Affordable Accommodation in Japan - Guesthouses and Youth Hostels

Cheap Accommodation in Japan - Guesthouses and Youth Hostels

One option for people looking for affordable accommodation in Japan is to stay at a guesthouse or youth hostel.

In general, both kinds of facilities are dormitory-style buildings with multiple people sharing one room.

In the past, guesthouses and hostels were simply furnished, but in recent years, the number of unique guesthouses and youth hostels has been increasing, with establishments that are built out of renovated old Japanese houses and hostels that run international parties and events.

Both guesthouses and youth hostels have guests who come from all over the world. Here you can proactively engage with other travelers and exchange information about good sightseeing spots.

The Average Price of a Stay at a Guesthouse or Youth Hostel

A night’s stay at a guesthouse can range from 2500 yen to 6000 yen. On average, you can expect to pay up to 4000 yen. For a guesthouse with private rooms, a private room can cost a few thousand yen.

Youth hostels have about the same prices, but require that guests register as members. Yearly membership fees can range from 1000 to 1500 yen.

Youth hostels and guesthouses are appealing because they’re cheap in comparison to regular hotels.

Guesthouse Facilities

Each room contains several beds, and there are shared shower and bathroom facilities, as well as a communal kitchen. You will share use of the refrigerators and microwaves with other guests. Some guesthouses also have stylish bar areas and comfortable living room set up as communal areas.

Guesthouse Amenities

Most guesthouses will have soap, shampoo and other basic hygiene essentials. However, you may have to pay for toothbrushes, razors and towels.

If you want to know how well-stocked your guest house will be, check their website beforehand.

Internet Setups at Guesthouses and Youth Hostels

Most guesthouses in Japan have both wireless and wired Internet setups, and many of them are free to use, which allows you to search for essential information during your trip.

Meals at Guesthouses and Youth Hostels

Typically guesthouses and youth hostels don’t offer meals. However, some places do have breakfast, with simple menus like toast and a salad, or onigiri and miso soup.

Services at Guesthouses and Youth Hostels

While guesthouses and youth hostels do not have the sort of services found at traditional inns and hotels, they have friendly staff who are great at dealing with international visitors.

Things to Note About Guesthouses and Youth Hostels

Let’s Take Care of Shared Spaces

Everyone uses the same kitchens, bathrooms and toilets, so clean up after using them, to let everyone have a pleasant stay.

Let’s Be Aware of Curfew Times

Some guesthouses and hostels have check-in deadlines or curfews for returning to the building.

If you return late, you may have to pay 200 to 300 yen for every 15 or 30 minutes past the curfew. If there’s a chance you might miss check-in, call the guesthouse or youth hostel to let them know.

Who Should Stay at Guesthouses and Youth Hostels

We recommend guesthouses and youth hostels to travelers who wish to stay for a considerable time in Japan, to people who want to save money on their lodging expenses, and to those who want to connect with other travelers and exchange information about their journeys.