Types of Accommodation in Japan

Japan is a country that offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit any type of traveler, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Whether you’re visiting the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, the serene temples of Kyoto, or the snowy mountains of Hokkaido, there’s an ideal place for you to rest and recharge. Here’s a guide to the different types of accommodation in Japan, so you can choose the best option for your trip.

Traditional Japanese Accommodation

For those looking to experience Japan's unique culture, traditional accommodations are an absolute must. These options offer a peek into the country’s rich history and are perfect for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Japanese customs.

Ryokan 旅館 (Traditional Inn)

Ryokan are traditional Japanese inns that offer an immersive cultural experience, blending hospitality, architecture, and cuisine. Rooted in centuries of history, ryokan originally served samurai, merchants, and pilgrims traveling long distances.

Guests stay in serene, tatami-matted rooms with futon bedding, sliding paper doors (shōji), and often a tokonoma - a decorative alcove featuring seasonal flowers or hanging scrolls. Low tables are typically used for tea or meals, and the overall ambiance reflects traditional Japanese aesthetics: minimalist, calm, and harmonious.

A signature feature of the ryokan stay is the kaiseki dinner - an elegant, multi-course meal showcasing seasonal and regional ingredients. Meals are beautifully presented and served either in-room or in a dedicated dining area. A traditional Japanese breakfast is also usually included, consisting of several small, balanced dishes.

Many ryokan, especially those in onsen (hot spring) regions, offer communal baths or private open-air baths with natural hot spring water. Bathing is a central part of the ryokan experience, and guests are expected to observe proper bathing etiquette.

Experience: A blend of relaxation and tradition in a peaceful setting, with warm, personalised service known as omotenashi.

Minshuku 民宿 (Guesthouse)

Minshuku are family-run Japanese guesthouses that offer travellers a warm, homely, and budget-friendly alternative to hotels or ryokan. Staying at a minshuku provides an opportunity to experience everyday Japanese life and hospitality in a relaxed, informal setting.

Guest rooms are typically simple but clean, featuring tatami flooring, futon bedding, and shared bathrooms. While minshuku generally offer fewer amenities and formalities than ryokan, they still reflect traditional Japanese aesthetics and values, often with a cozy, lived-in charm.

Meals - usually homemade by the hosts - are a highlight of the stay. Dinner and breakfast are often served in a communal dining room, with menus that vary by region and season. Expect local specialties, such as fresh seafood in coastal areas or mountain vegetables and wild game in rural regions. The shared meals also provide a chance to interact with hosts and fellow travelers, adding a personal and social dimension to the experience.

Minshuku are commonly found in rural towns, fishing villages, hot spring areas, and scenic or historic destinations.

Experience: A chance to connect with local hosts and other guests. Ideal for budget-conscious travellers seeking an authentic, down-to-earth stay.

Shukubō 宿坊 (Temple Lodging)

Shukubō refers to lodging provided at Buddhist temples - originally meant for monks and pilgrims, but now available to general travellers seeking a spiritual or cultural experience. Guests stay in traditional temple buildings, sleeping on tatami mats with futon bedding in simple yet serene rooms.

A stay at a shukubō typically includes shōjin ryōri - a refined, seasonal vegetarian cuisine based on Buddhist dietary principles. Many temples also invite guests to participate in early morning prayers, seated meditation (zazen), or sutra copying (shakyō). Some offer lectures on Buddhist teachings or opportunities to observe monastic life.

While facilities are generally modest, many shukubō have been partially modernized with conveniences like private toilets, heating, or Wi-Fi. However, the emphasis remains on simplicity, quiet reflection, and spiritual ambiance - offering a unique alternative to conventional accommodations.

Shukubō are commonly found near major temple complexes, especially in places like Mount Kōya, Kyoto, and other historic religious sites.

Etiquette is important: Guests are expected to behave respectfully, maintain quiet during designated hours, and dress modestly - particularly when participating in religious services or communal meals.

Experience: Peaceful and introspective rather than luxurious - a form of cultural and spiritual immersion, not a typical hotel stay.

Kominka 古民家 (Traditional Japanese Farmhouses)

Kominka are traditional Japanese farmhouses, often over a century old, that have been carefully preserved or restored for modern stays. Constructed with natural materials such as wood, earth, and thatched or tiled roofs, these homes reflect rural Japanese life from the Edo or Meiji periods. Staying in a kominka offers a deep connection to Japan’s countryside culture, traditional architecture, and slower-paced lifestyle.

Many kominka are located in rural villages, mountain valleys, or preserved heritage towns, offering scenic views, fresh air, and a quiet, rustic atmosphere. Interiors often feature tatami rooms, exposed wooden beams, irori (sunken hearths), and original elements like sliding doors, paper screens, or earthen walls.

While maintaining their traditional charm, modernised kominka may include updated kitchens, bathrooms, and heating for comfort. Some are operated as self-catering guesthouses, while others offer meals and immersive experiences - such as farming, cooking, or traditional crafts workshops.

Experience: A chance to stay in a historic rural home, surrounded by nature. A peaceful, slow-living environment ideal for unwinding. Opportunities for hands-on experiences, like harvesting vegetables or learning traditional skills.

