Guesthouses and Dormitories
Japan is full of reasonably priced guesthouses. They range from old, traditional Japanese rooms to modern, compact hostels. Dormitories are often available. It’s best to find out where you want to stay, then search on a site such as Booking.com for the best places. Prices usually start from 2000 yen for a dormitory bed and 3500 yen for a room.
For others, please search for the specific place’s page for guesthouses and hostels.
Capsule hotels
A real ‘only in Japan‘ experience. Capsule hotels are a cheap (from 2500 yen) way to stay a night or two. A hot spring or spa pass in sometimes included, so you will probably be too sleepy to worry about the size! English support is often weak, but it should be no problem getting a capsule.
Love hotels
Love hotel rooms usually cost half of a normal hotel. Rooms are small, but great for a night. The best are found in Shibuya. Expect to pay 6000-10000 yen for a night.
Youth Hostels
If you are a member of the International Youth Hostel Federation, hostels are a great way to stay. Prices range from 2500 to 3500, with non-members paying a little more.
Internet Cafes
By far the cheapest way to stay in the heart of a Japanese city, and great if you are on a night out and don’t want to worry about the last train. Prices start from just 780 yen.
Hot springs
Many hot springs have cheap rooms or capsules for you to sleep in. You can also get an overnight pass and sleep on their lazyboy chairs! The best in Tokyo is Oedo Hot Spring.
Get more with my new budget travel book!
Full listings for the best places to stay, plus easy to understand explanations of all the options and English translations. Perfect for backpackers, budget travelers, families on a tight budget, students and those who are new to Japan.
Longer Term Stay
For those staying a little longer, check out our short term stay page. Monthly apartments and guesthouse rooms are available all over Japan.
If you plan to work or stay for a year or more, then their are plenty of options here. It’s not as expensive as people say, if you know where to go. And we do! So please read our guide!
Super Cheap Japan 