【Fever Travel】Tokyo Space Makeover: Stay in a Barber Shop Turned Homestay

Text by: Little Traveler Kid

In recent years, major cities have been keen on revitalizing old buildings to preserve their original design features while increasing their practical value. WalkingTokyoaround the shopping district of Akabane, you might come across an architectural gem that blends nostalgia with modern style. In fact, this isJapan’sarchitectural studio Aida Atelier, which transformed a 45-year-old barber shop into a five-story, multi-functional homestay called Hotel ICHINICHI.

Marry's Beauty Salon, which first opened in the 1960s, initially focused on selling hairdressing products and offeringJapanesetraditional haircutting services. It wasn’t until the 1970s, when business expanded, that it moved to its current location. In June 2015, after three years of preparation, the studio finally began renovating this old beauty salon.

The full-height floor-to-ceiling windows, combined with the interior spiral staircase and chandeliers, perfectly showcase a unique blend of styles. There are vintage elements as well as modern designs—charming details such as leaving some areas with exposed concrete maintain a sense of the old beauty parlor’s ambiance.

Hotel ICHINICHI currently offers individual, double, and triple rooms on the 3rd and 4th floors. Even backpackers can stay here—the sleeping spaces feature capsule-style designs. Though only 4.45 square meters, they are spacious enough to move your arms around and sleep comfortably, and the bed height isn't too low, avoiding a cramped, closed-in feeling. Additionally, the design is based onJapanesetea room aesthetics, with room partitions made fromJapanesetraditional fabrics—a thoughtful touch. For those who prefer a private rest area with a bathroom, there are also minimalist-style double and triple rooms available.

Going up the spiral staircase to the 2nd floor, you’ll find THE 315 bar/café, where red-framed mirrors add a Chinese touch that blends with the rugged, exposed concrete walls for an industrial-chic vibe, creating a stylish and comfortable space.

Hotel ICHINICHI
Address: 1-32-4, Akabane, Kita-ku, Tokyo JAPAN 115-0045
Phone: +81 3 3901 6661
Website:http://ichinichi.tokyo/