Men's only Capsule Hotel Asahi Plaza Shinsaibashi

It’s basically a hostel, so if you’ve stayed in one before, you know the deal. Cheap, clean-ish, and in a great location. I’ve been here many times and like the place, but objectively it’s a basic three-star stay, not luxury. Most of the staff are nice, the cento is great, and the sauna is amazing. Apparently the cento water comes from Hokkaido. One thing that bugs me is having to hand over the key to all your stuff in exchange for your shoes when you leave. I refused, saying my stuff is mine and I was keeping the key. They complained, and some grumbled, but in the end let me keep it. And don’t buy anything from the vending machine 😂 it’s a complete rip-off, about 60% more than the ones right outside.

Don’t go. There’s no mattress in the capsules, just a very thin layer of foam over hard plastic, and I couldn’t sleep on it. The whole place felt strange and really run down. They make you lock your shoes in a box and hand over the key, so it feels like they’re holding your shoes hostage until checkout. Super creepy.

If all you need is an inexpensive place for a short stay, Capsule Hotel Asahi Plaza may do the job. I found it disappointing if you’re after comfort, modern facilities, or shared spaces with much atmosphere. The hotel seems to have been around for a long time, and the worn, outdated look shows in the interiors and facilities, even though everything still works. The capsules are small as expected, but old-fashioned and sparse. Furniture is plain and strictly functional, and the common rooms and lounges don’t offer much to make you want to linger or socialize. There’s nothing especially appealing or distinctive about the design.

The owner should install CCTV. The theft issue made me feel insecure, and it’s hard to see how guests would want to return if that isn’t addressed. The hotel is in a very good area, so please fix what you can. On my second night, the AC in my capsule wasn’t working, and it was hot and humid inside even though it was cold outdoors. I went to ask about it because I still had six nights ahead of me on my eight-night booking. Ahmed initially tried to help, but couldn’t fix it. He said the AC should be off because many guests complain when the room gets too cold in winter, and he said this with a smile. I was surprised and worried I wouldn’t be able to sleep. With just one yellow lamp, the dark room got even hotter. I asked what they’d do if everyone complained about heat, and Ahmed got annoyed and said I was rude for standing there while he hadn’t given me a solution. I explained patiently that I wasn’t trying to be rude, but his answer wasn’t acceptable and I needed him to understand my position as a guest, since we have a right to complain. He asked me to return to my room while he checked. To my surprise, he came up, opened the door near the corridor, and the whole area felt cool and comfortable afterwards. He apologized for the misunderstanding, said he understood my position, and gave me a bottle of mineral water as a kind gesture. I was really happy with how he handled it. Ahmed, you’re doing good, and I wish you success in life! 😇 I gave four stars because of him. Without that, it would have been three. The building is old but well cared for, and a good option if you’re on a budget.