Want to save money on your trip to Japan? A guide to 4 great ways to "cut accommodation costs"

Reported by You T-Ru / Comprehensive report

As a country with the highest consumption in Asia and the most urban resources, Japan has plenty of fun things to discover. However, how can you save on accommodation costs when traveling to Japan and spend more on food, fun, and activities? ETtoday Eastday Travel Cloud has compiled 4 basic "Japan accommodation cost-saving methods" as a reference for those who want to explore Japan like a backpacker. However, please note that these money-saving tips are more suitable for major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka.

%Japan travel guide. Save your money. (Image source: Strong Japan travel guide)


1. Take a "night bus" when moving between multiple locations
Want to save on accommodation costs? Taking a night bus is a great option. Long-distance buses across Japan often offer overnight services, and some even come with personal seat curtains, charging ports, or women-only sections. In terms of price, for example, a trip from Tokyo to Kyoto or Osaka can cost around 3,500 yen, while getting to Sendai in the Tohoku region is about 2,800 yen. Sleeping on the bus saves on accommodation costs while also handling your transportation needs.

2. Capsule hotels
Major cities in Japan like Tokyo and Osaka are densely populated, which has given rise to unique accommodation options such as "capsule hotels." By minimizing sleeping space, these hotels offer compact accommodations at relatively low prices. For a single person, you can find a capsule for around 3,000 yen per night, and there are increasingly more unique capsule hotels popping up across Japan, such as bookstore-themed capsule hotels or design-oriented ones with time-based pricing—these are all quite interesting.

3. Internet cafes
Similar to internet cafes in Taiwan, you can rent a spot by the hour to play games, go online, or read manga. The best part is you can also take a shower, do laundry, or have a meal and drinks there. There are also private booths available for those who prefer more solitude, and overnight stays typically cost around 2,500 yen. Most importantly, many allow you to fully lie down and sleep.

4. 24-hour hot spring inns
Some 24-hour hot springs have lounges and reclining chairs where you can stay overnight. For example, Oedo Onsen Monogatari in Tokyo or Spa World in Osaka both have lounges where you can rest overnight. Aside from soaking in the baths, there are also paid meal options available. With an entrance fee plus the overnight charge, the total comes to around 3,000 yen—cheaper than a regular hotel, and you still get to enjoy an authentic Japanese onsen experience.