Book and Bed Tokyo (Shinsaibashi)

On my most recent trip to Japan, I stayed at several capsule hotels, one being Book and Bed in Osaka. This hotel would be a literary lover’s dream, as it is filled with print publications for guest use. Although the majority of its titles are in Japanese, there was a decent-sized selection in English. On the downside, however, there were some things they do differently that I had not expected after having stayed at a couple other capsules. For one, all spaces, including all bathroom facilities, are completely coed (while normally, floors are strictly gender-specific). I didn’t mind terribly except that being more open, there was a little less privacy. The capsules themselves I also found to be a bit smaller, especially the opening, and they didn’t have an air flow system for circulation. Similarly to a hostel, guests also must set up their own bedding and remove it upon departure. Overall, it was definitely a cool place to stay in, and it was a refreshing way to end a busy travel day by browsing their shelves and stretching out on one of their ample loungers.

During my short stay, every night there was an older gentleman who would accidentally fall asleep on the lowest rung. Without fail. It was hilarious.

Date: September 2019