Japan Vibes - Hotels

How to choose the right hotel in Japan

Choosing the right hotel in Japan depends on the experience you seek. In cities like Tokyo or Osaka, location near a JR Yamanote Line or local loop station is crucial for easy transport. Business Hotels (like APA or Super Hotel) are great for budget-conscious travelers who just need a clean place to sleep; they are compact but perfectly equipped.

For a cultural immersion, you must stay in a Ryokan (traditional inn) for at least one night, ideally in a hot spring town like Hakone or Kinosaki Onsen. Sleeping on tatami mats and wearing a yukata robe is a quintessential Japanese experience.

Capsule Hotels offer a uniquely Japanese, sci-fi efficiency. Modern, luxury capsules are surprisingly comfortable and often located in prime city spots. For groups, Apartment Hotels (like Mimaru) are excellent as they offer more space and kitchenettes.

What should guests check before booking a hotel in Japan

Before booking a hotel in Japan, verify the Room Size. Japanese rooms are notoriously small (often 12-15 sqm for a standard). If you have large suitcases, you might not be able to open them. Look for rooms larger than 20 sqm if space matters to you.

Check the Smoking Policy. While improving, some hotels still have smoking rooms. Ensure you book a non-smoking room if you need one.

Read reviews regarding Tattoos if the hotel has a communal bath or Onsen. Many traditional public baths ban guests with tattoos. Some hotels offer "private onsen" options which solve this issue. Also, check Check-in/out times; check-out is often strictly at 10 AM or 11 AM, and they may charge for late departure.

How can travelers find authentic or locally owned hotels in Japan

Finding authentic or locally owned hotels in Japan leads you to "Minshuku" (family-run guesthouses). These are similar to Ryokans but more casual and affordable. You often eat dinner with the family or other guests.

Look for Shukubo (Temple Lodgings). Staying in a Buddhist temple, particularly in Mount Koya, is a profound experience involving vegetarian monk food (Shojin Ryori) and morning prayers.

To find these, search on sites like Japanican or Rakuten Travel, or look for specialized Ryokan booking sites. Don't be afraid if the website looks older or requires a Google Translate; these often hide the best traditional gems.