Living in a box

Tokyo: 23rd - 31st October

I remember first hearing about capsule hotels in a geography lesson all those many years ago. I was curious at the time but never imagined that I would actually be checking into one. So, when Ed first suggested it, I agreed that you just have to give some things a try. I was pretty apprehensive however; it really wouldn't be the ideal place to discover that I suffer from claustrophobia.

The capsules come equipped with everything you may need; the obvious bedding, towels, dressing gown, toothbrush (the bristles are coated with toothpaste - the Japanese think of everything), slippers, toiletries and tv. Perfect for those workers or party goers who've missed the last train home.

Having made the most of the free internet provided, I said good night to Ed and ventured up into my 1 x 1 x 2 metre cocoon. It's pretty weird entering a room full of these cocoons all stacked along side and above/below each other and thinking how may people you must be sharing it with. In a city so short of space however, it just makes sense.

Despite knocking the sides of the capsule a few times (I feel sorry for whoever was next to me), I must say that it was the bext nights sleep I had since being in Japan. Certainly beats sleeping on tatami mats on the floor anyway.