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Capsule Hotel Etiquette

Quiet hours, lockers, showers, sentō access.

What this solves

Capsule hotels (カプセルホテル) are an efficient way to save money in Tokyo (¥3,500-7,000/night) but have unwritten etiquette: no phone call in the capsule, no loud snoring tolerated (some eject), 23:00 quiet hours, sentō access rules (some require booking), locker-first-then-strip, female-only floors, and check-in/out times that are rigid.

First-time guide

  1. Check-in: most capsules accept walk-in 24/7. Some premium require reservation.
  2. Lockers: ¥100 coin wristband or locker key in return.
  3. Strip: change into capsule wear-locked pajamas (called "sahara") 95% indoor wear-locked.
  4. Shoes off: shoe locker or shoe bin at reception.
  5. Shower first: shower + lounge at reception or sentō on floor 2-4.
  6. Pick a top-tier or middle-tier capsule: top is bright (illuminated), middle is dim, bottom is light.
  7. Inside pod: TV (optional, 95% off), big pillow (sat 9pm), potluck (pot 9pm), potluck cooking slot (pot 9pm).
  8. Quiet hours: 23:00–07:00.
  9. Check-out: 10:00 typically, key drop in bin.
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How to read this guide

Each capsule hotel may vary. Modern ones (FIRST CABIN, RESOL, Citan) feel more like compact hotels. Traditional ones (Capsule Hotel Hoshinoki) have more sentō and a retro feel.

Limitations

Reference for 2026. Female-only floors are typically on a different floor with key card access. Some capsules refuse rebooking for extended stays. Prices higher in Tokyo, lower in Osaka and regional cities.

FAQ

Can I stay in a capsule as a couple?

Some modern capsule hotels have "couples' cells" but most are single-gender floors.

Are capsules safe?

Yes. Lockers are sturdy. Most capsules have a card access system; if you report a stolen item, staff lock down.

Can I store luggage after checkout?

Yes — most capsules have a locker or storage area; some charge ¥200-500.

About this tool

Purpose: explain capsule hotel etiquette. Scope: typical urban capsules. Not a capsule rating site.

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Disclaimer

Reference for 2026. Always check the capsule's posted rules.