Finding accommodation in Japan isn’t hard, but finding cheap accommodation might have you digging a little bit deeper than you normally would. But with some research, you’ll see that there are many diamonds in the rough when it comes to affordable places to stay in the city.

Hostels and guesthouses aren’t just cheap — you get to meet people from all over the world, and if you choose wisely, they’ll have great facilities you won’t find in many hotels. And above all, there’s that feeling of being in a close community that will make you feel at home, even if you’re out traveling on your own for the very first time.

Here is our selection of hostels and guesthouses you’ll definitely want to try on a future trip to Japan. They all have private rooms too, for those of you who are interested in getting the “hostel experience” but would rather relax and sleep in privacy.

1. Nui. Hostel & Bar Lounge

Modern and hip, Nui. boasts a cafe and bar lounge that anyone in the city would love to hang out at. Of course, the dormitories and common rooms are as awesome as the cafe/bar, and once you spend one night at Nui., you’ll never want to leave.

Rates: 2700 yen (≒$22)/night 〜

Visit their website!

2. toco.

If you’re looking to stay at a hostel that’s both modern and very traditionally Japanese, toco. might be the place for you. The hostel runs inside a traditional Japanese building that is over 90 years old, and locals visit to hang out at the bar/lounge area.

Rates: 2800 yen (≒$23)/night 〜

Visit their website!

3. Retrometro Backpackers

As the name suggests, Retrometro Backpackers has retro-style dorms built of wood that create a soothing atmosphere reminiscent of the Showa period. The similarly wooden bunk-beds are the perfect place to rest after a long day of sightseeing. Their rooms almost look like they could be in a Ghibli movie!

Rates: 2600 yen (≒$21)/night 〜

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4. Kangaroo Hotel

Okay, the Kangaroo Hotel isn't a hostel. But it's not only cheap, it was even awarded with the Good Design Award in 2011. Although the individual rooms are pretty narrow, this family-run hotel strives to create a place where travelers and visitors will get much more than just a “nice place to stay at.”

Rates: 3600 yen (≒$30)/night 〜

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5. Oak House Zen

Oak House Zen looks like a spa. Clean, bright, and modern, the bunkbeds even have curtains so you can snatch a little bit of privacy in the dormitories. They even have a female dorm with single beds instead of bunkbeds. Rates of the private rooms run higher, but even the cheapest room is way more than we can ask for!

Rates: 3000 yen (≒$25)/night 〜

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6. Grids Hostel + Lounge Akihabara

Another hostel with a lounge, Grids' modern design and sleek atmosphere attracts both tourists and locals. In addition to dormitories and private rooms, they also have a “POD” room where bunkbeds are built and designed in a similar way as sleeper trains (but more comfortable, of course), giving you yet another “Japanese” experience.

Rates: 3300 yen(≒$27)/night 〜

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7. Anne Hostel Asakusabashi

Located only two stations away from Asakusa, Anne Hostel Asakusabashi is ideal for people who don't need special facilities and just want a peaceful place to rest. But they do rent out kimonos to their guests, so if you’ve been dying to try one on, this might be the place for you.

Rates: 2600 yen (≒$21)/night 〜

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8. Khaosan Laboratory

Khaosan has many branches of themed hostels, and Khaosan Laboratory is definitely their most unique. Super colorful rooms in Japan are rather uncommon, but if you’ve dreamed of living in a spunky, pop place, you can stay here to temporarily fulfill that desire. This hostel looks so fun, it wouldn’t be surprising if Japanese people stayed there just for the heck of it (they even have a power nap station!).

Rates: Varies, but usually around 3200 yen (≒$26)/night

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9. Khaosan Origami

Another one of Khaosan’s hostels is the Khaosan Origami. In contrast to Khaosan Laboratory, this location has a much more subdued, natural beauty that reflects Japanese culture. A chic blend of modern and traditional, this relaxing space might make you want to take a break from all the sightseeing and curl up with a book for a day.

Rates: Varies, but usually around 3200 yen (≒$26)/night

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10. K’s House Tokyo Oasis

K’s House Tokyo Oasis is just that — an oasis in the heart of Asakusa, one of the most historical areas in busy Tokyo. The modern Japanese-style atmosphere will make sure the historical beauty of the surrounding city remains with you even after you head back from visiting shrines and temples.

Rates: 2950 yen (≒$24)/night 〜

Visit their website!