The Best Hostels for Travel to Japan

Published by CamDarling on September 15, 2018September 15, 2018

Choosing the right hotel for your stay can make an enormous difference. But each traveler has their own preferences when it comes to accommodations. Hostels are easily the cheapest and often offer the most flexibility and social atmosphere. I’ve met some of my closest friends in a simple dorm room or fun common room abroad. However they are also the least standardized, some include towels or breakfast, free bike rentals, Yukatas, host events, and others offer very little additional services. Some travelers like to book everything in advance, which is usually recommended for short trips. If you have the time, making your bookings on the go, that’s how I prefer to travel. Picking up a Cheap SIM Card is very helpful for making plans on the go. There are many options readily available upon arrival.

I’ve stayed in many hostels in Japan, only some of which are on this list. Sometimes you can have a bad experience at a good hostel, while other less highly rated ones can surprise you. They offer a lot of different experiences and amenities. But there are three things I look for in a hostel. 1) Is it clean? 2) Does it have a good social atmosphere?, and 3) Is the location perfect? So in my selection, I put a lot of emphasis on these three points and less on things like “is it loud” or “do I get a towel”… I bring my own hostel essentials, things every serious backpacker carries. Lastly, I wrote an article on hostel etiquette for Japan as some things are a little different and other things you really need to know before staying in a hostel.

Fukuoka
Hiroshima
Kamakura
Kanazawa & Takayama

Mt. Koya
Kyoto
Matsumoto
Nagasaki
Nagoya

Okinawa
Osaka
Sapporo
Tokyo

A Few Words on Hostels in Japan

I consider Japanese Hostels as the gold standard internationally. The service is great, the rooms and beds are impeccably clean and the prices are decent even in downtown Tokyo and Osaka. The staff usually speak English and you can pay with cash, or international credit cards. That being said, you can’t please everyone. First time travelers who are not familiar with hostels but accustomed to staying in hotels may miss some of the luxuries and privacy. A lot of travelers try hostels for the first time in Japan because hotels are so expensive, but they don’t bother to learn the difference and expect all the comfort and amenities of a four star hotel. Well, let me introduce you to Japanese Hostels.

Social Atmosphere

There is such a variety of accommodations in Japan, from cheap spa hotels, to mountain Onsens, traditional Ryokans (Inns), to 5 Star luxury hotels and youth hostels.

Due to the intense competition, hostels in Japan deliver on the social atmosphere by having great common rooms, organizing events and encouraging guests to play games and drink… a lot. The best hostels do an amazing job of bringing guests together and sharing very tight spaces around small tables. Typically crowded is better, especially for solo travelers. But there are also quiet traditional Japanese hostels.

Hostel Staff Service & Check in Times

Japanese culture is very strict when it comes to cleanliness and customer service. This is a country where you’ll see gas station attendants pumping gas in pristine uniforms and elderly ladies sweeping the streets every morning in front of their shops.

This high standard extends to the service offered in hostels throughout Japan. Many hostels are family run businesses and others are chains with multiple locations. That being said, English fluency is still uncommon in Japan, adjust your expectations accordingly.

Many of the hostels in Japan have very strict check in and check out times to accommodate the cleaning crews. So I recommend staying a few nights and enjoying the nightlife on the first day…so you can sleep in without worrying about check out times.

Cash & Credit Hostels

Hostels in Japan usually accept Cash and Credit, but often include a small fee to process credit cards. You will find some hostels that only accept cash, they will say so on your booking. But I always prefer paying with credit because If I ever need a refund or want to block a transaction, I can simply make a claim on my card and let the credit card company deal with the business. You’ll have to pay a 3% currency conversion fee on credit, but you’d have to pay that anyway plus an ATM fee for more cash.

Dorm Costs

Japanese Hostels are expensive compared to other Asian countries but Japan is a developed country with some of the highest real estate prices in the world. So naturally prices are high. Hostels are still easily the cheapest accommodations, but Japan isn’t Thailand, it’s a rich country where staff are paid relatively well. I’ve stayed at hostels that range from 1,200 Yen to 3,800 Yen per night. You get what you pay for in most cases but 2,500 Yen or ($23 USD) seems to be the norm.

