Japan offers a wide range of accommodation types in both Western and Japanese styles, from the familiar business hotel to the unconventional capsule hotel and temple stay.

Our favorite thing about accommodations in Japan is that they are often a cultural experience in and of itself. We’re sharing a few accommodation types you’ll find in Japan and our top picks to include on your trip for an immersive experience!

Capsule Hotel - for the minimalist traveler

Capsule hotels are a relatively new concept in Western countries and but they’ve been around in Japan since the 80s. These hotels feature small capsules instead of traditional hotel rooms. The capsules are typically stacked on top of one another and provide basic amenities such as a bed, TV, and Wi-Fi. Capsule hotels are popular among travelers who want to experience a unique and extremely affordable stay.

Caution! Capsule hotels are not for the faint of heart if you’re claustrophobic or prefer private bathroom amenities.

Pricing: They are affordable, with prices ranging from ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 per night.

Western Hotels & Business Hotels - for the creature-comfort traveler

Western-style hotels are the most common type of accommodation in Japan. They are similar to hotels in other parts of the world and offer a range of amenities such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, and room service. They are often located in major cities and tourist areas, making them a convenient choice for many travelers.

Business hotels are similar to Western hotels but are typically smaller and more affordable. They are popular with business travelers, but they are also a good option for budget-conscious tourists traveling alone or in couples. Business hotels often offer small twin or queen-sized rooms with basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi and breakfast, but they may not have the same level of luxury as Western hotels.

Pro tip: Both are great options if you’re looking for a familiar hotel experience to that of other Western countries.

Pricing: Prices range from ¥5,000 to ¥13,000 per night for business hotels and Western hotels can vary depending on the hotel’s rating ranging from budget to 5-star accommodations.

Minpaku (private lodging) - for the lifestyle traveler

Minpaku are private homes that are rented out to travelers. Once abandoned countryside homes refurbished into rustic chic minpaku are an up-and-coming accommodation style for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to the countryside.

They offer a more authentic and immersive experience than hotels and are a good option for travelers who want to experience the Japanese lifestyle in the countryside among locals. Minpaku can be rented for short or long-term stays and are often more affordable than other types of accommodation when traveling in a larger group.

Minshuku (B&B) - TTLT pick! - for the down-to-earth traveler

Minshuku are traditional Japanese guesthouses located in more rural areas that offer a more authentic and immersive experience than Western-style hotels. They are typically family-run and offer tatami mat rooms, shared bathrooms, and meals that are prepared using local ingredients.

Minshuku are a good option for travelers who want to experience Japanese culture and hospitality while getting to know local people in an intimate setting. (One of our favorite styles of accommodation! It’s like you’re staying the night at a friend's.)

Pricing: Prices range from ¥5,000 to ¥14,000 per night.

Ryokan - TTLT pick! - for the immersive traveler

Ryokan are similar to minshuku but are typically more upscale and offer more amenities and attentive service. They are traditional Japanese inns that typically feature tatami mat rooms, communal baths (onsen), and kaiseki meals (a multi-course meal that features seasonal ingredients).

Ryokan are a good option for travelers who want to experience Japanese hospitality, also known as “omotenashi.” Some ryokan also offer Western-style rooms for those who prefer sleeping on beds to Japanese futons on the floor.

Staying in a Ryokan offers a unique and authentic cultural experience that can't be found anywhere else in the world and is a symbol of Japanese hospitality. Ryokan stays are often centered around relaxation and provide a retreat from the world, removing life's usual distractions. Staying at a Ryokan is more popular in smaller cities or towns, although they can also be found in bigger cities.

Shukubo (temple stays) - for the off-the-beaten-path traveler

Temple stays are a unique type of accommodation that is offered by some Buddhist temples in Japan. They offer travelers the opportunity to experience Japanese Buddhist culture and spirituality in a peaceful and serene setting. Temple stays typically include meditation sessions, vegetarian meals, and the chance to participate in temple activities.

A unique experience that can only be had in Japan!

Which one would you stay in during your trip to Japan? Join our Inside Japan Food Tour, and stay at a variety of boutique accommodation types to truly experience Japanese culture.

If you’re traveling to Japan on your own and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our customized travel coaching and optional booking service.

Inside Japan Trip Itinerary

Custom Travel Coaching

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.

trip protection information