Coto School Finder | Study in Japan

Whether you’re planning a short vacation, an internship, or study japanese, finding the right accommodation can improve your experience in Japan. Japan offers a variety of unique and flexible solutions for every type of traveler and trip. From solo adventures to families or professionals, from cultural immersion to the top of modernity, Japan has what you need for short-term stay rental. In this guide we’ll help you find the perfect match!

In this guide, we’ll explore the best short-term accommodation options, compare them based on traveler profiles, and share practical tips to make your stay smooth and memorable. Let’s explore the best accommodations for your next visit and help you find the perfect fit.

At Coto School Finder, we’re dedicated to supporting you with our Student First approach, helping you find the perfect school and guiding you through every step of your application process. This free service is designed to make your stay in Japan smooth and enjoyable.

Let’s explore the best short-term rental options tailored to your needs.

Types of Accommodation for Short-Term Stays

  1. Capsule Hotels: A Unique and Practical Experience

You probably heard about them before and you might wonder what Japan’s famous capsule hotels are really like. They are small pods, side by side, offering a (somewhat) private, compact sleeping space at a very affordable price. Each capsule provides blinds or doors for some privacy, a comfortable mattress, and amenities like charging ports and lighting controls. The shared areas usually include bathrooms, lockers for your personal belongings, and sometimes lounges or cafes. Be careful when you book some hotels that are male-only or Women-only.

Why choose a capsule hotel for Short-Term Stay? 

Compact sleeping pods in a modern capsule hotel, each equipped with a bed and ambient lighting, offering a unique accommodation experience for short-term stay in Japan.
© Picture from Alec Favale on Unsplash (Nine Hours Capsule Hotel – Narita Airport, Tokyo)
  • Affordable: Prices range from ¥2,000 to ¥6,000 per night, depending on location and services.
  • Convenient: found in central locations like Tokyo’s Shinjuku or Osaka’s Namba, often near subway stations.
  • Unique experience: definitely a very Japanese way to stay, you probably won’t find this elsewhere.

What are the downsides?

It is not ideal for travelers with big luggage, claustrophobic people, and not suitable for families or groups.

Best for :

Solo travelers, budget-conscious adventurers, or business professionals on quick trips.

Price Range :

Approximately ¥2,000 to ¥12,000 per night during hush season, with an average of around ¥4,000.

Brands examples :

  • Nine Hours : Location : multiple locations in Tokyo (Narita Airport, Akasaka, Shinjuku (women only), Shinagawa (men only), Hamamatsucho etc..) Osaka, Aichi, Fukuoka and Miyagi. Price Range: ¥3,800~¥12,800
  • Glansit Akihabara : Location : Akihabara and Kyoto. Price Range: Tokyo :¥3,500~¥12,000 / Kyoto: ¥2,800~¥7,000
  • MyCUBE by MYSTAYS : Location : 2-6-7 Kuramae, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-005. Price Range: ¥6,000~¥10,000
  • Resol Poshtel : 2-25-1 Nishiasakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0035. Price Range: ¥4,800~¥12,000
  • First Cabine : Location : 4 locations in Tokyo (Atagoyama, Akasaka, Haneda Airport and Ichigaya) 1 in Kyoto, 3 in Osaka, 1 in Fukuoka and 1 in Nagasaki. Price Range: Tokyo : ¥5,500~¥8,000 / Kyoto ¥1,900~¥8,000
  1. Airbnb: Flexibility and Comfort

Offering comfort and flexibility, an Airbnb allows you to rent entire apartments, traditional houses, or even small studios for a few nights to longer periods during your short-term stay. 

Minimalist Japanese apartment with concrete walls, a cozy bed by the window, and wooden furniture, creating a simple and modern aesthetic.
© Picture from Joseph Albanese on Unsplash

Why choose Airbnb for Short-Term Stay? 

  • Space and comfort: perfect for families or groups, many rentals come fully equipped (kitchen, multiple bedrooms; something hotels usually can’t provide)
  • Diverse locations: whether you want a trendy apartment in central Tokyo or a cozy house outside of the city, you’ll find something that fits your needs.
  • Local experience: staying in a residential neighborhood allows you to experience Japan beyond tourist spots.

What to watch out for?

While Airbnb is generally cheaper than hotels, be careful of hidden costs like cleaning fees or extra charges for additional guests. Always check the total price and cancellation policies before booking.

Best for :

Families, groups of friends, or travelers staying more than a week who seek the comforts a home provides. 