The prices change depending on the day. There are times during the year when prices surge, one is Golden Week at the beginning of May, another is during the Summer Festivals and the Autumn Festivals (dates vary by area). Another thing to consider is the Chinese Lunar New Year and other Western Holidays like Christmas. Hostels in Japan have no problem hiking up the cost of a bed if they know every hostel in the city will be booked up.

Japan Dorm Sheets

Japanese hostels will often give you your bed sheets and pillow case upon checking in or have them neatly folded on your bed.

So you have to make up your bed yourself. While this may seem annoying to foreigners, it’s common in Japan and proof you received fresh linens. Suck it up, it takes a minute. Most backpackers have encountered hostels who do not change the bed sheets after each checkout. So make your own bed and sleep comfortably. At the end of your stay, strip your bed of the sheets and pillow case and place them in a hamper on the way out. Again, this is 100% normal, in fact I expect it in Japan.

Capsule Hostels & Ryokan Hostels

Capsule Hostels are very popular in Japan but I didn’t include many on this list as they are mostly for business. It’s common to seal a business deal in Japan with a dinner and night out drinking, so business people will check in to a capsule hostel for a few hours in the evening before catching the train home in the morning. The Shinkansen, Tokyo to Osaka is only an hour ride.

On the flip side are Ryokans, traditional style Japanese buildings with tatami mats, shoji screen doors, tables you sit at on floor pillows, and are intended for older more mature guests (quiet ones). The beds are usually futons that aren’t as soft as a full mattress. Know what you are getting into when you book a Ryokan hostel because it is not their fault if you sleep better in a Marriott Hotel. Ryokans are a cultural experience in addition to being a place to stay.

Fukuoka, Kyushu – South Island

Fukuoka is the largest city on Kyushu Island, the southern most of the main four islands. The city is known for the sights in the outskirts like Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and the beautiful parks and beaches along the coast. My favorite part was the Canal City Mall underground, it’s a nice way to get out of the summer heat and explore some local shops. I visited the ruins of Fukuoka Castle in Maizuru Park, it was alright for a stroll but you really need to know some history to appreciate it. One sight I missed was the Wisteria Gardens, the tree below, which are popular in bloom.

& And Hostel

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 1 Double Bed
Bunks to a Room: 4, 6, 10 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 6 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Yes
Free to Use Kitchen: No
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, rent a towel
Price: $29.70+ USD for a bunk, $79.80 for a private room

& And Hostel is located right in downtown Fukuoka, only a few blocks from the train station. So naturally, the rooms are small and corridors narrow. So if you have many bags, you might find yourself sleeping with them. But it’s super clean, the staff are very friendly and you can head down for a drink at the bar & restaurant on the first floor. Note they are run separately.

Harbourside Guest House Minato

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 4 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 8 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No, self serve Coffee & Tea
Free to Use Kitchen: No
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $24+ USD for a bunk

I stayed in this Hostel for a night before heading to Hiroshima, it’s a little far from the main stations but a nice walk through a quieter district of Fukuoka. This hostel is not for partying, it’s the complete opposite actually. The house is quite old and traditional with creaky floors and strict rules for check in and out, shower time and quiet time. Great if you like early nights, very clean and peaceful spaces. If you are looking to socialize, consider & And Hostel.

Hiroshima, Chugoku – Honshu Island

Hiroshima is the largest and most important city in the Chugoku region which is all of the southern portion of Honshu Island. The top sights include the Hiroshima Castle Museum, the Peace Park and the Peace Memorial Museum dedicated to the victims and spreading awareness of the dangers of nuclear weapons. An hour outside the city is the famous Torii of Itsukushima Shrine and the eternal flame of Daisho-in Temple on Miyajima Island.

