Finding the right accommodation in Japan, whether you’re planning a short visit or a long-term stay, can be both exciting and challenging. From traditional ryokan inns and capsule hotels to modern apartments and shared houses, Japan offers a wide variety of housing options to suit different needs and budgets. This page provides practical information on how to find suitable accommodation, the rental process, and key things to consider as a foreigner in Japan, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
Websites for Booking
- Booking.com: Widely used globally, Booking.com offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, ryokan (traditional inns), and capsule hotels. The site supports English and has detailed reviews.
- Rakuten Travel: A Japanese-based site with an English version. It offers a wide selection of hotels and ryokan, and often features local deals and promotions.
- Jalan.net: Another popular Japanese booking site with an English interface, it lists hotels, ryokan, and other accommodations, providing great regional deals.
- Airbnb: For those seeking private rentals or unique stays in Japan, Airbnb offers a range of options from full homes to shared rooms.
- Japanican: This site specializes in travel deals and accommodations across Japan, often featuring traditional ryokan as well as hotels.
Accommodation
Hotels
From budget business hotels to luxury accommodations, Japan has a wide range of options.
Typical price range: ¥8,000–¥20,000+ per night
Hotels in Japan are similar to those abroad, with varying levels of luxury. Expect modern facilities, room service, and a range of options from budget to high-end.
Business Hotels
Typical price range: ¥4,000–¥10,000 per night
Business hotels are designed for short stays, typically by those traveling for work. They offer small but functional rooms, often close to train stations.
Ryokan
Traditional Japanese inns that offer a more cultural experience, usually including tatami rooms, hot springs, and traditional meals.
Typical price range: ¥10,000–¥50,000+ per night
Staying at a ryokan is an immersive cultural experience, often featuring tatami-mat rooms, onsen baths, and traditional Japanese meals (like kaiseki). Prices can vary greatly depending on location and the quality of the service.
Capsule Hotels
A unique and affordable option, especially in cities like Tokyo.
Typical price range: ¥2,000–¥5,000 per night
Capsule hotels offer individual pods rather than full rooms, focusing on efficient use of space. They’re budget-friendly and ideal for short stays or solo travelers.
Hostels
Popular among backpackers, offering dormitory-style rooms and a social atmosphere.
Vacation Rentals
Becoming more common in major cities, offering more space and local experiences.
Typical price range: ¥3,000–¥15,000+ per night
This includes Airbnb-style accommodations, where visitors rent a room or a full house/apartment. Prices vary depending on location, size, and level of privacy.
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