When planning a trip to Japan, one of the first things you might wonder is “Where should I stay?” From traditional ryokan inns where you can relax on tatami mats and enjoy hot springs, to business hotels designed for efficient rest, and vacation rentals that let you experience life like a local, Japan offers an astonishing variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s style. In this article, we’ll clearly explain the features and price ranges of different types of accommodation in Japan, as well as useful tips on etiquette and booking that many international visitors may not know.
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What types of accommodation are available in Japan?
Accommodation options in Japan can be broadly divided into "Japanese-style inns" and "Western-style hotels." Each has its own unique features and appeal, so let's first take a look at the overall picture with a comparison table.
The price ranges shown are only rough estimates and can vary greatly depending on the season, location, and room type. Even among ryokan, a simple hot spring inn in a small town may cost around 10,000 yen per night, while a long-established luxury ryokan can easily cost tens of thousands of yen or more per night. Use this table to get a general idea of your options, and then find the type that best suits your travel style in the following sections.
| Accommodation Type | Features | Price Range (per person, per night) |
Recommended For |
Guesthouse |
Affordable accommodation mainly with dormitory rooms, easy to meet and interact with other travelers |
2,500–5,000 yen |
Backpackers, budget travelers |
Capsule Hotel |
Accommodation where you sleep in a private "capsule" space |
2,500–5,000 yen |
Budget travelers, solo travelers |
Business Hotel |
Compact and functional, often located near train stations |
6,000–15,000 yen |
First-time visitors to Japan, travelers who move around a lot |
| Minpaku (Vacation Rental) | Stay in an apartment or condominium and experience daily life like a local |
8,000–20,000 yen (per room) |
Groups, long-term stays |
Glamping |
Comfortable outdoor accommodation that allows you to enjoy nature with ease |
15,000–30,000 yen |
Camping beginners, nature lovers |
Ryokan |
Traditional Japanese inn offering hot springs, futon bedding, and Japanese cuisine |
15,000–40,000 yen |
Those who want to experience Japanese culture |
City Hotel |
Large hotels with extensive facilities and services |
15,000–30,000 yen |
Those seeking both comfort and convenience |
Resort Hotel |
Enjoy an extraordinary experience in locations such as by the sea or in the mountains |
20,000–60,000 yen |
Family trips, anniversary trips |
What is a Ryokan? A Traditional Japanese Inn for Experiencing Japanese Culture and Hot Springs
A ryokan is a type of accommodation where you can experience traditional Japanese hospitality all in one place, including tatami-mat rooms, sleeping on futons, hot springs, and kaiseki cuisine served either in your room or in a dining hall. Most rooms are Japanese-style, and many ryokan have hot springs or large communal baths, with some offering private baths as well. Both dinner and breakfast are typically Japanese meals made with local ingredients, and it is common to relax in a yukata robe inside the facility.
As for etiquette and important points, it is essential to wash your body thoroughly before entering the hot spring bath. Avoid putting towels in the bathwater, tie up long hair, and help keep the shared bath clean for everyone. Some facilities may refuse entry to guests with tattoos, so if you are concerned, check before booking or ask whether covering them with tattoo cover stickers is permitted. Also, many ryokan have fixed dinner service times, so be sure not to be late for check-in or dinner.
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・Public Bath Etiquette: Are Tattoos Allowed in Japan?
Recommended Ryokan Easily Accessible from Tokyo
🏨 For details and reservations for Takumi no Yado Yoshimatsu (Kanagawa, Hakone), see JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for Gora Kadan (Kanagawa, Hakone), see JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for Sora Togetsusou Kinryu (Shizuoka, Izu), see JAPANiCAN.
What is a Business Hotel? Japan’s Go-To Accommodation for Value and Convenience
Business hotels are functional accommodations that originally developed to cater to business travelers. While the rooms are compact, they are clean, and these hotels are often located in convenient areas such as near train stations or in entertainment districts, making them very easy to use as a base for sightseeing or travel.
Rooms are simple Western-style single or double rooms equipped with basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and air conditioning, but there are usually few on-site facilities such as restaurants or spas. Many brands operate nationwide chains, so prices and service quality are consistent.