Miyajima Backpacker’s Hostel

Location Score: 9/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 32 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 8 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Yes
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No
Price: $26.50+ for a bunk

I volunteered at Miyajima Backpacker’s for a full month, it was an experience I booked through workaway. I met so many great guests and the staff, my friends, are lovely! The location is outside of Hiroshima, along the coast across from the beautiful Miyajima Island. However, it’s still only 45 minutes to Hiroshima via the tram car!

The Hostel schedules some cool events like musicians, game nights and has a great balcony for viewing the summer festival fireworks in late August. This is my favorite hostel in Japan, having been the person changing the bed sheets and scrubbing down the showers, I guarantee it’ll be clean and comfy. I used to do Yoga in the morning on the rooftop balcony overlooking Miyajima Island, watching the ferries go back and forth.

K’s House Hiroshima

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: Two Twin Bed, 3 Twin Bed
Bunks to a Room: 4, 6 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No
Price: $30+ USD for a bunk, $87+ USD for a private room

K’s House is a super chill laid back hostel. It’s more along the line of a traditional youth hostel in Japan with games, no curfew, a friendly common room, bike rentals and a full kitchen for guests to use.

Located in downtown Hiroshima between the Peace Park and main train station, a short bike ride from the beautiful Hiroshima Castle. If you are looking fora social environment, this is a great choice!

Guesthouse Hiroshima Menge Tak

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 10, 18 Bed Dorm
Female Only Room: No
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Cafe & Bar
Free to Use Kitchen: No
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $30+ USD + for a bunk

Menge Tak is a newish hostel in Hiroshima that has a very new and modern style. It’s similar to the new capsule style hostels except without the capsules… The common room is a Cafe Bar open to the local public as well as guests.

The couple that founded Menge Tak also love to travel and were influenced by Northern European design and culture. I had the chance to meet them during my stay in Hiroshima last year. The location of the hostel is superb, only a short walk from the Peace Park and Museum and not far from the tram line to Miyajima Island. Say hello to my close friend Minami who is currently working bar at Menge Tak!

Kamakura – Honshu Island

Kamakura is an ancient Samurai town located just after Yokohama in the Kanto region. It’s far enough from Tokyo you may want to stay for the night rather than make it a day trip. The top sights are the Kamakura Beach, Zushi Beach, Kotoku-in Great Buddha, the hiking trails, Hase-Dera Temple and Sasuke Inari Shrine.

Kamakura Guesthouse

Location Score: 9/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 4 Twin Bed Room
Bunks to a Room: 8 Bed Male Dorm
Female Only Room: 7 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for hire
Price: $31+ USD for a bunk, $134+ USD for a private room

Kamakura Guesthouse is a traditional Japanese style home with tatami mats, beautiful shoji screen doors and a cozy friendly vibe. The guesthouse is run by a family that do their best to make your trip special and put on events in the evening for all the guests to enjoy together. Rent a bike and explore the beautiful old town and beach. The only downside is the location, as it is a little far from the closest station if you like to walk like I do.

Kanazawa & Takayama, – Western Honshu

Kanazawa and Takayama are both smaller cities less well-known but worth a mention on this list. Kanazawa is located on the north coast of Honshu Island and is popular all year round for the beautiful Kenrokuen Gardens, Myoryuji Temple and traditional style buildings and streets like Higashichaya Old Town. While Takayama is located in the Japanese Alps and is popular for cycling, nature walks and the Takayama Autumn Festival.

