Top 5 Tokyo Capsule Hotels + Full Guide [Podcast Ep. 28]

The Bucket List Mermaid contains affiliate links from trusted travel partners. When you purchase through a link on this site, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See  Privacy Policy for more information.

Hello, adventurers, and welcome back to Tick It Before You Kick It, the podcast that’s here to inspire, inform, and help you check those unforgettable adventures off your bucket list.

I’m Alexandra, and today, we’re shrinking our space but not our sense of adventure as we dive into one of Japan’s most unique travel experiences: capsule hotels.

If you’re picturing a cozy little sleeping pod about the size of a toaster slot, you’re not far off.

Capsule hotels in Japan are quirky, efficient, and surprisingly comfortable. In this episode, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about staying in one—from the why to the how, and, of course, how to enjoy every second of it.

In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about capsule hotels: what to expect, tips for first-timers, and why they’re the ultimate addition to your Japanese adventure.

Listen to This Podcast Episode About Japanese Capsule Hotels

What Are Capsule Hotels?

Let’s start with the basics: what even is a capsule hotel? Picture this—it’s the late 1970s, Japan’s urban areas are booming, and space is at a premium.

The need for quick, convenient, and affordable lodging is on the rise.

Enter the capsule hotel: a brilliant concept where guests rent tiny, efficient pods stacked neatly in clean, streamlined environments.

Each pod has enough space for a bed and basic comforts like a light and charging port. It’s minimalist living at its best—like stepping into a sci-fi movie come to life.

What started as a practical solution has now become a bucket-list experience.

Travelers stay in capsule hotels not only for their budget-friendly rates but also for the novelty and insight into Japanese efficiency and culture.

Best Capsule Hotels in Japan

You’ll find capsule hotels across the country, from Osaka to Kyoto, catering to everyone from budget travelers to luxury seekers. However, Tokyo is where the concept truly shines.

Below are some of my favorite capsule hotel finds! I would recommend always looking at reviews and pictures.

9h nine hours sleep lab

If you’re looking for a top-tier capsule hotel experience in Tokyo, 9h Nine Hours Sleep Lab is an excellent choice.

This sleek, futuristic capsule hotel combines minimalist design with a focus on optimizing your rest—perfect for adventurers recharging after a day of exploring. They even offer a sleep analysis!

They have several locations in Tokyo – Suidobashi, Hamamatsucho, Akasaka, Ningyocho, and Shinjuku.

Resol Poshtel Tokyo Asakusa

Resol Poshtel Tokyo Asakusa redefines the capsule hotel experience with a stylish, boutique twist in the heart of one of Tokyo’s most historic districts.

Situated in Asakusa, this capsule hotel is just a short stroll from iconic landmarks like Senso-ji Temple and the Nakamise shopping street, making it a prime choice for adventurers wanting to immerse themselves in traditional Tokyo.

The design is a blend of modern elegance and Japanese aesthetics, with cozy pods that feel more like compact rooms than traditional capsules.

Guests can enjoy shared lounge areas designed for relaxation and socializing, along with amenities like free Wi-Fi, lockers, and premium toiletries.

I am a bit biased because I loved this area of Tokyo. In fact, it is where I rented a kimono!

 Anshin Oyado Shinjuku Ekimaeten (Male Only)

Located just steps from Shinjuku Station, this capsule hotel offers easy access to Tokyo’s bustling heart and beyond, making it an ideal base for adventurers eager to explore the city.

What sets it apart is its elevated amenities, including a relaxing onsen-style bath, free drinks in the lounge, and even a massage chair area for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

The capsules themselves are spacious, clean, and well-equipped, offering more comfort than your standard pod.

Anshin oyado woman Tokyo Ginza shiodome (Female Only)

Anshin Oyado Women Tokyo Ginza Shiodome is a fantastic capsule hotel tailored specifically for female travelers, offering both comfort and peace of mind in one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts.

Located in the upscale Ginza area near Shiodome, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring luxury shopping streets, world-class dining, and cultural landmarks like Kabuki-za Theatre.

With thoughtful amenities such as a relaxing spa area, complimentary beauty products, and cozy lounge spaces, it’s a perfect retreat after a day of urban exploration.