One thing to note is that Japanese hotels often clearly separate smoking and non-smoking rooms, so be sure to check this when making a reservation. Also, rooms tend to be smaller than those in Western hotels, so if you are traveling with multiple large suitcases, it’s a good idea to check the room size in advance for peace of mind.
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Recommended Business Hotel Chains
🏨 For details and reservations for Toyoko Inn, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for APA Hotel, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for Dormy Inn, check JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for Super Hotel, check JAPANiCAN.
What is a Capsule Hotel? A Unique and Affordable Accommodation Style Originating in Japan
Capsule hotels are a unique style of accommodation that originated in Japan, with the first one opening in Osaka in 1979. These hotels feature a distinctive space lined with “capsules,” each sized for a single person to sleep in. By focusing on providing only the minimum necessary facilities for sleeping, capsule hotels can significantly reduce accommodation costs. In recent years, more stylish and comfortable capsule hotels have emerged, making them increasingly popular among travelers and turning them into a sought-after travel experience in their own right.
Each capsule for one person is equipped with a mattress, lighting, and power outlets, and some facilities have separate floors for men and women. Shared spaces such as communal showers, large public baths, and lounges are also commonly provided.
Note that while capsules may have curtains or doors, they often cannot be locked, so be sure to store your valuables in a locker. Also, as a courtesy to other guests, it is good manners to refrain from making phone calls or loud noises inside the capsule while others are sleeping.
Recommended Capsule Hotel Chains
🏨 For details and reservations for First Cabin, see JAPANiCAN
🏨 For details and reservations for Anshin Oyado, see JAPANiCAN
🏨 For details and reservations for Sauna & Capsule Hotels, see JAPANiCAN
What is a City Hotel? Hotels with Comfortable Facilities and High-Quality Service
City hotels are large-scale hotels located in urban areas, equipped with restaurants, bars, banquet halls, fitness facilities, and more. Compared to business hotels, the rooms are more spacious and the facilities are more extensive, with a wide range of options from luxury international brands to long-established prestigious hotels.
They are characterized by spacious Western-style rooms and attentive services such as bell service and concierge assistance. Many facilities also have multiple restaurants, bars, banquet halls, and spas within the premises.
Note that check-in and check-out times are often strictly enforced, so if you wish to arrive early or extend your stay, it is best to consult the front desk in advance.
Recommended City Hotels
🏨For details and reservations for for Grand Nikko, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨For details and reservations for Hotel Okura, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨For details and reservations for Hotel Nikko, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨For details and reservations for Grand Hyatt, see JAPANiCAN.
What is a Resort Hotel? Accommodations Where You Can Fully Enjoy an Extraordinary Stay
Resort hotels are accommodations built in locations with inherent tourist value, such as beaches, highlands, and hot spring areas. They are characterized by extensive facilities such as pools, spas, marine activities, and kids’ clubs, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without having to go out, making them perfect for a relaxing getaway from everyday life.
Note that when using pools or beaches, be sure to check each facility’s usage hours and rules. Restaurants often require advance reservations, especially for dinner, so it is recommended to book early for peace of mind.
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Recommended Resort Hotels
🏨 For details and reservations for Karuizawa Prince Hotel West, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for Phoenix Seagaia Ocean Tower, see JAPANiCAN.
What is Minpaku? A Lodging Style Where You Can Experience Local Life
Minpaku is a style of accommodation where you rent an entire house, apartment, or a room in a residential building. Many of these properties come with a kitchen and living room, allowing you to "travel as if you live there"—an experience that's different from staying at a hotel. This style is ideal for larger groups or travelers who want to stay for an extended period and cook their own meals.
Many minpaku properties offer unmanned check-in using smart locks or passcodes, and because many are located in residential neighborhoods, they allow guests to experience the everyday atmosphere of local life.
One important point to note is that in Japan, the Private Lodging Business Act (Minpaku Law) was enacted in 2018, and all legally operated minpaku properties are required to display a registration number. Checking whether the registration number is listed on the booking site can help you choose a property with peace of mind. Also, since minpaku accommodations are often located in residential areas close to where people live, it is especially important to be considerate of neighbors—such as avoiding loud noises late at night or large groups coming and going.
