Category Archives: Asia

How to Get Around Japan on a Budget

a tall, colorful Buddhist pagoda overlooking Mount Fuji in Japan
Posted: 2/11/2019 | February 11th, 2019

I have a confession to make: I put off traveling to Japan until 2011 because I always thought it was too expensive.

Everyone always told me Japan was one of the most expensive countries in the world. That was the collective wisdom.

But, when I got there, I realized two things: First, I love Japan! It’s one of the most amazing, beautiful, and friendliest countries in the world. It lives up to all the hype.

Second, while Japan is expensive, it’s not out of reach for budget travelers.

There are many cheap ways to enjoy Japan on a budget.

From finding delicious food to affordable hotels to fun activities, you don’t have to pinch every penny have fun.

However, the one thing that is truly expensive in Japan? Quick transportation.

While it’s not a huge country, the island nation’s transportation infrastructure is geared to expensive, high-speed travel or inexpensive, (really) low-speed travel. There’s not much in between. It’s a three-hour train ride or a 12-hour bus ride!

So what are the best ways to travel around Japan without spending all your money on transportation?

In this post, I’ll break that down (because it does require some work).

Getting Around Japan By Train

A super fast bullet train rocketing past a snow-capped Mount Fuji in Japan
Japan’s infamous bullet trains (called shinkansen) are beautiful, comfortable, convenient, and fast. They are a wonder of transportation, racing around at speeds up to 320 km (200 miles) per hour. These trains run on special tracks, separate from the other trains.

They are a beautiful feat of engineering and a smooth ride. It’s the best in train travel.

However, they are also very, very expensive.

Individual tickets can cost hundreds of dollars — even more than airfare. To travel on a bullet train, you pay a basic train fare, then there’s an additional “super express fee” of 800 to 8,000 JPY ($7.50 to $75). For example, a one-way ticket from Kyoto to Hiroshima can cost 11,300 JPY ($105 USD), from Tokyo to Kyoto is 13,710 JPY ($126 USD), from Osaka to Tokyo is around 15,000 JPY ($140 USD), and from Tokyo to Nagasaki is 25,850 ($240 USD).

To make matters worse, there are very rarely promotions or discounts. And, unless you know Japanese, they are nearly impossible to find.

Fortunately, there are other options. Japan also has regular limited express and regional trains. Naturally, they are much slower than the shinkansen, but they are also cheaper.

For example, a trip on a local train from Kyoto to Tokyo will cost around 8,000 JPY ($73 USD) instead of 13,710 JPY ($126 USD) for the bullet train. However, the journey will take 9 hours instead of 3 hours and will also require several transfers, making it a less than an ideal choice for most travelers.

Whether you opt for the bullet train or regional trains, I think train travel is the best way to see the country. It’s just not a good idea to buy individual tickets. In order to reduce your train costs, you need to get a Japan Rail (JR) pass.

The passes are good for JR trains — both regular trains as well as the shinkansen bullet trains! — which go to nearly every destination and region in the country. What I really like is that these JR trains also serve metropolitan areas, so they can be used within cities. On my last visit, I used my pass to get around Kyoto and Tokyo instead of buying metro tickets.

The JR pass is indispensable for travel in Japan, as you get unlimited rides with it. The pass has several options (each valid for consecutive days, not just travel days):

  • 29,110 JPY ($267 USD) for 7 days
  • 46,390 JPY ($426 USD) for 14 days
  • 59,350 JPY ($545 USD) for 21 days

Even if you get just the seven-day JR pass, it will still cost less than a round-trip train ticket from Osaka to Tokyo. And you can still do a lot in seven days (it’s a small country, after all!)

The JR Pass is good on several types of JR trains. After the shinkansen, the next fastest is the tokkyu (limited express). The kyuko express train comes next, followed by the kaisoku and futs? (local trains that make every stop).

Each of these passes also has a first-class option. First-class cars in Japan are called “green cars.” The Green Car JR Pass will be around 10,000 JPY ($92 USD) more for each pass. Since the trains in Japan are already amazing, you likely don’t need to buy the Green Car pass unless you really want some luxury.

