A capsule hotel is a type of accommodation that originated in Japan. Guests stay in individual bed spaces called “capsules.” These capsules offer the minimum space required for a person to sleep and are typically partitioned by a roll-down or accordion curtain rather than a solid door.
Under the Hotel Business Act in Japan, they are categorized as “simple lodging business.”
Features
- Affordable Prices: Lodging fees are cheaper compared to business hotels, often allowing you to stay for just a few thousand yen, even in a city center.
- Convenient Locations: Many are located near major train stations or in downtown areas, making access easy. They are often used by people who have missed the last train.
- Shared Facilities: While the sleeping space is in a capsule, facilities like large public baths, showers, toilets, and washrooms are communal.
- Well-Equipped Facilities: In recent years, more and more capsule hotels offer a wide range of amenities like shampoo and towels, as well as saunas, manga libraries, and lounges.
- Privacy: Since it’s not a private room, privacy is limited. Legally, you cannot lock the capsule from the inside. Valuables must be stored in a separate locker provided by the hotel.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Cost-Effective: This is the biggest advantage.
- Good Accessibility: They are often located in areas with convenient transportation.
- Easy to Use: You can sometimes stay without a reservation if there’s a vacant capsule.
- Full-Fledged Facilities: Many modern facilities are well-equipped with amenities like large public baths and lounges, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Cons
- Noise: As it’s not a private room, you may hear snoring or other noises from fellow guests. It’s a good idea to bring earplugs.
- Lack of Privacy: Since you can’t lock the capsule, some people may feel a lack of security.
- Not for the Claustrophobic: The interior of a capsule is narrow, so it may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia.
Average Price of a Capsule Hotel
The average price for one night at a capsule hotel is often around 4,000 yen.
- Budget Facilities: Some places can be as low as 2,000 yen per night.
- Well-Equipped Facilities: Facilities with features like large public baths, saunas, or manga libraries, or those in prime locations, can cost upwards of 6,000 yen to 10,000 yen.
- Peak Seasons: Prices may surge during holidays like Golden Week, Obon, and New Year’s.
History
The first capsule hotel is said to be “Capsule Inn Osaka,” which opened in 1979. It was originally conceived as a place for business people who missed the last train to stay, but its affordable and convenient style gained popularity and spread throughout Japan.
In recent years, a variety of capsule hotels have emerged to meet diverse needs, including “designer capsule hotels” with a focus on interior design and those with female-only floors.
