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We create the capsule hotel as a symbol of “Cool Japan” and revolutionizing travel culture

For Capsule Hotel

The world’s first capsule hotel, Capsule Inn Osaka, was opened in 1979 in the city of Osaka. Since then, lodging facilities with capsule or box shaped beds for sleeping have been known as “capsule hotels,” and they have become loved by numerous travelers over the last half century. In recent years they have been a featured component of Japanese culture in the Cool Japan campaign, and with increased attention from overseas, demand has soared. With the increased availability of affordable air travel, there are tourists looking for simple travel options, families wishing to go sightseeing, and young people wanting to put their money toward travel experiences. Every year there are more and more visitors coming to Japan. Clean and stylish capsule hotels provide a safe and affordable place to stay, and many of the guests become repeat customers.

Capsule hotels are currently a huge business opportunity

Compared to traditional hotels, capsule hotels have a much larger capacity, creating the opportunity for a much higher profit. More and more companies are using their office buildings to start capsule hotels. Some existing hotels are even renovating some of their floors to allow them to enter the capsule hotel business.

Revenue simulation * Assuming approximately 496 square meters of space with 70% occupancy

Support for starting a capsule hotel business

Compared to traditional hotels, capsule hotels require much less manpower, and this makes a business easier to get up and running from an operational and human resources standpoint. Kotobuki has been creating sleep capsules for a half century, and over the years we have helped many companies enter the capsule hotel business. We have a good knowledge of the industry, and we want to share our operational know-how.

top : MyCUBE by MYSTAYS Asakusa Kuramae
bottom : a-STYLE SHINSAIBASHI

“Converting an existing building into a capsule hotel” is more popular than ever

There is an increasing number of existing buildings, places of business, storehouses, and more being repurposed to launch capsule hotel businesses. The only requirement is that the building is structurally sound enough to support it. As long as there is an entryway big enough for people to walk through, the capsule bed panels and supports can be carried in and assembled on the spot, so a capsule hotel can be started almost anywhere.

Laws and regulations for operating a capsule hotel

A capsule hotel, which charges people in exchange for providing a place to stay, falls under “hotel business law.” Hotel businesses are separated into ryokan (traditional inns)/hotels, simple lodging, and boarding houses, and capsule hotels are considered “simple lodging.” Simple lodging operations are “lodging facilities constructed such that numerous people share common spaces and facilities, where people are charged in exchange for a place to stay, and that are not considered boarding houses” (Hotel Business Act Paragraph 2 Item 4). Because the specific rules vary depending on municipality, it is important to familiarize yourself with the local laws concerning hotels in the area around the capsule hotel. Other laws such as the Building Standards Act and the Fire Services Act are also relevant. * For hotels in Japan

Photo : Hotel Matsuya

Kotobuki Works to Create What Our Customers Want

In order to create an attractive capsule hotel, it’s important for hotels to place elements within the capsule bed which make it pleasant for guests to spend time there, to change the layout of the beds, and to design the beds to match the space. Kotobuki can respond to the needs of its customers, helping them create the capsule hotel they dream of building.

Appeal to a wide range of patrons with various types of beds

In order to bring in a wide range of patrons and to encourage repeat customers, the key is to have a range of different capsule beds available. By bringing in different types of capsule beds and carefully arranging them, it is possible to create a space that can cater to the needs of a wide range of clientele. By arranging various types of capsule beds near each other on the same floor, you can create a sense of excitement and anticipation as guests think, “Next time, maybe I’ll try out that type.”

GLANSIT KYOTO KAWARAMACHI

The upper level bed opens to the side, creating a private room atmosphere between the capsule bed and the wall. By installing a desk, this creates an easy to use and wonderful space that is perfect for business travelers as well as tourists. The lower level bed is a Front entry bed that faces the walkway. Having different types of beds right above each other creates a striking visual contrast.

With a little consideration you can create a space that supports female clientele

Traditionally capsule hotels have primarily been used by men, but right now the number of female patrons is rapidly increasing. By having strict security with separate floors for men and for women, or by having a capsule hotel that is just for women, even women who are traveling alone can feel safe when they stay. Floors or hotels that are just for women can make use of interior design and other options that are visually appealing to women. By using these types of techniques to appeal to what women want, there is a strong potential to gain repeat guests.

a-STYLE SHINSAIBASHI

Stepping outside of a normal capsule bed puts you in a shared space with other guests you do not know. For women who feel uncomfortable at the thought of running into somebody right after they wake up before putting on makeup, this bed includes shelving and a mirror, making it easy to get ready in the morning. Small considerations like this are important when it comes to attracting repeat guests.

