10 most unique accommodations to experience in Japan

Japan may be the Land of the Rising Sun but it is also the land where people go to to find the most unique experiences – whether it is to eat out of a jail cell or to visit interesting hotels.

Going to a destination for a unique hotel experience is a trend that is on the rise. With such unique accommodations in Japan, it is no surprise that Japan has fast become one of the top destinations. Here are 9 of the most unique accommodations for you to try in Japan:

1. Aso Farm Village, Kunamoto

Source: Journey of Japan

These dome shaped houses are built out of styrofoam and look straight out of some fantasy movie. They are also really colourful, which makes for a really bright and interesting backdrop.

2. Book and Bed, Tokyo

Source: Journey of Japan

If your mother ever told you caught reading late into the night in bed with a torchlight, you won’t have to relive that guilt here at Book and Bed. Grab a book or two or more with you and sleep among the books here at this library themed accommodation. It surely puts a different meaning to B&B!

3. Keio Plaza, Tokyo

Source: Keio Plaza Hotel

Hello Kitty fans will go absolutely nuts here at Keio Plaza with the mouthless feline adorning every corner of the rooms. Be surrounded by the iconic character in this hotel and be charmed by the bright murals and eye-catching decor. Just be sure to book your room early as it is often sold out.

4. Hotel Benesse House, Naoshima Island

Source: Hotel Benesse House

If you’re looking for something a little classier, Hotel Benesse House would be it. You will be surrounded by art, boasting some of the world’s biggest artist names as well as local installations and pieces. It is known as the “art site” and you’re on an island (which will provide gorgeous views of the sea).

5. Train Hotel, Japan

Source: Japan Rail

If you’re the kind of person who loves to always be on the move, then you will love Train Hotel. You’re essentially going to be living on the train itself and will get to travel where the train goes. It is certainly quite an unusual experience but one that will most definitely be memorable.

6. I-Cafe Akiba Place, Tokyo

Source: Travelog

Back then during the economic turmoil of the financial crisis, many people had lost their homes. As a last step before homelessness, they found refuge in 24-hour Internet cafes. Though those times are over now, the themed hotel still gives its patrons an insight to that memory – as weird as it may be.

7. Chapel Christmas Hotel, Osaka

Source: Agoda

If Christmas is your favourite holiday of the year but you’re not a big fan of winter, then you have to check out the Chapel Christmas Hotel in Osaka, where it is Christmas all year long. Santa and the rest of the Christmas theme will get you into a nice holiday mood no matter what time of the year you are visiting.

8. Nine Hours Hotel, Kyoto

Source: Nine Hours

Capsule hotels are quite an attraction in Japan, since space is a premium. Most travellers would use this as just a place to sleep, but it can also be one of those destination hotels as you are able to tick it off your bucket list. Just don’t stay there if you’re claustrophobic!

9. Andon Ryokan, Tokyo

Source: Andon Ryokan

Staying in a ryokan during your trip to Japan is one of the most authentic experiences you can have. But kick it up a notch with Andon Ryokan, Tokyo’s first designer ryokan to get the full Japanese experience. It even comes with tatami floors, futon bedding and communal baths. Yukatas are provided upon request.

10. Hikari no Yakata, Niigata

Source: Journey of Japan

Ever lived in a piece of artwork? At Hikari no Yakata, or the House of Light, you can. The House was designed by artist James Turrell, as a space for meditation and the exploration of natural and man-made lights, and was showcased during the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale in 2000.

The House offers a Light Bath room for a unique bathing experience, as well as an Outside-In room, with a sliding roof for occupants to observe the colours of the sky. As part of its design, the House accommodates 3 families for a one night stay, and occupants are encouraged to share their thoughts on their experience.

Need more ideas?

JOURNEY of JAPAN offers many other options for unique accommodation facilities in Japan. Learn more about them here and here.