Machiya 町家 (Traditional townhouses)

Machiya are traditional wooden townhouses that once served as both residences and shops for merchants and artisans in Japan's historical cities. Especially common in places like Kyoto, Kanazawa, and Takayama, machiya reflect the urban lifestyle of Japan’s Edo and Meiji periods.

Characterised by their narrow front and deep interior, machiya often feature wooden lattice facades (koshi), sliding doors, tatami rooms, inner courtyards (tsuboniwa), and engawa (veranda-like hallways). These houses were designed to bring in light and ventilation while maintaining privacy in crowded cityscapes.

Many machiya have been restored and converted into elegant guesthouses, blending traditional charm with modern comfort. Staying in one allows travelers to immerse themselves in a historic urban atmosphere, often just steps away from old temples, artisan workshops, or narrow alleys with stone paths.

Machiya stays are particularly popular in Kyoto, where entire neighbourhoods like Gion, Nishijin, and Higashiyama still retain their historical atmosphere. Many are managed by locals or boutique hospitality companies catering to both Japanese and international guests.

Experience: A chance to stay in an authentic urban townhouse with deep cultural history. Some machiya lodgings offer self-catering, while others include meals or concierge-style service.

Modern Accommodation in Japan

If you prefer contemporary amenities, there are plenty of modern accommodation types that cater to a variety of needs and budgets.

Hotels

Japan offers a wide range of Western-style hotels, from luxury accommodations to affordable business hotels. These hotels provide comfort, convenience, and international-style amenities such as private bathrooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and room service.

Ideal for travellers seeking modern comforts, Western-style hotels typically feature private rooms, well-maintained facilities, and various dining options - ranging from casual cafés to fine dining restaurants.

For those seeking a more upscale experience, Japan has many high-end, five-star hotels offering premium services like concierge assistance, spas, and panoramic city views. International hotel chains are common in major cities, while domestic brands often cater to both business and leisure travelers.

Business Hotels

Business hotels in Japan are designed primarily for corporate travelers, offering compact, efficient rooms at affordable prices. While rooms tend to be smaller than those in standard hotels, they are clean, functional, and equipped with essentials such as a comfortable bed, desk, private bathroom, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.

Many business hotels also offer convenient amenities like coin-operated laundry machines, vending machines, and 24-hour front desks. A simple breakfast - often buffet-style or Japanese set - is frequently included or available for a small fee.

These hotels are commonly located near train stations, business districts, and city centers, making them ideal for short stays or solo travelers looking for convenience and value. Some business hotel chains also offer loyalty programs and consistent standards across the country, making them popular with both domestic and international guests.

Capsule Hotels

Capsule hotels are a uniquely Japanese type of accommodation where guests sleep in compact pods, typically stacked in rows. Designed for efficiency and affordability, these hotels cater mainly to solo travelers looking for a simple place to rest.

Each capsule (or pod) contains the essentials: a comfortable bed, lighting, power outlets or USB charging ports, and sometimes a small TV or entertainment system. While the sleeping space is minimal, capsule hotels usually offer shared facilities such as bathrooms, showers, lockers, and lounges. Some even include public baths (sento or onsen), workspaces, or cafés.

Capsule hotels are especially common in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, often located near train stations and entertainment districts. They're ideal for short stays, last-minute bookings, or travelers on a tight budget. While traditionally used by businessmen who missed the last train, modern capsule hotels now attract a wider range of guests, including tourists seeking a uniquely Japanese experience.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Hostels

Hostels are budget-friendly accommodation options that offer a mix of shared dormitory rooms and private rooms. They are especially popular among young travelers, backpackers, and those looking to meet fellow travelers in a social setting.

Hostels in Japan are known for being clean, safe, and well-maintained. Most provide free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, laundry facilities, and common areas where guests can relax or socialize. Many also organize events such as city tours, cultural workshops, or movie nights, making them great for solo travelers who want to connect with others.

While dormitory rooms are the most affordable, many hostels also offer private rooms with shared or en-suite bathrooms for those who prefer more privacy on a budget. Some newer hostels even feature stylish interiors, café spaces, and co-working areas.

You’ll find hostels in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, as well as in tourist hotspots such as Hiroshima, Nikko, and Mount Fuji. They're a great choice for travelers seeking affordability, flexibility, and a community atmosphere.

Airbnb and Vacation Rentals

Airbnb and similar vacation rental platforms allow travelers to book private homes, apartments, or shared rooms directly from local hosts. These accommodations offer more space and flexibility compared to hotels, making them ideal for families, groups, or longer stays.

Staying in a rental lets you experience daily life in Japan more like a local - whether it’s shopping at neighbourhood markets, cooking your own meals, or staying in a traditional townhouse (machiya) or countryside home. Many rentals are located in residential areas, offering a quieter, more authentic atmosphere than tourist zones.

Amenities vary, but most include Wi-Fi, a kitchen or kitchenette, laundry facilities, and basic household items. Some listings also feature tatami rooms, futons, or access to a garden or balcony.

Vacation rentals are available across Japan, from urban centers like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka to rural regions, coastal towns, and even mountain villages. Note that in some areas, short-term rentals are regulated, and listings must be licensed - so be sure to book through reputable platforms and check reviews before reserving.