Overnight stays in Japan The comparison between hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses

Japan offers travelers a fascinating variety of accommodation options, ranging from ultra-modern hotels to traditional Ryokans and affordable guesthouses. Each of these choices has its own unique charm and provides a special experience that can enrich your stay in Japan in different ways. In this comprehensive comparison, I'll introduce you to the three most important types of accommodation and help you decide which one best suits your needs, budget, and destinations.

Choosing the right accommodation can have a significant impact on your travel experience. In Japan, where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, this contrast is also reflected in the various lodging options. From the efficiency and comfort of Western-style hotels to the cultural immersion of a traditional Ryokan and the independence and cost-effectiveness of a guesthouse – each option offers a different perspective on life in Japan.

In this article, I don't just compare practical aspects like price, comfort, and amenities, but also the cultural experiences provided by each type of accommodation. Based on my own experiences and extensive research, I want to help you find the perfect lodging for your trip to Japan.

Classic Hotels in Japan – Comfort and Familiarity

Japanese hotels offer Western travelers a familiar concept, with the typical service and comfort you'd expect from international hotel chains. At the same time, they often have a Japanese touch, reflected in the furnishings, service, and sometimes in additional amenities like in-house Onsen (hot springs).

Different Hotel Categories in Japan

In Japan, there are several kinds of hotels that differ in price, size, and amenities:

Hotel Category	Typical Features	Price Range (per night)	Special Features
Luxury Hotels	Large rooms, top-class service, multiple restaurants, spa area	30,000+ yen	Often in premium locations, international standards with Japanese flair. Examples: The Peninsula Tokyo*, The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo and Park Hyatt Tokyo.
Business Hotels	Compact, functional rooms, basic amenities	7,000-15,000 yen	Conveniently located near train stations and business districts. Popular chains include APA Hotels, Tokyu Stay and Dormy Inn.
Boutique Hotels	Individual design, personalized service, smaller size	15,000-30,000 yen	Often with a unique concept or theme. Examples include TRUNK Hotel and TRUNK HOTEL YOYOGI PARK].
Capsule Hotels	Minimal sleeping capsules instead of rooms, shared bathrooms	2,000-5,000 yen	Originally for businesspeople, now also popular with tourists. Well-known examples are Nine Hours, The Millennials and First Cabin.
Love Hotels	Discretion, themed rooms, bookable by hour/night	5,000-10,000 yen (overnight stay)	Mainly for couples, often extravagant features. Some, like Hotel BaliAn Resort Shinjuku Glamping or Hotel Balian Resort Kinshicho, are themed and bookable online.

*Affiliate link: If you book a hotel through my widget or my link at Booking.com, I receive a small commission. There are no additional costs for you, and you support my blog. Thank you very much – I wish you a great trip (^_^)

Advantages of Hotels in Japan

Hotels in Japan offer many advantages, especially for travelers visiting for the first time or who value certain amenities:

• Familiar concept: Check-in at reception, daily room cleaning, room service, and other standard hotel services
• Language barrier minimized: In most hotels, especially in tourist areas, the staff speaks English
• Private bathrooms: Unlike traditional Ryokans, hotel rooms have their own bathrooms with Western toilets (more about Japanese toilets)
• Central location: Hotels are often located near train stations and major sights
• Flexibility: No strict meal times or rules as in traditional lodgings

Special Features of Japanese Hotels

Although Japanese hotels follow the Western concept, there are some unique cultural features and differences to keep in mind:

• Room size: Hotel rooms in Japan, especially in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, are often much smaller than in Europe or North America. A standard room in a business hotel is often only 12-15 square meters.
• Bed size: "Semi-double" beds (120-130 cm wide) are common in Japan and are often considered sufficient for two people, but may feel cramped for Western guests.
• Bathroom amenities: Many hotels provide free toiletries such as toothbrushes, razors, and slippers.
• Onsen and public baths: Some larger hotels have their own Onsen (hot springs) or Sentos (public baths), separated by gender.
• Yukata (light kimono): In many hotels you'll find a Yukata in your room, which you can wear during your stay.

Personal Experiences with Hotels in Japan

In my experience, hotels in Japan are an excellent choice if you value comfort, privacy, and convenience. Especially in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, where you'll likely be out all day and use the accommodation mainly for sleeping, business hotels offer excellent value for money.

The cleanliness in Japanese hotels is impressive – even in cheaper places you can expect spotless rooms. The service is generally excellent, polite, and efficient, though sometimes a bit more formal than in Western countries.

A tip from personal experience: If you're staying longer than a couple of days, it's worth looking for hotels with washing machines on the floors or laundry service, as this can be very convenient on longer trips.

Ryokans – The Traditional Japanese Lodging Experience

Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns with a history dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). They offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and experience hospitality in its purest form. Staying at a Ryokan is more than just an overnight stay – it’s a cultural experience that appeals to all the senses.

