Japan abounds in accommodations, both western-style and Japanese. Types of accommodation vary widely in terms of style and price. You can choose to stay in the familiar comforts of a western-style hotel, or enjoy the comfort and personal attention of a traditional Japanese inn.
By taking time to search out some of the nation’s less-publicised types of lodgings, you’re sure to find clean and comfortable places to stay that suit your pocketbook.
From the familiar western chains to local Japanese brands, from budget hotels to 5-star luxury properties, there are a huge number of western style hotels in Japan.
These generally offer settings and amenities familiar to Australian and New Zealand travellers, including western style beds, a small writing desk, a refrigerator and kettle, and an ensuite bathroom, generally with a shower over bath. (Amenities vary by property; be sure to check the details before booking.)
In general, western hotels in Japan will offer less space than their equivalents in Australia or New Zealand, though this can vary greatly depending on whether the hotel is in a big city or in a regional area.
Prices vary greatly depending on the location and rank of hotel. It is worth noting that there is no official hotel rating or ranking system in Japan, but when hotels call themselves '4-star' and '5-star' they usually endeavour to adhere to the same standards as other countries.
Some western hotels offer family rooms or can provide adjacent or connecting rooms to families.
Styles of ryokan vary, from the very traditional to modern, from sprawling resort to private villa retreat, from onsen ryokan to urban establishment.
When searching for luxury accommodation outside of the major cities, ryokan are often your best chance at finding 5-star service and amenities; however, travellers on a budget who want a ryokan experience can find more economical properties as well.
Common elements to this most quintessential style of Japanese accommodation generally include tatami flooring, futon bedding (though many ryokan do now have rooms with western beds as well), yukata robes, sumptuous in-house kaiseki multi-course meals, and a traditional Japanese breakfast.
Japan is a member of the Hostelling International (YHA - Youth Hostel Associations) network, and there are hundreds of YHA properties throughout Japan. A small membership fee may be required to join the international network upon booking your accommodation.
Four- to six-bed dormitories are standard, but all YHA properties have a family room, and some offer single and twin rooms, too. Most offer both coed lodgings and segregated floors. Common areas and bathrooms are shared.
Despite the name, youth hostels welcome backpackers and travellers of all ages. In cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto, some hostels have been revamped, have in-house restaurants or bars, and provide a more guesthouse-like atmosphere. In rural areas, you may even find temple hostel accommodation. Prices typically start at 2,500 yen per night for very basic dormitory beds. Be aware that some hostels have curfews.
If your goal is to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, consider the increasingly popular experience of a homestay. While traditional accommodation, such as ryokan and minshuku, focuses on excellent service rather than forging relationships, homestays offer a more relaxed experience with an emphasis on simple work, camaraderie and cultural exchange.
Each family has its own flair and style, but all offer the opportunity to form a meaningful bond with locals. Plus, paying off your room and board by volunteering help is a convenient solution when money is tight. Additionally, volunteer-based homestays offer an opportunity to learn new skills, from rice farming and animal care to traditional arts.