What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

For budget-conscious travellers, exploring free attractions is a great option. Many temples and shrines, such as Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari-taisha in Kyoto, are free to enter. Wandering through beautiful parks like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (though there's an entrance fee) or strolling along the Philosopher's Path in Kyoto offers stunning scenery without breaking the bank. Free walking tours in major cities are also a fantastic way to discover hidden gems and learn about local history. Remember to factor in the cost of public transport, which is efficient and relatively inexpensive.

What are the best hostels in Japan?

Among the hostels in Japan, Maisan-chi Pod-style 4 Bunk Bed Mixed Dormitory , Couch Potato Hostel and Hakonehostel1914 are the most popular ones.

Which airports handle most of the air traffic to and from Japan?

Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo handle the vast majority of international flights. Kansai International Airport (KIX) near Osaka is another significant hub, particularly for flights within Asia.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Japan?

Sakura Guest House , Guest House Kyoto Inn and Sakura Hostel Asakusa are the best hostels with a pool in Japan.

What currency is needed in Japan?

The Japanese yen (JPY) is the currency used in Japan.

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Japan?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Japan are Piece Hostel Kyoto , Guest House Kura and Piece Hostel Sanjo .

How easy is it to navigate the roads in Japan?

Driving in Japan can be challenging for visitors unfamiliar with Japanese driving customs and signage, which are predominantly in Japanese. Public transport, however, is incredibly efficient and extensive, making it the preferred method of travel for most visitors. The extensive and punctual train network, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), connects most major cities and towns.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Japan?

The best hostels for families and kids in Japan are Couch Potato Hostel , Hostel Sui Kyoto and Grapehouse Koenji .

How can travellers best respect local customs while in Japan?

Respectful behaviour is highly valued in Japanese culture. Bowing is a common greeting, and removing your shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants is crucial. Public displays of affection are generally understated. Being mindful of noise levels on public transport and in public spaces is important. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases like 'sumimasen' (excuse me) and 'arigato' (thank you) is always appreciated.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Japan?

The best pet friendly hostels in Japan are Grapehouse Koenji , Imano Osaka Shinsaibashi Hostel - Vacation Stay 27589v and The Otaornai Backpacker's Hostel Morinoki .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Japan?

Many festivals celebrate different aspects of Japanese culture. The Sanja Matsuri in Tokyo, a vibrant three-day festival with portable shrines, is a spectacular event. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, one of Japan's most famous festivals, features elaborate floats and processions. The Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori features giant, illuminated floats depicting historical figures and mythical creatures. These are just a few examples, and many regional festivals offer unique cultural experiences.

What are the best hostels with parking in Japan?

Maisan-chi Pod-style 4 Bunk Bed Mixed Dormitory , Couch Potato Hostel and Hakonehostel1914 are the best hostels with parking in Japan.

What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Japan?

For medical emergencies, dial 119. For police or fire emergencies, dial 110. Many hotels and tourist information centres can also provide assistance and contact numbers for local services.

What are the best areas to spend a week in Japan?

A week allows for exploring multiple regions. A popular itinerary might include Tokyo (3 days) for its modern and traditional aspects, Kyoto (3 days) for its ancient temples and gardens, and then Osaka (1 day) for its vibrant street food and entertainment, with perhaps a day trip to Nara to see the friendly wild deer in Nara Park.

What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Japan?

For a short trip, focusing on one area is best. Tokyo offers a diverse range of experiences, from the trendy Harajuku district to the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine. Alternatively, Kyoto provides a more traditional experience with its numerous temples, gardens, and geisha districts. Osaka is another great choice, offering a blend of modern and traditional culture.

Are there specific regions in Japan known for great weather?

Japan experiences diverse climates. The southern islands of Kyushu and Okinawa generally have warmer, subtropical weather year-round. Areas like the Japanese Alps offer stunning scenery but experience colder temperatures, especially in winter. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant throughout much of the country.

Japan Hostels at the Best Price

9.1 1856 reviews

Onomichi Guest House Miharashi-tei

hostel, Onomichi

Onomichi Guest House Miharashi-tei is located in the historic district of Onomichi, just 100 metres from Senkoji Temple, one of the city's most famous landmarks. This guesthouse has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall user experience.
The guesthouse offers a single bedroom and a shared bathroom with a bath or shower. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the terrace, prepare meals in the shared kitchen and relax in the bar.