Guest House Pongyi

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 4 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $27+ USD for a bunk

Pongyi is run like a family owned hostel in a traditional style building with tatami mats and low sitting tables. It’s adorable with super friendly staff like Maru-san who organized evening activities for guests such as hotpots, calligraphy, traditional tea ceremonies or origami. The amenities are great, including a kitchen for you to use! Our top recommendation for Kanazawa and experiencing Japanese culture & hospitality

Emblem Stay Kanazawa

Location Score: 9/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: Two Twin Bed – Shared Bath, Two Double bed – Shared Bath, Two Twin Bed w/ Bath, Two Double Bed w/ Bath, Family Size w/ Bath
Bunks to a Room: 4 Bed Male Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar:
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: Yes
Price: $22.50+ USD for a bunk, $50+ for private rooms

Emblem Stay is pretty fancy for a hostel, with a cool bar, lounge and Jacuzzi tub. The staff try their best to throw an event every night, play some cool music at the bar and create a social environment. The hostel is close to the Kanazawa Castle and Kenrokuen Gardens, walking distance to a lot of shops but also has a few bikes available for rent! The hostel is really well maintained and modern!

Guesthouse Daruma – Takayama

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 2 Twin Bed, 3 Twin Bed
Bunks to a Room: 6 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Cooker, Cafe station
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $25+ USD for a bunk, $58+ USD for a private room

Guesthouse Daruma is a family owned hostel/ryokan, meaning it is a traditional style accommodation in Japan with those thin white paper-ish walls (must be quiet, caution to light sleepers) and a welcoming but quiet environment. Not the place to socialize as there are few beds and the hostel closes between 10 am and 4 pm, the time when most tourists are out exploring and they clean the rooms. This can be an annoyance for guests looking to sleep in or just chill for a day. The location is great and the family is super friendly, they even have a dog named Tan!

Koyasan, Wakayama – Honshu Island

Koyasan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, founded by the Kobo Daishi, a monk and diplomat of Japan in the 8th Century. The small town in the mountains of Wakayama grew up around the beautiful temples and gardens as it was the end of a pilgram’s paths that reached all the way to Kyoto. Today, these paths are popular among tourist for day hikes. Koyasan is also the location of Okuno-in Graveyard, the largest and most sacred resting place in Japan with over 300,000 tombs resting under the dense forest canopy.

Sekishoin Hotel

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: No
Private Rooms: Yes
Bunks to a Room: No
Female Only Room: No
Security Locker: No
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Cafe
Free to Use Kitchen: No
Breakfast Included: No, can opt in to meal service
Towel: Yes
Price: $91+ USD for a Japanese Style Room

Koyasan is a small mountain village and UNESCO world heritage site. The town was founded by monks in the 8-9 century and is home to Okunoin Temple Graveyard, one of the largest and most sacred sites in Japan.

For those with a backpacker budget, you can commute for a day trip from Osaka for $13-$18. But Koyasan is also famous for the traditional style ryokans operated as part of the Buddhist Temples! It’s one of the most authentic Japanese style accommodations, with tatami mats, dinner service and rooms overlooking stunning gardens!

Kyoto, Ancient Capital – Honshu Island

The Ancient Capital of Japan, a city of over 2000 temples and shrines, including Ginkakuji, Kinkakuji, Kiyomizudera, Ninnaji Temple and the Imperial Palace. Kyoto is my favorite city in Japan. Take a walk along the streets of Gion District filled with Geishas, the Philosopher’s Path for viewing the Cherry Blossoms bloom in April-May. Just a 30 minute train away is Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Shrine of 10,000 Toris, or Byodo-in Temple in Uji, the Matcha capital of the world.

Gion Ryokan Q-Beh

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: Two Twin Bed, Family Room
Bunks to a Room: 10 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 8 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes, Free Tea & Coffee
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No
Price: $22.50+ USD for a bunk, $90+ USD for a private room

Kyoto is the ancient capital of Japan, so Gion Ryokan Q-Beh is a hostel in the spirit of the traditional Japanese culture! Tatami mats, futon beds, a view of a Japanese garden and a quiet atmosphere. Not an option for parties, but great for those who like to cook themselves or want to explore the beautiful streets of Gion district. Tip: at night you can see Geishas walking along the cobblestone streets! <3

If there was ever a city to enjoy an old traditional japanese building or ryokan, Kyoto is it! Of course, the hot tub and steam room are good reasons to stay here too!

