100 things to know before you travel in Japan

There are hotels which are of lower grade than the classic great hotels but of higher grade than motels, designed for business people to stay at. They're called Business Hotels and they are highly recommended for travellers because the price is reasonable, the room is clean and western in style, and they are usually conveniently located near a train station. Depending on the hotel, a room can be quite small with little or no room for lounging around but it will have a bathroom with a large bath tub for soaking (the Japanese love soaking in baths), shower, and toilet (usually an electric style). There will also be a television, desk, bed and high-speed internet connectivity (usually included)...which is all you really need to live with. Usually there is a small restaurant on the first floor, and some Business Hotels come with a free breakfast, but if not...the convenient location near a train station means there are dozens of nearby places where you can dine or buy a take-out meal. Some have coin-laundry machines, but not all. There will also be vending machines.