Can you imagine staying in a hotel room for just 130 yen (about US$1.20) a night? It sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it is! But there’s a catch. You have to let the hotel live-stream your entire stay on their YouTube channel.
Is It Really Worth It?
Traveling in Japan can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you know where to look. Recently, new rail passes have made getting around easier and cheaper, while convenience stores and restaurants have been stepping up their game with high-quality, diverse food options.
However, hotels seem to be getting pricier, especially with the increase in both domestic and international tourism. So, finding a room for just 130 yen was a shocking surprise.
Meet the Business Ryokan Asahi
Located in Fukuoka City, the Business Ryokan Asahi is a short walk from the bustling Tenjin neighborhood, known for its shopping and entertainment options. What’s even more surprising is that this ridiculously cheap rate is available on weekends and Fridays, not just during the week!
The Big Catch
Of course, there’s a catch. To stay in this bargain room, you have to agree to let the hotel live-stream your entire stay on their YouTube channel.
You don’t have to be a famous YouTuber or influencer, but you also don’t get to perform or do anything special. You’re essentially trading your privacy for a cheap room. Who would agree to this kind of deal?
SoraNews24 Takes the Plunge!
We, at SoraNews24, couldn’t resist this challenge! We sent our intrepid Japanese-language reporter, Masanuki, to check it out.
He arrived at the hotel on Friday night, eager to experience this unique offer. The hotel staff reminded him that the camera would be constantly broadcasting, and asked him to refrain from “lounging around in the nude.” Masanuki readily agreed, because we certainly don’t pay him to strip for the internet! (That’s what we pay Mr. Sato for.)
A Typical Japanese-Style Room
As Masanuki stepped into Room 8, he discovered a totally normal Japanese-style guestroom with tatami flooring, a futon, a low table, a TV, and a hot water kettle. It looked like a simple, clean studio apartment that a college student might live in.
The only unusual things were the coin-operated heater/air conditioning unit (which cost 100 yen for two hours) and the web camera-equipped PC with the lens pointed right at the center of the room.
No Awkward Moments
To ease any worries about awkwardness, the hotel has cleverly avoided a few potential issues. There’s no in-room toilet or shower. Instead, these facilities are located down the hall, away from the camera’s gaze.
Furthermore, the live stream is only video, with no sound. This prevents copyright infringement issues with music playing from the TV, and also keeps the world from hearing you humming, talking to yourself, or… well, you get the idea.
Living Your Life Under the Lens
However, the small room size and simple furnishings mean you’re always on camera. There’s no place to hide. The world got to watch Masanuki brush his teeth, for example!
Even though the camera is supposed to broadcast continuously, it glitch out during Masanuki’s stay, so viewers only got to see part of his experience. The hotel plans to upgrade to a more reliable camera soon.
The Reason Behind the “130 Yen Room”
The hotel management explained that Room 8 was the least-booked room, and they wanted to find a way to get people to stay there. They might only make 130 yen each time, but it’s 130 yen more than nothing, and it also helps to raise awareness of their otherwise ordinary ryokan.
Booking Your Own “130 Yen Room”
Due to the unusual nature of the room, some booking sites don’t list it. However, you can always contact the hotel directly and ask for the “hyakusanjuen no heya”, or “130-yen room”.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and affordable travel experience, and you don’t mind being on camera, then the Business Ryokan Asahi’s “130 yen room” might just be the perfect place for you!
Photos ©SoraNews24
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[ Read in Japanese ]
