Where to stay in Japan: An overview of accommodation

Discover Japan’s wide range of accommodations—from the cozy charm of traditional ryokan and the warmth of local guesthouses to the sleek comfort of modern luxury hotels. Whether you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience, budget-friendly options, or a touch of premium comfort, our friendly, expert tips help you find the perfect place to stay for an unforgettable journey in Japan.

Where to stay in Japan: An overview of accommodation

Discover Japan’s wide range of accommodations—from the cozy charm of traditional ryokan and the warmth of local guesthouses to the sleek comfort of modern luxury hotels. Whether you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience, budget-friendly options, or a touch of premium comfort, our friendly, expert tips help you find the perfect place to stay for an unforgettable journey in Japan.

Where to stay in Japan: An overview of accommodation

Discover Japan’s wide range of accommodations—from the cozy charm of traditional ryokan and the warmth of local guesthouses to the sleek comfort of modern luxury hotels. Whether you’re looking for an authentic cultural experience, budget-friendly options, or a touch of premium comfort, our friendly, expert tips help you find the perfect place to stay for an unforgettable journey in Japan.

Ryokan

Ryokan

~6,000 to 60,000 yen per person

~6,000 to 60,000 yen per person

A ryokan is an authentic Japanese inn where tradition meets comfort. Typically found in scenic onsen areas, these inns feature charming tatami-floored rooms and comfortable futon bedding, offering a peaceful retreat from the everyday bustle.

A ryokan is an authentic Japanese inn where tradition meets comfort. Typically found in scenic onsen areas, these inns feature charming tatami-floored rooms and comfortable futon bedding, offering a peaceful retreat from the everyday bustle.

Guesthouses & youth hostels

Guesthouses & youth hostels

~2,000 to 6,000 yen per person

~2,000 to 6,000 yen per person

Guesthouses and youth hostels are affordable accommodations where community meets authentic local charm. Typically located in vibrant neighborhoods, these lodgings offer both shared dormitories and private rooms, allowing you to experience Japan’s friendly atmosphere on a budget. Enjoy communal spaces, local events, and the chance to connect with fellow travelers, making your stay as enriching as it is economical.


Guesthouses and youth hostels are affordable accommodations where community meets authentic local charm. Typically located in vibrant neighborhoods, these lodgings offer both shared dormitories and private rooms, allowing you to experience Japan’s friendly atmosphere on a budget. Enjoy communal spaces, local events, and the chance to connect with fellow travelers, making your stay as enriching as it is economical.


Minshuku

Minshuku

~6,000 to 16,000 yen per person

~6,000 to 16,000 yen per person

A minshuku is a charming, family-run guesthouse where genuine Japanese hospitality shines. Often found in scenic rural areas, these intimate lodgings offer home-cooked meals and a warm, authentic glimpse into traditional Japanese life.

Hotels

Hotels

~8,000 to +100,000 yen per person

~8,000 to +100,000 yen per person

Hotels in Japan are known for their impeccable service and pristine cleanliness, regardless price or star rating. Often located in the heart of bustling cities, these hotels offer small, clean Western-style rooms—sometimes even equipped with convenient vending machines for snacks and drinks.

Vacation rentals (Airbnb)

Vacation rentals (Airbnb)

~6,000 to 20,000 yen per night

~6,000 to 20,000 yen per night

Vacation rental services such as Airbnb are popular in Japan, offering a wide range of unique stays. You can choose from apartments and rooms with either modern or traditional interiors or even restored historic houses. These vacation rentals provide a true home-away-from-home experience for travelers seeking both comfort and local flavor.

Capsule hotels

Capsule hotels

~3,000 to 4,000 yen per person

~3,000 to 4,000 yen per person

Capsule hotels offer a uniquely Japanese experience that’s both budget-friendly and efficient. Often found near major transit hubs in bustling cities, these compact accommodations provide just what you need—a comfortable place to sleep. Designed primarily for travelers looking for the essentials, each capsule typically comes with a TV and secure coin lockers, while guests share well-maintained bathroom facilities.

Manga café

Manga café

~1,000 to 3,000 yen per person

~1,000 to 3,000 yen per person

Manga cafés in Japan offer a unique, budget-friendly way to relax and unwind. Often open 24 hours and located in bustling urban areas, these cafés provide an extensive library of manga alongside comfortable seating or private booths. With complimentary drinks and snacks readily available, manga cafés provide a welcoming space to rest or sleep without straining your budget.

Overnight bus

Overnight bus

From ~3,000 yen per travel

From ~3,000 yen per travel

Overnight buses in Japan are a budget-friendly, efficient way to travel between cities while saving on accommodation costs. Often equipped with comfortable, reclining seats, onboard Wi-Fi, and charging ports, these buses let you rest peacefully as you travel through the night. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a longer journey, overnight buses offer a unique and economical option.

A comprehensive overview of Japanese lodging options

A comprehensive overview of Japanese lodging options

Japan offers a wide range of accommodation options. This table outlines the key features, pricing, strengths, and important considerations for each type, helping you to choose the perfect stay for your journey.

TypeCaractéristiques clésLocalisation typiquePrixPoints fortsPoints à considérer
RyokanAuberge traditionnelle avec tatamis, futons, bains, repas kaiseki inclusZones onsen et régions touristiquesMoyen à élevéExpérience authentique, immersion culturelle, cuisine locale raffinéeChambres parfois petites, expérience très traditionnelle
Guesthouses & Youth HostelsChambres partagées ou privées, ambiance convivialeZones urbainesBasAmbiance communautaire, prix abordableMoins d'intimité, confort simple
MinshukuAuberge familiale avec repas maison, ambiance chaleureuseZones rurales ou petites villesMoyenExpérience locale authentique, accueil chaleureuxServices plus limités, parfois installations plus anciennes
HotelsChambres de style occidental, commodités modernesCentres urbains (Tokyo, Osaka, etc.)MoyenService professionnel, réservation facileChambres compactes, parfois barrière linguistique
Vacation Rentals (Airbnb)Appartements ou maisons (traditionnels ou modernes)Zones urbaines ou rurales, flexibleVariableComme chez soi, immersion localeQualité variable, besoin de vérifier les commentaires
Capsule HotelsCapsules compactes avec espace minimumProches des gares / centres urbainsTrès basOption d'hébergement moderne, bon rapport qualité-prixEspace très réduit, intimité limitée
Manga CafésEspace lecture manga, accès 24h, boissons/snacksCentres urbainsTrès basConfort pour une courte pause, prix abordableMoins confortable pour dormir toute une nuit
Overnight BusTransport interurbain de nuit, Wi-Fi et prises de rechargeItinéraires entre villes au JaponTrès basÉconomise une nuit d'hébergement, option de transport économiqueMoins confortable qu'un hébergement dédié, temps de trajet allongé