Recommended Minpaku Accommodation
🏨For details and reservations for Rakuten STAY, see JAPANiCAN
What is Glamping? Enjoy Nature Comfortably with Outdoor Accommodation
Glamping is a word that combines "glamorous" and "camping," and refers to a style of accommodation where you can enjoy the outdoors comfortably without having to bring your own tent or equipment. Many glamping sites offer dome tents or cottages equipped with air conditioning and private beds, making it easy for beginners or families to enjoy nature with peace of mind.
There are many facilities where you can rent outdoor equipment such as BBQ gear and fire pits, and they are often located in scenic spots such as mountains, lakes, and seaside areas.
Note that since you will be staying outdoors, insect protection in summer and cold weather protection in winter are necessary. It is also reassuring to check in advance how the facility handles rainy weather (whether there are indoor facilities or not).
Related Article
・What Does "Glamping" Mean? Recommended Facilities Across Japan
Recommended Glamping Facilities
🎪 For details and reservations for Brilliant Village Nikko, see JAPANiCAN.
🎪 For details and reservations for Takatakiko Glamping Resort, see JAPANiCAN.
What is a Guesthouse? Affordable Accommodation Where Travelers Can Connect
Guesthouses are affordable accommodations with shared rooms (dormitory style), similar to hostels overseas. Many facilities have shared spaces such as kitchens and lounges, making it a great place to interact with travelers from all over the world. They are especially popular among solo travelers and backpackers.
Dormitory rooms with bunk beds are the main style, but some facilities also offer private rooms. The atmosphere is homey, making it easy to strike up conversations with staff and other guests.
As a precaution, it is important to store your valuables in a locker and manage them yourself when staying in a dormitory. Be considerate of noise and lighting so as not to disturb other guests when leaving early in the morning or returning late at night. If showers or toilets are shared, avoid occupying them for long periods. Being mindful of these unwritten rules and etiquette will help ensure a comfortable stay.
Recommended Guesthouses
🏨 For details and reservations for Osaka Guesthouse Hive, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for K’s House Ito Onsen, see JAPANiCAN.
🏨 For details and reservations for J-Hoppers Osaka Universal, see JAPANiCAN.
How to Book Accommodation in Japan
Once you have chosen from the eight types of accommodations introduced above, the next step is to decide how to make your reservation. In Japan, you can mainly book accommodations through reservation sites or official websites.
Using Reservation Sites
The advantage of reservation sites is that you can easily compare multiple accommodations at once.
JAPANiCAN: Operated by the major Japanese travel company JTB Group, this accommodation and tour reservation site is aimed at international visitors to Japan. It supports multiple languages including English, and features a wide range of options from hotels to ryokan and unique accommodations.
Official Website: https://www.japanican.com/
Booking.com: A globally popular reservation site, known for offering many plans with free cancellation.
Agoda: An Asia-based reservation site with a large selection of hotels and guesthouses in Japan. It is also attractive for its frequent sales and easy-to-use point rewards system.
Using the Accommodation’s Official Website
At popular ryokan and hotels, booking directly through the official website may offer special benefits not available on third-party booking sites, such as room upgrades or early check-in. If you find a property you’re interested in, it’s recommended to compare the prices and benefits between booking sites and the official website.
Points to Check When Making a Reservation
Regardless of the type of accommodation, there are three key points you should always check before making a reservation.
- Meal plan: Many ryokan offer “one night with two meals” (dinner and breakfast), while hotels often have several options such as “room only” or “with breakfast.” Depending on your arrival and departure times, as well as the surrounding area, your ability to dine out may vary, so be sure to confirm meal options in advance.
- Check-in time: Ryokan and guesthouses often set check-in times around 3:00 PM. Depending on your flight arrival time, you may have to wait before checking in. If you are arriving late at night, it’s a good idea to check whether late check-in is available.
- Cancellation policy: The deadline for free cancellation and the fees for last-minute cancellations differ by property and plan. Especially if your travel plans are subject to change, be sure to check the cancellation policy before booking.
Each accommodation in Japan has its own unique charm and etiquette. Choose the type that best fits your travel style, companions, and budget, and enjoy a comfortable stay that matches the local culture.
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