Best Capsule Hotels in Tokyo: Most Affordable Place To Stay

Capsule hotels are an innovative way to save money on your stay in Tokyo. You’ll get a capsule that is about as big as two telephone booths squished together, and you can spend the night inside it!

Since being introduced in 1979, capsule hotels have enjoyed immense popularity among Tokyo’s travelers because every one of the capsules is equipped with personal stereos, televisions, and controls to regulate room temperature so you can stay cozy all night.

Probably the most convenient perk about these hotels is that they are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for your convenience.

You can choose to stay in a private room with door access or opt for the slightly cheaper semi-private open-plan rooms where guests must bring their sleeping bags instead of beds.

All capsules are non-smoking, so accommodating smokers is not possible.

The capsules are best suited for travelers since they fit most people’s luggage and can be squeezed into a confined area, though it may sometimes be tight!

Each guest is given complimentary toiletries and towels, so don’t worry about bringing them.

What is a Capsule Hotel in the First Place?

Simply put, it’s a small room where you can close and lock the door to get some shut-eye. Think of it as a super affordable hostel.

There are many capsule hotels throughout Tokyo, and they’re easy to find: compare websites such as Booking.com! 

You’ll see their location, ratings, prices, and the number of capsules available.

Let’s look at how Capsule Hotels works:

• Guests must check in at the front desk, which is usually staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You will need to show your passport for identification purposes.
• Each capsule room has its locker for luggage storage purposes.
• Most capsules have private bathroom facilities in a nearby hallway that can be accessed by all guests staying in that room.
• Not all capsules have bathrooms attached, but a shared bathroom is nearby.

Getting used to staying in a capsule hotel can be tricky for some people, especially if you’re big on personal space or privacy. Keep that in mind before checking into one.

How much does a capsule hotel in Tokyo cost?

Capsule hotels can be a tad expensive, depending on your choice.

The average price for staying in a capsule hotel is around $30/night, and the prices go up during peak seasons like New Year, Golden Week & Obon.

But since they’re open 24 hours a day, seven days a week (even during national holidays), you can save money and time by staying at a capsule hotel instead of paying for expensive peak-hour hotel rates.

A single-person capsule will usually cost around ¥2500 to ¥3500, but prices can range from as low as ¥1500 to well over ¥4000 for luxury hotels.

Prices are pretty much the same no matter where you go, but you’ll find that rates tend to fluctuate depending on the hotel’s policies.

Traveling in a pair, you can pay around ¥5500 for a double-person capsule.

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The Best 8 Capsule Hotels in Tokyo:

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1) First Cabin Shinbashi Atagoyama

The first Cabin, Shinbashi Atagoyama, is a capsule hotel with properties in Tokyo Minato Ward. Easily accessible from the Ginza and Hanzomon subway lines, you’re just a few minutes away from having a good night’s sleep.

Their most notable feature is their Cabin Bed, a comfortable memory foam mattress with the best night’s sleep.

There are also shared bathrooms on each floor and a shared shower room where many guests can hop in at once.

First Cabin Aoyama is one of Japan’s best capsule hotels, so book early if possible.

Be aware that they do not allow you to stay for more than 30 nights in a row, and you must be 18 years or older.

See more photos, and check prices & availability on Booking.com.

2) Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado

Japan’s second-most popular capsule hotel chain, Anshin Oyado, has several locations.

Although not as popular as First Cabin, they are still an excellent option for travelers who want to explore Japan on a budget.

Their amenities include English-speaking staff, private showers, and free Wi-Fi. The capsules are slightly different from those at First Cabin. You can see examples on their website here.

One thing that makes Anshin Oyado stand out is the security and cleaning process.

Guests are given a special card with a bar code, and they must scan this code at the entrance and exit of the hotel. This ensures that everything inside is accounted for, with no theft!

Anshin Oyado has several locations around Japan, but one of the most convenient is outside Akihabara Station. This location offers free Wi-Fi and is close to public transportation, making it easy to travel with your belongings!

Another great thing about Anshin Oyado is that they accept single travelers. This is an excellent option if you want a capsule hotel in Tokyo on a budget!

See more photos, and check prices & availability on Booking.com.

3) Capsule Hotel Asakusa Riverside

Located just a few minutes from the famous Tokyu Theatre, Capsule Hotel Asakusa Riverside is one of the best capsule hotels in Tokyo.

This location doesn’t have many amenities, but it’s trendy among people who want to save money and stay near sightseeing spots.

Asakusa Station is just a few minutes away from this location, so it’s easy to get around town. It’s also close to other popular capsule hotels in Tokyo.

4) MyCUBE by MYSTAYS Asakusa Kuramae

If you’re looking for something more upscale, look no further than MyCUBE by MYSTAYS Asakusa Kuramae. This capsule hotel is conveniently located in the Kuramae district, with plenty of bars and restaurants.

