Nearly half a century of experience with capsule hotels is now being completely reimagined. Surprisingly, the primary factor influencing travelers’ choice of this temporary accommodation is not its modest price; in fact, in some cases, it can be quite steep. What truly attracts adventurers to these smart little rooms is the chance to experience a grand adventure in an unconventional, often exotic environment.
The world’s first capsule hotel was established in Osaka, Japan, in 1979. It resembled, forgive the comparison, a morgue with neatly arranged sleeping capsules. This standard of lodging was primarily favored by businesspeople who worked late and lacked the energy to get home. After a night’s rest in a capsule, they would return to the office.
Over time, this type of temporary accommodation also appealed to tourists. They were intrigued by the concept of affordable (though somewhat pricier than a hostel) lodging in an unusually compact space equipped with all the technological conveniences. It offered a comfortable and safe stay.
Thanks to discerning travelers, capsule hotels have recently undergone a significant transformation. They are popping up in the most unexpected places around the globe, taking on fresh forms and adding new features. Experts predict that by 2031, we will see entirely unexpected variations on the theme of capsule shelters. Likely, these new hybrid hotels will be even cooler than the five examples of charming compact rooms featured by the BBC.
Nine Hours Sleep Lab, Japan
Nine Hours, a chain of 13 hotels across Japan (from Fukuoka in the west to the northeastern island of Hokkaido), collects data on its guests’ sleep. Surprisingly, guests don’t mind this intrusion into their privacy. They are equipped with sensors that monitor everything from breathing to facial expressions, track heart rates, detect apnea, and even control snoring. The hotel’s name reflects its concept: visitors rent a room for an optimal nine hours—seven for sleep, plus one hour at the beginning and end of their stay for washing up and getting dressed. Those who wish to stay longer can pay for each additional hour.
Relaxation at Skylodge on a Steep Cliff, Peru
Spending a night in a transparent sleeping capsule precariously attached to a cliff above the Sacred Valley in Peru is hardly associated with relaxation for the average person. However, for thrill-seekers, it’s an unparalleled getaway. Just imagine the breathtaking 300-degree panoramas of the surrounding mountains!
The only way to reach your bed at Skylodge Adventure Suites is a nearly vertical climb of 400 meters. But, as the founders of the capsule hotel assure, rock climbing experience is not a prerequisite. Meanwhile, the descent is quicker thanks to a series of zip lines.
When the sun rises over the valley, guests can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee on what could be called a terrace. Now that’s true luxury.
Oasis in the Tatacoa Desert, Colombia
La Tatacoa Hotel is named after Colombia’s second-largest desert, where it is located. Guests can look forward to 37 capsules made from concrete sewer pipes and painted in caramel colors. Despite their seemingly miniature size, the rooms have enough space for a double bed and air conditioning. There’s also a swimming pool, a shady garden, a bar, and a restaurant.
Free Spirit Spheres, Canada
Suspended among the coniferous trees like giant Christmas ornaments, the sphere rooms at Free Spirit Hotel create a “feeling of flying among sleeping birds.” This is how the owner, Tom Chadli, describes the experience, having launched the first sphere on Vancouver Island 25 years ago. His motivation was to promote ecotourism and preserve Canada’s ancient forests.
The design of each of the three spheres is based on the principle of biomimicry; the room resembles a giant seed pod or nut shell—light yet sturdy. The Eryn sphere, made from Sitka spruce, features a dining area, a sink, and a double bed. Meanwhile, the newer Melody and Luna spheres are made from fiberglass. Their full-sized double beds can be folded away during the day to create more space. Guests access the rooms via spiral staircases that wind around the trees.
Hyper-Functional Resol Poshtel in Tokyo, Japan
Resol Poshtel in Tokyo’s Asakusa district is the first project of the Resol Hotel chain dedicated to capsule sleeping. Rumor has it that the rooms are infused with the scents of orange, chamomile, and neroli, helping guests sink into a gentle tranquility. The capsules are separated only by curtains. However, the hotel owners assure that few one-star establishments in the world can match the cleanliness and functionality of Resol Poshtel.
The oldest Buddhist temple in the city is just a five-minute walk away, as is the lantern-lined Nakamise Street, which is dotted with numerous shops offering souvenirs and street food.