Sleep: Tokyo

From cosy capsules to hi-tech hotels

As the Japanese capital prepares to host the 2020 Olympics, the spotlight is on its characterful places to bed down, from reimagined ryokans to high-concept

capsule hotels. Words: Stephanie Cavagnaro

Tiny izakaya pubs, Shinto shrines, kawaii (cute) culture — Japan’s greatest pleasures are all on glorious show in Tokyo. This is a city of distinct neighbourhoods: cosplaycool teenagers descend en masse on Harajuku, Ginza’s flashy shopping attracts Dior divas and Akhibara is the base for outre otaku (fan) culture. The city’s hotels are just as varied as its hoods, too, ranging from bijou boutiques to themed hostels, and no matter where you decide to doze, Tokyo is one of the world’s safest cities, where free smartphones are even included in some rooms. Many rates are per person, rather than per room, so prices can be steep, but stay for less at capsule hotels or budget ryokans (inns). If you’ve got yen to spend, book one of the city’s OTT suites or design dens, safe in the knowledge that wherever you choose to stay, the service and

attention to detail will be world-class.