【JAPAN Apartment Rental】A New Standard for Japan Travel? Basic Knowledge, Appeal, and First Steps to Finding Minpaku

What is Minpaku in Japan? Differences from Hotels and Ryokans

“Minpaku” generally refers to offering lodging services to travelers using vacant rooms in private homes or apartments. Unlike hotels or traditional Japanese inns (ryokans), it offers a characteristic stay that is more rooted in the local area, allowing you to experience life like a resident. In recent years, its popularity has grown in Japan, driven by the increase in foreign tourists and the spread of platforms like Airbnb. A wide variety of properties are available, from rooms in urban apartments to traditional houses (kominka) or entire houses in rural areas, offering diverse options to suit travelers’ needs.

The Unique Appeal and Diversity of Minpaku

The greatest appeal of minpaku lies in the unique experiences it offers that cannot be found in hotels. You can cook local ingredients in properties with kitchens, enjoy interactions with hosts or local residents, and get a feel for living in the area. Renting an entire house is convenient for large groups or long-term stays. Additionally, unique accommodations focusing on specific experiences, such as traditional kominka houses, farm stays (nōhaku), or temple lodgings (shukubō), exist, allowing you to choose a more personalized lodging experience based on your travel purpose and preferences.

Basic Knowledge of the “Minpaku New Law”

When using minpaku in Japan, it’s important to know about the Private Lodging Business Act, commonly known as the “Minpaku New Law,” which came into effect in June 2018. This law was established to promote the sound development of minpaku services, aiming to ensure safety and hygiene, and prevent troubles with neighbors. “Legal minpaku” operating under this law must be notified to the prefectural governor, etc., and their annual operating days are limited to 180. Registered facilities are assigned a “notification number” (todokede bangō) and often display a sign near the entrance. As a traveler, it is recommended to choose these legal minpaku facilities whenever possible.

Main Ways to Find Minpaku: Utilizing Booking Sites

The most common way to find minpaku is by using online travel agencies (OTAs) or dedicated minpaku platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Rakuten Vacation STAY. These sites allow you to efficiently find your ideal accommodation by filtering based on criteria such as area, dates, number of guests, budget, and necessary facilities (Wi-Fi, kitchen, washing machine, etc.). Each site has its own characteristics, differing in the types of properties listed, fees, and target audience. For example, if you prioritize unique experiences, Airbnb or STAY JAPAN might be suitable. If you are price-conscious, consider Booking.com. If you want to utilize Rakuten points for domestic travel, Rakuten Vacation STAY could be an option. Choosing a platform that matches your travel style is crucial.

Conclusion: For a Safe and Comfortable Minpaku Experience

Minpaku is an attractive option that can make your stay in Japan richer and more memorable. However, there are points to note that differ from hotels. When using minpaku, it is essential to respect the facility’s rules and Japanese culture and customs, paying particular attention to noise levels and garbage sorting. By conducting thorough research beforehand, choosing reliable facilities, and adhering to manners, you can ensure a wonderful minpaku experience that is pleasant for the host, the guest, and the local community.