Everything You Need to Know About Sleeping in a Japanese Capsule Hotel

So why choose a capsule over traditional digs? We already mentioned the cost; a single night at the Capsule Inn Kinshicho will run you about $28 a night. The prices are competitive with hostels, but capsules add an element of privacy, at least while you sleep. The amenities of each self-contained pod vary, but you can expect a clean bed, lights, outlets and sometimes A/C, TV, WiFi, and in-pod storage.

The bathing facilities in Japan are unanimously spotless, but like the capsules themselves, they have varying vibes. Some, like the Capsule Inn Kinshicho, offer a (not very) traditional-style Bath House experience while others feel more like a locker room (albeit, a very tidy one).

In addition to the cramped quarters, there are often some drawbacks to staying in a capsule hotel; The pods can get rather warm, especially if there is no A/C. So if you tend to run hot, look for a hotel with A/C. Noise can also be an issue as there’s a very thin barrier between you and your 50 new best friends — bring earplugs. Lastly, some capsule hotels in Japan segregate the men and women on separate floors — and a few don’t accept women at all — so do your research before you blindly book.

If you cannot handle small spaces, these are definitely not the digs for you. But if you’re looking for a cheap, memorable, distinctly Japanese experience, these pods are the perfect place to get some shut-eye.