In cities as crowded and condensed as the ones in Japan, a persons personal space isn’t as large as us spoilt Westerners conseider appropriate back in our spacious countries. Hence, the idea of sleeping in a ‘Capsule Hotel’ is actually rather ingenious.

Sleeping in one of Japans Capsules Hotels will set you back about 2,500 yen to 4,500 yen ($25-$45AUD) per night. It is a cheap bed for a night and is extremely popular with Japanese business men and women who can’t get back to their home city for the night, and also with the tourists who want to spend less on ZZZ’s and more on Sake. (Or just want to have a unique Japanese experience).

Your personal Capsule will be a box about 1 meter wide, 1 meter high and 2 meters long and has all the necessities. Generally a personal TV, alarm clock, power point will al be inside, as well as complimentary traditional PJ’s, (which is incredibly cute at bedtime when everyone is matching).

You will be separated by your fellow capsulers by a screen or curtain, so if it is a Saturday night be warned. You will not get the best nights sleep if you forget earplugs. Some people describe the capsules as “coffin-like”, but if you don’t suffer form claustrophobia you can just consider it as your own personal cocoon.

This is not  a room with a view. But it is a (tiny) room with a bed. And sometimes after a big night on the Sake, that’s really all you need.

The Capsule Hotel I stayed in (and would highly recommend for your own Capsule experience was The Capsule Hotel Asahi Praza Shinsaibashi in Osaka: 2-12-22, Nishihinsaibashi, Chuouku, Osakashi 

Located in the center of America-mura (American Village) in Osaka’s vibrant south, this capsule hotel makes a fantastic base for sightseeing and business. Fully equipped with a large public bath and sauna, the hotel also includes a women’s exclusive zone, making it a great option for solo female travellers.