When most people think of places to stay in Japan, hostels and capsule hotels are usually the go-to options. But tucked away in train station basements and city corners is one of Japan’s most underrated, budget-friendly experiences: the manga cafe. Manga cafes in Japan, also known locally as manga kissa (まんが喫茶) or internet cafe (インターネットカフェ), are 24-hour spots that are more than just places to surf the web—they’re cozy, surprisingly comfortable hideouts offering private booths, endless manga, showers, gaming, and even free drink bars.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to stay in a manga cafe in Japan, this guide has you covered. I’ll walk you through everything from how to check in, choose a room, and navigate the facilities, to how much it actually costs and which chains are best. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a digital nomad, or just someone who missed the last train (like me), this post will help you decide if a manga cafe stay is right for your next adventure.

What is a Manga/Internet Cafe?

Internet and manga cafes in Japan have been around since the 90s, but they have transformed significantly over time. Originally, internet cafes were just for browsing the web, while manga cafes focused on providing a space to read comic books. Today, these two concepts have merged into one, offering a range of amenities, including:

⦾ Private booths for sleeping or working
⦾ Unlimited manga and magazines
⦾ Computers with high-speed internet
⦾ Gaming consoles
⦾ Soft drink bars (sometimes with free ice cream!)
⦾ Shower facilities
⦾ Food ordering services

For many travelers, they serve as a convenient alternative to hotels or hostels, especially in emergencies like missing the last train or needing a quick power nap.

How to Stay at a Manga Cafe in Japan

Step 1: Register as a Member

Most internet cafes require first-time visitors to register. This is a simple process that has taken me less than five minutes to do in the past. You’ll need an ID (passport works fine for tourists), and some cafes may ask you to fill out a form or download an app for membership.

Step 2: Choose Your Room Type

After registering, you’ll select your booth type and how long you’d like to stay. Prices vary based on room size, location, and amenities.

Common options include:

• Basic Seat: A simple chair in an open or semi-private space
• Reclining Chair Booth: A private cubicle with a comfy chair
• Flat Booth: A small, cushioned floor area suitable for lying down
• Deluxe Booth: Larger rooms with more privacy, sometimes including a locking door

Step 3: Enjoy Your Stay

Once checked in, you’re free to explore the facilities. Grab a manga, play some games, or take advantage of the shower amenities. Many cafes also allow food delivery or have vending machines and snack bars.

Step 4: Pay When You Leave

Payment is done at checkout based on the hours you’ve actually spent. If you exceed your reservation time, you’ll be charged an extra fee in 10-minute increments. Prices can vary, but a semi-private booth for six hours usually costs around 1,500 yen, with overnight stays ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 yen.

Why Stay at a Manga Cafe?

⦾ Affordability: Significantly cheaper than hotels or hostels
⦾ Convenience: Open 24/7 and found all over Japan
⦾ Flexibility: Stay for as little as 30 minutes or as long as 24 hours
⦾ Great for solo travelers: Ideal for short rest stops between travel adventures
⦾ Unique Experience: It is simply a unique experience that you’ll likely only get to experience if you’re in Japan.

Do You Need to Speak Japanese?

Not necessarily! Many large-chain internet cafes have self-check-in kiosks with English language options. If not, pointing at the price menu and saying “Kore, onegaishimasu” (This one, please) will usually do the trick. And, of course, like most things in Japan, bigger cities with a higher population of tourists will be more likely to have an English speaking staff, compared to smaller cities or the countryside.

When Should You Avoid a Manga Cafe?

If you plan to stay in one location for multiple days, a hostel or hotel may be a better option. Internet cafes in Japan charge hourly, so costs can add up quickly. Additionally, they don’t provide luggage storage after checkout, meaning you’ll have to use train station lockers, which can be an extra expense.

Which Manga Cafe Should I Stay At In Japan?

Kaikatsu Club (快活CLUB)

The most widespread and reputable internet cafe chain in Japan, offering great amenities like laundry, women-only areas, and even darts and billiards. Hint: It’s the orange sign on the right side of this photo. 👆🏾

Gran Cyber Cafe (グランサイバーカフェ)

Popular in Tokyo and Osaka, this chain offers a stylish atmosphere with entertainment-focused extras like darts, table tennis, and theater rooms.

Hailey 5 Cafe

A high-end internet cafe catering to adults (18+ only), with an upscale, relaxing ambiance and online reservation options.

Final Thoughts

Manga and internet cafes in Japan are a fun, budget-friendly alternative to traditional accommodations. Whether you’re a traveler looking for a cheap overnight stay, a digital nomad in need of a quiet workspace, or simply someone who enjoys manga and gaming, these cafes offer a unique experience worth trying! I got you thinking, but you’re still not sold? Click here to check out my reel about staying in an internet cafe in Tokyo!

Have you ever stayed at a manga kissa in Japan? Let me know in the comments!