Booking Accommodations in Japan

Japan is a great place to visit. But, once you get there you will need a place to stay. So, to make sure you pick the best place when you visit Japan, I have a few things to consider when deciding on your accommodations in Japan.

INDEX

Booking Online

Today there are several websites you can use to book your trip to Japan. They all offer a slightly different experience but basically they are all the same.

Basically though, they work much like airline search websites. You pick your place, dates and get a list of hotels. Then you can check the amenities, price reviews and so on. Once you find what you would like just book your stay and you are all set!

https://japaneseuniverse.com/2024/02/18/pac-man-in-japaneseconcepts-behind-development-to-global-icon/

Budget

The first and biggest consideration for a lot if not most people is going to be their budget. Traveling to Japan and staying in Japan can be expensive. Luckily, today before going to Japan you can plan out your whole trip online. Booking a hotel or place to stay has become almost as easy as online shopping. You can just search at one of the many booking websites for the dates and place in Japan you want to go for a list of options. Then just find whichever location fits your budget and you are all set!

Budget Travelers

If you are really wanting to save your pennies and yen, you can try some other creative options. Japan has a number of different affordable options accommodations.

Business Hotels
Youth Hostels
Capsule Hotels

Business Hotels

A business hotel is a cheaper, not as fancy, hotel with business travelers in mine. Often they will be close to train stations or transportation so that is a plus for tourists also. There is not too much that is different from a normal hotel to talk about. If you search accommodations online these should generally show up in the results.

Youth Hostel

These are like dormitories where you may share a room, or have your own room but have a common area with the other inhabitants. If you are wanting to meet people from Japan and around the world while you are there, this maybe a good option. One website to search for a Hostel to say is Hostel World.

HostelWorld

Capsule Hotel

Finally, a capsule hotel is another cheap option. A capsule hotel is a type of accommodation in Japan that offers small, compact sleeping pods for guests. These pods are typically arranged in a multi-level, communal sleeping area and are designed to provide a basic level of comfort and privacy for travelers who need a quick, affordable place to rest.

Here are some things to be aware of for travelers considering staying in a capsule hotel in Japan:

Capsule hotels are typically designed for single travelers. If you are traveling with a partner or in a group, you may need to book multiple pods.
Capsule hotels may have shared facilities, such as showers and toilets. Make sure to bring a towel, toiletries, and any other essentials you may need.
Capsule hotels may have strict rules around noise and behavior. Make sure to read and follow the hotel’s guidelines and respect your fellow guests.
Capsule hotels may not have much storage space, so make sure to travel light and bring only the essentials.
Some capsule hotels may have gender-specific sleeping areas or may require guests to change into provided pajamas.
Capsule hotels may not be suitable for claustrophobic or tall travelers, as the pods are often small and have low ceilings.
Capsule hotels may not offer much in the way of amenities, such as on-site restaurants or recreational facilities. However, they are typically located in convenient areas with easy access to public transportation and local attractions.

Locations

Japan has a great public transportation system. So, just about anywhere you stay you should have trains, buses or other options to get around. Of course though if you plan to stay in one of the major destination spots like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto you will have better access staying in the center of the city. But, if you don’t care to stuff every minute of your trip to Japan doing sightseeing, you can consider staying farther out. It will take you longer to get to the city center but once you are there, then you can still do all the same things you would have if you decided to book accommodations there either way.

Airbnbs

One option to consider is an Airbnb. They are offered all over Japan, and you may find a better deal for you than picking a hotel in the middle of town.

Also, Airbnbs are a great option if you want to experience what an everyday Japanese house is like. Sure, they will often come with many added amenities that you would not get just living in Japan. But, there is a different aesthetic between Japanese houses and those in other countries. If you stay at a normal hotel then there is not much difference from anywhere else. Airbnbs do have a wide range of pricing too depending on where you stay. But, you can often find cheaper options than staying at a hotel.

Airbnb

Ryokan – Traditional Japanese Hotels

Japan has a number of traditional hotels or 旅館りょかん you can stay at. These are going to also be located in different places around Japan. So depending on what you want to do in Japan, staying at one of these can be a whole resort in itself and give you a whole Japanese experience without every leaving!

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a Japanese cultural experience for travelers. These inns typically feature traditional Japanese architecture, like tatami mat flooring, shoji screens, and futon bedding. they also offer Japanese-style meals and hot spring baths.

温泉 – Japanese Hot-springs

Onsen or 温泉おんせん are traditional Japanese hot springs that are widely available in Japan. Onsen offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, with water rich in minerals and can be located both indoor and outdoor. Guests must follow customs and etiquette, such as washing thoroughly before entering and not bringing a towel into the water. Also because of the association with Yakusa, many onsen do not allow tattoos.