Price Range :

Starting from ¥3,000 per night for private rooms, with entire apartments averaging ¥8,000 to ¥15,000 per night, depending on location and amenities.

  1. Guesthouse and Hostels

It is a popular choice for students and backpackers looking for an affordable option and a chance to meet new people during your short-term stay. Guest houses typically have common spaces like kitchens and lounges while offering private rooms or dorm-style sleeping arrangements. It’s kind of a mix of budget accommodation and social hub.

A traditional Japanese ryokan room with tatami mats and a serene view of a Japanese garden featuring vibrant autumn colors.
© Picture from Masaaki Komori on Unsplash

Why choose a guesthouse for Short-Term Stay?

  • Budget-friendly: Often cheaper than hotels
  • Social experience: You’ll meet travelers worldwide and enjoy a sense of community.
  • Cultural immersion: some guest houses have a traditional Japanese style, with tatami rooms and futons.

What are the downsides? 

If you value privacy, guesthouses might not be the perfect fit. While their shared facilities are clean, they may not suit everyone’s tastes. 

Best for : 

Students, solo travelers, and budget-conscious visitors who enjoy socializing.

Price Range :

Around ¥2,000 to ¥6,000 per night, depending on the location and room type. 

Brands examples :

  • Hisayo’s Inn : Location : 3-30-13, Nishi Kojiya, Otaku, Tokyo. Price Range: ¥4,000 ~¥6,500
  • Mokkoan : Location : 1-4-6, Nishigaoka, Kita-ku, Tokyo. Price Range: ¥9,000 ~¥32,000
  • Guesthouse Soi : Location : 509-2 Shimouma-machi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0873. Price Range: ¥3,500 ~¥20,000
  • Hostel Mitsuwaya Osaka : Location: 2-5-15, Kawarayamachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka. Price Range: ¥2,500 ~¥4,800
  • Guest House Wakabaya : Location : 603-1, Kanko-cho, Takamatsu, Kagawa Price Range: ¥5,500 ~¥16,500
  • Piece Hostel : Location : 604-8074 531, Asakura-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto Price Range: ¥2,900 ~¥14,700
  • Guest House Pongyi : Location : 2-22 Rokumai-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa. Price Range: ¥4,000 ~¥12,000
  1. Ryokan: Authentic Japanese Experience

For an immersive cultural experience, ryokans are the perfect choice. These traditional Japanese stays offer a glimpse into the country’s hospitality, culture, and natural beauty. This website is very useful to find ryokans all over Japan.

Traditional Japanese ryokan room with a low dining table, tatami mats, and shoji screens, offering an authentic cultural experience.
© Picture from Susann Schuster on Unsplash

Why choose a Ryokan for Short-Term Stay?

  • Cultural immersion: it feels like stepping into Japan’s past, rooms usually feature tatami flooring, sliding doors, and futon bedding.
  • Relaxation: many ryokans offer onsen baths and multi-course meals called Kaiseki 
Traditional Japanese kaiseki meal served at a ryokan, showcasing beautifully arranged dishes including grilled fish, rice, and soup.
© Picture from nameofmin on Unsplash

What are the downsides? 

Ryokans can be expensive, especially those that include onsen access and meals. Budget options are available but may lack amenities. Additionally, ryokans are less common in urban areas, requiring travel to more remote locations.

Best for : 

Couples, travelers seeking relaxation, and anyone looking to experience traditional Japanese culture.

Price Range :

Generally between ¥15,000 and ¥25,000 per person per night, including dinner and breakfast.

Brands examples :

  • Andon Ryokan : Location : 2-34-10 Nihonzutsumi, Taito-ku, Tokyo. Price Range: ¥7,700~¥24,000
  • Sawanoya Ryokan : Location : 2-3-11,Yanaka,Taito-Ku,Tokyo. Price Range: ¥7,480~¥20,790
  • Kansuiro Ryokan : Location : 88 Tonosawa Hakone-machi Ashigara-Shimogun Kanagawa. Price Range: ¥42,000~¥86,000
  1. Share House: Affordable and Social

Share houses, like Oakhouse, are a popular option for travelers looking for affordable short-term accommodation in Japan. A shared house is basically a large property divided into private rooms with shared facilities like kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. 

Three women enjoying a meal together in a share house kitchen, highlighting the community and social aspect of this accommodation option in Japan.

Why choose a shared house for Short-Term Stay?

