Sleep in a bookstore: Tokyo capsule inn where you drift off to sleep surrounded by books

By MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department
 

Have you ever had the experience of reading your favorite book, your eyelids getting heavier and heavier as you read, only to realize when you come to that it’s already morning? In Ikebukuro, Japan, there’s now a capsule hotel that’s nothing short of heaven for book lovers — “Book and Bed,” which creates a space dedicated entirely to reading as “a bookstore you can sleep in for the night.”

During your travels, there are always moments when you just want to focus on being alone with yourself. With reading as its concept, Book and Bed is a themed capsule hotel that combines a bookstore with accommodation space. Designed by “SUPPOSE DESIGN OFFICE,” led by the architect Makoto Tanijiri and Aya Yoshida, who have attracted attention both in Japan and overseas, the inn features a unique layout where beds are built into huge bookshelves. The books are supplied by “SHIBUYA PUBLISHING & BOOKSELLERS,” a bookstore in Shibuya that promotes the idea of “a life with books.”

Unlike the typical bustling youth hostels, Book and Bed is more like a 24-hour library, making it perfect for travelers who love to read. There are comfortable corners everywhere for immersive reading — whether it’s a cozy sofa or a comfy bed. It allows guests to not only find a place to rest and recharge, but also to relax their minds and immerse themselves in the world of words. The inn houses a rich collection of books across various categories including travel, business, literature, and magazines. Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can still use the lounge during tea time.