MyCUBE by MYSTAYS offers free Wi-Fi, free access to hot springs, and clean rooms.

It’s also close to the Higashi-Ginza Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, so you can quickly get around!

See more photos, and check prices & availability on Booking.com.

5) Akihabara Bay Hotel (Female Only)

Akihabara Bay Hotel is a female-only hostel. This might be your best option if you’re looking for a cheap place to stay in Tokyo!

They offer monthly and weekly deals, but daily deals are also available.

The rooms come with lockers, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant.

Several shared facilities include a lounge where guests can sit back and relax after a hard day of sightseeing!

See more photos, and check prices & availability on Booking.com.

6) Khaosan Tokyo Samurai

Khaosan Tokyo Samurai has several locations throughout the city.

Although they are not as trendy as other options, they offer free Wi-Fi and space to rest your head.

The rooms have air conditioning and Japanese futons, so you’ll sleep like a baby.

There’s also a restaurant in Asakusa so that you can enjoy a delicious meal before bed!

See more photos, and check prices & availability on Booking.com.

7) Spa&Capsule Hotel Grandpark Inn Kitasenju

Another of their popular properties is the Spa&Capsule Hotel Grandpark Inn Kitasenju, located in Adachi-Ku, Senju Naka Cho. This location has easy access to other areas in Tokyo.

Grand Park Inn Kitasenju is provided with everything that you need! You’ll have a TV, bedding, and even a shelf for your belongings.

There are shared showers on each floor and shared bathrooms, so this is not the place to stay if you want privacy or don’t like communal living. However, there is free Wi-Fi in the lobby and common area to stay connected!

See more photos, and check prices & availability on Booking.com.

8) Hotel Owl Tokyo Nippori

If you’re looking for luxury in your capsule hotel, the Hotel Owl Tokyo Nippori is perfect.

They offer rooms to suit all tastes – so whether you want something elegant or simple, there’s an option!

The rooms are unique because they have special lights that quickly turn on and off. The design is very modern, so it’s perfect for people looking for some comfort on their trip.

This is one of the cheapest capsule hotels in Tokyo – you can find rates online easily!

After checking out the Hotel Owl website, look at our article about luxury hostels to see other great options in Japan!

See more photos, and check prices & availability on Booking.com.

If you want to travel around Japan, check out these posts about JR Rail Passes and bullet trains vs. Shinkansen.

Staying in a Japanese Capsule Hotel

The capsules are usually stacked in four columns, with three floors high.

However, since they are so small, you’ll not likely have to climb up or down to another level. While there are separate sections for men and women, you don’t have to worry about the awkwardness associated with communal living.

Capsule hotels were designed with businessmen in mind and the idea of a quick nap and shower before heading out for after-work drinks. So it is understandable that they’re not too keen on providing amenities like soap or shampoo.

On the other hand, there’s no need to carry your towel or toothbrush; you can rent those for a small fee.

You can choose between a bed or a mat, usually at the same price. You can also choose from two different pillows: the softer one or the firmer one.

The Dangers Of A Capsule Hotel in Japan

The capsule hotel experience has a few drawbacks, as with all things.

For instance, it’s always possible that by going to a capsule hotel, you may end up stuck on a lower floor if there is a power outage or another mishap.

That’s why it’s best not to have too much faith in the setup’s safety.

Capsule hotels cannot keep any valuables inside, so you’ll have to leave your money and other essential things in a locker at the front desk.

There’s also no power guarantee in your capsule, which could be an issue if you’re there for several days or trying to get some work done.

Be ready for this situation and bring a light source, such as a tri-light or flashlight.

Also, without amenities like toothbrushes and towels, you’ll have to spend ¥100 on these items, which can add up.

Capsule hotels are intended for people who need a place to sleep and shower, and not have wild parties or rowdy behavior.

Is The Capsule Hotel Japan For You?

Capsule hotels are ideal for those looking for a safe, clean place to sleep, shower, and change clothes at a highly affordable price.

If you have decided to go on a night out in Tokyo, this is often the best way to return, although it can be a bit of a hassle if you have to pick up all your clothes and belongings first.

For those looking for more privacy, several business hotels in Tokyo offer private and semi-private rooms at reasonable rates. Some even provide extra amenities like complimentary breakfast and internet access.

Since this concept is relatively new, many people have never heard of a capsule hotel. If you mention it to someone who doesn’t know what a capsule hotel is, there’s a good chance they will give you a blank look.

However, if you talk about business hotels or internet cafes, then the chances are that they will understand what you mean right away.

Capsule hotels may not be for everyone, but many enjoy the experience.

It’s only natural to wonder what it feels like because there is something exotic about staying in a capsule hotel in Japan.

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