Staying at Nine Hours Woman Shinjuku Capsule Hotel as a Solo Female Traveler
Last Updated on March 16, 2025 by Erin Donahue
Right off the bat, if you’re a high-maintenance traveler then this article isn’t for you. However, if you’re a solo female traveler searching for a budget-friendly hotel in Tokyo, then read on! Like many big cities, finding affordable accommodation can be challenging. When I traveled to Japan during the Sakura high season hotel prices skyrocketed during this popular time. However, I discovered a budget-friendly gem that offered both comfort and convenience: 9h Nine Hours Woman Shinjuku Capsule Hotel. If you’re a solo female traveler looking to stretch your dollar while exploring Tokyo, this review will help you decide if this unique accommodation option is right for you.
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What Is a Capsule Hotel?
The best way to describe a capsule hotel is like staying at a hostel, but a level up. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize location and budget over luxurious amenities. I had heard about capsule hotels in Tokyo before my trip, and I decided to book a two-night stay just for the plot. Ironically, the same morning I checked in here I had checked out of a 5-star luxury hotel in Taiwan just hours before.
Located within walking distance of Shinjuku Station, 9h Nine Hours Woman Shinjuku provides excellent access to the vibrant Shinjuku area and popular districts like Shibuya. There are several 9h Capsule Hotels throughout Japan, with most being co-ed, but a few remain exclusive to women and that’s the main reason I booked. Even though Japan is a relatively safe country, I still prefer to opt for a women-only environment when possible.
Self-Service Check-In Process
Check-in is quick and easy through a self-service kiosk. Apparently, with Japan being an introvert haven this is ideal so that there’s limited human interaction. Personally, I prefer talking to someone for my check-ins, but if you encounter any issues, staff members are available on-site until midnight to assist you.
Upon check-in, you’re assigned a locker that can fit a carry-on sized suitcase. I had a check-in sized suitcase that obviously couldn’t fit so I had to leave it outside the lockers. While this might concern some travelers, I wasn’t worried about theft – it’s Japan, after all, and I kept my valuables with me.
Sleeping in a Pod
The original sleeping pods at 9h Nine Hours are crafted from Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) and feature a soft, cocoon-like design that eliminates any industrial feel. The pods are surprisingly spacious and create a reassuring environment.
Each pod comes equipped with:
- Power outlet and USB-A charging port
- Adjustable lighting with a dimming controller
- Roller shade for privacy
- High-quality mattress, pillow, and duvet
- Motion sensors and infrared cameras for sleep monitoring
The mattress and duvet are 9h’s original models created in collaboration with Nikke Shoji. The mattress strikes an excellent balance between softness and firmness, while the duvet provides optimal warmth for a cozy sleep experience. The pillow deserves special mention – it’s a “Gymnast Plus” model by Makura no Kitamura, specially resized to fit the sleeping pods. Its unique structure is divided into eight sections made from five different materials, designed to support natural movements during sleep.
Amenities and Facilities
Every day, guests receive:
- Fresh pajamas
- UCHINO long pile bath and face towels
- Slippers
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
The shower and bathroom facilities feature private shower stalls and toilets with bidets. The shower products are from the original ‘TAMANOHADA’ brand from the esteemed Tamanohada Soap Company. Their signature 005-FIG model features a simple, fragrant formula with non-silicone shampoo for a gentle cleanse.
The Sleep Monitoring System
One “unique” feature of 9h Nine Hours is their sleep analysis model called “9h sleep fitscan.” This system supposedly measures sleep quality by collecting guest data using infrared cameras, microphones, and motion sensors. The pod’s shape, which envelops your body 360 degrees, enables advanced sensing without additional devices.
After your stay, you receive a sleep report detailing metrics such as heart rate, snoring, and instances of apnea. While this provides interesting insights into your sleep patterns, I couldn’t find a way to opt out of this monitoring.
The Social Atmosphere
One thing I noticed during my stay was the diverse mix of women. All ages and ethnicities were represented. Despite the communal setup, everyone is quiet and minds their own business. Most guests appear to be solo travelers who travel frequently and prioritize value for money over luxury.
Pros and Cons of Nine Hours Woman Shinjuku Capsule Hotel
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Excellent location near Shinjuku Station
- A women-only environment provides added security
- Fresh amenities are provided daily
- Clean facilities
- Surprisingly comfortable sleeping pods
Cons:
- Sleep monitoring with no apparent opt-out option
- Daily cleaning from 10 am-2 pm means you’re locked out of sleeping and locker areas
- Early check-out time (10 am)
- Limited elevator access (one slow elevator serves the entire building)
- Limited shower/sink space relative to guest capacity
- You can hear other people snoring and, well, other bodily functions
Would I Stay at Nine Hours Woman Shinjuku Capsule Hotel Again?
Overall, my stay at 9h Nine Hours Woman Shinjuku Capsule Hotel was a positive experience and I’d stay again if necessary. I paid $95 for two nights, which breaks down to $47.50 per night. By simply signing up and making an account online, you get an extra 10% off your stay. That’s solid since I wasn’t planning to be inside most of the day and was out exploring Tokyo. If you’re a solo female traveler who prioritizes location and affordability over luxury and privacy, this capsule hotel experience is worth considering. Just pack earplugs, plan your shower schedule strategically, and embrace the unique experience of sleeping in a high-tech pod in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
Address: (EN) 2-13-7 Shinjuku,Shinjuku-ku,Tokyo 160-0022, (JP) 〒160-0022 東京都新宿区新宿2-13-7
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