The concept of youth hostels originated in Germany. It refers to a global network of accommodation for travelers who want to enjoy a pleasant yet economical stay. There are about 350 youth hostels in Japan, spreading from Hokkaido to Okinawa. They are the most affordable means of accommodation in Japan. One night at any youth hostel would cost about 3,000 yen for members and about 4,000 yen for non-members. Some of these youth hostels are large while others are small and have a homely atmosphere. Usually, the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines in Japan act as youth hostels.
The bedrooms in youth hostels are separated on gender-basis and are of dormitory style. About 4 to 8 people can stay in one room. There are bunk beds which are placed in a western style interior. The travelers or guests are usually required to clean their own table or put their bed sheets and do some other household chores. The meals offered at the youth hostels are delicious despite their low prices. Sometimes different youth hostels organize various programs and activities like walking, diving, skiing or Christmas party in which the guests can participate at nominal charges.
In order to stay at any of the youth hostels in Japan , one needs to have the Youth Hostel Membership Card. This card is easily available at any of the Youth Hostel's Prefectural offices or from any youth hostel in the country. This card is valid throughout the world and allows the holder to stay at any of the youth hostels.
The overnight charges of youth hostels is about 3,200 yen for a bed in a gender-wise separated dormitory. When the hostel is not crowded, a guest may be allowed to use an entire dormitory for some extra charges. The overnight charge for people below 15 years of age is 500 yen or less. Many youth hostels even provide breakfasts for 600 yen and dinner for 1,000 yen. In case of cancellation some extra charges are levied. Youth hostels are usually closed between 10 am and 3 pm and guests are required to check out before 10 am.
Some of the renowned youth hostels in Japan include:
- Aomori Hostels
- Fukuoka City hostels
- Izu Peninsula Hostels
- Kitakyushu city Hostels
- Shizuoka Hostels
- Okinawa Hostels
- Minakami Hostels
- Nagasaki Hostels
- Hakodate Hostels
