Backpacking Japan: Sleeping in Internet Cafes

Japan is an expensive country for most. Prices vary greatly, and deals can be found everywhere, but as a whole, it is quite expensive to spend a long period of time in the country. If you're planning on staying for a longer duration than most 14 day tourist, you're likely looking for hotel alternatives. Renting an apartment for a couple of months isn't an option, as apartments are extremely expensive in Tokyo. Hostels are okay, but you're stuck using dorms if you're moving around the country, versus staying in a stationary location. The only other options are couch surfing, capsule hotels, and Internet cafes. Couch surfing isn't an option for many people, as they aren't comfortable living in a strangers home. Capsule hotels are generally limited to men only, and can cost as much as $50 a night, far from being 'cheap'. That leaves Internet cafes. Internet cafes are becoming increasingly popular amongst the Japanese population as cheap places to spend the night. While it makes an unfortunate home for those who live in Japan and can't afford permanent homes, it makes a very nice temporary accommodation for travelers and backpackers.

Cost

The cost of staying in an Internet cafe is second in price only to free accommodation, like the street curb. Most cost something like $0.35 - $0.50 an hour if you stay all night. Some cost more, but the ones that invite over-nighters have a special price for a minimum number of nightly hours.

Features

The 'room' is a small cubicle with a magazine rack, computer, and TV. Sometimes, there's a gaming console, such as a PS2. You can usually get unlimited soda drinks, and have a huge array of games, novels, magazines, or other media to enjoy.

In the cubicle is usually a fake leather recliner with vibration and warmer seats. Some cafes, particularly the ones that cater to overnighters, have coin showers and lockers for your convenience.

Availability