From FlyerGuide Wiki
Japan (Tokyo and beyond) Hotels
Tokyo hotels are very pricy, a list of hotels that can be booked without paying any commision is nozio.com [1]
To stay at a traditional Japanese hotel (Ryokan) or a monastary (such as at Koyasan), there is a great site with a free booking service at www.japaneseguesthouses.com:
A Ryokan uses traditional futon bedding which you can google. Basically, it's on the floor.
Capsule Hotels Capsule hotels can be a great experience. They might be a little claustrophobic, but there are common areas you can hang out in until you go to sleep. They are usually located near big train stations, to cater for those who have missed their last train home. You have to be ok with using a communal bath, but this can be very relaxing. Google for proper communal bathing etiquette in Japan. Basically, the major rule is, scrub yourself down and rinse off super good in the seated shower BEFORE going into any of the soaking tubs--no exceptions to this! If you plop into a bath/pool first before scrubbing down really well with soap and rinsing off thoroughly, it will be a major faux pas.
Each capsule will have a locker to store your belongings.
The information is accurate, helpful to the Westerner. They will even book for you at places not listed. Their service is great!
