Japan is one of the most creative countries in the world, famed for its modern technology and high tech design, you are sure to find some of the most unique hotels here. Here is a list of eight of the most unique and unusual hotels in Japan.
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Keio Plaza Hotel Tama, Tokyo
At first glance, this may just seem like an ordinary hotel. But hidden beneath the 4 star Keio Plaza Hotel sheen is a collection of Hello Kitty themed rooms, all featuring a spectacle of Hello Kitty Paraphernalia. Everything in the room is covered in Hello Kitty designs from the bed to the walls and furniture. If you’re into Hello Kitty, then it is a must-visit to stay here. The hotel also has a rooftop swimming pool and a karaoke room. Rooms start at ¥21,250 per night
Website: https://www.keioplaza.com/
Odaiba Ōedo-Onsen Monogatari, Tokyo
While most onsen are located in mountainous regions away from the city centre, the Odaiba Ōedo-Onsen Monogatari, Tokyo is located in the heart of Tokyo, perfect for those who want to stay in the city. The resort is part onsen part theme and offers plenty of attractions. It has everything to keep you relaxed and occupied from 13 onsen baths as well as many spas.
Step inside this resort and you will feel like you have travelled back in time to the old streets of Edo. You can put on your yukata and stroll around the streets strung with atmospheric lanterns. Try some of the traditional Japanese matsuri games or visit an old fashioned Japanese sweet shop.
Website: https://daiba.ooedoonsen.jp/en/
Admission Fee: Adult (over age 12): Weekday ¥2,280 (Sat & Sun ¥2,480, Special Days ¥2,580)
* After 6:00 p.m.: Weekdays ¥1,780 (Sat & Sun ¥1,980, Special Days ¥2,080)
Children (4 – 12): ¥980; Under 4 years: Free
Onsen Etiquette – The Dos and Don’ts in Japanese Public Baths (Infographic)
Book and Bed Shinjuku, Tokyo
If you ever wondered what it feels like to sleep in a bookshop this is your chance. For booklovers Book and Bed Shinjuku is the place to say, where you can sleep among books inside bookshelves, reading as long you like. The concept is simple but unique and is also a great option for budget travellers and also somewhere worth trying if you want to try something a bit different. Prices start from ¥5,000 per night.
Website: https://bookandbedtokyo.com/en/shinjuku/index.html
Henn Na Hotel, Nagasaki
The world’s first hotel staffed by robots, the Henn Na Hotel is a truly unique hotel. At this futuristic hotel, you will be greeted at the front desk by multilingual robot dinosaurs who will check you in and carry your luggage, and even talk to you.
Another unique aspect of the hotel is facial recognition. Guests no longer need to worry about forgetting their keys thanks to keyless locking and entry. It is a fun concept that is great for families and an experience you won’t forget any time soon. Just in case things you do enter some problems there are always human staff on hand. Prices from ¥7,000 per night.
Website: https://www.h-n-h.jp/en/
Sukeroku No Yado Sadachiyo, Tokyo
Located in the heart of central Tokyo, just 5 minutes from Asakusa temple is Sukeroku No Yado Sadachiyo, a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan). Ryokans are sadly becoming a rarity in modern Tokyo. They are a great way to experience traditional Japanese culture. Ryokans are known for their fantastic hospitality, immaculately arranged meals and onsen.
Even if you’re not staying overnight it’s still worth a stop. The front desk is beautifully photogenic, with its paper lanterns and wooden railings. At this ryokan, guests can experience the best of both worlds, with a mix of the traditional as well as the entertaining. The ryokan offers geisha dancing and traditional comedy. All rooms are Japanese style and come in a variety of sizes. Although the staff can’t speak much English, they will always do their best to help. Prices start from ¥7500 a night.
Website: http://sadachiyo.co.jp/
Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, Tokyo
At the Hotel Gracery, Shinjuku guests have the chance to stay in a Godzilla themed hotel. The hotel is complete with a life-size Godzilla statue on the roof and a Godzilla head outside the 8th-floor lobby as well as an interactive Godzilla room. Rooms are Godzilla themed with Godzilla artwork as well as lots of special treats.
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Once you step into these rooms you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into the Godzilla world. Not all the rooms are Godzilla however, so if you are a die-hard fan, be sure to book the Godzilla or Godzilla view room. This hotel is anything but dull and is sure to leave you with an unforgettable experience. The Godzilla room will open from April 24th 2021.
Website: https://shinjuku.gracery.com/
Tokyo Disneyland Hotel
If you’re thinking of visiting the Tokyo Disney Resort, the Tokyo Disneyland Hotel is the perfect place to stay. Located just a few minutes walk from the entrance it is the closest hotel to the resort. Guests can relax at the hotel while still enjoying the atmosphere after a fun filled day at the park.
Children and lovers of Disney are sure to love staying here with rooms filled with fantasy, as if they have just stepped into the world of Disney. Children will even get the chance to dress up as their favourite Disney princesses. It is sure to leave with you with an unforgettable experience as you immerse yourself with the world of Disney. Prices from ¥35,800 per room.
Website: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/hotel/tdh.html
Ice Hotel, Hokkaido
The Ice Hotel is located in The Hoshino Tomamu Resort of Hokkaido and is part of the spectacular ice village. The hotel is made entirely from ice and guests can stay here from January to February each year. The room you stay in is named Kohri no Hotel (ice hotel), a dome-shaped room with plenty of space. Everything in the room is made from ice, from the chairs and table and even the beds so make sure to wrap up when you’re inside. Arctic sleeping bags are provided to keep you nice and warm.
One of the highlights of the hotels is the hot spring Arctic Bath, where guests can relax while gazing at the stars. There’s also a lounge made entirely from ice with a wide variety of hot drinks and alcoholic beverages. For a truly unique stay why not spend the night at this unusual hotel? Prices are ¥25,300 per person.
Website: https://www.snowtomamu.jp/winter/en/icevillage/
As you can see there are many unique and unusual hotels in Japan. From ultra-modern to quirky, Japan has a huge variety of hotels and next time you visit, why not try one of these?
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Alex Coles
Alex is a graduate of photography from London. He has a strong interest in visual arts and culture. Alex is half Japanese and has a great knowledge of Japan, having spent several years living there, visiting many parts of the country.