  • Budget-friendly: Renting a room in a share house is often cheaper than hotels and Airbnbs.
  • Community-oriented: You’ll meet locals, expats, and travelers, offering you the possibility to make new friendships during your stay.
  • Flexible terms: many of them offer contracts for just a few weeks.
  • Practicality: they often come fully furnished and include utilities, usually the only thing you need to buy is a blanket and a pillow.

What are the downsides? 

You don’t get to pick your housemates, differences in cleanliness, noise levels, or lifestyles can lead to conflicts. House rules can be pretty strict. It can be socially overwhelming as some can be very big and have up to 70 people living in one building and sharing facilities.

Best for : 

Students, young professionals, solo travelers, or digital nomads looking for an affordable and sociable option.

Learn more about share houses on our blog post!

Price Range :

Typically ¥50,000 to ¥100,000 per month, equating to approximately ¥1,700 to ¥2,700 per night for short stays.

  1. Weave Living: Modern Co-Living Spaces

Weave Living offers an upscale, hassle-free experience. Originally from Hong Kong, they expanded to Japan, catering to short-term and mid-term stays.

Bright and stylish furnished Japanese apartment with a comfortable sofa, modern furniture, and large windows allowing natural light.
© Weave Living property (Asakusa)

Why choose Weave Living for Short-Term Stay?

  • Stylish and fully furnished spaces: Unlike traditional apartments, Weave Living properties have very modern interiors.
  • Flexible short-term option : Offers stays ranging from a few weeks to several months.
  • Community and privacy : Combines social spaces for connecting with others and private areas for relaxation.
  • All-inclusive pricing: Utilities, high-speed wifi, and cleaning services are included.

What are the downsides? 

Definitely, the price, modern facilities, and all-inclusive services come at a premium cost. Primarily present in large cities, there are fewer options in smaller towns or rural areas. Some locations require a minimum stay of one month.

Best for : 

Digital nomads, professionals on short assignments or travelers who appreciate modern stays.

Price Range :

Monthly rates typically range from ¥100,000 to ¥150,000, translating to approximately ¥3,300 to ¥5,000 per night.

Locations in Tokyo :

  • Kanda East
  • Ueno South
  • Ryogoku
  • Asakusa Kaminarimon
  • Asakusa South
  • Morishita
  • Monzennakacho
  • Waseda Park
  • Higashi-Koenji
  • Kunitachi
  • Shinkamata

Comparison by Traveler Type

To help you choose the perfect option, here’s a quick summary adapted to your needs: 

  • Solo Travelers: Capsule hotels, guesthouses, share houses.
  • Families and Groups: Airbnb, short-term rental apartments such as Weave Living.
  • Business Travelers: Capsule hotels, Weave living.
  • Students: guesthouses and share houses.
  • Cultural Enthusiasts: Ryokans and guesthouses in historical areas.

Best Locations for Short-Term Stay

Where to Stay in Tokyo for Short-Term Stay :

  • Shinjuku: Perfect for nightlife lovers and shopping enthusiasts. Known for its neon lights, entertainment districts, and incredible transport connections.
  • Shibuya: Youthful, vibrant, and trendy. Shibuya is ideal for fashion lovers, café hoppers, and anyone wanting to explore the iconic scramble crossing.
  • Ueno: A budget-friendly option close to cultural sites like Ueno Zoo and museums. Great for families and budget-conscious travelers.
  • Asakusa: Famous for the Senso-ji Temple, this historic area offers affordable guesthouses and a taste of old Tokyo.
  • Akihabara: Perfect for tech lovers and anime enthusiasts, with plenty of capsule hotels and guesthouses nearby.

Where to Stay in Kyoto for Short-Term Stay: 

  • Gion: The famous geisha district, perfect for cultural enthusiasts who want to stay close to traditional tea houses and wooden streets.
  • Arashiyama: A scenic area with beautiful bamboo groves and riverside walks, ideal for relaxation.
  • Higashiyama: Home to Kyoto’s most iconic temples and preserved historical streets. Great for travelers who love sightseeing.
  • Kawaramachi: Kyoto’s bustling downtown area, offers a mix of modern shopping and easy access to historical sites.
  • Fushimi: Known for the stunning Fushimi Inari Taisha and its vibrant red torii gates, this area is peaceful yet accessible.

