If you’re the kind of traveler who makes a beeline for every indie bookstore you see, has a TBR list longer than your itinerary, and loves the idea of a quiet night in with a good read—this one’s for you.
As someone who finds comfort in the pages of a book and needs quiet moments to recharge after a long day of exploring, Book and Bed was one of the best hostel experiences I’ve had!
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Best Hostels for Book Lovers
Book and Bed Tokyo & Osaka: A Dream for Bookworms
BOOK AND BED TOKYO calls itself “a bookstore where you can stay,” and honestly, that sums it up perfectly. With over 4,000 books tucked into cozy shelves and beds hidden within the walls of the bookcases themselves, this concept hostel is a dream come true for book lovers, introverts, and anyone craving a chill, unique place to stay in Japan.
There are two locations—one in Tokyo and one in Osaka—and I had the chance to stay at both. Each one has its own personality: Osaka’s location is sleek and modern with a black and white design and a spacious, cushy lounge area, while Tokyo’s is warm and cozy, featuring natural wooden shelves and a more intimate, library-like feel.
Book and Bed Osaka (Shinsaibashi): Cool and Modern
This location stole my heart. The common area is spacious, with cushy seating perfect for lounging with a book or chatting quietly with fellow travelers. There’s a wide variety of English books and magazines to flip through, and the overall vibe is super chill and creative.
The bed capsules themselves are tucked right into the bookshelves. They’re on the smaller side, and I won’t lie—climbing into a top bunk took a little effort. But once I was in, it was cozy magic.
Another bonus? The price. This Osaka location is about half the cost of the Tokyo one, making it a great budget-friendly option for travelers who value atmosphere over frills.
Aesthetic Cafe + Perfect Location
There’s also a really cute on-site café with modern vibes and surprisingly good food and drinks. It’s the kind of place you can easily spend a whole afternoon—especially on a rainy day.
And because it’s located right in Shinsaibashi, you’re just steps away from great shopping, local eats, and easy access to transit. It’s a great base for exploring Osaka, then winding down with a book at night.
Book and Bed Tokyo (Shinjuku): Warm, Cozy, and Central
The Tokyo location has its own charm. Nestled in the heart of Shinjuku, it has a warm, wooden aesthetic that feels like curling up inside a cozy library nook. The shelves and bed frames are framed in natural tones, and the entire space has a soft, golden glow that bookworms will love.
The bed capsules in Tokyo are a bit roomier, with built-in storage space under the shelves, which is a nice touch. But the common areas are smaller and have fewer cushions compared to Osaka, making it feel a bit less lounge-friendly for long reading sessions.
Another key difference is the book selection—while the Tokyo spot has plenty of Japanese titles, the English options were a bit limited compared to Osaka. Still, it was a lovely space and a fun experience. I only stayed one night before switching to a more social (and affordable) hostel.
Since Tokyo is such a sprawling city, switching hostels can actually be a smart move—especially if you want to focus on different neighborhoods without spending too much time commuting.
Quick Comparison: Tokyo vs Osaka Book and Bed
| Feature | Tokyo (Shinjuku) | Osaka (Shinsaibashi) |
| Aesthetic | Warm tones, wooden shelves | Modern black and white, sleek |
| Bed Capsule Size | Roomier, under storage space | Smaller, no storage space |
| Common Area | Smaller, fewer cushions | Spacious, comfy lounge |
| English Book Selection | Limited | Wide variety |
| Price in March 2025 (varies on season) | $55 a night | $29 a night |
| Location | Central Shinjuku | Central Shinsaibashi |
| Café On-Site | Yes | Yes |
| Day Use – Hour Rate | Starts at 700 Yen | 500 yen |
Travel Tips for Book and Bed Stays
- Bring earplugs and an eye mask if you’re a light sleeper. The spaces are quiet, but you’re still in a shared dorm environment.
- Perfect for solo travelers who prefer quiet vibes over party scenes.
- Stay multiple nights in Osaka if you want a relaxed base with time to read and unwind.
- In Tokyo, consider switching hostels during your trip to minimize transit times across the city.
- Book in advance, especially in peak seasons—they’re popular spots!
Would I Stay Again? Absolutely.
Book and Bed isn’t your typical hostel—it’s slower, softer, and meant to be savored. If you’re looking for a party hostel, this isn’t it. But if you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a dreamy little hideaway built just for book lovers? Then you’re going to love it here.
Both Tokyo and Osaka have something special to offer, and if you’re a reader, staying at either (or both!) is a must-add to your Japan itinerary.
Check out the rest of my travel blog for more Japan adventures and budget-friendly travel tips!
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