Characteristic Features of a Ryokan

Ryokans differ in many respects from Western-style hotels and offer an authentic Japanese experience:

• Traditional architecture: Wooden construction, shoji (paper doors), fusuma (sliding walls), and minimalist design
• Tatami rooms: Rooms with tatami mats made from rice straw, where futons (Japanese duvets) are laid out for sleeping
• Onsen (hot springs): Many Ryokans, especially in onsen towns, have their own hot springs for bathing
• Kaiseki-ryori: Traditional multi-course meals, often served in the room and featuring seasonal, local ingredients
• Yukata: Lightweight cotton kimono that guests can wear during their stay
• Omotenashi: The highest level of Japanese hospitality with attentive, personalized service

Different Types of Ryokans

There are different categories of Ryokans, which vary in price, size, and amenities:

Ryokan Category	Typical Features	Price Range (per person/night)	Special Features
Luxury Ryokans	Large rooms, private Onsen, top-quality kaiseki dinner	30,000-60,000+ yen	Highest quality in food, service, and amenities
Standard Ryokans	Traditional rooms, shared Onsen, good food	15,000-30,000 yen	Good value for money with an authentic experience
Minshuku	Family-run, smaller inns in Ryokan style	7,000-15,000 yen	More personal atmosphere, simpler amenities
Onsen Ryokans	Focus on hot springs, often located in spa towns	Varies by category	Specialized in the Onsen experience with several bathing options

The Onsen Experience in Ryokans

A central part of many Ryokan stays is bathing in Onsen (hot springs). These natural, mineral-rich springs are not only relaxing, but also provide health benefits Onsen in Japan. The different minerals in the water offer various health advantages.

Bathing in an Onsen follows certain rules and etiquette:

• Thorough washing: Before entering the Onsen, you must thoroughly wash your body (shower areas are provided)
• Naked bathing: In traditional Onsen, you bathe naked; swimwear is not permitted
• Gender separation: Most Onsen are separated by gender, some also offer private bathing options (kashikiri-buro)
• Towel: A small towel is used for washing and privacy, but should not be dipped in the water
• Remain quiet: Onsen are places of relaxation, so loud conversations or disruptions should be avoided

For many Western visitors, bathing naked in communal baths can be challenging at first. If you're uncomfortable with this, look for Ryokans with private Onsen in the rooms or with kashikiri Onsen (private baths that can be reserved).

Kaiseki-Ryori – The Traditional Ryokan Cuisine

Another highlight of a Ryokan stay is Kaiseki-ryori, a traditional multi-course dinner often served in your room. This culinary art is an essential part of Japanese food culture.

A typical Kaiseki menu includes:

• Appetizers (Sakizuke and Hassun)
• Soup (Suimono)
• Sashimi (raw fish)
• Grilled dishes (Yakimono)
• Steamed dishes (Mushimono)
• Fried dishes (Agemono)
• Vinegared dishes (Sunomono)
• Rice, soup, and pickles
• Dessert (Mizumono)

Meals are served at fixed times, and it's common for the nakai-san (room attendant) to prepare your room and serve the food. Breakfast is also traditionally Japanese, with rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and various side dishes.

Personal Experiences with Ryokans

My experiences in different Ryokans are among the most unforgettable moments of my trips to Japan. The change from hectic city life to the calm, traditional atmosphere of a Ryokan feels like a time travel to old Japan.

What impresses me most is the attention to detail – from the careful presentation of the food to the perfect arrangement of futons and room decoration. The hospitality (omotenashi) in Ryokans is incomparable and goes far beyond the service in Western hotels.

A tip from personal experience: Plan at least one night in a Ryokan, ideally in a quieter region such as Hakone, Nikko or an Onsen town. Arrive early to enjoy the full experience – from afternoon tea to your Onsen bath, Kaiseki dinner, and breakfast the next morning.

Guesthouses in Japan – Affordable and Independent Accommodation

Guesthouses (or vacation rentals) have become very popular in Japan in recent years, offering a flexible, often very affordable alternative to traditional lodging. Formerly booked mainly via Airbnb, they are now also available on platforms such as Booking.com and other travel portals. If you’re traveling to Japan, you should consider how much you want to spend on your trip to Japan to choose the right accommodation type.

Guesthouses in Japan range from single rooms in private apartments to entire homes or apartments. They give you a unique opportunity to get to know everyday Japanese life and enjoy more independence than in hotels or Ryokans.

Typical Features of Japanese Guesthouses

Japanese guesthouses differ in some respects from similar offerings in other countries:

• Self-check-in: Many guesthouses offer contactless check-in using a key box code or digital door locks
• Compact size: Especially in cities, accommodations are often small but efficiently laid out
• House rules: In Japan, there are often strict rules regarding noise, waste separation, and house rules
• Amenities: Many guesthouses offer washing machines, kitchens, and free WiFi
• Traditional elements: Depending on the place, you may also find traditional Japanese touches like tatami mats or futons
• Legal aspects: Since the Minpaku law was introduced in 2018, all vacation rentals must be registered, which has reduced the overall supply.