8.0 1739 reviews

Hotel Plus Hostel Tokyo Asakusa 2

hostel, Tokyo

Hotel Plus Hostel Tokyo Asakusa 2 is situated in Tokyo's Asakusa district, near Asakusa Station and within walking distance of landmarks such as Hozomon Gate, Nitenmon Gate, and the Great Tokyo Air Raid Memorial Monument.
This budget accommodation offers family rooms, free WiFi, and a shared lounge, located 22.5 kilometres from Tokyo Haneda Airport.

8.8 400 reviews

Cafe & Hostel Kimi To Ichigo

hostel, Osaka City

Cafe & Hostel Kimi To Ichigo enjoys a prime location in Osaka's Minami district, steps from Namba Walk shopping mall, Osaka Minami Move On Arena, and Yoshimoto Mugendai Hall, with Kuromon Market and Nippombashi Station (both within 0.4km).
This guesthouse offers guests free Wi-Fi, a common area with kitchen facilities (fridge, microwave, dishwasher), laundry facilities, and tour/ticket assistance, alongside an on-site restaurant and bar.

8.9 2385 reviews

Greenwood Hostel

hostel, Izumisano Shi

Greenwood Hostel is located in Izumi-Sano, just 3.2 kilometres from Rinku Pleasure Town Seacle Shopping Centre and 4.2 kilometres from Naka Family Residence. The hostel enjoys an excellent rating for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen, allowing guests to prepare their own meals, and features a shared lounge area for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can also benefit from air-conditioned rooms, daily room service, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking.

8.2 1139 reviews

Picnic Hostel Osaka

hostel, Osaka City

Picnic Hostel Osaka is situated in Minamihorie, a short walk from the lively Minami area and a 12-minute stroll from JR Namba Station, providing easy access to Osaka's main attractions. The hostel has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel features a shared kitchen, ideal for preparing meals and interacting with other guests. It also offers free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, parking, and comfortable amenities such as slippers and a hairdryer, ensuring a pleasant stay.

8.8 459 reviews

Korega ! Hostel Osaka Namba

hostel, Osaka City

Korega! Hostel Osaka Namba is situated in Osaka's Shinsaibashi, Namba, and Yotsubashi district, a 0.12km walk from Namba Station and within a 0.9km radius of the Glico Running Man sign and Nipponbashi Park.
This single-bedroom lodging offers air conditioning, a terrace, and safety deposit boxes, with easy access to numerous temples including Koden-ji Temple and Manpuku-ji Temple.

9.2 5317 reviews

J-hoppers Kumano Yunomine Guesthouse

hostel, Tanabe-shi

J-Hoppers Kumano Yunomine Guest house is situated in Hongu, a 10-minute drive or 70-minute walk from Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a 5-minute walk from Yunomine Hot Spring. The guesthouse benefits from excellent user, location and cleanliness ratings.
The guesthouse has one bedroom and one bathroom. Guests can enjoy the on-site hot spring baths, a terrace, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, and a kitchen equipped with a fridge and microwave. There is also parking available.

9.1 1412 reviews

Drop Inn Tottori

hostel, Tottori-shi

Drop Inn Tottori, located a short walk from Tottori Station and bus terminal, offers convenient access to the city centre and is approximately 15 minutes' drive from the Tottori Sand Dunes.
This budget-friendly lodging features single rooms with a 2 square metre floor area, including amenities such as a fridge, microwave, and on-site laundry facilities, plus a cafe serving meals and drinks.

8.5 806 reviews

Beppu Rojiura Stay&sauna

hostel, Beppu Shi

Guest House Rojiura - Hostel is conveniently located in central Beppu, just a two-minute walk from Beppu Station and within a 10-minute walk of Kaimonji Onsen and Takegawara Onsen. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel offers a shared bathroom, but comes with a kitchen, a terrace, a fitness centre and free parking. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, use of bicycles, and access to a vending machine for snacks and drinks.

9.1 151 reviews

Kappa Backpackers

hostel, Shimanto-chō

Kappa Backpackers is located in Shimanto-chō, a short drive from the Kaiyodo Hobby Museum Shimanto and Monjudo Temple, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty. The guesthouse has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall guest experience.
The accommodation features a shared kitchen and terrace, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, private parking and luggage storage, making it a convenient and affordable choice for exploring the region.

8.6 1063 reviews

Guesthouse Yululu

hostel, Kyōto

Guesthouse Yululu, a Kyoto guesthouse, enjoys a central location, a 5-minute walk from the Kyoto International Manga Museum and within 2.4km of Nijo Castle and Shoren-in Temple.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom lodging offers air conditioning, a terrace, garden access, a bar, fitness centre, and free Wi-Fi; bicycle rental is available for exploring the city.

