-working spaces, and even free beer during happy hour. With an excellent rating of 9.0/10 on Booking.com and nightly rates starting at ¥4,000, it’s the perfect mix of affordability and style.
2. Tsukimi Hotel
This sleek, minimalist capsule hotel is located in the picturesque Higashiyama district, near Yasaka Shrine. Tsukimi Hotel is known for its quiet, clean environment and a beautiful rooftop terrace with stunning views of Kyoto. Capsules are well-lit and spacious, and the common areas include modern bathrooms and a cozy lounge. It holds an impressive 9.1/10 rating on Agoda, and prices begin around ¥3,800 per night, making it ideal for solo travelers looking to relax and recharge.
3. Glansit Kyoto Kawaramachi
Situated steps from the popular Nishiki Market, Glansit Kyoto Kawaramachi is a boutique capsule hotel that blends comfort and sophistication. It features gender-separated floors, stylish interiors, and thoughtful touches like pajamas and skincare amenities. The communal bath, sauna, and lounge add a luxurious touch to the capsule experience. This spot enjoys an 8.9/10 rating on Booking.com and averages about ¥5,500 per night, offering great value in a central location.
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