What is a capsule hotel: an overview of the 10 best

In this article, we will talk about what a capsule hotel is and who came up with the idea of a capsule hotel. You will learn the features, pros and cons of staying in such places. We will also make an overview of the best capsule hotels in the world.

What is a capsule hotel: definition

A capsule hotel is a complex with rooms in the form of individual cells chambers. The innovative idea belongs to the Japanese architect Kisha Kurakawa, who opened the first capsule hotel in 1979. The initiative was adapted by other Japanese cities. Over time, the fashion for pods spread around the world.

Now you can find such a hotel in almost any major city of any country, and there are hundreds of them in densely populated Asian cities.

Features of capsule hotels

Capsule hotels have a number of features, the main one is a cell-shaped room. For a better understanding of what a capsule hotel is, imagine a classic hostel. The difference is that each sleeping pod in a capsule hotel is locked with a key like a conventional hotel room.

What are capsule hotels for

The cells have everything you need for a good rest. The size of capsules is approximately 1*2*1.5 m. It is comfortable to sit and lie in such a space. A pod always has everything you need to rest — a mattress, a blanket, a pillow. Amenities of capsules include hooks for clothes, sockets, lamps, a TV, an air conditioner.

In the rooms, you can not only sleep, but also work with a laptop and watch movies. Free Wi-Fi is included in the list of services of most hotels, but many tourists prefer not to depend on it when traveling, choosing alternative options. For example, install Yesim application and use high-speed mobile Internet.

Safety and sound insulation in a cell are provided by the door — a usual one regular or automatic, with a sensor panel.

Capsule hotels are characterized by a variety of interiors and designs of capsules. They often resemble rows of space compartments made of white plastic with neon lighting. Popular designs are classic, country, high-tech, and ethno style.

How a capsule hotel works

The principle of operation is no different from a conventional hotel: reservation, arrival, check-in in a personal cell. Receptions are usually open 24 hours a day. You can rent a capsule room for a long time or a few hours.

During the hotel stay, the client can use common amenities: kitchen, dining room, shower room. Good hotels have additional lockers for valuables, a locker key is given to a visitor together with a capsule key. Capsule hotels accept not only adults, but also children. Capsule hotels offer single and double rooms. As a rule, a child under 7-10 years old can stay for free with a parent in a single-bed cell, if a cell size allows.

How does a capsule hotel differ from a hostel or a motel

A capsule hotel does not occupy large areas of the premises. Minimal expenses result in an attractive price. This type of hotel is one of the cheapest. A room price is comparable with the accommodation price of hostels or economy classrooms in roadside motels. However, a capsule has all the amenities for a comfortable stay, including privacy, which cannot be provided by a hostel.

When choosing between a capsule hotel and a motel, take into account the number of people. For one tourist, a capsule hotel is definitely more profitable.

By visiting the Yesim app, you will always stay in touch and be able to instantly clarify the living conditions of a particular hotel.

Capsule hotel: pros and cons

Before you make a choice in favor of a capsule, assess all the advantages and disadvantages of this type of recreation.

Pros:

• affordable price;
• a large number of sockets;
• a high level of privacy compared to a hostel.

Cons:

• discomfort in a confined space;
• poor noise isolation;
• lack of customer service.

10 Best Capsule Hotels in the World: A Review

We have prepared an overview of the best capsule hotels in the world, which are popular among tourists. Thanks to this review, it will be easier for you to understand what a capsule hotel is and assess its advantages compared to conventional hotel rooms.

1. Ninehours (Kyoto, Japan)

One of the best capsule hotels, located in the business and tourist center of the city. Minimalist white interior design. Located 450 m from the Suidobashi train station. Room rates are $45-$55, advance reservation required. The hotel accepts adults and children over 6 years old. Animals are not allowed.

2. St. Christopher's Inn Village (London, UK)

The hotel attracts customers with an atmosphere of lightness and looks more like a fun hostel for tourists than a hotel. The interior is supplemented with paintings and panels with images on London themes. The hotel is located 250 meters from the subway station Boroug (London Bridge area). The room price is $46-90, booking in advance. Children and animals are not allowed.

3. Nap York Central Park Sleep Station (New York, USA)

One of the most budget hotels in one of the most expensive cities in the world. It is located in the central area of the American metropolis, a 5-minute walk from the 57th Street subway station. The price is $100-139, it is better to book in advance. Children and pets are not allowed.

4. Book and Bed Tokio Shinjuku (Tokyo, Japan)

A perfect example of what a capsule hotel is. Decorated in the style of a bookstore or a library. There are more than 3,200 books you can borrow to read before going to bed. Located a 5-minute walk from the Shinjuku-nishiguchi subway station. The room price is $48-$57. Reservations must be made in advance. Children are welcome at the hotel, but animals are not allowed.

5. Nonze Hostel (Pattaya, Thailand)

Located near one of the most popular beaches, within walking distance from the sea. The interior decoration is eco-friendly wood paneling and vintage tones. The nearest bus stops are Central Festival 2nd Road and Pattaya T-tour Station. A capsule price is $13, advance reservation is required. Children and pets are not allowed.

6. The Pod Sydney (Sydney, Australia)

The pods in this hotel are equipped with good air-conditioning systems. Those tourists who are not used to the Australian heat appreciate this service very much. It is a 10-minute walk from the central train station. The price of a cell is $47-$58. Best to book in advance. Children are welcome at the hotel, animals are not allowed.

7. CityHub (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

The interior of this best capsule hotel is more like the interior of a spaceship, with compartments and airlocks. King-size beds. The hotel is popular with Star Wars fans and young people. It is convenient to get there by bus or streetcar to Ten Katestraat stop, then walk 5 minutes to the hotel . The capsule price is $131-185, be sure to book in advance. The hotel accepts children over 4 years old. Pets are not allowed.

8. Moonotel Maidan (Kyiv, Ukraine)

A budget hotel in the heart of the Ukrainian capital. Interesting futuristic interior. Hypoallergenic rooms are the highlight of the hotel. Excursions around the city are organized for the guests. It is a 10-minute walk from the metro station "Poshtova Square". The cell price is $11-20. You need to book in advance. Accommodation for children and animals is prohibited.

9. Anshin Oyado Shinjuku (Tokyo, Japan)

A stylish hotel, for male clients only. In addition to cozy rooms, wellness services are available: sauna, massage, swimming pool, spa. Located a 2-minute walk from Shinjuku train station and Shinjuku-sanchome subway station. Cell rate is $51-65, advance reservation required. Children and pets are not allowed.

10. Dream Lodge (Lavender Quarter, Singapore)

Pastel colors contribute to relaxation and rest. Inspirational quotes and bright drawings are used in the interior decoration. Several rooms of the best capsule hotel are adapted for wheelchairs. Located 300 meters from the subway station Bendemeer, a little further from Lavender station, from where you can get to Changi Airport without a transfer. The price is $ 60-70, pre-reservation is required. Children and pets are not allowed.

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