Even though capsule hotels were originally invented as cheap accommodations for Japanese business men, who are too drunk to go home, they are rapidly becoming popular around the world. ‘Capsules’ and ‘pods’ are now found at international airports and hostel dormitories. And why not? They are functional, cheap and relatively safe. I slept in a female capsule hotel in Nagoya, Japan.

Female capsule hotel in Nagoya – my experience

Although most capsule hotels are men-only, I found a female-friendly capsule hotel in Nagoya. And the best thing: my capsule hotel turned out to be a spa as well (female-friendly plus!). So, after a relaxing evening full of bathing and soothing in the beautiful spa (or in Japanese ‘onsen’) facilities of the hotel I finally retreated to my capsule.

My capsule was on the ground floor and approximately 1 meter high and 2 meters long. Obviously capsule hotels are not suitable for the claustrophobic mind. Once I entered my capsule I soon discovered capsules have pretty much all facilities you need. There is a reading light, a soft mattress, a television and wifi. You can keep your valuables with you or put them into a locker. There is also a wide range of vending machines available where they sell food, drinks and underwear (?). In my room there were around 50 capsules stacked together.

I slept great. There was not a sound from any of the other capsules and the mattress was comfortable and big. A capsule feels a bit like your own mini-room. Compared to hostel dorms it is also great that you have more privacy. It is easy to change inside your capsule for example.

So yes, I’d definitely recommend staying in a female capsule hotel! It’s not exactly cosy and sociable, but for one or two functional nights it’s a perfect Japan experience!

Capsule hotel in Nagoya

Capsule hotel in Nagoya

Additional information

My female capsule hotel was called Apaiser and costed 3800 yen:

Apaiser Capsule Hotel
Tel: 052 733 3141
Exit no. 8 of the Imaike Station (Hiroshima line) Nagoya

This was probably one of the best places I stayed during my trip. Apaiser has clean and beautiful onsen facilities. Because both the spa and capsule hotel are divided into a men and women section it’s safe to stay there as a female solo traveller. Unfortunately, I could not find a website, but the capsule hotel is right in front of exit 8. If you’re looking for a non-touristy female capsule hotel I’d highly recommend Apaiser!

There are also several female-friendly capsule options in Tokyo and Kyoto. Reviews on this capsule hotel in Tokyo ‘Capsule Hotel Asakusa River Side‘ are mixed, but it may be worth checking out. Another one is the ‘Capsule Inn‘.

Find an overview of 10 Best Japan Capsule hotel options through booking.com

I loved staying at this capsule hotel in Nagoya! Capsule hotels are cheap, comfortable and offer you privacy! What do you think? 

Recommended additional Japan reading: 

Peace and quiet during a temple stay in Takayama
How much does your trip in Japan cost? 
Freaky, geeky Japan: 11 Quirky things to do in Japan
11x ‘Do As The Japanese Do’ for Travelers

3 COMMENTS

  1. Hi Manouk, love your post! I’m a single female planning a trip to Japan later this year. I’m considering staying at capsule hotels for the duration of my stay there (roughly a week), and have a few questions i”m hoping you might be able to answer for me :) if I reserve a “room” for 7 nights, will I be able to store all my luggage there when I head out during the day? And will I be able to come back to the hotel during the day to rest for a a bit or drop off shopping bags? I’ve been trying to find this info on the hotel websites but not having much luck! Oh and last question…is there a door that you can lock on the capsule when you are inside? Thanks so much :)

  2. Hi Christine, awesome plans! It’s been a while since my Japan visit! Firstly, I think the facilities will depend on the capsule hotel, so I can only answer from my experience in Nagoya. In Nagoya, I think I could lock my capsule and also head back to the hotel for a rest. However, I just found a recent review on the hotel in Asakusa saying “You have to check out between 10-3 for cleaning everyday” :S. Anyway, I would strongly advice not to stay in a capsule hotel for 7 nights. It’s not very sociable for solo travelers and it’s more of a must-do experience (meaning 1-2 nights are enough). I would advice to spend the others at a popular and fun hostel :) They’re plenty of affordable ones on hostelworld! Have a great trip and let me know if you have more questions! Cheers, Manouk

  3. Hi Manouk! I can’t seem to find the website to this capsule hotel. I was just wondering if you booked a room beforehand? Or you can just show up and you’ll be able to get a room? Thank you!

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