Unique Hostels Inspired by Traveling Light: Backpackers’ Japan

The lounge at Len, located in Kawaramachi, Kyoto.

Honma Takahiro, the former backpacker whose experience trekking through Australia led him to starting a hostel business of his own. (© Kodera Kei)

The common room at Nui in Kuramae lets guests read or use the Internet.

A simple, relaxing twin room at Citan in Higashi-Nihonbashi.

Citan is a seven story building with an underground lounge. From Thursday through Saturday, DJs play music for guests to enjoy, and there are plenty of live music events as well.

The entrance to Len, located close to Kyoto’s Kamogawa. Taking strolls by the famous Kyoto waterway is one of the hostel’s highlights.

The garden at Toco, a retro, 90 year-old Japanese home renovated into a hostel.

Honma says that the warmth of the staff is what makes the hostels’ relaxing atmosphere. (© Kodera Kei)

Delicious coffee, food, and carefully selected craft beer are all on offer at the lounge at Nui.