K’s House Kyoto

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 4, 6 ,8 Mixed Bed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4, 6 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker:
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Bar & Cafe
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $14.50+ USD for a bunk

K’s House Kyoto is a great hostel for socializing, drinking and late nights exploring the nightlife of Kyoto (Which I recommend enthusiastically). The hostel and even the showers are open 24 hrs. The cafe opens at 8 am and turns into a cool bar until midnight. There is a kitchen fr guests to use, an awesome common room and rooftop patio with views of Kyoto! Perfect for a 7-eleven picnic! The staff speak english quite well and will help you book tours or give advice, even recommend onsens for those with tattoos!

Matsumoto, Chubu – Honshu Island

Matsumoto is a small city nestled between the mountains of the Japanese Alps. The city is home to one of Japan’s four great castle, Matsumoto Castle. The whole region is truly a nature lovers paradise with beautiful natural landscapes, parks and hiking trails all within easy reach!

The best temple to see is the Anrakuji Temple although it is quite a ways outside of the city. In the winter, if you love skiing, check out Mt. Norikura Ski Resort!

Guest House Onsen Yado Raicho

Location Score: 6/10
Air-con Rooms: No
Private Rooms: Two Twin Bed Shared Bath, Two Twin Bed Private Bath, 3 Twin Bed Shared Bath
Bunks to a Room: 7 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: No
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Yes
Free to Use Kitchen: No
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $32+ USD fora bunk, $100+ USD for a private room

Onsen Yado Raicho is far outside of Matsumoto City, over an hour drive. However the onsen is located deep in the mountains, with its own natural hotspring, close to some of the best Nagano Ski Resorts, Mt. Norikura! Japan Ski Vacation anyone?

The only drawback is that the Onsen requires guests pay in cash and charges an extra $3 USD fee per guest per night during the winter for heating… at 1500 meters above sea level is an obvious must!

Thank You Hippopotamus Hostel

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms:
Private Rooms: 3 Futon Bed Shared Bath
Bunks to a Room:6 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room:
Security Locker:
In-House Restaurant & Bar:
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $25+ USD for a bunk, $80+ USD for a private room

Hippopotamus Hostel, beyond having the most out of place name in Japan, is a cozy hostel located perfectly in downtown Matsumoto City only a short walk from the best sights. This hostel is a traditional style but renovated in April 2018.

The price is very good and includes free use of the laundry machines and bikes! You just have to reserve them first! It’s a super laid back hostel where you can cook, bring back food into the common space and relax with other guests.

Nagasaki – Kyushu Island

Nagasaki is famous for being the second city ever hit by an Atomic Bomb, each year on August 9th, a ceremony is held in memory of the victims. Off the coast is “Battleship Island” or Hashima Island, an abandoned town. Also check out the Traditional Performing Arts Museums and Peace Memorial Hall & Atomic Bomb Museum.

Nagasaki International Hostel Akari

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 1 Twin Bed, 1 Double Bed, 2 Twin Bed Shared Bath, 2 Twin Bed Private Bath, 3 Twin Bed Private Bath, 4 Twin Bed Shared Bath
Bunks to a Room: 8 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 3 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $24+ USD for a bunk, $44+ USD for a private room

Hostel Akari has been around for a long time. It’s a traditional style hostel located right downtown Nagasaki! The facilities are a little worn out and could use a face lift, including the toilet and showers but the staff are very helpful for travel tips. Ask them anything. Nagasaki isn’t a party destination in general, but rather a city rich in history. It’s a safe choice for a good stay,

Route Cafe & Hostel

Location Score: 9/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 4 Twin Bed Family Room
Bunks to a Room: 5 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: No
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Cafe
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: Yes
Price: $34+ USD for a bunk, $125+ USd for a private room

Route is the complete opposite of Hostel Akari, the facilities are new and the dorm rooms are actually little private spaces perfect for one! But there are only five of these dorm rooms which are much more expensive than other hostels in the area. With fewer rooms, the social atmosphere is lacking, although there is a cafe on the main floor. If you are traveling with friends, this is a great place to stay in a good location. As a solo traveler, I prefer less privacy and a cool common area to meet others.

