So, you’re heading to Japan? First off: huge win for you. Secondly: I am officially, deeply jealous.
Japan is one of those rare places that actually lives up to its name of being utterly surreal. It’s a total fever dream of ancient history, massive natural landscapes, and a culture that feels like it’s operating on a completely different frequency than the rest of the planet. It’s on every traveler’s bucket list for a reason – it’s genuinely one of the most unique corners of the world.
Whether you’re hunting for volcanic wonders like Mt. Fuji or losing yourself in the neon-soaked, futuristic labyrinth of Tokyo, this country has almost too much to explore. And don’t even get me started on the food; you’re about to have the best meals of your life in places you didn’t even know existed.
If you’re staring at a map trying to figure out where to actually plant your flag, don’t sweat it. I’ve broken down the top spots to stay and what the “real” Japan experience actually looks like on the ground.
Stick around, friends – let’s dive into it.
Photo: @audyscala
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Japan Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Japan
Kyoto
Kyoto is the historical and cultural center of Japan. It is where you will find most of the most famous sites in all of Japan.
Nara
Nara is the best city to stay in Japan when you’re traveling with your family. Nara is known for its deer park, where domesticated deer nuzzle you and eat treats from your hands.
Hakone
Hakone is best described as a spa getaway town that sits on an absolutely stunning lake. You will enjoy plentiful romantic vibes and even views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Tokyo
The city where you can do absolutely anything and everything. Tokyo is home to restaurants where you can dance with cyborgs or you can hang out with animals at pet cafes.
Kamakura
This seaside Japanese city is actually just a bit south of Tokyo. You can do it as a day trip from Tokyo but it’s better to spend some quality time there to soak up the peaceful vibes and to save some bucks!
Miyajima
It feels like you could practically visit anywhere in Japan and find unique things to do and see. We’ve already talked about cyborg dancing in Tokyo, but what about the Zao Fox Village at the base of Mt. Zao? Or even the cat island at Tashirojima?
Hokkaido
If you want an adventure in Japan, then check out Hokkaido – it really stole my heart and I think it will do the same for you too.
Fuji Five Lakes
Fuji Five Lakes is actually a region at the base of Mount Fuji itself. There are, surprise surprise, five lakes: Shoji, Yamanaka, Motosu, Kawaguchi, and Saiko.
Map of Where to Stay in Japan
1. Kyoto – Overall Best Place to Stay in Japan
Kyoto is the historical and cultural center of Japan. It is where you will find most of the most famous sites in all of Japan. A trip to Japan isn’t complete without wandering around the famous sites of Kyoto and checking these fabulous sites off your bucket list. And you’ll find everything from Kyoto hostels to fancy hotels throughout the city.
Kyoto is the best city in Japan to visit. It’s best to rent a bicycle so you can easily get to all the sites but public transportation is also amazing. Make sure you spend quality time at the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and at the lovely gardens at the Okochi Sanso. Those are located in the West part of the city in the Arashiyama district.
Then head off to Northern Higashiyama to the Nansen-ji temple with an incredible zen rock garden with great views! Southern Higashiyama offers one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks— Kiyomizu-dera. Make sure you go early in the day though as it can get super busy.
Alright, I could go on and on about the pilgrimage site of Chion-in or the golden pavilion at Kinkaku-ji, or the Gion Geisha district, or the Nishiki Market, but it’s time for us to go over the lodging in Japan, Kyoto options.
- Best For: Japanese culture and temple hopping
- The Vibe: Zen gardens and hidden temples slotted within urban grid
- Proximity to Airport: 75 minutes from Kansai International via the Haruka Express
- Transport Level: Medium. Kyoto is more walkable than Tokyo, but with fewer transit options. You’ll find yourself on the bus here more than on the subway
- Budget: Mid to high; your yen disappears fast here
- Crowds: Maximum occupancy; this is one of the epicentres of tourism in Japan
Photo: @audyscala
Things to Do in Kyoto
- Hike to the summit of Fushimi Inari at 2am or 5am to experience the red gates in total silence.
- Wander the quiet bamboo groves and mossy stone statues at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji for a peaceful alternative to the Arashiyama crowds.
- Stand on the massive wooden stage of Kiyomizu-dera to catch a panoramic view of the city from the side of a mountain.
- Watch a traditional Maiko performance at the Gion Corner theater to see authentic Kyoto performing arts like tea ceremonies and puppet plays.
- Dress up in traditional kimonos and get involved in a tea ceremony.
- Walk through the Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka streets to see the preserved wooden buildings and traditional teahouses of old Kyoto.
Best Hostel: Backpackers Hostel K’s House Kyoto
This is a contender for the best hostel in Japan. Backpackers Hostel K’s House Kyoto is located in central Kyoto a short walk from the train station, shopping and clubbing districts too. Moreover, there is a cosy lounge and a rooftop terrace perfect for catching a sunset! It gets booked out fast so I’d recommend getting your spot secured so you don’t miss out.
Best Hotel: Urban Hotel Kyoto
If you’re looking to stay near the iconic red gates of Fushimi Inari, this spot is a total win. The location is solid, but the real surprise is the room – it’s actually spacious by Japanese standards.
The amenities here are next-level. They’ve got you covered with all the essentials: a surprisingly nice toothbrush, face wash, razors, and even pajamas if you’re traveling light. Plus, you’ve got the holy trinity of a great stay: an electric kettle for your morning brew, a hairdryer that actually works, and a shower with enough water pressure to melt away a day of walking.
Best Airbnb: Kyoto Takao Home Spa
This Japanese Airbnb has everything you want for a stay in Kyoto without completely blowing your budget. It’s run like a bed and breakfast, located in a scenic spot full of maple trees and surrounded by nature, situated in the northwest of Kyoto city. You’ll feel properly immersed in Japanese culture here.
2. Nara – Best Place to Stay in Japan For Families
Nara is where you go to realise that Japanese history isn’t always in a museum – sometimes it’s actively trying to mug you for a rice cracker. As the ancient capital that predates Kyoto, it has successfully traded modern urban sprawl for a 660-hectare parkland ruled by 1,200 wild Sika deer. These national treasures have spent centuries perfecting the art of ‘bowing’ for snacks, a move that is adorable until a small gang of them surrounds you and starts nibbling on your backpack.
Deer aside, temple hopping is unrivalled here. Walking around the Koufax-ji temple complex with tons of pagodas makes for a great afternoon activity. Basically, Nara is packed with wonderful temples and beautiful gardens. Since it is a smaller city, it is much less overwhelming than the big cities in Japan like Tokyo and Kyoto for travelling families. I always recommend Nara on anyone’s Japanese travel itinerary.
- Best For: Ancient temples and hilarious encounters with resident deer
- The Vibe: A 1,300-year-old forest park home to nature, deer and temples
- Proximity to Airport: 75–90 minutes from Kansai International (KIX) via the Airport Limousine Bus
- Transport Level: Walkable; the main sights are concentrated in a single, massive park grid
- Budget: Cheap to Mid; most of the park is free, and street food is affordable
- Crowds: High at the park entrance; non-existent if you hike the forest trails or uphill temples
Photo: @audyscala
Things to Do in Nara
- Face the 15-meter Great Buddha inside Todai-ji.
- Feed the 1,200 wild deer in Nara Park.
- Hike the forest path of 3,000 lanterns to Kasuga Taisha.
- Climb the Nigatsu-do balcony for a panoramic city view.
- Squeeze through the “Buddha’s nostril” pillar for good luck.
- Watch high-speed mochi pounding at Nakatanidou.
Best Hostel: Yuzan Guesthouse
If you’re looking for a spot in Nara that feels more like a home than a hostel, this is it. The whole place is incredibly cute and cozy, with an open-plan living room and kitchen that actually encourages you to hang out, cook a proper meal, and swap stories with other travelers.
Everything is kept spotless, the kitchen is fully kitted out with everything you’d actually need to use, and the dorms are surprisingly spacious. Plus, you’re just a short walk away from the deer and temples of Nara Park, making it the perfect base for exploring.
Best Guesthouse: The Deer Park Inn
The Deer Park Inn is a wonderful guesthouse inside the Nara World Heritage Area. It has a relaxing, mountain lodge atmosphere as many of the private rooms enjoy sweeping views of the park and the forest. You and your family will love being surrounded by nature and history, and being close to the sweet, roaming deer!
Best Airbnb: Buddhist Temple in Yoshino
Talk about a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your family— don’t just stay at any old Airbnb in Japan when you could stay at a Buddhist Temple! This one bedroom and one bathroom guesthouse actually has four beds in it so you can comfortably stay with your family. Staying at the Seikokuji Temple in the East part of the Yoshino district in Nara is a truly incredible experience! You’ll be surrounded by mountains and fresh air, and you’ll get to take part in special temple experiences like sutra copying and meditation if you wish!
3. Hakone – Most Romantic Place to Stay in Japan
Hakone is best described as a spa getaway town that sits on an absolutely stunning lake. You will enjoy plentiful romantic vibes and even views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Stay in Hakone to see the renowned Torii Gate. The red Torii Gate is part of the Hakone Shinto shrine and it overlooks Lake Ashi. You can also take a tour of Lake Ashi by boat which makes for quite the romantic ride, if I do say so myself!
As a mountainous town, known for its incredible hot springs resorts, called onsen, and natural ambiance, you and your significant other are sure to make magical memories in Hakone!
- Best For: Onsen soaking and collecting the ‘Full Loop’ transport stamps
- The Vibe: A misty mountain retreat where steaming volcanic vents meet high-end art galleries
- Proximity to Airport: About 2 hours from Haneda or 2.5 hours from Narita via the Shinkansen and Odakyu lines
- Transport Level: Easy mode; the ‘Hakone Tozan’ system of switchback trains, cable cars, and ropeways does all the legwork for you
- Budget: Mid to High; the transport passes and ryokans aren’t cheap, but they are efficient
- Crowds: High on the ‘Classic Loop’ during weekends; quiet if you stay overnight and hit the trails at 8am
Things to Do in Hakone
- Ride the Hakone Tozan Railway to experience Japan’s oldest mountain train as it zig-zags up steep slopes using three different switchbacks.
- Walk among 120 massive sculptures at the Hakone Open-Air Museum and climb the stained-glass ‘Symphonic Sculpture’ tower for a kaleidoscope view.
- Eat a “black egg” at Owakudani, boiled in volcanic sulfur vents, which local legend says will add seven years to your life.
- Board a massive Pirate Ship on Lake Ashi to get the iconic view of the red ‘floating’ Torii gate with Mt. Fuji in the background.
- Soak in an outdoor hot spring at Tenzan Onsen or Hakone Yuryo to experience traditional bathhouse architecture tucked into the forest.
- Hike a section of the Old Tokaido Road to walk on the original stone-paved path used by samurai travelling between Kyoto and Edo.
Best Hostel: K’s House Hakone
This hostel is the perfect spot if you want to trade the city chaos for a slower and more intentional side of Japan. It is ideally positioned in Hakone to hit all the main sights without a logistical headache, and the views from the property are honestly stunning. The best part is the onsen. It stays open until 1:00 AM, which is perfect for soaking your legs after a full day of mountain hopping.
Just a heads up: it sits at the top of a legendary steep hill. Think of it as your daily cardio before you earn that soak in the hot springs.
Best Guesthouse: Irori Guest House Tenmaku
The Irori Guest House is a lovely place to stay in a traditional Japanese styled guest house. Coming with a shared lounge and a bar, you’ll feel well taken care of at the Irori. Plus, you’ll also have access to the shared kitchen so you can whip up whatever you desire. Moreover, you’ll be just 200 meters from the Hakone Open-Air Museum and just over one kilometer away from the Hakone Gora Park.
Best Airbnb: The Cactus Room
El Cantón is a unique guesthouse with just four rooms and a focus on simple, quiet stays. The building itself is a piece of history. It was originally a 100 year old silkworm farmhouse in Saitama prefecture before it was moved and reconstructed right here in Miyagino, Hakone. The host is an absolute angel. She provides incredible local food recommendations and even put together a cool handmade book filled with tips on how to use the amenities and what to look out for in the area.
4. Tokyo – Coolest Place to Stay in Japan
Oh Tokyo! The city where you can do absolutely anything and everything, though it can be quite expensive. Tokyo is home to restaurants where you can dance with cyborgs or you can hang out with animals at pet cafes. You can also ride in a real-life Mario Kart in Akihabara! Take the Tokyo streets by storm in this real world Mario Kart experience. You even get to dress up as the characters, as they do provide costumes.
That’s right, folks— Tokyo has it all. There are so many different districts to visit that it can feel overwhelming. You can walk around Giza for upscale shopping and incredible sushi or you can visit Asakusa to get a hefty dose of history and culture.
Nakameguro is the hipster neighborhood, and Akihabara is where all the anime and gaming happens. Obviously, there are many more neighborhoods but these are the ones not to miss.
- Best For: High-octane urban exploration and elite-tier food crawls
- The Vibe: Blade Runner vibes mixed with traditional, quiet, back alleys
- Proximity to Airport: 20 minutes from Haneda (Monorail) or 60 minutes from Narita (Narita Express)
- Transport Level: Expert; the rail map looks HECTIC, but it’s flawless and easy to navigate
- Budget: Mid to High; convenience is cheap (konbini), but experiences and space are premium
- Crowds: Extreme; you are never truly alone, even in the ‘quiet’ neighbourhoods
Photo: @audyscala
Things to Do in Tokyo
- Scramble across Shibuya Crossing at peak hour to experience the world’s most famous organized pedestrian chaos.
- Step through the massive red Kaminarimon gate at Senso-ji in Asakusa to visit Tokyo’s oldest temple.
- Have a drink at an izakaya in Golden Gai, Shinjuku.
- Walk the gravel paths of Meiji Shrine to find a silent, 175-acre forest hidden in the middle of the city’s busiest shopping district.
- Head to the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for a free panoramic view of the skyline.
- Browse the vintage clothing stores and record shops in Shimokitazawa for a low-key, bohemian break from the skyscrapers.
Best Hostel: Hostel Bedgasm
Tokyo was my first stop in Japan, and Bedgasm set the bar high with a great social vibe and free nightly drinks that made meeting people easy. The dorms are surprisingly light and breezy, including a dedicated female floor with plenty of space and styling tools. While it is a few extra stops from Shinjuku, the proximity to Iriya station and the budget-friendly kitchen make the lower price a total win. As far as hostels in Tokyo go – you can’t get much better.
Best Hotel: Ueno First City Hotel
Ueno First City Hotel is just a quick one minute walk from the subway station, and close to lots of tourist attractions like the Ueno Zoo and the Tokyo National Museum. You get great value for your money at this simple, straight forward hotel! Hey, I could have recommended many fancier stays but I wanted to keep it under $100 a night for you all!
Best Airbnb: Seido-kan 305
This Airbnb might look unassuming, but it’s a total life hack when it comes to not blowing your budget in Tokyo. It’s tucked away just one stop from Ueno in a quiet neighborhood that actually lets you breathe, which is a rare find in a city this massive. The vibe is super homey and comfortable, offering a real slice of local life without the usual tourist traps. Plus, the owner leaves fresh sandwiches at your door every morning. It is that kind of old-school hospitality that makes you realize why you traveled halfway across the world in the first place.
5. Kamakura – Where to Stay in Japan on a Budget
Kamakura is the coastal retreat where Tokyo’s elite and surf bums have been hanging out since the 12th century. It is a mix of high-end Zen aesthetics and laid-back beach culture, providing a much-needed salt-air reset from the city’s concrete density.
It’s also home to the Great Buddha, Daibutsu. This seaside Japanese city is actually just a bit south of Tokyo. You can do it as a day trip from Tokyo but it’s better to spend some quality time there to soak up the peaceful vibes and to save some bucks!
What I love about Kamakura the most, besides the opportunity to save some dough, is the dozens of Buddhist Zen temples and Shinto shrines that are so incredibly tranquil. Also, if you were in need of a little adrenaline rush, Yuigahama Beach is a fun place to go surfing. Even if you just needed some time relaxing on the sand, Yuigahama Beach is the place to do it.
- Best For: Coastal hiking and giant bronze relics
- The Vibe: Relaxed surf town meet ancient Samurai capital
- Proximity to Airport: 60 minutes to Haneda (Train/Bus) or 120 minutes to Narita (Narita Express)
- Transport Level: Easy; it is a compact walking city supported by the iconic Enoden green streetcar
- Budget: Mid; temple fees are low, but the seaside cafes can get pricey
- Crowds: High at the Big Buddha; quiet if you hit the hillside hiking trails or the western temples
Things to Do in Kamakura
- Face the 11-meter Great Buddha (Kotoku-in), a massive bronze statue that has stood outdoors since a tsunami washed its temple building away in 1498.
- Climb the stairs at Hasedera Temple to see the panoramic view of Sagami Bay framed by seasonal hydrangeas or autumn leaves.
- Wander through the 2,000 stalks of the hidden bamboo grove at Hokokuji while drinking a bowl of whisked matcha.
- Walk the cherry-blossom-lined Dankazura path toward Tsurugaoka Hachimangu, the city’s most important Shinto shrine.
- Catch the sunset at Yuigahama Beach to watch the local surfers against a backdrop that occasionally reveals a distant Mt. Fuji.
Best Hostel: Iza Kamakura Guest House and Bar
The Iza Kamakura Hostel is the perfect hostel in Kamakura in terms of location, price, and atmosphere. You’ll be just two minutes from the train station, and you’ll love being so close to all the local attractions – afterall, it’s just a short walk to the beach! They do have a small restaurant where they offer reasonably priced meals. Great bang for your buck!
Best Hotel: Beach & Stay
Beach & Stay is a guesthouse-style hotel offering comfortable rooms, a lounge, and a shared kitchen. It’s a lovely property with great facilities that put you close to all of Kamakura’s attractions like the Great Buddha and the Gokuaku-ji Temple. You’re also just 7 minutes walk to the beach. Bring a lunchbox and enjoy daily picnics on the beach.
Best Airbnb: Homestay with Japanese family
This homestay is a great way of experiencing local life in Kamakura. Hiroki-san and his family are all very kind and fun to talk to! You’re offered a seat at the table for both dinner and breakfast, given travel advice and recommendations, and are able to use the bicycles to ride to the beach for a day out. You’ll truly feel like a part of the family during your stay.
6. Miyajima – One of the Most Unique Places to Stay in Japan
It feels like you could practically visit anywhere in Japan and find unique things to do and see. We’ve already talked about cyborg dancing in Tokyo, but what about the Zao Fox Village at the base of Mt. Zao? Or even the cat island at Tashirojima? That’s right, Japan has an absurd abundance of the bizarre.
That being said, I think that if you want to do more than just snap an Instagram photo or two, staying in Miyajima is the best place to stay for a truly unique experience. This is a sacred island that lies off the coast of Hiroshima. It is home to the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine with a giant orange “floating” torii gate. Miyajima actually is Japanese for “shrine island,” and is often referred to as the Island of the Gods.
It’s one of the most scenic spots in all of Japan and promises guests a unique and memorable experience. You’ll love hiking Mount Misen or exploring the beautiful Virgin Forest. Make sure to stop by Miyajima Brewery for a pint! As a side note, it’s worth mentioning that Itsukushima is the official name for Miyajima. So if you’re doing some of your own Googling, you’ll have to search for both Itsukushima and Miyajima.
- Best For: Postcard-perfect shrines and mountain hiking
- The Vibe: Sacred, mist-covered peak meets a bustling, deer-filled waterfront
- Proximity to Airport: 90 minutes from Hiroshima Airport (Bus + Ferry)
- Transport Level: Walkable; once the ferry drops you off, your feet do all the work
- Budget: Mid; the ferry is cheap, but the specialty seafood and island ryokans are premium
- Crowds: High during the day (especially at the gate); peaceful once the last ferry departs
Things to Do in Miyajima
- Walk out to the Great Torii Gate at low tide to touch the massive pillars, or see it ‘floating’ at high tide from the shrine boardwalk.
- Explore the winding red corridors of Itsukushima Shrine, built over the water to avoid treading on the sacred island soil.
- Take the Miyajima Ropeway up Mt. Misen for a panoramic view of the scattered islands in the Seto Inland Sea.
- Eat a Momiji Manju, a maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with custard or red bean, and watch the automated machines flip them in shop windows.
- Stay overnight in a Ryokan to experience the island in total silence after the day-trippers vanish and the shrine is illuminated.
Best Hostel: Omotenashi Hostel Miyajima
So, it turns out that there are absolutely no hostels on the island of Miyajima. The closest you’re going to get is this hostel located super duper close to the ferry port, right on the coast across from the island itself. You can practically see the island from the windows of this hostel! Enjoy budget friendly prices, a common lounge, and even a karaoke box! Just hop on the ferry to reach the island in less than 20 minutes.
Best Hotel: Sakuraya
Sakuraya is all about the location, and honestly, it is hard to beat. You are just a few steps from the ferry port and within an easy walk to Itsukushima Jinja and the rest of the main sights.
The light breakfast is a solid perk because finding a place that is actually open early in the morning can be a total pain. The rooms are surprisingly spacious for Japan, and while the vibe is a bit rustic, it is a charming spot with excellent value.
Best Airbnb: Spirit Guest House
This Airbnb is a two bedroom traditional style Japanese home complete with paper sliding walls and a small garden courtyard. Up to six guests can fit in this home so you can slash costs fairly easily. You’ll love soaking up the calm atmosphere and spending time in the garden. This is no ordinary house or Airbnb! You’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped into an authentic cultural experience.
7. Hokkaido – Where to Stay in Japan for Adventure
If you want an adventure in Japan, then check out Hokkaido – it really stole my heart and I think it will do the same for you too. Hokkaido resides in the northernmost part of Japan’s main islands and is 37 times larger than Tokyo.
It’s known for volcanoes, skiing, natural hot springs, and quiet hikes. The immense Daisetsuzan Natural Park, one of Japan’s National Parks, has the steaming Mount Anahi volcano, and the Sikorsky-Toya National Parks are home to the divine geothermal hot springs. There are plenty of fun ski resorts on Hokkaido, which means that deciding where to stay is more than difficult.
Hokkaido is a huge island. Because it lies so far north, make sure to pack warm clothing even in the summer months. There are some great cities in Hokkaido worth staying in, like Sapporo with it’s incredibly famous dishes like and Genghis Khan. If you’re up for something totally different and awesome, you gotta check out the cool capsule hotels in Sapporo. They’re like nowhere else.
- Best For: Vast landscapes, world-class skiing, and culinary indulgence
- The Vibe: Rugged, spacious, and laid-back; it’s Japan with elbow room
- Proximity to Airport: 35 minutes from New Chitose (CTS) to Sapporo via the JR Rapid Airport line
- Transport Level: Hard mode without a car; trains connect major hubs, but the best scenery requires a rental
- Budget: Mid to High; travel distances are long and fuel/train tickets add up
- Crowds: Low to Medium; even at its busiest, the sheer scale of the island swallows the masses
Things to Do in Hokkaido
- Eat your way through the Nijo Market in Sapporo to try ‘Kaisendon’ (seafood bowls) piled high with sea urchin, salmon roe, and giant king crab.
- Ski through the “Snow Monsters” at Mt. Asahi, where frozen trees turn into eerie, hulking ice sculptures on the highest peak in Hokkaido.
- Wander the historic Otaru Canal to see the 1920s stone warehouses and visit the world-famous music box museum and glass blowing workshops.
- Soak in the ‘Hell Valley’ (Jigokudani) of Noboribetsu, where steaming sulfur vents and geysers feed some of the most potent hot springs in Japan.
- Hike the Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan’s largest national park, to be the first to see autumn colors or the last to see snow-capped peaks.
Best Hostel: Untapped Hostel
Surround yourself with new friends at Untapped Hostel. It’s filled with other backpackers and has a fun vibe. It’s actually located near Hokkaido University, so you’ll be fully immersed in the cool uni culture in this neighbourhood. There are three unique dorms with capsule-like beds. There is also an on-site restaurant that serves delicious, homemade Japanese cuisine.
Best Hotel: Shabby House
Shabby House is a classic case of not judging a book by its cover. Kudo-san is a legend from the jump, and his hospitality is easily the highlight of the stay.
The house itself is unique and vintage, which is exactly what you want if you are chasing that traditional Japanese vibe. Sure, the rooms and dining area are on the smaller side, but you quickly forget about the floor space when you are being looked after this well. It is a solid trade-off for an authentic experience that feels more like a home than a hostel.
Best Airbnb: Ocean View Villa
Dine with incredible ocean views at this snazzy beachfront villa. This villa has two bedrooms with 6 beds, a large living room and a fully equipped kitchen. Ideal if you’re travelling as a family or large group. For the space it gives you, the bang for your buck is off the charts.
8. Fuji Five Lakes – Where to Stay in Japan to See Mount Fuji and Nature
Fuji Five Lakes is actually a region at the base of Mount Fuji itself. There are, surprise surprise, five lakes: Shoji, Yamanaka, Motosu, Kawaguchi, and Saiko.
Nestled in the center of all of the lakes is Fujiyoshida city, which has an amusement park and hot springs with traditional wooden bathhouses. One of the most beautiful places in Japan is the trail that goes up Mount Fuji called the Yoshida Trail.
If you are trying to decide where you should stay to get access to Mount Fuji and to also really sink your teeth into the abundant natural beauty that Japan has to offer, Fuji Five Lakes region is for you.
- Best For: Iconic Mt. Fuji views and outdoor adventure
- The Vibe: A mix of bustling tourist hubs scattered around Fuji’s base
- Proximity to Airport: 2 to 2.5 hours from Tokyo/Haneda via the Fuji Excursion train or Highway Bus
- Transport Level: Moderate; the Red/Green/Blue “Omnibus” lines cover the main spots, but they get packed
- Budget: Mid to High; entrance fees are low, but the lake-view hotels command a premium
- Crowds: High at Kawaguchi; significantly lower if you head west to Shoji or Motosu
Photo: @audyscala
Things to Do in Fuji Five Lakes
- Kayak on Lake Motosu to see the exact “Inverted Fuji” view that is printed on the back of the 1,000 yen bill.
- Explore the Aokigahara Forest (the Sea of Trees) by following the designated nature trails that cut through moss-covered lava flows and silence.
- Stroll the Oishi Park boardwalk on the north shore of Kawaguchi to frame your Fuji photos with seasonal lavender or red kochia bushes.
- Climb the stairs to Chureito Pagoda in Fujiyoshida for the quintessential Japanese shot of the red five-story pagoda and the mountain.
- Cycle the perimeter of Lake Yamanaka, the largest lake, which is famous for its open landscapes and Diamond Fuji sunsets.
Best Hostel: K’s House Fuji View
Enjoy beautiful panoramic views of Mount Fuji in a traditional-style Japanese hostel. K’s house hostel has a spacious living room area great for meeting some fellow travellers and a fully equipped kitchen. You’re in the calm, quiet neighbourhood of Fujikawaguchiko, experience life as a local living in this beautiful area of Fuji Five Lakes.
Best Hotel: Habitacion NIIYA Mt Fuji
This stay is all about Japanese hospitality. The owner is a total legend, and the whole place has an actual soul to it. The room is massive for Japan and loaded with everything you actually need for a decent stay.
If you are lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji from the window on a good day. It’s is tucked away in a quiet neighborhood near Lake Kawaguchi, so you can actually enjoy the parks without being swarmed by tourist.
Best Airbnb: Rustic cottage with Mt. Fuji view
Okay, the only danger of staying here is that you may never want to leave. The views of Mt Fuji are spectacular and force you to appreciate this world’s natural beauty.
Not only do you have incredible views but this Airbnb is bursting with rustic charm and home comforts. Sip on a beverage of choice in front of a logo burner fire with views of Mt Fuji. With it being able to host up to 8 people, this place is a seriously unique stay that doesn’t cost the earth.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Japan
Wherever you are planning on staying in Japan, one thing remains constant… THE NEED FOR GOOD TRAVEL INSURANCE!
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Japan
Which Part of Japan Should You Choose?
There’s really no ‘right’ place of Japan to visit. If you want a first taste of the weird and wonderful on offer, you can never go wrong with the Golden Route of Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka.
But the beauty of Japan is going off course. If you want to ski, hike, or follow the coast via train, Japan will let you do it quite happily.
Whatever you decide, I urge you to go at least somewhat off the beaten path! Japan is popular (for good reason, of course), but there’s only so much magic in wading through throngs of crowds. Pick at least one spot where you can see local life turned down, even if it means travelling for it.
From Mt. Fuji to real life Mario Kart Racing in Tokyo the incredible Floating Torii Gates in Miyajima, there is so much to do and see in Japan! Now, go forth and explore, friends!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Japan.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Japan.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Japan instead.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Japan.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