Left : Locker room
Middle : Makeup room
Right : Shower room

A wide open space with big beds

For those looking for a capsule hotel with a wide open feel, we suggest bed types and layouts with plenty of space. With additional customization, these accommodations can help guests overcome their preconceived notions of “cramped” spaces, providing a place where it is easy for anybody to stay.

MyCUBE by MYSTAYS Asakusa Kuramae ( left )

The space below these capsule beds is customized with locking storage areas. While the external dimensions are the same as for regular type beds, inside they are extra tall and offer ample space. Perfect for hotels that cater to tourists and other patrons with lots of luggage.

Capsule Hotel CUBE Hiroshima ( right )

By arranging side entry capsule beds above each other with their openings facing opposite directions, it is possible to create private rooms. Other amenities such as desks or lockers can also be added.

Capsule hotels are popular with foreign visitors to Japan

The number of foreign visitors coming to Japan continues to rise. With Japan being the birthplace of the capsule hotel, these hotels are receiving more and more attention as a unique type of lodging that can only be experienced in Japan. It is not just about the capsule beds, as capsule hotels with an overarching theme throughout are especially popular.

Cabin & Capsule Hotel J-SHIP Osaka Namba ( top )

This modern take on traditional Japanese design is perfect for international tourists, and it also calls to mind a strong sense of familiarity for Japanese patrons. Guests are welcomed in by a design based on traditional Japanese woodworking. Adhering to the concept of the hotel, the exterior panels for the capsule beds have also been customized with wood grain textures.

9h ninehours Shinjuku-North ( bottom )

With locations across Japan, ninehours uses custom made capsule beds with a circular look, creating a stylish design that is very unique. The futuristic space is designed to excite foreign visitors, and it is thought to have contributed to the surge in popularity of capsule hotels.

Photo_Nacasa & Partners
Designed_Fumie Shibata
Identity and Signage_Hiromura Design OfficeInterior_Takaaki Nakamura

A resort style capsule hotel for long term stay

With urban style capsule hotels, the goal is to offer a safe and simple place to stay, but with capsule hotels in resort areas, it is important to use additional techniques to create a place where patrons can stay for a long time without growing bored. These box shaped spaces are perfect for giving patrons the feeling of being out of their daily routine.

THE LODGE MOIWA

This capsule hotel is located at the base of the ski slope in Niseko, Hokkaido, which is a popular destination for skiers from all over the world. Guests can change the interior design of their capsule bed to suit their mood for the day, as the LED illuminated color of their space can be changed by flicking a switch in their bed. In addition, we have installed equipment for long-term residents such as a clothes rack, mirror and safety box.

Left : Hanger rack
Middle : Mirror, Safety box
Right : Night panel

Testimonial

We want to offer facilities that provide a safe and comfortable stay while remaining as affordable as possible.
By CVS Bay Area Inc.

Q. What was your experience like starting a capsule hotel business?

Our company began in 1981 as franchise management business for convenience stores, and we entered the hotel business in November of 2009. Currently, there are more people than ever visiting the Tokyo area for business, but as of now the supply side is unable to meet that demand. We felt strongly that we did not want to let this opportunity slip by, so we began planning a hotel in a price range lower than that of existing business hotels. We wanted to offer safe and comfortable lodging at the lowest price possible to meet this demand, and after conducting research, we decided on the capsule beds from Kotobuki. These wonderful products are excellent in terms of sound proofing, durability, and temperature resistance, and they offer ample livability.

Q. How many guests do you have?

Our first location was the Tokyo Ginza BAY HOTEL, which opened in Chuo Ward, Tokyo in July of 2015. With a concept based on modern Japanese design, it features shared spaces with a relaxed feel, changing rooms, and more. Because we are able to offer affordable pricing, it has become popular with more than just business travelers, also attracting tourists and female guests. In the first month it was open, it had already surpassed 60% capacity. Because of the location, on weekdays there are a large number of business travelers, while on weekends we see an increase in tourists, and the remainder is made up of visitors from other countries. In terms of a breakdown, business travelers account for 60%, while tourists and foreign visitors each account for 20%.

Q. What feedback have you received from guests?

Because we are able to offer affordable pricing, it has become popular with more than just business travelers, also attracting tourists and female guests. A guest who recently stayed at our Tokyo Nihonbashi BAY HOTEL said, “My bed was on the second level, but it was easy to climb in, it had a relaxing atmosphere, and there was plenty of space.” Even international visitors over 180cm tall have been delighted at having plenty of space to stretch out. We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our guests, and that has given us confidence in this business.

