Sleeping in a capsule hotel, also known as a pod hotel, is a cool experience and a TOKYO MUST DO. I stayed in the Nine Hours Shinjuku North during my time in Japan, which is a budget capsule hotel chain in Japan located in the large cities. I felt like I was in a a Sci-Fi movie, part of a science experiment. I loved the design of the sleeping area and how the pods were lit up.
If you are travelling solo, it is also a great way to meet other travellers as well as save a few pounds on accommodation costs.
Capsule hotels are great for a quick rest or a unique stay. The Nine Hours has a 2pm-10am only rule, meaning you must leave your pod by 10am. It doesn’t mean you can’t stay more than one night, though. I stayed a total of 4 nights at the Nine Hours capsule hotel in the same pod. I just had to check out by 10am daily.
Checking In
At check in, you will receive a key card with an allocated pod number. This will be your allocated pod during your stay. The same card will also open a spacious locker for you to store all your belongings. I was happy to also find in my locker a bag complete with slippers, pyjamas, and towel the hotel provided me for my stay. This was a lovely surprise and nice touch. Not something you normally expect from a hostel style accommodation.
The Pods
When you enter the sleeping area, it is filled with cuboid sleeping pods stacked on top of each other on two levels. I had a top pod, so I just had to climb the few stairs to my humble abode. The pods are cosy and surprisingly comfortable. When I stayed in a capsule hotel in Kyoto, the pods were larger, with more space and amenities. However, I actually enjoyed my stay at Nine Hours Shinjuku North much more. It had a much more unique design and technology. Although if you suffer from severe claustrophobia, staying in the capsules may be challenging for you as the space is small. However, the doors do not lock, so you can always leave it slightly ajar if you wish.
The pod comes equipped with bedding and a charge point for your devices. Remember, the space is small, so only take what you need in for the night and store the rest of your belongings in the locker provided along with your luggage.
How I Slept
The pods were surprisingly very comfortable, and I slept very well. They are more spacious than they look, and you can even sit in them. The noise level was next to nothing. Everyone respected the other guests, and no shoes would be worn in the sleeping area. You are to wear the slippers provided. This ensures noise levels are kept down and the floor clean. If you are worried about finding your way to your pod, there is no need to worry. Unoccupied pods are lit up, making it easier to locate your bed.
If you are into technology, The Nine Hours women-only Shinjuku Location also has sleep technology built into the pods to measure how well you sleep. You can get a copy of your sleep analysis report the following morning. Pretty cool, right?
Washroom Facilities
Forget those grimy hostel bathrooms, the standard at Nine Hours Shinjuku North was first class. The washroom facilities were spotless and well-kept. The toilets were electric bidets, with sensor technology for even the toilet seat to lift and the door to close. They provided hair dryers, complimentary toiletries, and the slippers and pyjamas you received on arrival.
The bathroom area was a large area filled with basins and showers. You would brush your teeth next to other guests, then wash in your private shower. The showers were spacious, with a room to get dressed too. There is no mirror in the shower cubicles, so you will have to finish getting ready back at the basins to do your hair and makeup. It’s an excellent social spot, to be honest. It’s where I met some friends.
The Location
This capsule is located in the Shinjuku Ward district and is connected to two train stations. I got a train from the airport with ease, followed by a 5-minute walk. The lively and vibrant area has many restaurants, bars, and convenience stores.
The Price
Rooms are around £54 a night, which is a cheaper option compared to the standard hotels in Japan.
Overall Experience
Although this accommodation is only a 2-star hotel, it provides first-class service regarding cleanliness, staff, location, comfort, and price. I really enjoyed my 4 nights at the Nine Hours Shinjuku North, and I would 100% return in the future. I loved the cosy Sci-Fi looking pods, the advanced technology of the toilets, and the immaculateness of the hotel.
Ready to book your unique capsule hotel stay? If so let me know in the comments.