Accommodation
Types of Accommodation in Japan
Japan offers a diverse range of accommodations, catering to every preference and budget. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly stays, and traditional ryokan to unique subculture experiences, there is something for everyone. Some accommodations even feature private hot spring baths for an authentic Japanese experience
Be sure to check out the tips and accommodation reference links at the end of this page for more details!
Luxury Western Style Hotel
© The Tokyo EDITION, Toranomon (Luxury lifestyle hotel near Tokyo Tower. Close to the latest urban complex Azabudai Hills and Roppongi Hills. Designed by world renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Provides 2 restaurants and 2 bars, including an open-air garden terrace. At the on-site restaurants, meals with vegetarian options available. Guests can find other amenities such as a 24-hour banquet hall suitable for private events and business conferences. Multi-lingual staff and executive car service to and from airports available.)
Experience unparalleled comfort and elegance at Japan’s luxury western-style hotels. Enjoy breathtaking views, world-class dining with exquisite cuisine, and spacious, well-appointed rooms designed for ultimate relaxation. With 24/7 room service and exceptional hospitality, every detail is crafted to make your stay truly unforgettable. Indulge in a luxurious retreat where spectacular views and gourmet dining elevate your travel experience. Discover Your Luxury here 
Japanese Traditional Inn (Ryokan)
© BIYUNOYADO in Nagano Prefecture (Free pickup service from Yudanaka station (pre-booking), both Japanese futon and western bed option, room with outdoor hot spring option, vegetarian meals on your request pre-booking）
Ryokan are a unique part of Japanese hospitality, offering an immersive cultural experience. Found in both scenic countryside and city locations, they range from luxurious retreats to budget-friendly stays. Guests can enjoy traditional elements like tatami flooring, futon bedding (or Western beds in some), yukata robes, and meticulously crafted kaiseki meals (a multi-course Japanese pre-set meal). Many ryokan also feature natural hot spring baths, with some luxury options offering private in-room onsen for the ultimate relaxation.
Learn more with our Japanese Ryokan Guide .
Themed Hotel
Stay at one of Japan’s themed hotels for a truly memorable experience. From robot-staffed check-ins to rooms inspired by popular anime and video games, these accommodations showcase Japan’s creativity and playful spirit. Especially popular with families and travellers seeking something unique, many themed hotels offer immersive experiences, complete with themed decor, staff uniforms, and specialty dining. These distinctive stays add a fun and unforgettable touch to Japan’s diverse accommodation scene.
Business Hotels
©Toyoko Inn (top hotel chain for the number of rooms in Japan)
Business hotels in Japan are a type of Western-style accommodation, typically located near train stations for convenience. Designed for business travelers who need a simple and efficient place to rest, these hotels offer basic amenities at an affordable price.
Rooms are compact, usually ranging from 12 to 20 square meters, and may not be ideal for those with large suitcases. Most business hotels accommodate up to two guests, though some offer triple rooms. Pricing is generally more economical than standard Western hotels, but costs can vary depending on location, especially in areas with high demand near major train stations.
Renting an Apartment or House (Minpaku)
Minpaku, on the other hand, are typically unattended private residences. Many are old houses converted into guest accommodations, such as machiya, a traditional townhouse style commonly found in Kyoto and Kanazawa.
Machiya in Obama city, Fukui Prefecture (You can rent entire house including kitchen)
B&B's and Homestays (Minshuku)
Minshuku are Japanese-style bed-and-breakfast lodgings, typically family-run and located within the owner's home—like a homestay in India. Often found in regional areas, resorts, and vacation spots, they provide budget-friendly accommodations and a chance to experience Japanese family life firsthand.
Please note that the terms minshuku and minpaku are sometimes used interchangeably with ‘guesthouse.’ However, they differ from hostel-style guesthouses mentioned above. Since Japan does not have a fixed definition for ‘guesthouse,’ be sure to check whether the listing is hostel-style, minshuku-style, or minpaku-style before booking.
Learn more with our Minshuku and Guesthouses Guide.
Experiential Stay
Castle Stay (Shirohaku)
© Ozu castle in Ozu city Ehime Prefecture
Each of Japan's castles has its own fascinating history. There are four castles in the country offering a stay experience, namely ─ Ozu Castle in Ehime, Fukuyama Castle in Hiroshima, Marugame Castle in Kagawa and Hirado Castle in Nagasaki. Step back in time to the days of daimyo and samurai, when these castles served as both fortresses and abodes. At these castles, experience the life of a castle lord and enjoy exclusive, tailored experiences, and immerse yourself in Japan's cultural heritage for an unforgettable stay.
Temple Stay (Shukubo)
Wakayama Prefecture and Nagano Prefecture have more options.
Take part in morning prayers, spend time in peaceful gardens meditating, and eat shojin ryori (traditional Japanese Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), which are modest vegetarian meals.
Farm Stay (Nouhaku)
Toyooka city, Hyogo Prefecture (you can enjoy local fresh meals in traditional former house)
A farm stay in Japan offers a relaxing escape into the countryside, allowing you to experience traditional Japanese life and engage in cultural exchange with locals. Guests can explore scenic landscapes and stay in accommodations ranging from farmhouses to historic Japanese homes.
Join your host family in farming, forestry, or cooking for an authentic hands-on experience. Alternatively, rent a house and enjoy a peaceful retreat with friends or family.
Learn more with our Homestays, Farm stays and WWOOFing Guide.
Youth hostel
Japan is part of the Hostelling International (YHA – Youth Hostel Association) network, with hundreds of YHA properties across the country. If you're not a member, a small additional fee may be required to join the international network when booking. Most YHA hostels offer four- to six-bed dormitories, though many also have family rooms, as well as single and twin room options. Accommodations typically include shared common areas and bathrooms, with both coed lodgings and segregated floors available depending upon the hostel facility.
Despite the name, youth hostels welcome travellers of all ages, including backpackers and budget-conscious tourists. In cities like Tokyo and Kyoto, some hostels have been modernized with in-house restaurants, bars, and a guesthouse-like atmosphere. However, note that some hostels may have noise or entry restrictions at night. Policies vary, so check before booking.
Beyond YHA-affiliated hostels, Japan also has independent hostels, which are similar but may offer a different style of traditional setting.
Useful Links:
GaijinPot Apartments – Short-term guesthouse and apartment rental service
Japan Ryokan Association – Welcome to the world of luxurious ryokan
Japanese Inn Group – A collection of reasonably priced traditional ryokan in Japan
JAPANiCAN.com – Hotels, ryokan and tour bookings made easy
Rakuten Travel – Japan’s No.1 hotel booking site
The Ryokan Collection – This collection represents the finest in Japanese accommodation
JNTO Partners – website includes links for JNTO’s Supporters and Members which provide services for foreign tourists
Tips:
The accommodation charge is subject to a consumption tax of 10% (as of 1st October 2019).
Some cities also charge an additional accommodation tax, usually not a percentage but a fixed tiered rate.
Properties with onsen (hot springs) often charge a 'bathing tax' as well. This varies by region but is usually about 150 Yen, charged per person.
The above taxes are usually included in the total listed room rate.
First class hotels may also impose a 10 to 15% service charge as well.
Tipping is not customary except at top luxury ryokan, where a guest will tip a maid when they first serve tea in the room.
Please remove your shoes in the Tatami area.
Please don’t place packages upright in the Tatami area (it may damage the tatami).
In general, hotel room sizes are compact in city areas.
Compared to other countries, twin beds are more common in Japan.
Try the bathtub and electronic toilet with bidet.
To make your travel easier, you can try the luggage transfer service.
Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated.
