ST 02Stays line · stop 2 of 2
Business hotel, capsule or ryokan? Choosing where to stay
Room sizes, what is included, typical 2026 prices, and which Tokyo neighbourhoods suit first-time visitors.
Hotels in Japan are clean, safe and efficient, but rooms are smaller than many visitors expect. Knowing what each type offers saves surprises at check-in.
The main types
| Type | What you get | Tokyo, per room per night |
|---|---|---|
| Capsule hotel | A sleeping pod, shared bathrooms, a locker. Usually separate floors for men and women. | ¥4,000–5,500 |
| Hostel | Dorm bed or small private room, shared kitchen | ¥3,500–5,500 per bed |
| Business hotel | Private room of about 11–15 m², compact bathroom, good bed | ¥9,000–14,000 |
| Mid-range hotel | Larger rooms, restaurants, often a lounge | ¥18,000–30,000 |
| Ryokan | Tatami room, futon, hot spring baths, dinner and breakfast | from about ¥25,000 per person |
Business hotels: what to expect
- Small rooms. Two large suitcases fill the floor. Consider sending bags ahead.
- A "double" room often means one double bed for two people. Book a "twin" for two beds.
- Pyjamas, toiletries, a kettle and a fridge are standard.
- Coin laundry on site, often with combined washer-dryers.
- Check-in usually 15:00, check-out 10:00 or 11:00. Bags can be left before and after.
Capsule hotels
- Good for one or two nights, not a whole trip.
- Large bags go in a locker or luggage room, not in the pod.
- Some are men-only. Check before booking.
- Quiet hours are strict. Pack earplugs.
Ryokan
A night at a traditional inn, especially one with hot spring baths, is a highlight for many visitors. Dinner is usually a multi-course meal served at a set time, so arrive by late afternoon. Read our onsen guide before you go.
Where to stay in Tokyo
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Shinjuku | Huge transport hub, nightlife, lots of hotels at every price |
| Shibuya | Shopping, cafés, younger crowd |
| Ueno and Asakusa | Lower prices, temples, easy access from Narita |
| Tokyo Station and Ginza | Shinkansen trips, department stores, quieter at night |
| Akihabara | Anime and electronics fans; central on JR lines |
When to book
- Cherry blossom season, Golden Week and autumn in Kyoto: 4–6 months ahead.
- Popular ryokan: 6–9 months ahead.
- Remember the local hotel tax, especially in Kyoto. See 2026 travel fees.