9.1 1132 reviews

Feel Osaka Yu

hostel, Osaka City

Feel Osaka Yu is a 2-star guesthouse situated in the Shinsaibashi district, a minute's walk from Shinsaibashi Station and a short walk from America Village. It has consistently received excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The guesthouse offers shared kitchen facilities, allowing guests to prepare their own meals, and features a microwave in every room. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the guesthouse and benefit from the shared bathroom equipped with free toiletries.

Best Japan hostels with breakfast included

Among the 11239 accommodations in Japan, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast included

9.1 5 reviews

Uchiko-inn Kura

hotel, Uchiko

Uchiko-inn Kura is a 3-star hotel located in the central district of Uchiko, offering city views from its rooms and convenient access to local attractions.
This pet-friendly inn provides complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a restaurant, shared kitchen facilities, and a massage room for guest convenience.

9.0 1396 reviews

Gora Kansuiro

ryokan, Hakone-machi

Gora Kansuiro is located in the Gora district of Hakone, 8.4 kilometres from Hakone-Yumoto Station, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This ryokan has received very good user ratings, excellent location ratings, and very good cleanliness ratings.
The accommodation features a private open-air bath, a hot spring bath, a public bath, a garden, and family rooms. Guests can enjoy a relaxing soak in the on-site hot springs, take a leisurely stroll through the serene garden, and start their day with a delicious Asian breakfast.

No reviews

Auberge - A Ma Façon -

hostel, Kokonoe Machi

Auberge - A Ma Façon - is a 3-star hotel in Kokonoe, conveniently located within 15km of Higotai Park, Kuju Flower Park, and Mount Kuzumi, and within 20km of Kuju Natural Zoo and the Kokonoe Yume Otsurihashi suspension bridge.
This pet-friendly establishment offers rooms for two guests, boasting a spa, restaurant, room service, and free parking, all within easy reach of Kokonoe's key attractions.

9.0 169 reviews

お宿イレブン

hostel, Yoshinogawa Shi

This Yoshinogawa Shi apartment is conveniently located approximately 29 kilometres from Tokushima Awaodori Airport.
The 80-square-metre self-catering flat features one bedroom, two bathrooms, free parking, and Wi-Fi, accommodating one guest and offering a terrace and a flat-screen TV.

Top cities

Best Japan hostels with a locker

8.7 290 reviews

Hostel198

hostel, Osaka City

Hostel198 in Osaka City is conveniently located near Nakagawa Park, a 9-minute walk away, and within 1.8km of several temples including Myoren-ji Temple and within easy reach of Miyuki-dori Shopping Street.
This single-bedroom guesthouse offers air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a shared bathroom with shower and hairdryer, and a desk; guests can explore nearby attractions such as Osaka Seiwa Church and Miyuki-no-Mori Tenjin-gu Shrine.

8.6 3902 reviews

Hostel Casa Noda

hostel, Nagasaki-shi

Hostel Casa Noda is located in the Goto-machi district of Nagasaki-shi, a 1-minute walk from the Goto-machi tram stop and a 10-minute walk from JR Nagasaki Station, offering easy access to the city’s attractions. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, as well as excellent ratings for its location.
The hostel offers a choice of private rooms with en-suite bathrooms or shared dormitory rooms with bunk beds. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of Nagasaki from the rooftop terrace and relax in the garden, with amenities such as a kitchen, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi available.

8.1 1505 reviews

Haruya Naramachi

hostel, Nara-shi

Haruya Naramachi offers accommodation in Nara-shi's historic Naramachi district, a 15-minute walk from Kofuku-ji and a 30-minute walk from Todaiji Temple and Nara Park.
This traditional Japanese townhouse provides air-conditioned rooms, free WiFi, a shared kitchen, and bike hire for exploring the area.

