Japanese Capsule Hotels Are Perfect for Any Traveler

The first of the capsule hotels, “Capsule Hotel Osaka”, came into existence in 1979 in the bustling Umeda district of Osaka city. Designed by architect Keisho Kurokawa, it looked like an extension of the Nakagen Capsule Tower, an office. and a residential tower in Tokyo. Built in 1972, it offered small, capsule-like apartments.

If you plan to stay at a capsule hotel while visiting Japan, there are a few things you need to know. Many capsule hotels are for men only and are tailored to the needs of businessmen. Capsule hotels with women-only floors are also available. Both males and females can live in some of the freshest.

Capsule hotels charge between $30 and $50 per night, including basic amenities such as high-speed Internet access and restrooms, depending on the hotel.

The rules vary from one capsule hotel to another, but the basic rules listed below are more or less the same for all hotels:

You need to take off your shoes.

Generally, shoe lockers are available in the reception area in most capsule hotels. You take off your shoes, put on your slippers and put your shoes in the locker. Also, you may have to leave the shoe locker key at the front desk upon check-in.

Experience a Japanese capsule hotel.
Locker key

After check-in you will be given another key, which will be attached to the wristband. You can keep your clothes and stuff in it. Locker and capsule numbers will be same. Japan is safe but it is better to keep your valuables locked up.

Wearing a capsule hotel

In capsule hotels, you will often be given a dress, gown or sweats. You can change clothes and walk around. Unlike business hotels, it is not considered vulgar.

Use of bath/sauna

Generally, capsule hotels provide excellent bathing facilities to give guests a communal bathing experience. Therefore, you will have to bathe with strangers. However, these hotels are segregated on the basis of gender. Wash your hair and body before entering the bath. There will be taps in the washing area. If you have tattoos, you should cover them with bandages. If you can’t, avoid bathing. Tattoos are prohibited in Japan because of their criminal connotations.

Experience a Japanese capsule hotel.
After your bath

Usually, capsule hotels have snack bars. After showering, you can drink beer or any other beverage. Separate smoking areas may be available and you may use them if you smoke. However, you should not smoke inside the capsule.

Inside the capsule

Capsules are provided with shutters or blinds that can be closed. Since the walls are often thin, you need to be careful not to disturb the neighbors.

check this out

Normally, check-out is at 10am Before checking out, get dressed and leave the key at the front desk.