Capsule hotels are becoming more and more popular, fulfilling the need for cheap but private accommodation. These days, they cater not only to business travellers but leisure seekers as well. Take your pick of the top eight capsule hotels in Tokyo for your next visit.
9h nine hours is an ultra-modern capsule hotel with super-futuristic designs reminiscent of a space shuttle. The front desk is open 24 hours, so you can easily book any of the pods any time of the day or night. The name is based on the idea that business travellers spend an average of nine hours at their hotel, but guests can stay as long as they like. Their success at Tokyo’s Narita Airport has led them to open new locations in Shinjuku, Asakusa and elsewhere in Tokyo.
First Cabin is an impressive and high-tech capsule chain unlike most others. The space inside your capsule depends on which class ‘cabin’ you choose – business or first – making this hotel a great option for anyone looking for a bit of extra room. The Tsukiji location is one of the newer ones, and includes a bar, café and laundry services. There is even a large hot tub in the bathing area to help guests relax and unwind. They also have locations in Akihabara, Akasaka and Haneda Airport.
Nadeshiko is a unique, women-only capsule hotel experience. The hotel has a bar, a tatami common room and a gorgeous shared bath complete with Japanese art and decor. Everything, from the staff, to the amenities, to the powder rooms, caters to creating an exceptionally relaxing atmosphere. They also have a restaurant on site and offer kimono experience packages, where guests can dress up and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner at the restaurant. Nadeshiko is located about 10 minutes from Shibuya station.
This upscale capsule hotel has five locations across Tokyo. The atmosphere is both luxurious and calm; it was inspired by retreats on the island of Bali. Anshin Oyado is safe and organised with friendly English staff and Japanese-style amenities. Guests change into slippers upon entering and have access to shared bathing facilities and the free Wi-Fi is exceptional.
Tokyo’s Bay Hotels are a group of sleek capsule hotels with several convenient locations around the city. They offer a high level of security and offer spacious facilities for work and relaxation in addition to sleep. The Nihonbashi branch is within walking distance of Tokyo station and is unique in that it offers a long-term stay plan for tourists.
Samurai Hostel Asakusa (formerly known as ENAKA Asakusa Central Hostel) is a capsule-style hostel situated in one of Tokyo’s most historic districts. Though recently rebranded, the hostel retains all of its award-winning facilities, which include both private and shared capsules. The on-site restaurant provides traditional Japanese meals that include both halal and vegan options, and the rooftop terrace offers a breathtaking view of Tokyo Skytree.
Tokyo’s Book and Bed has recently become an international viral sensation for the books that line almost every surface of this novel hotel. The space is part library and part hostel; guests actually sleep in small, cosy capsules located behind the venue’s bookshelves. The chain has become so popular there are locations in Ikebukuro, Asakusa and three other major Japanese cities. The original location in Shinjuku is located just a few minutes’ walk from the metro station.
The Millennials is an innovative and trendy capsule concept combining the community vibe of a hostel with the private feel of a traditional capsule hotel. This brand new hotel is chic and clean and every facet of the design is artistic yet super-functional at the same time. Some highlights include lockboxes under the beds, a communal fridge and a 24-hour business centre. Only a three-minute walk from the Shibuya crossing, this property is also extremely convenient.