8.8 1629 reviews

Torii-kuguru

hostel, Okayama Shi

Torii-Kuguru is a charming guesthouse situated a short walk from Okayama Station, making it easy to explore the city's attractions, including Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden, both a short drive away. The property has consistently received high ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
This comfortable guesthouse offers a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for meeting other travellers, and features traditional Japanese futon beds. Guests can enjoy the garden, relax in the bar, or take advantage of the free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and bicycle rentals.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Japan

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget-conscious travellers, exploring free attractions is a great option. Many temples and shrines, such as Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari-taisha in Kyoto, are free to enter. Wandering through beautiful parks like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (though there's an entrance fee) or strolling along the Philosopher's Path in Kyoto offers stunning scenery without breaking the bank. Free walking tours in major cities are also a fantastic way to discover hidden gems and learn about local history. Remember to factor in the cost of public transport, which is efficient and relatively inexpensive.
What are the best hostels in Japan?
Among the hostels in Japan, Maisan-chi Pod-style 4 Bunk Bed Mixed Dormitory, Couch Potato Hostel and Hakonehostel1914 are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the air traffic to and from Japan?
Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo handle the vast majority of international flights. Kansai International Airport (KIX) near Osaka is another significant hub, particularly for flights within Asia.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Japan?
Sakura Guest House, Guest House Kyoto Inn and Sakura Hostel Asakusa are the best hostels with a pool in Japan.
What currency is needed in Japan?
The Japanese yen (JPY) is the currency used in Japan.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Japan?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Japan are Piece Hostel Kyoto, Guest House Kura and Piece Hostel Sanjo.
How easy is it to navigate the roads in Japan?
Driving in Japan can be challenging for visitors unfamiliar with Japanese driving customs and signage, which are predominantly in Japanese. Public transport, however, is incredibly efficient and extensive, making it the preferred method of travel for most visitors. The extensive and punctual train network, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), connects most major cities and towns.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Japan?
The best hostels for families and kids in Japan are Couch Potato Hostel, Hostel Sui Kyoto and Grapehouse Koenji.
How can travellers best respect local customs while in Japan?
Respectful behaviour is highly valued in Japanese culture. Bowing is a common greeting, and removing your shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants is crucial. Public displays of affection are generally understated. Being mindful of noise levels on public transport and in public spaces is important. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases like 'sumimasen' (excuse me) and 'arigato' (thank you) is always appreciated.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Japan?
The best pet friendly hostels in Japan are Grapehouse Koenji, Imano Osaka Shinsaibashi Hostel - Vacation Stay 27589v and The Otaornai Backpacker's Hostel Morinoki.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of Japan?
Many festivals celebrate different aspects of Japanese culture. The Sanja Matsuri in Tokyo, a vibrant three-day festival with portable shrines, is a spectacular event. The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, one of Japan's most famous festivals, features elaborate floats and processions. The Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori features giant, illuminated floats depicting historical figures and mythical creatures. These are just a few examples, and many regional festivals offer unique cultural experiences.
What are the best hostels with parking in Japan?
Maisan-chi Pod-style 4 Bunk Bed Mixed Dormitory, Couch Potato Hostel and Hakonehostel1914 are the best hostels with parking in Japan.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns in Japan?
For medical emergencies, dial 119. For police or fire emergencies, dial 110. Many hotels and tourist information centres can also provide assistance and contact numbers for local services.
What are the best areas to spend a week in Japan?
A week allows for exploring multiple regions. A popular itinerary might include Tokyo (3 days) for its modern and traditional aspects, Kyoto (3 days) for its ancient temples and gardens, and then Osaka (1 day) for its vibrant street food and entertainment, with perhaps a day trip to Nara to see the friendly wild deer in Nara Park.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend in Japan?
For a short trip, focusing on one area is best. Tokyo offers a diverse range of experiences, from the trendy Harajuku district to the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine. Alternatively, Kyoto provides a more traditional experience with its numerous temples, gardens, and geisha districts. Osaka is another great choice, offering a blend of modern and traditional culture.
Are there specific regions in Japan known for great weather?
Japan experiences diverse climates. The southern islands of Kyushu and Okinawa generally have warmer, subtropical weather year-round. Areas like the Japanese Alps offer stunning scenery but experience colder temperatures, especially in winter. Spring and autumn are generally pleasant throughout much of the country.

Top regions Japan

Best Japan hostels with air conditioning

9.8 27461 reviews

松石四条烏丸ホステル、日式輕奢公寓 301

apartment, Kyōto

The Matsuishi Shijo Karasuma Hostel is located in Kyoto's Shimogyo Ward, just a short walk from Shijo Street and Nishiki Market, offering easy access to the city's bustling centre. This 3-star hostel has received excellent user ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel features a single bedroom and bathroom, perfect for solo travellers or couples. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a terrace, garden, and jacuzzi, as well as free Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.

