Claustrophobic or Cool? My 24 Hours in a Capsule Hotel

Minimal Space, Maximum Surprise—My Honest Experience Living in a Futuristic Japanese Capsule Hotel

Author

Ark
July 27, 2025

My Night in a Tokyo Capsule Hotel: A Unique Experience

Capsule hotels, a uniquely Japanese invention, offer a compact and budget-friendly accommodation option for travelers. Having stayed in one six years ago and found it less than pleasant—cramped, smelly, and not particularly clean—I was skeptical about trying another. However, curiosity (and perhaps a touch of masochism) led me to book a night at a capsule hotel near Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku Station. Here’s my account of the experience, from check-in to checkout, at a modern capsule hotel that surprised me in more ways than one.

A Brief History of Capsule Hotels

The first capsule hotel opened in Osaka in 1979, and since then, the concept has spread across Japan and even to other countries. These hotels are designed for efficiency, offering small, pod-like sleeping compartments stacked side by side. They cater to a range of guests, from budget travelers to businesspeople and even some individuals who, without other options, use them as semi-permanent residences. The hotel I stayed at offered a 30-day plan for 80,000 yen (about $550 USD), a 50% discount compared to the nightly rate. While this might seem like a deal, it’s comparable to renting a small apartment in a less desirable area of Tokyo. My one-night stay, on the “executive plan,” cost 6,280 yen (around $43 USD)—not exactly cheap for what you get.

Check-In and First Impressions

Upon arrival, I was given a key to a locker for my belongings, which was spacious enough for a small bag but struggled to accommodate my larger backpack. After some creative rearranging, I managed to make it fit. The hotel provided brown pajama-like “upper glass room wear” for guests to change into, which made me feel briefly like a fashion model—until I saw myself in the mirror. This was a men-only hotel, so the facilities were tailored accordingly, with communal washing areas, bathrooms, and shared amenities.

The washing areas, available on every floor, were clean and well-equipped with plenty of sinks to handle the morning rush. The toilets, as expected in Japan, were spotless and included washlets (bidets), a small but appreciated touch of luxury. The hotel also had a library on the third floor stacked with manga, free for guests to read (if you know Japanese). There were vending machines for snacks and drinks, and the wristband key doubled as a barcode for purchases, which you settle at checkout. However, the elevator had a strong tobacco smell, though the rest of the building was surprisingly odor-free.

The Capsule Experience

Walking down the dimly lit hallway lined with capsules felt like stepping into a sci-fi movie. The quiet atmosphere and futuristic vibe were striking, almost like being aboard a spaceship. My capsule was on the “upper floor,” meaning a short climb to reach it. Each capsule is a compact pod with just enough room to lie down comfortably. At 180 cm (5’11”), I had sufficient headspace and legroom, and the hotel’s website suggests it can accommodate guests up to around 190 cm.

Inside, the capsule was equipped with a blanket, charging cables, a power outlet, a remote-controlled TV with earphones, a mirror, and a comically large alarm clock. For privacy, a thin shutter closed with a satisfying magnetic click, though it offered little soundproofing—any noise you make can be heard by others. The hotel provided earplugs, a thoughtful addition given the close quarters. For security, I kept my valuables in the locker, as Japan is relatively safe, but it’s better to be cautious.

Sleeping in a Coffin-Like Pod

The moment of truth: how well does a capsule hotel deliver on sleep? The bed was surprisingly comfortable, and the capsule was clean—far better than my previous experience. The earplugs helped block out minor noises, though the thin curtain meant I was hyper-aware of keeping quiet. I slept better than expected, though the confined space might not suit everyone, especially those prone to claustrophobia. The executive plan included a late checkout, so I didn’t rush out in the morning, leaving around 1:30 PM.

The Verdict

This capsule hotel was a significant improvement over my last experience. It was cleaner, more modern, and better maintained, making for a more pleasant stay. The communal areas were well-kept, and the amenities, like the manga library and free drinks, added a fun touch. However, at 6,280 yen per night, it’s not the most cost-effective option. For a similar price, you could find a budget hotel or Airbnb with more space and privacy.

Would I stay again? Maybe with friends to share the quirky experience, but not for myself. Capsule hotels are a unique cultural phenomenon, worth trying once for the novelty, but they’re not for everyone. If you’re curious about this peculiar slice of Japanese hospitality, check out places like First Cabin, which offers a more upscale capsule experience. Just don’t expect a spacious suite—or complete silence.