Capsule hotels, which originated in Japan, had become increasingly popular over the years. They offer accommodations that provide the bare essentials, a comfortable bed and sometimes a television, but that is all that many travelers are looking for.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly reduced demand for these spaces, so those running them have had to think outside the box.
Tokyo’s Luxury Capsule Hotel Anshin Oyado has found success in doing so, converting some of its spaces from bedrooms to work areas, allowing renters to have a place to focus on their work free of distractions.
Provided are outlets, a Wi-Fi connection and, if necessary, a wireless mouse, a wireless keyboard and a printer. Remote workers (only men for now) renting these also have access to its regular sleeping capsules and bathing facilities.
Those looking to take advantage of this socially distanced working environment in Shinjuku would need to pay 3,000 yen ($29) for up to a day’s access, 2,000 yen ($19) for up to five hours, 1,500 yen ($14) for up to three hours or 500 yen ($5) for up to an hour.
These types of setups are likely to increase in popularity as a result of remote work becoming increasingly adopted in 2020, and a significant percentage of workers are expected to remain remote once the pandemic ends.
Part of the reason for this is because, prior to March, many employers had told employees that they could not do their work virtually, but, when they had to, it became clear that they could.
A couple of the benefits of remote work that are attracting people include increased flexibility and not needing to commute.
Many who worked virtually for the first time in 2020 may look to change jobs if their employers require them to return to the office to continue working for them.