Advantages of Guesthouses in Japan

Guesthouses offer many benefits, especially for specific travel styles and travelers:

• Savings: Guesthouses are often much cheaper than hotels or Ryokans, especially for longer stays or if traveling as a group
• Self-catering: With your own kitchen you can save money and try local foods. You can even shop in Japanese supermarkets and use authentic ingredients
• More space: For the price of a small hotel room, you often get an entire apartment or house
• Privacy: Ideal for travelers who appreciate peace and seclusion after a busy day
• Local life: You're often staying in residential neighborhoods away from the tourist trails, and experience authentic Japan
• Flexibility: No fixed meal times or check-in/check-out times like in traditional Ryokans

Guesthouse Type	Typical Features	Price Range (per night)	Ideal for
Entire Apartment	Complete apartment with kitchen, bathroom, living and sleeping area	5,000-15,000 yen	Couples, families, longer stays
Traditional House	Japanese house with tatami rooms, sometimes with a garden	8,000-20,000 yen	Culture lovers, families, groups
Private Room	Room in a flat with shared common areas	3,000-8,000 yen	Solo travelers, budget travelers
Minpaku	Room in an inhabited house with local host	3,000-10,000 yen	Travelers seeking contact with locals

A practical tip: When booking, pay attention to the distance to the nearest train station. I've found that guesthouses 10-15 minutes' walk from a station are often much cheaper than those right next to the train, but still conveniently accessible.

What I particularly appreciate is the peace and quiet after a long day of impressions. While hotels often have noise from other guests, guesthouses offer more privacy and the chance to unwind at the end of the day.

Comparing Accommodation – Which One Suits You?

After looking at the three main types of accommodation in Japan in detail, the question remains: Which is the right choice for your trip? The answer depends on various factors, including your budget, trip goals, cultural interests, and personal preferences.

Criteria	Hotels	Ryokans	Guesthouses
Price range	7,000-30,000+ yen	15,000-60,000+ yen	3,000-20,000 yen
Cultural experience	Low to medium	Very high	Medium to high
Comfort & amenities	High (Western standard)	Medium (traditional)	Varies widely
Flexibility	Medium	Low (fixed meal times)	Very high
Language barrier	Low (often English-speaking staff)	Medium to high	Varies (often contactless check-in)
Meals	Optional breakfast	Usually half board included	Self-catering
Location	Central, near train stations	Often in spa towns or quieter areas	Often in residential areas

Recommendations for Different Travel Types

Based on my experience and the comparisons above, here are a few recommendations for different kinds of travelers:

• For first-time visitors to Japan: A mix of hotels in cities like Tokyo, plus at least one Ryokan stay for the cultural experience
• For budget travelers: Guesthouses or affordable business hotels, maybe a Minshuku for a more traditional experience
• For culture enthusiasts: Several Ryokan stays in different regions to experience various local traditions
• For families: Guesthouses or apartments offer more space and kitchen access, combined with a family-friendly Ryokan
• For business travelers: Business hotels in central locations with good public transport connections
• For longer stays: Guesthouses or apartments with washing machine and kitchen for more independence

My Personal Tip: The Mix Makes the Difference

In my experience, combining different accommodation types is the best way to experience Japan. For example, you could plan your trip like this:

• In Tokyo and Osaka: Business hotels or guesthouses for city sightseeing
• In Kyoto or Kanazawa: A traditional Ryokan for a cultural highlight
• In rural areas or for longer stays: Guesthouses for more space and savings

This mix gives you a broad insight into different aspects of Japanese life and culture, allowing you to make the most of your budget and collect a range of experiences.

Bonus: Michi no Eki Auto Camping – Flexible and Free Overnight Stays

A particularly flexible and inexpensive way to explore Japan by your own or a rented car is spending the night at so-called Michi no Eki (roadside stations). These stations, scattered throughout the country, offer a practical alternative to traditional accommodation.

For a detailed look at this style of travel, including my own experiences from a tour from Tokyo to Fukushima, pros and cons, and packing lists, I recommend my detailed post:

In short, Michi no Eki are more than just rest stops; they often offer local products, restaurants, and tourist information and are open 24/7. Sleeping in your car is generally tolerated there and is free of charge. The main advantages are significant savings in time and money, as well as being close to nature. Depending on the season, temperatures in the car can be a challenge, but there are practical solutions. For personal hygiene, nearby Onsen or Sento are a great solution.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Accommodation for your Japan Trip

Choosing the right place to stay can make a big difference to your travel experience in Japan. While hotels offer comfort and familiarity, Ryokans allow for a deep dive into Japanese culture, and guesthouses provide independence and often better value for money.

When making your decision, consider not just your budget, but also the kind of experiences you want to have in Japan. Staying at a traditional Ryokan with Onsen and a Kaiseki dinner is a unique cultural experience not to be missed, even if it costs a bit more. At the same time, a guesthouse in a residential neighborhood can give you insights into everyday Japanese life that you wouldn't get in a hotel.

No matter your choice, you'll find that hospitality and service in Japan are extraordinarily high. The attention to detail, the cleanliness, and the politeness you'll encounter in Japanese accommodations are hard to match anywhere in the world and will help make your trip unforgettable.

I hope this comparison helps you plan your next trip to Japan. If you have further questions or need specific recommendations, don’t hesitate to leave a comment!