What Is an Internet Cafe? Learn the Perks of These Unique Establishments

When walking around Japan, you will quickly notice a lot of signs for internet cafes. In fact, these are pretty familiar sights from small towns to bustling cities.

However, would you be able to explain what an internet cafe is? Some readers may not be familiar with these establishments. Fortunately, this article will introduce some attractions at these popular cafes.

What Kind of Place Is an Internet Cafe?

An internet cafe is often called a net cafe.

These cafes are often found in buildings with multiple shops and stores. Since you can't peek inside an internet cafe from the outside, it's hard to imagine what the atmosphere is like. This explains why a friend of the writer described net cafes as "slightly dodgy."

However, were you aware that those who have visited an internet cafe typically become regular customers?

Why are internet cafes so appealing?

Below are some attractive features to remember when heading to an internet cafe for the first time.

1. Unlimited Internet Access

Photo courtesy of Media Cafe Popeye

As suggested by its name, an internet cafe is where you can have unlimited internet access. Most of these cafes have popular online games installed on their computers, so it's common for gamers to head here.

2. “All-You-Can-Read” Manga Service

At net cafes, you can read mangas to your heart's content. This is probably a dream come true for comic book fans. Need I say more?

There are net cafes with a wide range of weekly and monthly mangas, magazines, and even photo books. At Media Cafe POPEYE, the internet cafe our writer visited, they have over 40,000 mangas in stock. This is the ultimate place for individuals who want to read multiple mangas. Alternatively, it's perfect for those who want to lay back on a comfy chair and read in peace.

3. Unlimited Soft Drinks Service

Photo by Pixta
Internet cafes offer customers a multitude of "all-you-can" services. This applies to soft drinks as well.

You'll find coffee, tea, carbonated drinks, and even soup available. Furthermore, the net cafes have vending machines that sell pre-cooked meals (additional charge), cups of instant noodles, and snacks.

4. Open 24 Hours

Photo by Pixta
Most internet cafes are open 24/7. You can enter the cafe at any time of the day as long as there is an empty stall or room available. This is great for people who have missed the last train and can't get home. It is also ideal for those looking for a place to spend the night but who don't have enough money for a hotel room.

5. Cheap Fees

You're probably expecting a hefty bill after enjoying unlimited internet services and soft drinks to all-you-can-read mangas. Well, you're mistaken. You can do so many things at an internet cafe, but the most appealing factor is its low price.

While business hotels are inexpensive, a one-night stay will cost around 5,000 yen compared to the 2,000 yen you'll spend a night at a net cafe (*1).

Although the exact price varies on the size and "rank" of your room, you can reside in one for 400 yen per hour. Some internet cafes offer discount services, including an "all-inclusive price" that is useful when taking a short break or looking for an inexpensive resting place.

*1) The exact price varies depending on the internet cafe, weekday/weekend booking, availability of stalls, etc.

What Does an Internet Cafe Sign Look Like?

When looking for an internet cafe in Japan, keep your eyes peeled for a banner like the one shown below.

In Conclusion

What did you think of the services offered at net cafes? Do you see yourself becoming a regular customer? It may take a bit of courage to enter one for the first time. But by taking that first step, you'll be able to enjoy these services to their full extent.