I’ve personally stayed in the Airbnbs and hostels listed here am only recommending ones based on the experience & cost. Any of them that I wouldn’t stay at again, have not been listed. There’s also a list of my favorite foods I had, of course there’s many recommendations out there, but the foods I listed were quite amazing!
STAYS
Osaka
Cheap Airbnb outside of Osaka in Sakai City. Not loads to do but near the train and it’s very spacious which I loved. & The host is super kind. (about $18/night)
Osaka hostel near Dotonbori. Pretty comfortable & I made friends here, so I would say it’s great for the price and the social experience. Beds comfortable too, but it’s nothing high end. (about $20/night)
Tokyo
Stayed in the female dorm, bed area super spacious and great location near Asakusa and near train stops. Was great for meeting people if you’re cool with hostels! Plus much cheaper than most Tokyo hostels. (about $17/night)
Nara
Ugh, this place was lovely in Nara. It’s about a 20-minute walk from the center or everything, but the hosts are a sweet elderly couple. The home is old and traditional which was such an experience. I didn’t find the host living area the cleanest, but the upstairs space for guests in well maintained. The room was also SPACIOUS! (about $17/night)
Yugawara
One of my favorites in Japan. Very cheap and spacious, may have other guests or you’ll have the whole house. Has electric bike to help get around as it’s a short ways from town. Can swim at the beach here and hike! (about $17/night)
Kyoto
Co-working hostel perfect for the digital nomad. Bed space is huge, although the hostel wasn’t so social. Used the co-working space almost everyday. Good location as well and near the metro stops.
EATS
Coming soon-ish?
Kayla Cosmos 