Interview: March, 2019

2 top : Nihonbashi Muromachi BAY HOTEL Middle : CVS BAY HOTEL AnnexBottom : Tokyo Nihonbashi BAY HOTEL

Product Series

We offer four types of capsule bed “Kotobuki Sleep Capsule”
By selecting the perfect sleep capsule to match the space and goal, a high level of sleep becomes possible.

Sophisticated Appearance and High Versatility,
DREAM-C series

A new series of capsule beds with a sleek, stylish appearance and having high versatility.
The ladder is designed for easy access, and the capsule bed’s flexible design allows for the use of thick mattresses. Suitable for both hotels and napping rooms.

Wide range of colors

The interior panels of the capsule bed are simple yet luxurious and come in four types: white, white wood grain, wood grain, and black wood grain. Exterior panels are available in the two types of white and black.

Exterior decorative frames are available in five color schemes.

Roll screens are available in five types: white, dark brown, orange, navy blue, and charcoal.

Numerous combinations are available to create an expressive appearance that meets your needs.

DREAM-C Combi A

DREAM-C Combi B

DREAM-C Combi C

DREAM-C Combi D

DREAM-C Combi E

Color Sample

Spacious and comfortable sleeping area

The doorway frontage is 1100mm, 300mm wider than the existing product. Regardless of the user’s physique, the entry and exit into the spacious capsule bed is smooth.
The interior is more spacious due to the compact air-conditioning equipment space.
The rectangular mattress is 100 mm thick, 40 mm thicker than the existing capsule beds, providing a more comfortable sleep.

Stable and simple-to-climb ladder

The ladder is simple to use, with the steps and their mounting position designed for easy up and down climbing.

The step is more than twice as wide as that of current products, making it easy to put one’s feet on.

The steps of the ladder are placed gradually closer to the capsule bed as you move up from the lowest step. This method of placement ensures a stable and smooth ascent and descent on the stairs.

The safe-to-use handrails are designed after carefully considering the mounting position and shape.

Contemporary Executive Space,
SPACE D series

This is the gold standard series when it comes to panel assembled capsule beds that are both stylish and modern. With a beautiful and colorful anodized aluminum finish, they offer a cool and attractive design that is popular even with guests such as women and foreign visitors who are not as familiar with capsule hotels. With a total of 36 patterns to choose from for the interior and exterior, they make it possible to obtain the perfect match for the interior of your unique hotel.

Exteriors with a lot of variety

These units boast a steel frame main body, decorative framework, integrated handrails along the steps, and aluminum components. They can be arranged vertically and horizontally to accommodate a wide range of use cases. The exterior panels come in both white and black. The beams and supports come in three different colors.

SPACED-V (Frame : Combi.A)

SPACED-V (Frame : Combi.B)

SPACED-V (Frame : Combi.C)

SPACED-H (Frame : Combi.A / Panel : White)

SPACED-H (Frame : Combi.A / Panel : Black)

SPACED-H (Frame : Combi.B / Panel : White)

SPACED-H (Frame : Combi.B / Panel : Black)

SPACED-H (Frame : Combi.C / Panel : White)

SPACED-H (Frame : Combi.C / Panel : Black)

Interiors that give a sense of security and encourage a good night’s sleep

The walls and ceiling on the interior of the unit are made from fireproof aluminum panels. The pulldown screen is also flame resistant. The headboard comes in both wood grain and black wood grain, while the walls come in stucco white, wood grain, and white wood grain. These options can be freely combined to provide exactly the type of styling you desire.

Panel : Stucco White / Head Board Pad : Wood Grain-Natural

Panel : Stucco White / Head Board Pad : Wood Grain-Black

Panel : Wood Grain-Natural / Head Board Pad : Wood Grain-Natural

Panel : Wood Grain-Natural / Head Board Pad : Wood Grain-Black

Panel : Wood Grain-White / Head Board Pad : Wood Grain-Natural

Panel : Wood Grain-White / Head Board Pad : Wood Grain-Black

Base specs

1. Light

The interior illumination comes in both an adjustable angle bedside light as well as indirect lightning from behind the headboard. Both use LEDs, and both offer variable brightness levels. The adjustable angle bedside light is perfect for activities such as reading, while the indirect lighting can illuminate the entire interior of the capsule.

