I'm in Tokyo, Japan, staying in somewhat unconventional quarters.
It's a posh pod hotel.
Welcome to my pod.
The concept is increasing in and around Japan, and even around the globe.
Each pod here comes fully-equipped with a TV, radio, electrical outlets, and even pajamas.
There's a lounge and bar area, where you can get work done or enjoy a drink before bed.
Backpackers love this concept because they can meet other travelers without breaking the bank,
but just because you're giving up modern conveniences,
like your own room with privacy, doesn't mean it's exactly cheap, either.
This place can cost up to $70 a night for just a single pod.
Yet in the luxurious neighborhood of Ginza, a hotel across the street can easily cost you over $300.
Sleeping in tight quarters was actually, surprisingly comfortable.
I fell into a deep sleep. Maybe it was not having any windows and a bit of jet lag, too.
Although if you're a light sleeper, sounds might be an issue here.
*Snores*
In typical Japanese fashion, technology is embedded throughout your experience.
The bathrooms have more buttons than some TV remotes
and when I go to iron my shirt, I noticed this iron is completely cordless.
Uh, why aren't cordless irons everywhere?
Contrary to what you might think, this pod hotel trend wasn't
started by the millennial traveler looking to give a facelift to hostels.
It actually dates back to when Japanese workers, particularly men had to work very late at night
or went out drinking after work and missed the last train home.
Taxis are really pricey in Japan. Tokyo's the third most expensive city
for cabs in the world, so it makes more sense to simply crash in a pod.
Fast-forward to today where pod hotel guests here are a combination of
tourists looking for a unique, relatively inexpensive experience and locals resting after a long day of work.