Introduction
Recently, I had a 4-month onsite trip to Japan, from June 2024 to September 2024.
During this time, Japan was entering the summer season, with long-lasting rains and quite hot weather.
This period included a long holiday of about one week, which was the Obon festival.
We decided to visit Kyoto during this time and had the chance to experience a capsule hotel there.
What is a Capsule Hotel?
A capsule hotel (Kapuseru Hoteru) is a sleeping pod with just enough space for one person to lie down. True to its name, it is shaped like a capsule, with a width and height of about 1 meter and a length of about 2 meters. It is completely different from traditional hotels, which have bathrooms, beds, desks, TVs, refrigerators, etc. It only provides a minimalist space just enough for one person to sleep. In my opinion, the accurate term should be "personal sleeping pod" rather than a hotel. Each area consists of many sleeping pods stacked on top of each other, with a ladder to access the upper pods. Each pod has a mattress, pillow, blanket, a light, and no door, only a curtain. You will only have a space to sleep and charge your phone. Initially, it may feel a bit cramped when you step inside, but it provides exactly what you need for an overnight stay at a much lower price than regular hotels. That is the only private space you'll have. Other services are shared with everyone else. These include showers, restrooms, sinks, hairdryers, refrigerators, and dining areas. Free Wi-Fi is available, and some other services like towels come with a small charge of around 100 yen. Some capsule hotels even have bars and offer dining services at very reasonable prices.
Why choose a Capsule Hotel?
Cost-saving
With a fairly cheap price: only about 3,000 yen per night. Using a traditional hotel might cost up to 10,000 yen per night.
Traveling alone
For those traveling alone, with basic needs like just needing a place to shower, charge your phone, and sleep overnight, this place provides all you need.
Missing the last train
If you've missed the last train to go home and need a place to stay overnight without spending too much money, the capsule hotel is a good choice.
People who want a unique experience
Those who want to experience Japanese culture while traveling will find that this place meets basic needs. Since most spaces are shared, you can meet, chat, and interact with others when staying here.
Disadvantages of using a Capsule Hotel
- Limited space, no privacy.
- No eating or drinking inside the sleeping pod.
- Must maintain quiet, no noise allowed.
- You will encounter many strangers as most of the space is shared.
- Noisy neighbors can disturb your rest.
- Food services are sometimes limited.
- Bathrooms are not usually near the sleeping area.