2. Powersocket, USB ports, and accessory pocket

Guests can easily store watches and other accessories, and there even is a place for a smartphone while it charges. Because USB ports can be used regardless of type of outlet, they are very popular with people visiting Japan from other countries.

3. Night panel

The night panel allows the guest to control the interior of the capsule bed. It has an integrated clock with an alarm. The lighting and fan can also be controlled from the panel.

4. Head board pad

The headboard is equipped with a pad, so even if a guest leans against it, there will be no strain on their back. The surface material is made of a durable and breathable mesh fabric, and it is perfect for leaning against while reading.

5. Number plate and Illumination button

The number plate affixed to the bed entrance makes it easy to find the right bed at a glance. Using the adjacent illumination button, the lighting can even be turned on and off from outside the bed.

6. Roller Blind

The pulldown screen is made of 100% polyester, and it is flame resistant. In the unlikely event of a fire, it will prevent the fire from spreading.

7. Steps and Handrails

The steps for accessing an upper level bed have non slip surfaces, and they are carefully designed to prevent falling. To make entry as easy as possible, there are handrails attached to both the left and right sides.

Accessories

We also offer a full lineup of useful accessories. With an earphone jack, a guest can easily watch TV whenever they want without worrying about the other guests. A mirror can provide guests a quick check of their appearance before they step out into the common space. A side table can provide a convenient place for items, while a hanger can be used to store bags and clothing. Lower level storage boxes can be used by guests during long term stays. With all of these options, you can create the exact combination you want.

Different shapes and arrangements makes many different layouts possible

Front entry (Layout : Tandem)

These units feature an entrance directly in line with the bed. They are extremely space efficient. Because the surface area of the bed entrance facing the walkway is as small as possible, they make it possible to fit a large number of capsule beds into a room with limited space.

Photo : Akihabara BAY HOTEL

Front wide entry (Layout : Tandem)

These units feature an entrance directly in line with the bed. Compared to the standard Front entry units, the entrance is 250mm wider, and there are shelves on the interior walls of the sleeping space, giving the guest more elbow room in their capsule bed.

Photo : a-STYLE SHINSAIBASHI

Side entry (Layout : Tandem)

These units feature an entrance on the side of the bed. They are very easy to get in and out of. The wider entrance makes them easier to get in and out of than Front entry units, and it also helps to alleviate feelings of claustrophobia.

Side entry (Layout : Individual)

These capsule beds can be placed in the middle of a room facing left or right in a variety of positions. Depending on the arrangement, a space like that of a private room can be created.

Staggered Arrangement Entry,
SPACE D2 series

Staggered arrangements and front panel customization are possible with the SPACE D2 series.This new series was created to be “easy to get in and out of.” With standard capsule beds, beds on the upper level are directly above those on the lower level, but with the SPACE D2 series, the arrangement is staggered with upper level and lower level beds alternating. When entering an upper level bed, as you reach the top step, you can enter the bed as you are, without changing the position of your body. New options allow you to choose wood as the material for the front panel, giving a wider range of coordination possibilities.

Comfortable Capsule Room,
VISIT-E series

This new series allows for private rooms without limits. It is possible to stand and walk inside of the capsule bed. In addition to space for sleeping, the interior of the capsule bed is large enough for things such as a table or a storage area for luggage. It also includes a rack for hanging clothes and a large wall mirror, so guests can get ready for the day in their capsule bed without needing a locker room.

Excellent Cost Performance,
B-CUBE series

These units combine the essential furnishings of the SPACE D series, featuring a design with a simple finish. The flat exterior has no unnecessary ornamentation, and it naturally fits in any space.

Base specs

1. Dimmer lighting

The interior lighting uses LEDs. The variable lighting levels allow the brightness to be freely adjusted.

2. Night panel

The night panel allows the guest to control the interior of the capsule bed. It has an integrated clock with an alarm. The lighting and fan can also be controlled from the panel.

3. Table

A place for a smartphone, watch, accessories, or other items. Prevents items from being lost or forgotten.

4. Number plate and Illumination button

The number plate affixed to the bed entrance makes it easy to find the right bed at a glance. Using the adjacent illumination button, the lighting can even be turned on and off from outside the bed.

5. Ladder

To make it easy to reach the first step, the ladder is set at a slight angle. It is thin and easy to grip, so a guest can grab whatever point is comfortable as they climb. Carefully constructed to provide easy access even for children and smaller women.

6. Curtain

The 100% polyester curtain keeps light in/out and is flame resistant. It can be washed if it gets dirty. Available in four colors: green, blue, brown, and orange.