Nagoya – Honshu Island

Nagoya is located between Tokyo and Osaka, making it a popular destination for travelers looking for a few days of respite between the super cities. Check out the Osu shopping street, the historic Nagoya Castle, Tokugawa Gardens and Shirotori Gardens. Don’t forget to visit the Toyota Industry and Technology Museum, and the Nagoya Public Aquarium!

Kyoya Ryokan

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 4 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Can make meal reservations in advance
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: Yes & Yukata to wear in the Ryokan
Price: $30+ USD for a bunk

Kyoya Ryokan is a little pricey for a budget traveler but the cost of a bunk includes free bikes to take out for the day, a kitchen for your use, and access to a beautiful public bath. “Onsen” is the Japanese word for a bath that is heated from a natural hot spring. “Sento” is the word commonly used for public bath houses. Upon check in each guests receives a towel and Yukata to wear. Located in downtown Nagoya, near the Nagoya Castle, you can still feel like you are staying at a traditional Onsen Ryokan in the mountains surrounded by beautiful gardens at Kyoya Ryokan!

Nagoya Travellers Hostel

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 1 Twin Bed, 1 Double Bed, 2 Double Bed, Family Size (7)
Bunks to a Room: 7, 8 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 6, 7 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: Yes
Towel: No
Price: $22.50+ USD for a bunk

Nagoya Travellers Hostel is the complete opposite from the Kyoya Ryokan, it’s a big hostel with lots of bed, cheaper, and close to the nightclubs in downtown Nagoya. This is actually the kind place I prefer, with a free breakfast and a kitchen I can use, and a cute common room to meet other travelers. The hostel is a good 30 minute walk from Nagoya Castle however bikes are available for rent for $5 USD. Again, this is a hostel where you’ll have to put on the sheets yourself. Completely normal in Japan and ensures guests get a clean bed.

Okinawa Island

Over 30% of Okinawa is used as American Millitary Bases, there is even the American Village which looks exactly like any box store shopping area you’d find across the pacific. But fortunately the rest of the island is filled with beautiful beaches, coral reefs for Scuba Diving or Snorkeling, surf shops and Okinawa style bars! The Okinawa culture is quite different from mainland Japanese with their own history, fashion, cuisine and above all else, music!

Aien Coffee & Hostel

Location Score: 9/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 20 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 6 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Cafe & Bar
Free to Use Kitchen: Fridge, Kettle, Microwave
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No
Price: $22.44+ USD for a bunk

Aien Coffee & Hostel is located about an hour by bus from Naha airport along the coast. The first floor is a cafe open to the public and common room for the travelers staying in the hostel portion. It’s a great location, not far from American Village and great for booking day trips to scuba dive or snorkel. Of course the staff are super chill, like you’d expect from Okinawa, and there is a beautiful patio to enjoy the tropical island view.

Abest Cube Naha Kukosaidori

Location Score: 9/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 1 Twin Bed, 1 Double Bed, 4 Twin Bed
Bunks to a Room: No
Female Only Room: No
Security Locker: No
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Yes
Free to Use Kitchen: No
Breakfast Included: Yes
Towel: No
Price: $30+ USD for a private room

I was going to recommend a capsule hotel for Naha city, but Abest Cube is much better value. Guests can book a small single bed room with a shared bathroom for only a little more than a capsule hotel bed. Plus at Abest Cube, you get a free breakfast and a bar open late for socializing with other travelers. It’s a relatively new hostel in a great location near Kokusai Street and the monorail station.

Osaka – Honshu Island

Osaka is the second largest city in Japan, where Tokyo is the elegant capital, Osaka has a reputation for being a lot more and laid back with a great nightlife. You might hear that the Osaka Dialect of Japanese is the most brutish, Osaka slang is common. The city is located on the fertile river delta that leads all the way to Kyoto and Lake Biwa. Top sights include Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, the Red Light District, and Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine.