First Cabin Ichigaya

First Cabin Ichigaya offers a sophisticated take on the capsule hotel experience, blending the compact charm of pods with the spacious feel of a first-class airline cabin.

Located in the tranquil Ichigaya neighborhood, this hotel provides a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s bustling core while still being well-connected to major attractions via nearby train stations.

The “cabin-style” accommodations are larger than traditional capsules, featuring enough room to sit up comfortably and store your belongings.

With a sleek, modern design, separate areas for the genders, and top-notch amenities like pristine bathrooms, cozy lounges, and complimentary sleepwear, First Cabin Ichigaya is a great choice for travelers looking for a refined and restful stay.

Honorable Mentions for Tokyo Capsule Hotels

Here are some more honorable mentions for capsule hotels in Tokyo:

• Anshin Oyado Shinbashi Ekimaeten
• Anshin Oyado Akihabara Denkigaiten
• Akihabara Bay Hotel (Female Only)
• MyCUBE by MYSTAYS Asakusa Kuramae
• Smart Stay SHIZUKU Ueno Ekimae

The Capsule Hotel Experience

Checking into a capsule hotel is like entering a futuristic dream. Some even use automated kiosks instead of reception desks.

Once inside, your pod awaits—a tiny cocoon in a row of neatly stacked capsules. Inside, you’ll find a mattress, pillow, and just enough space to sit up or lie down.

Many pods include adjustable lighting, USB chargers, and sometimes even small TVs.

One tip: bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper. Pods are not always soundproof, and though capsule hotels are typically quiet, it’s always good to be prepared.

Respect the shared spaces and embrace the cultural experience—Japanese hospitality and politeness are truly unmatched.

My Capsule Hotel Experience

I first stayed in a capsule hotel while visiting Japan with my best friend. We had friends working at Disney Tokyo, and the capsule hotel felt like a perfect, bucket-list-worthy adventure.

I mean, how often do you get to stay in a literal capsule?

We checked in, and honestly, the vibe reminded me of a hostel—though much cleaner, quieter, and more refined.

Each dorm-style room had several capsules, and though we shared the space with others, it never felt crowded.

They even gave us robes and a little amenity kit with slippers, toothbrushes, and more.

There was also a small spa area with traditional Japanese bathtubs, which felt luxurious.

I chose the top capsule, and my friend took the bottom. Crawling into the pod felt like building a fort as a kid—a cozy, tiny space all my own.

It had a light, a charging station, and a minimalist vibe that made me feel like I was prepping for a space mission, but with a Japanese twist.

It was one of the most unique places I’ve stayed—right up there with a pod on the side of a cliff in Peru!

Beyond the Pods

Capsule hotels often go above and beyond with their shared spaces.

Many have communal bathrooms with individual shower stalls, lounges with vending machines, and even manga libraries.

The onsen baths and spas are a particular highlight—perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring.

One of my favorite moments was soaking in a giant cauldron-shaped bath. It was both relaxing and hilarious—a truly memorable experience!

Would You Stay in a Capsule Hotel for Your Bucket List?

Capsule hotels are quirky, efficient, and unforgettable. If you’re worried about feeling claustrophobic, take a deep breath and remember—it’s all part of the adventure.

Even one night is enough to check this off your bucket list. And trust me, these hotels live up to the hype.

Each one has its own personality, making every stay unique.

Thanks for tuning in to Tick It Before You Kick It! Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and follow me on social media @TheBucketListMermaid.

Until next time, keep exploring, keep ticking those boxes, and stay curious. Catch you in the next episode!

Important Parts in the Show

• 0:25 – What Are Capsule Hotels?
• 0:55 – Brief History of Capsule Hotels
• 1:51 – Why I Stayed in a Capsule Hotel
• 4:31 – How to Book a Capsule Hotel
• 6:26 – Packing Tips
• 7:59 – Getting Checked In
• 8:23 – Experience Inside the Pod
• 9:52 – Beyond the Pod
• 11:03 – Worried About Claustrophobia?
• 12:19 – Would You Add This to Your Bucket List?

Articles Related to This Episode

• Japan Bucket List
• Renting a Kimono in Japan

Follow The Tail