Our top 10 Love Hotels in Japan
Love hotel room in Tokyo
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Love hotels, or "rabu hoteru", are hotels offering rooms that can be booked for a few hours or for the night. Unlike conventional hotels, their concept is based on privacy and discretion, although they are also prized for their unusual decor and top-of-the-range facilities.
In this article, we'll explore the history of love hotels, the reasons for their popularity, and a top 10 list of the best love hotels in Japan.
How do love hotels work?
Unlike traditional hotels, love hotels in Japan offer a unique experience focused on intimacy and discretion. They offer two types of reservation:
- Rest (kyukei): A short stay, generally between 1 and 3 hours, ideal for a moment of intimacy during the day.
- Stay (shukuhaku): A full night's stay, often from 10pm to 10am the following day.
Reservations are usually made via touch screens at the entrance, allowing guests to choose a room without having to go through a conventional reception desk. Some hotels even feature a no-contact entrance and exit, guaranteeing total anonymity.
Love hotels are popular for several reasons:
- Lack of privacy at home: Many Japanese live with their families until they get married, making it difficult for couples to access private space.
- Unusual experiences: These establishments are famous for their themed rooms (futuristic, medieval castle, manga, prison, etc.).
- Excellent value for money: Less expensive than traditional hotels, they offer luxurious amenities such as private Jacuzzis, saunas and king-size beds.
- Many love hotels accept LGBTQ+ couples, although some older hotels may refuse entry to two people of the same sex. It's advisable to check reviews before booking.
The 10 best Love Hotels in Japan
We've selected 10 must-visit love hotels for a unique experience in Japan, ranked according to their design, facilities and originality.
◌ TOKYO
1. Hotel Varkin Annex (3*)
Located in the lively Ikebukuro district, Hotel Varkin Annex is a modern, elegant establishment offering spacious rooms with whirlpool baths and interactive light shows. It stands out for its luxurious facilities and excellent value for money.
Highlights: Modern rooms, hushed ambience, large bath with massage jets.
Average price: ¥8,000 to ¥12,000 per night
2. Hotel Karuta (3*)
Inspired by traditional Japanese culture, this hotel offers a refined atmosphere with rooms decorated in a minimalist style, blending tatami mats with contemporary touches. Ideal for those seeking a more authentic experience.
Highlights: Decoration inspired by ancient Japan, Zen atmosphere, spacious rooms.
Average price: ¥7,000 to ¥11,000 per night.
Hotel Sunroen in Tokyo's Shibuya district
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3. Hotel PAL Otsuka (2*)
This love hotel is appreciated for its comfort and simplicity. It offers well-equipped rooms with king-size beds and soft lighting, perfect for a romantic getaway without extravagance.
Highlights: Intimate atmosphere, discreet service, modern facilities.
Average price: ¥6,000 to ¥10,000 per night.
4. Hotel Chantilly (2*)
This 2-star establishment is one of Tokyo's best-known. This hotel is appreciated for its warm atmosphere and well-appointed rooms. Spacious beds, soft lighting and elegant decor create the ideal atmosphere for a getaway for two.
Strengths: Meticulous comfort, discreet service, intimate setting.
Average price: Around ¥8,000 to ¥12,000 per night.
Hotel Chantilly, Tokyo, seen from the outside
©JapanExperienceCamelia
The hotel's flagship room with its rotating bed
©JapanExperienceCamelia
◌ KYOTO
4. Hotel Chronos Kyoto
This establishment is a benchmark among Kyoto's love hotels. It offers sophisticated rooms with elegant decor, private whirlpool baths and subdued lighting for an intimate atmosphere.
Highlights: Luxury and discretion, romantic ambience, modern facilities.
Average price: ¥10,000 to ¥18,000 per night.
◌ OSAKA
5. Hotel Lotus Umeda
One of Osaka's most famous love hotels, Hotel Lotus Umeda stands out for its elegant design and amenities worthy of a luxury hotel. Some rooms feature private Jacuzzis and customizable lighting for an immersive ambience.
Highlights: Spacious rooms, meticulous decoration, private Jacuzzi.
Average price: ¥9,000 to ¥15,000 per night.
5. Hotel Luna Ibaraki
This love hotel on the outskirts of Osaka is renowned for its large rooms with whirlpool baths and ultra-comfortable beds. The ambience is refined and some rooms feature interactive light shows.
Highlights: bathtubs with LED lighting, modern rooms, excellent service.
Average price: ¥8,000 to ¥13,000 per night.
6. Sweets Hotel
As its name suggests, this hotel plays on a sweet and romantic theme, with dessert-inspired rooms and a warm ambience. Ideal for couples looking for an original experience.
Highlights: whimsical decor, romantic ambience, colorful rooms.
Average price: ¥7,500 to ¥12,000 per night.
Love Hotel in Osaka
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◌ NARA:
8. Hotel Artia Dinosaur
A unique hotel with decor inspired by the world of dinosaurs. It will appeal to lovers of unusual atmospheres and couples looking for an out-of-the-ordinary experience. Some rooms even feature prehistoric-themed interactive elements.
Highlights: Original theme, immersive decor, rooms equipped with light effects.
Average price : ¥8,500 to ¥13,000 per night.
◌ NAGOYA:
9. Towers Hotel
Located right in the center of Nagoya, this hotel offers modern, elegant rooms with quality service. Its main asset is its panoramic view over the city, ideal for a romantic night.
Highlights: breathtaking view of Nagoya, top-notch service, luxurious rooms.
Average price: ¥10,000 to ¥16,000 per night.
10. Liebhaber Hotel
This hotel boasts sophisticated decor and an intimate atmosphere, with warmly-toned rooms and wellness facilities such as Jacuzzis and private saunas.
Highlights: cosy ambience, quality service, whirlpool baths in some rooms.
Average price: ¥9,000 to ¥14,000 per night.