J-Hoppers Osaka Universal

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 3 Twin Bed Shared Bath, 4 Twin Bed Shared Bath
Bunks to a Room: 8 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 8 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $24+ USD for a bunk, $80+ USD for a private room

J-Hoppers is an international chain of hostels with all the amenities you’d expect like a kitchen to use, board games, a cool lounge with comfy sofas and spacious bunks for you and your belongings. This hostel is located perfectly for those intending to visit Universal Studio Japan and Osaka Aquarium, but a little out of the way from downtown and Osaka Castle. That being said, it’s an amazing hostel with super friendly staff. They are an exception as they accept families with kids age 6 and up.

Jin Hostel

Location Score: 7/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 2 Twin Bed, 2 Double Bed, 4 Twin Bed
Bunks to a Room: 8, 12 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 8 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Bar & Cafe
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: Yes
Price: $22.30+ USD for a bunk, $96+ USD for a private room

Jin Hostel has everything and more that I like, a free breakfast, a bar, private bunks and free bike rentals. The “more” is free Yukata rental which women will love! It’s probably one of the best ways to really appreciate Japanese culture. Anyone who mentions cultural appropriation is just a prig, because walking around in the traditional garment of Japan is a wonderful experience! I even have a pajama Yukata gifted to me by my friend.

The one drawback to this hostel is the location. You’ll need to take the subway to visit any of the best sights like Osaka Castle or Universal Studios. The hostel is only two blocks from a station, but I like to walk places if I can.

The Dorm Hostel Osaka

Location Score: 10/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 20 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 20 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No, free Coffee & Tea
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $ 22.44+ USD for a bunk

The Dorm Hostel Osaka is my pick for being in the ideal location in central Osaka. It’s a 30 minute walk to Osaka Castle but only a few blocks from Nagahoribashi Station which will get you anywhere in Osaka.

This hostel is relatively new with a modern but cozy style, but I got super excited by the 2000 books they have on shelves… Something only a bookworm can truly appreciate. Plus the staff speak English well and are very friendly. I’ll definitely be staying here on my next (4th) visit to Osaka.

Sapporo – Hokkaido Island

Sapporo is the largest city on the northern island of Hokkaido. The city is very popular in the fall and winter seasons for the beautiful natural landscape and snow festival! Places to check out include Mt. Moiwa overlooking the city, Fushimi Inari Shrine, the Maruyama Zoo and day trips to surrounding villages for skiing and nature walks.

Sappolodge

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 2 Twin Bed, 3 Twin Bed
Bunks to a Room: 6 Bed Male Dorm, 8 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Yes
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $28+ USD for a bunk, $80+ USD for a private room

Sappolodge has a great cabin feel, with nice woodwork and a friendly atmosphere to match the decor. This is a party hostel, it’s a popular bar at night for locals and you’ll likely hear music and chatter until midnight. Great for those looking to stay up and socialize, but not for those looking for an early morning the next day. The hostel is in a good location, with wide beds, a kitchen and comfy common room.

Guest House Yuyu

Location Score: 9/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 4 Twin Bed Shared Bath
Bunks to a Room: 8 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 8 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: Toast & Jam, Coffee & Tea
Towel: No, availavle for rent
Price: $26.90+ USD for a bunk, $125 USD for a private room

Guest House Yuyu is a cute and cozy hostel, not party hostel but they dont have quiet hours if you do want to stay up late. That being said, always bring your own eye mask and ear plugs, these are backpacker essential. There is a kitchen and nice dinning area that doubles as a hang out spot for guests to sit and relax. the atmosphere is super laid back and the staff are all locals from Sapporo with great tips for sightseeing.

The location is decent, but a good 15 minute walk to the major station nearby. Overall, a good choice for Sapporo!