Where to Stay in Osaka for Short-Term Stay: 

  • Namba: The heart of Osaka’s entertainment scene, filled with street food, neon lights, and shopping streets like Dotonbori.
  • Umeda: A modern business district with shopping malls, great for professionals and luxury travelers.
  • Shinsekai: Known for its retro charm, Tsutenkaku Tower, and affordable accommodations.
  • Tennoji: Budget-friendly with easy access to attractions like Abeno Harukas and the Tennoji Zoo.
  • Osaka Bay Area: Perfect for families visiting Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium.

Where to Stay in Fukuoka for Short-Term Stay: 

  • Hakata: Known for its convenience (Fukuoka’s main train station), Hakata is perfect for business travelers and short-term stays.
  • Nakasu: Famous for its lively food stalls (yatai) along the river, offering an authentic Japanese dining experience.
  • Tenjin: A bustling shopping and entertainment district with affordable guesthouses and hotels.
  • Momochi Seaside Park: Ideal for travelers who want to enjoy a quieter, beachside stay while being close to the city center.

Where to Stay in Sapporo for Short-Term Stay: 

  • Odori Park Area: Central and lively, this area is great for short-term stays during the Sapporo Snow Festival.
  • Susukino: The entertainment district of Sapporo, filled with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
  • Maruyama: A peaceful, green area ideal for travelers who want to relax while still being close to attractions like Maruyama Zoo.

Where to Stay in Nagoya for Short-Term Stay: 

  • Sakae: Nagoya’s downtown hub, perfect for shopping, nightlife, and convenience.
  • Nagoya Station Area: Great for short-term travelers who value easy transport connections.
  • Osu: Known for its historic shopping streets and vibrant local culture, Osu is a charming and budget-friendly option.

Where to Stay in Hiroshima for Short-Term Stay: 

  • Hondori: Hiroshima’s shopping and dining hub, close to the Peace Memorial Park.
  • Miyajima Island: A stunning island just outside Hiroshima, famous for its floating torii gate and beautiful ryokans.
  • Hiroshima Station Area: Ideal for travelers looking for affordable, convenient accommodation near transport hubs.

Where to Stay in Okinawa for Short-Term Stay: 

  • Naha: Okinawa’s capital, great for shopping, dining, and exploring Shuri Castle.
  • Chatan: A beachside town popular with families and tourists, offering a mix of modern resorts and local markets.
  • Ishigaki Island: Perfect for nature lovers, with stunning beaches, diving spots, and peaceful accommodations.

Where to Stay in Yokohama for Short-Term Stay: 

Just a short train ride from Tokyo, Yokohama is a great alternative for those looking for a quieter urban experience.

  • Minato Mirai: A modern waterfront district with stunning views, shopping, and attractions like the Cup Noodles Museum.
  • Chinatown: The largest Chinatown in Japan, famous for its food and cultural charm.
  • Kannai: A budget-friendly area close to Yokohama’s cultural and historical spots.

Realize your dreams to study and live in Japan. Coto School Finder is a trusted study abroad service that helps match you with the right Japanese language school in Japan. Our team will help with your application, document checks and translations for free.

Do Japanese apartments come furnished?

Usually, no. Most apartments are unfurnished, but short-term rentals or serviced apartments might include furniture and Share Houses mostly do.

Is it expensive to stay in Japan?

It depends. Big cities like Tokyo are pricey, but budget options like hostels and capsule hotels make it affordable.

What are the alternatives to hotels in Japan?

You can try hostels, capsule hotels, guesthouses, Airbnb, or traditional ryokans.

Is Airbnb in Japan cheaper than hotels?

Sometimes. Airbnb can be cheaper, especially for groups or longer stays, but it depends on the location and season.

What are cheap accommodation alternatives?

Capsule hotels, hostels, manga cafés, and business hotels are great budget options.

What is the cheapest location in Japan?

Smaller cities like Fukuoka or Sendai are more affordable than Tokyo or Kyoto.

What is a ryokan?

A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn with tatami rooms, futons, and often onsen/sento.

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With so many things to explore, are you considering living in Japan — perhaps to go to university or work? Enrolling at a Japanese language school might be the perfect option for you, as it will prepare you to get to your next goal.

If you are ready, let Coto School Finder assist you in finding the right program in the city of your choice and applying for a student visa — for free! Contact us by filling out the form!

Contact Us to
Get Started

With so many things to explore, are you considering living in Japan — perhaps to go to university or work? Enrolling at a Japanese language school might be the perfect option for you, as it will prepare you to get to your next goal.

If you are ready, let Coto School Finder assist you in finding the right program in the city of your choice and applying for a student visa — for free! Contact us by filling out the form!