the first-hand experience
Japan’s capsule hotels offer a unique, futuristic twist on budget accommodations, and today, we’re diving into both ends of the spectrum. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or seeking a more luxurious experience, there’s a capsule for you. Let’s take a journey through two very different capsule hotels in Tokyo—one that’s incredibly affordable and another that offers a premium experience.
The Budget Experience: A True Capsule on a Shoestring
My first stop was the cheapest capsule hotel I could find, tucked away in a district called Akabane. At just 2,700 Japanese Yen (around $20 USD) per night, the price was unbeatable. But, as with most things in life, you get what you pay for.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by a lovely receptionist—instantly a five-star for service! However, my excitement quickly dwindled upon entering my capsule. Dimly lit and cramped, it felt more like a prison cell than a cozy hotel room. If you’re claustrophobic, this isn’t the place for you. The tiny pod offered little more than a sleeping space, a hanger or two, and storage for your belongings.
The communal areas were similarly lackluster, with the dining area reminiscent of an elderly relative’s living room. Hygiene wasn’t a highlight either—there were no toilet seats in the shared bathrooms, which may take some getting used to for travelers.
Local Area Vibes Though the hotel itself left much to be desired, stepping outside gave me a taste of authentic, non-touristy Tokyo. From arcades to vending machines (which offer everything from ice cream to quirky prizes), exploring Akabane was quite the adventure. The downside? The long commute back to my capsule after indulging in these attractions. All in all, if you’re on a strict budget, this experience is what you’d expect for the price.
The Luxury Capsule: A Night of Comfort and Class
Next up was Tokyo’s most expensive capsule hotel. At a staggering 18,000 Japanese Yen (about $134 USD), this was over seven times pricier than my budget capsule. But as soon as I arrived, I could tell I was in for a totally different experience.
The sleek, modern exterior set the tone for what was to come. With glowing reviews, I entered feeling confident. The pod was not only larger but far more comfortable, offering significantly more headspace and a bed that actually reclined! Plus, this capsule had high-speed Wi-Fi and even provided an iPhone for guest use (though everything was in Japanese, making it more of a novelty).
Amenities & Atmosphere The bedding was plush, and the capsule’s built-in safe felt more secure than my previous stop. The space felt far less claustrophobic, and the overall vibe was far more relaxing. There were communal workspaces, where travelers could unwind or catch up on some work. And the best part? Free beer. The atmosphere was lively, with other guests socializing and enjoying the evening.
Naturally, I had to check out the restrooms, and they didn’t disappoint either. Japan’s famous bidet-equipped toilets are a standard here, and the overall cleanliness was excellent. As I prepared for bed, the complimentary pajamas and slippers were a nice touch, ensuring a much more comfortable night’s sleep than the budget option.
The Verdict: Should You Splurge?
If you’re visiting Japan to experience everything it has to offer, splurging on a more luxurious capsule is probably worth the extra yen. The comfort, cleanliness, and atmosphere make for a far more enjoyable stay, especially if you value your sleep. However, if you’re traveling on a tight budget, the cheaper capsule option provides an authentic (though spartan) experience that gets the job done.
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