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The Struggle Called 'Airbnb' in Japan
Recently, many travelers visiting Japan have faced the absurd situation of having their Airbnb bookings canceled - all thanks to the introduction of minpaku or new laws regarding private lodging services.
What is the minpaku law?
Under the new regulations, all short-term rental hosts must apply for government permits before they're allowed to rent out their properties. Homeowners are not allowed to list their properties on platforms like Airbnb without obtaining this permit.
Furthermore, hosts are only allowed to rent out their properties for up to 180 days per year.
What to Do If Your Booking Is Affected?
Photo by Alon on Flickr
Airbnb has officially declared that any bookings made with unlicensed property owners from 15/06 to 19/06/2018 (likely to be extended) will be canceled. If your booking is affected, don't worry. Airbnb will fully refund any canceled bookings with a $10 million fund to compensate affected travelers for finding alternative accommodations.
To apply for reimbursement, you need to submit the following documents to [email protected]:
- Your canceled Airbnb booking invoice
- Invoices for any expenses incurred due to the canceled booking
- Explanations of these expenses
If you need advice or assistance, contact Airbnb via email 24/7 at [email protected] or to learn more about the reimbursement process, visit Airbnb's official Airbnb Japan support page.
Will Airbnb Still Exist in Japan?
Certainly! Airbnb has announced plans for its new Airbnb Plus service for 'high-standard' homes in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. The company is also planning to assist existing hosts in registering their properties, managing operations, and providing high-quality images.
However, at present, bookings on Airbnb are still in a canceled state.
So where can you stay?
Besides Airbnb, Japan offers many other 'exciting' options for you. Here are some unique hotels that will surely provide you with unforgettable experiences!
Capsule Hotels
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
Although compact, these capsules are fully equipped with sockets, lights, and curtains ensuring privacy. Most hotels also have separate areas for both men and women.
In addition to standard amenities, capsule hotels also offer luggage storage and common areas for dining at Family Mart or 7-11. Some luxury hotels even have private onsen baths. Despite these added perks, prices are quite affordable, starting at just $30 (= approximately 3,330 JPY) per night.
Here are some capsule hotels recommended by Klook:
- First Cabin (Tsukiji, Tokyo)
Luxury Class
Business Class
Image Source: HotelsCombined
First Cabin lives up to its name, with rooms designed to resemble airplane cabins! If you're looking for luxury, try the premium class with spacious, comfortable accommodations. However, the business class rooms are also quite decent so you might consider those too. Breakfast is served daily, and the hotel even has a bar on-site.
Located in the Tsukiji district of Tokyo, very close to the famous Tsukiji market.
First Cabin Tsukiji (Tokyo)
Price: From USD 32 (= JPY 3,550) per night
Address: Tsukiji 2-11-10, Chuo, Tokyo, Japan
Learn more about First Cabin Tsukiji at the official website.
- Asahi Plaza Shinsaibashi (Osaka)
Image Source: HotelsCombined
Asahi Plaza is one of the most convenient capsule hotels in Osaka. The hotel is located near shopping districts like Dotonburi and Shinsaibashi. Other perks include highly-rated on-site dining options and FREE access to the spa!
Capsule Hotel Asahi Plaza Shinsaibashi (Osaka)
Price: Starting from USD 21 (= JPY 2,330) per night
Address: 2-12-22, Nishishinsaibashi, Chuo, Osaka, Japan
Themed Hotels
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nobody does themed services better than Japan! It's no surprise that there are plenty of themed hotels here, ensuring you unique experiences.
Here are some suggestions from Klook:
- Book and Bed Tokyo (Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, Asakusa, Kyoto, Fukuoka)
Photo by The Travel Intern
The first themed hotel on this list might look quite similar to capsule hotels, with sleeping pods tucked neatly within bookshelves!
While Ikebukuro was the first location to open, the chain has now expanded to Asakusa, Shinjuku, Kyoto, and Fukuoka. Klook suggests choosing Ikebukuro because of its proximity to Japan's largest Pokemon Center and the 24-hour Isomaru Suisan seafood bar with sashimi and beer!
Book and Bed Tokyo Ikebukuro
Price: Starting from USD 43 (= JPY 4,760) per night
Address: Lumiere Building 7F, 1-17-7, Nishi Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku Tokyo, Japan 171-0021
Learn more about Book and Bed Tokyo at official website.
- Keio Plaza Hotel (Tokyo)
Photo by HotelsCombined
Keio Hotel Tokyo offers two themed Hello Kitty rooms – Kitty Town Room and Princess Kitty Room. Both rooms are filled with Hello Kitty decorations, including large-sized toys, kettles, carpets, and walls adorned with these adorable felines.
And if you're a hardcore fan of this feline, Klook for tickets to Sanrio Puroland to experience it firsthand! Everything is very convenient as you only need to present the e-voucher on your phone to check in. Hello Kitty enthusiasts can also enjoy the special event 'Puro-Easter' to celebrate Easter by hunting for Easter Bunny and Easter Eggs in the park (from 18/03 – 27/06/2018)!
Keio Plaza Hotel (Tokyo)
Price: Starting from USD 230 (= JPY 25,455) per night
Address: 2-2-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
Find out more about Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo at official website.
Traditional Inns (Ryokans)
Photo by Wikimedia Commons
Staying at a traditional inn is a fantastic way to experience Japan's cultural heritage. While most of these inns are located quite far from the city, they are definitely a place for you to relax and escape the bustling urban life for a while.
Here are some traditional inns in Japan recommended by Klook:
- Seikou Ryokan (Tokyo)
Photo by Wikimedia Commons
Just a few minutes from Shinjuku by train, Seikou Ryokan was built in 1930 and is considered a 'Tangible Cultural Property' of Japan, so don't miss out on staying here when you visit Japan! It's also very convenient as it's located in Tokyo's 'Ramen Town' so you can indulge in all of Japan's delicious dishes!
Seikou Honkan
Price: Starting from USD 55 (= JPY 6000) per night
Address: 3-38-9 Ogikubo Suginami-ku Tokyo Japan
Learn more about Ryokan Seikou at official website.
2. Andon Ryokan (Tokyo)
Photo by HotelsCombined
Andon Ryokan is one of Tokyo's 'upgraded' traditional inns featuring beautiful bicycle rentals, a coffee bar, and free WiFi. The inn even comes with DVD players and private bathrooms for your comfort!
If you're up for exploration, head straight to Tokyo Skytree Tower – one of the city's iconic landmarks and just a few minutes' drive from the inn.
Andon Ryokan
Price: Starting from USD 62 (= JPY 6,820) per night
Address: 2-34-10 Nihonzutsumi , Taito, Tokyo, Japan
Learn more about Andon Ryokan at official website.
Summer is calling #teamJapanBound!
When traveling in Japan, don't forget to bring along WiFi to support your journey and enjoy some 'Instagrammable' moments. And if you're into exploration, make sure to grab a Tokyo Metro Pass for a convenient and speedy way to navigate around!
For a more enjoyable and hassle-free Japan trip, here are some handy tips from Klook:
