A Night at Nicoh Refre: Sapporo Capsule Hotel Review

An honest look at budget-friendly Japanese pod lodging.

Night

3,300

Yen

Minutes (from Station)

Section I

Introduction

During my brief stay in Sapporo, Japan, I opted for the Nicoh Refre Capsule Hotel, located about 20 minutes south of Sapporo Station. For 3,300 Yen (approximately $30 USD), I enjoyed a comfortable one-night stay on the 7th floor. Having seen videos and read about capsule hotels beforehand, I had a decent idea of what to expect, which made my experience smoother.

Section II

Capsule Hotel Etiquette

Before diving into the review, it's helpful to know some etiquette for staying in a capsule hotel:

→Hotel-Issued Pajamas — Guests must wear the provided pajamas in communal areas such as the lounge, bath, restaurant, and sleeping quarters. This policy helps maintain a relaxed and uniform atmosphere.

Section III

Review of Nicoh Refre Capsule Hotel

→Budget-Friendly — The capsule hotel is an excellent choice for travelers on a budget or those only staying overnight.
→Onsen Access — The onsen (Japanese hot spring) is a significant highlight of the experience, providing a relaxing way to unwind after a long day of exploring the city.
→Unique Experience — Staying in a capsule hotel is a fun and novel experience, especially if it's your first time.
→Smoking in Communal Areas — One downside was the presence of cigarette smoke in the communal areas, as many guests smoked. If you're sensitive to smoke, this might be a concern.
→Food Options — While the food at the hotel was decent, I found it better to venture outside and try the various restaurants the city offers. The cold weather may be a deterrent, but Sapporo has a rich culinary scene worth exploring.

Tip: If you are sensitive to smoke, be aware that many capsule hotels in Japan still permit smoking in common lounge areas.

Section IV

Conclusion

Overall, my stay at the Nicoh Refre Capsule Hotel was enjoyable and aligned with my budget-conscious travel plans. The combination of affordability, unique experience, and access to the onsen makes it a viable option for short stays. I would definitely consider staying at a capsule hotel again in the future.