How to Find Accommodations in Japan

1. Comparing Booking Sites

When I begin searching for accommodations, I often use Jalan.com and Rakuten Travel, as they cover a wide variety of options in Japan, including traditional ryokan (inns) and guesthouses that might not appear on international platforms like Booking.com or Agoda.

• Jalan.com and Rakuten Travel frequently offer discounts and special promotions, which can help you save money. They also provide access to a wide range of properties, including smaller, traditional places that international platforms may not list.

• User Interface: However, the user interface (UI) on Jalan and Rakuten can be somewhat clunky, especially when using their Map View feature to locate accommodations. The map interface is not as user-friendly and can make it harder to visualize availability and pricing.

For that reason, I often prefer Booking.com and Agoda when I want a more intuitive booking experience. These platforms offer a much better Map View, which makes it easy to:

• See where accommodations are located.

• Check availability and prices in one glance.

This can be incredibly helpful when you're trying to plan your stay in relation to key attractions, transport, or neighborhoods.

2. Using Google Maps for Reviews

Once I've shortlisted a few places, I turn to Google Maps to do a quick check. Google Maps allows me to:

• Check ratings: Look for high-rated accommodations (ideally 4.0+).

• Read reviews: Reading other travelers' reviews provides insight into the property’s cleanliness, service, and location.

Using Google Maps helps confirm that the accommodation fits my expectations before booking.

3. Airbnb for Groups or City Stays

When traveling with a group or seeking a unique stay, I also check Airbnb. It’s a great option, especially in big cities where you can find a variety of apartments and traditional homes.

• Rural Areas: Airbnb tends to have fewer listings in rural regions, but it's still worth checking if you’re in a major city.

4. Campsites with Cabins and Cottages

For those who enjoy being closer to nature, campsites in Japan are a fantastic option. Many campsites provide cabins and cottages, which are affordable alternatives to hotels.

• Finding Campsites: If you can read some Japanese, it's easier to navigate the various campsite websites, as each campsite usually manages its own booking platform. I typically use Google Maps to find well-rated campsites with cabins or cottages.

5. Weekend vs. Weekday Stays

Accommodation prices in Japan can vary significantly depending on the day of the week:

• Weekdays: I recommend booking popular accommodations on weekdays when prices are lower, and availability is higher.

• Weekends: For weekends, I look for options like Airbnb, where the price difference between weekdays and weekends is minimal.