Ever thought about sleeping in a capsule? No, we’re not talking about blasting off to space (although that would be cool). We’re talking about capsule hotels, the future of affordable and efficient lodging.

 

Let’s deep dive into the world of setting up and building capsule hotels, comparing the costs in Japan, the birthplace of this concept, and potential in bringing it to Canada, where the trend is catching on faster than maple syrup and poutine.

 

 

Capsule Hotels in Japan: Pod Origins

 

In Japan, capsule hotels are as common as izakaya bars and karaoke rooms. The pods offer a unique and affordable way to spend the night, especially in bustling cities like Tokyo – where most Salary men decide to sleep in a pod rather than waiting long hours in transit stations or driving in the peak hours.

 

 

Construction Costs : Building a capsule hotel in Japan is like assembling a giant puzzle. A small capsule hotel cost around $500,000, depending on the level and location, while a more luxurious pod can cost $5 million – that’s a lot of money, but it still lower than building a traditional hotel. 

 

 

A more detailed information about the cost is shared from this article.  

 

Guest Costs : In 2016, accommodation cost between 2,000 – 5,000 yen per night, that will be $20 to $50 in USD. It’s like getting a three-star experience in a very affordable rate!

 

 

Capsule Hotels in Canada: Potential Great North Takeover

 

 

Canada, due to inflation and housing affordability crisis, is embracing the capsule hotel trend due to it’s innovative and one-of-a-kind concept. Let’s look at the costs compared to hotels:

 

 

Construction Costs (Based in our 2019 research): 

 

Capsule Hotels: Building a capsule hotel in Canada is like building a container van converted into a home (container housing), but with more practical and less ice. Costs range from CAD $430 per sq. ft., and this will depend on the size and condition of the property. If you have a land size of 3,000 sq. ft., it will cost around $1 to 3 million.

 

 

Conventional 3-Star Hotels: In contrast, constructing a traditional hotel room can cost anywhere from CAD $6 to 8 million. That’s more than a lifetime supply of poutine if you compare the cost to building a capsule hotel!

 

This data is based from our 2019 research, click here to learn more

 

Guest Costs:

 

Capsule Hotels: A night in a Canadian capsule ranges from CAD $90 to CAD $115. That’s less than the price of a good pair of hockey skates or sneakers!

 

Conventional 3-Star Hotels: A night in a regular Canadian hotel room can cost $150 to $750 CAD. You could buy a small forest and plant maple trees for that price!

 

 

Building a Capsule Hotel: The Nuts and Bolts

 

Constructing a capsule hotel is a unique and intricate process that requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a breakdown of the essential components:

 

Design: The design of a capsule hotel must prioritize space efficiency without sacrificing comfort. Architects and designers need to create a layout that maximizes the number of capsules while ensuring privacy and convenience for guests.

 

Materials: Quality materials are crucial for the construction of a capsule hotel. From the outer shell to the interior furnishings, everything must be carefully selected to ensure durability, comfort, and aesthetics.

 

Technology: Modern capsule hotels often incorporate advanced technology to enhance the guest experience. This can include touchscreens for controlling lighting and temperature, high-speed internet access, and other innovative features.

 

Regulations: Compliance with local building codes and safety regulations is a must. This includes adhering to standards for fire safety, accessibility, and other legal requirements.

 

Amenities: Capsule hotels often provide shared amenities like bathrooms, lounges, and dining areas. These spaces must be thoughtfully designed to accommodate the needs and preferences of guests.

 

Sustainability: Many capsule hotels are embracing eco-friendly practices in their construction and operation. This can include energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and the use of sustainable materials.

 

Why We Care

Capsule hotels are revolutionizing the lodging industry, one pod at a time. Whether in Japan, where it all began, or in North America, where it is starting to get trending because of the affordability and value of they present are undeniable.

 

Building a capsule hotel is a complex task that requires a harmonious blend of design, technology, and practicality. The result is a practical lodging that will drive innovation in North America that offers affordability and practicality, appealing to travelers seeking a unique and efficient accommodation experience.