8.1 1752 reviews

Riverside Hostel Chillax Namba

hostel, Osaka City

Hostel Chillax is located in Osaka, just a 13-kilometre drive from Itami Airport, and within easy reach of Manpuku-ji Temple and Orange Street.
The hostel offers a range of amenities including a shared kitchen, a bar and a fitness centre, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for a social experience in Osaka.

9.4 354 reviews

Guest House Tokonoma

hostel, Kamijima Chō

Guest House Tokonoma is situated in Shimo-yuge, a district in Kamijima Chō, approximately 72 kilometres from Hiroshima Airport. The establishment has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall user experience.
The guesthouse features a shared kitchen and lounge, perfect for socialising and preparing meals. Guests can also enjoy the garden, relax in air-conditioned rooms, and benefit from amenities such as free WiFi, electric teapots, and a shared bathroom with a bidet.

9.4 113 reviews

Guest House Hiroshima Mange Tak

hostel, Hiroshima City

Guest House Hiroshima Mange Tak is conveniently located in central Hiroshima City, just a short walk from the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome. This hostel has consistently received excellent ratings from guests, highlighting its friendly atmosphere and unique Japanese-style rooms.
The guesthouse offers a comfortable and social environment, with a cafe bar providing a space to relax and meet fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy traditional Japanese-style accommodation, a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, air conditioning, parking, and flexible payment options.

Best Japan hostels with laundry available

9.0 1895 reviews

Omotenashi Hostel Miyajima

hostel, Hatsukaichi-shi

Omotenashi Hostel Miyajima is located in Hatsukaichi-shi, just a short distance from the famous Miyajima Island and Hiroshima City. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel offers a shared kitchen, a terrace, a garden, and a restaurant. Guests can also enjoy the fitness centre, the bar and the concierge service.

9.9 32 reviews

あらゆる国境を超えて集える場所を、ダブルベッドルーム

hostel, Toyohashi

This establishment in Toyohashi, formerly a clothing alteration shop, is located a short walk from the city's shopping arcade and public transport, offering a unique historical setting.
The hostel provides private Japanese-style rooms for two guests, featuring double mattresses, complimentary toiletries, towels, and loungewear, alongside a communal kitchen equipped with a fridge, freezer, and microwave, and is available under the offer name "あらゆる国境を超えて集える場所を、ダブルベッドルーム".

8.8 8631 reviews

Kyoto Hana Hostel

hostel, Kyōto

Kyoto Hana Hostel enjoys a prime location near Kyoto Station, a short 0.8km walk from both Kyoto Tower and Higashi Hongan-ji Temple, offering easy access to public transport and major attractions.
This budget-friendly guesthouse features a communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a fitness centre, alongside a single bedroom and convenient amenities such as a nearby supermarket and luggage storage.

10 2 reviews

Yakushima South Village / Mixed Shared Room

hostel, Yakushima-chō

Yakushima South Village’s Yakushima South Village Shared Room (mixed) lodging is situated in a secluded location in Yakushima South Village, a distance from the main port with infrequent bus services; car rental is recommended.
This log cabin-style hostel offers shared western-style rooms with bunk beds (private rooms available for an extra JPY1000), a shared kitchen, three bathrooms, and caters to a single guest; amenities include a TV room and small library.

Hostels in Japan

11239 Hostels in Japan

Onomichi Guest House Miharashi-tei

Hotel Plus Hostel Tokyo Asakusa 2

Cafe & Hostel Kimi To Ichigo

Greenwood Hostel

Picnic Hostel Osaka

Korega ! Hostel Osaka Namba

J-hoppers Kumano Yunomine Guesthouse

Drop Inn Tottori

Beppu Rojiura Stay&sauna

Kappa Backpackers

Guesthouse Yululu

Feel Osaka Yu

Best Japan hostels with breakfast included

Uchiko-inn Kura

Gora Kansuiro

Auberge - A Ma Façon -

お宿イレブン

Top cities

Best Japan hostels with a locker

Hostel198

Hostel Casa Noda

Haruya Naramachi

Torii-kuguru

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Japan

Top regions Japan

Best Japan hostels with air conditioning

松石四条烏丸ホステル、日式輕奢公寓 301

Riverside Hostel Chillax Namba

Guest House Tokonoma

Guest House Hiroshima Mange Tak

Best Japan hostels with laundry available

Omotenashi Hostel Miyajima

あらゆる国境を超えて集える場所を、ダブルベッドルーム

Kyoto Hana Hostel

Yakushima South Village / Mixed Shared Room