Tokyo – Honshu Island

Tokyo, the largest metropolitan area on earth, the capital of Japan and home to the longest continuous Imperial Dynasty in the world. Tokyo has everything! Shopping, Anime District of Akibahara, nightlife scenes in Shibuya, Ebisu, Gaiza, Temples and Shrines like Senso-ji and the world famous fish market! Don’t forget Sumo Wrestling events, the Tokyo Giants Baseball Team, Chanko (Sumo) Restaurants, Karaoke bars… There is simply too much to get excited about!

K’s House Tokyo

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 1 Twin Bed, 1 Double Bed, 2 Twin Bed, 3 Twin Bed, 4 Twin Bed
Bunks to a Room:4, 6 ,8 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 4 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $26+ USD for a bunk, $41+ USd for a private room

Another K’s House, if you haven’t noticed yet I like this chain of hostels! There are 11 locations in Japan and they all have the good vibes and services I prefer as a budget traveler. The staff are super helpful with recommendations and the kitchen and common area although small is perfect for meeting others.

That being said, it’s not a party hostel and far from the main night life areas in Tokyo. And the bunks don’t have curtains, so there isn’t much privacy. As a world traveler, I am used to this, but if you think for even a quick second you need more privacy… you need more privacy.

Khaosan Tokyo Origami

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: 2 Twin Bed, 3 Twin Bed, 4 Twin Bed, 5 Twin Bed, 8 Twin Bed
Bunks to a Room: 8 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: No
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $28.75+ USD for a bunk, $80+ for a private room

Khaosan Tokyo Origami has been around for ages and remains a great choice for travelers in Tokyo. The hostel has a nice big common room with a kitchen for your use, so meeting others should be easy! The staff are friendly and helpful plus the everything is available 24hrs a day, including tea and coffee for you night owls. It’s a bit of a walk to the nearest station but there are many restaurants and a 7-11 nearby for your late night or day trip snacks! Hostels in Tokyo can be quite expensive, this one comes in around the mid-range.

Kaisu Hostel

Location Score: 7/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms: No
Bunks to a Room: 6, 14 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 10 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: Cafe & Bar
Free to Use Kitchen: No
Breakfast Included: Yes
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $25+ USD for a bunk

Kaisu is my pick for a quiet secluded stay in the busy city of Tokyo. Heads up, just walking around Tokyo or other super cities can be an overwhelming sensory experience. The city is loud, people are everywhere and you have no person space. So Kaisu is a little relief, located in a quieter area of the city close to shrines and temples. You’ll need to make a few connections to get anywhere but that’s easy enough once you get the hang of it! The hostel has a small garden, cozy dorm bunks and a wonderful free breakfast with coffee or Japanese green tea.

OakHostel Cabin

Location Score: 8/10
Air-con Rooms: Yes
Private Rooms:No
Bunks to a Room: 30 Bed Male Dorm, 32 Bed Mixed Dorm
Female Only Room: 24 Bed Female Dorm
Security Locker: Yes
In-House Restaurant & Bar: No
Free to Use Kitchen: Yes
Breakfast Included: No
Towel: No, available for rent
Price: $19.76+ USD for a bunk

OakHostel is my pick for you party lovers. It’s a capsule hostel with a front door open 24/7. It’s a 10 minute walk to the subway station and 25 minutes to the main Tokyo Station. The subways in Tokyo close at 12:30 am until 4:00 am for maintenance, but it you are there to party it’s easy to stay out late and wait for the subway to re-open! Ramen shops are open all night for soaking up the evenings drinks!

It’s cheap with a kitchen for your use and awesome common room.

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More Info for Japan

If you are still planning your trip to Japan, check out our List of Articles for Japan. They are based on my own travels in Japan and I also dive into some of the historical characters in feudal Japanese history and include some tips and ticket discounts.

For your pre-trip downtime, check out our List of Recommended Books, Movies and Podcasts! We are always adding more good stuff you might like.

Lastly, to make use of these apps in Japan, I recommend picking up a Prepaid SIM Card and downloading these Great Apps, especially the sushi and sake apps… that will help make your trip just a little easier and a lot yummier.

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