Japanese Business Hotels Guide: Toyoko Inn, APA, Dormy Inn & More (Pros, Cons & Tips)

If you are planning a trip to Japan, you will likely come across something called "business hotels".

These are not expensive hotels, but affordable ones suitable for one to two persons, such as local businessman traveling for work. 

Japanese business hotels are usually located near train stations, and always provide free wifi, a hair dryer and a small refrigerator in the room. 

One night stay costs around 6,000-15,000 yen, depending on room type (single, double or twin) and location. However, the room size can be as small as 12 sqm! 

Each Japanese business hotel chain has a distinct personality.

1. Toyoko Inn (東横イン)

Best for: Budget + consistency
Typical price: ¥5,000–¥10,000

Pros:

• Free breakfast at all locations
• Very consistent rooms across Japan (same layout, same body soap!)
• Usually walking distance from train stations
• Rooms are generally cleaner than many other business hotels despite being more dated
• Generally the cheapest option with little price hike during peak seasons
• Free membership. Perks: 6 months advance booking. 1 free stay for every 10 stays.

Cons:

• Rooms are small and basic
• Breakfast is simple
• No public bath (onsen)

2. APA Hotel 

Best for: Location & convenience
Typical price: ¥6,000–¥12,000

Pros:

• Located almost everywhere (largest chain in Japan)
• Modern and generally clean
• Easy self check-in systems

Cons:

• Rooms are extremely small
• Breakfast usually not included

3. Dormy Inn 

Best for: Comfort + onsen experience
Typical price: ¥8,000–¥15,000

Pros:

• Public bath / onsen in most locations
• Free late-night ramen
• Better paid breakfast (regional specialties)
• Slightly larger rooms

Cons:

• More expensive than other business hotels
• Popular locations sell out quickly

4. Super Hotel 

Best for: Sleep quality & eco-friendly stays
Typical price: ¥7,000–¥15,000

Pros:

• Free organic breakfast
• Pillow selection
• Some locations have hot spring baths
• Focus on eco-friendly design

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than other business hotels
• Some can be located further away from train stations

5. Hotel Route Inn 

Best for: Free breakfast + public bath
Typical price: ¥7,000–¥12,000

Pros:

• Free breakfast buffet (30+ items)
• Large public bath available
• Good value in regional cities

Cons:

• Often located outside city centers
• Slightly dated interiors in some locations

6. Comfort Hotel 

Best for: International-friendly stays
Typical price: ¥6,000–¥11,000

Pros:

• Free breakfast (Western + Japanese options)
• English-friendly service
• Comfortable beds

Cons:

• No public bath
• Less “Japanese” experience

7. Daiwa Roynet Hotel

Best for: Comfort & space
Typical price: ¥10,000–¥18,000

Pros:

• Larger rooms with more modern/better layout
• Larger bathrooms

Cons:

• More expensive

So which Japanese business hotel should you choose?

• Cheapest: Toyoko Inn
• Best location: APA Hotel
• Best overall experience: Dormy Inn
• Cleanest: Toyoko Inn, Super Hotel, Daiwa Roynet
• Best free breakfast: Route Inn, Toyoko Inn
• Best sleep quality: Super Hotel

Based on my personal experience~