There are regional options as well if you are not traveling the entire country. These options will save you even more money since they are cheaper than the regular JR passes. You can buy JR passes for six different regions of the country:

  • JR East
  • JR West
  • JR Central
  • JR Hokkaido (the northern island)
  • JR Kyushu (the southwestern island)
  • JR Shikoku (the southeastern island)

Each region will have several pass options, usually ranging between 1-7 days. If you’re just going to be focusing on one region of the country, consider buying a JR regional pass. If you want to explore everywhere, get the regular JR Pass. (If you’re a first-time visitor to Japan, you’ll likely want the regular JR Pass, as it covers all the major destinations.)

One thing to keep in mind is that you have to buy your JR Pass before you come to Japan. So make sure you have your “exchange order” (the receipt for your pass) before you leave home! Once you get to Japan, you will exchange your “exchange order” for a JR Pass at a JR office. Make sure you have your passport when you go to collect it!

However, they are currently allowing travelers to buy their passes on arrival in some locations, but this is just a test that is set to end in March 2019. Until then, here is where you can buy your pass in Japan: Sapporo, Sendai, Niigata, Tokyo, Shinjuku, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Hiroshima, Takamatsu, Hakata, New Chitose Airport, Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, and Kansai Airport. The pass is available mainly to non-Japanese travelers who are visiting for a limited time. When you apply for the pass, you will provide your nationality and travel details. You will need your passport to collect your pass.

If you don’t buy a JR Pass and just want to buy single tickets between destinations, here are the approximate prices you’ll pay for one-way train tickets with non-reserved seats in the “ordinary” (non-green car) class:

  • Hiroshima-Tokyo: 18,040 JPY ($167 USD)
  • Tokyo-Kyoto: 13,080 JPY ($120 USD)
  • Kyoto-Hiroshima: 10,570 JPY ($98 USD)
  • Tokyo-Nagoya: 10,360 JPY ($96 USD)
  • Nagoya-Kyoto: 5,070 JPY ($47 USD)
  • Kyoto-Osaka: 560 JPY ($5.25 USD)
  • Hiroshima-Fukuoka: 28,262 JPY ($256 USD)
  • Nagano-Kanazawa: 11, 924 JPY ($108 USD)
  • Tokyo-Yokohama: 4,085 PJY ($37 USD)
  • Hakodate-Tokyo: 27,934 JPY($253 USD)
  • Nara-Kyoto: 900 JPY ($8 USD)
  • Tokyo-Odawara: 7,175 JPY ($65 USD)

If you don’t have a JR Pass, you’ll pay more for a reserved seat, about 300 to 700 JPY ($2.75 to $6.50 USD). You do not typically need to get a reserved seat unless you are traveling in peak season when all seats may be taken.

Getting Around Japan By Public Bus

A pink Willer Express coach bus full of people in Japan
Buses are a less expensive alternative but they take more time. For example, the two-hour bullet train ride from Tokyo to Osaka is 10 hours on the bus.

The price for that seat is 4,500 JPY ($42 USD), but at some point, you need to think about how much your time is worth. On my last trip, saving 10,500 JPY ($97) was not worth the extra eight hours of travel, since I had limited time.

If I’d had more time, the bus would have been worth it, especially because there are so many cool stops along the way to break up the journey.

Willer Express and Japan Bus Lines have bus passes that offer unlimited travel and begin at 10,000 JPY ($93 USD) for three non-consecutive days of travel. You can see the options at willerexpress.com.

Here are some sample bus fares between popular destinations:

  • Tokyo-Kyoto: 1,599 JYP ($15 USD) – 7.5 hrs.
  • Tokyo-Nagoya: 2,998 JYP ($28 USD) – 6.5 hrs.
  • Nagoya-Kyoto: 2,550 JYP ($24 USD) – 2 hrs. 50 mins.
  • Kyoto-Hiroshima: 4,590 JYP ($42 USD) – 7 hrs. 20 mins.
  • Hiroshima-Tokyo: 6,000 JYP ($55 USD) – 12 hrs.
  • Kyoto-Osaka: 900 JYP ($8 USD) – 1.5 hrs.

As you can see, it’s a lot cheaper to go by bus — but it takes a lot longer!

Bottom line: If you have the time, take the bus. The coaches are comfortable, and there are overnight buses, which is a decent alternative if you’re taking a long trip. Don’t be afraid to chat people up when traveling, either: those I met in Japan were really friendly. If they’re Japanese, they’ll be more than happy to tell you all about their country (and ask about yours).

Getting Around Japan By Plane

Colorful commercial airplanes in Japan painted with Pokemon pictures
Flying has become a better option as more budget carriers now serve Japan. In general, airfares are on par with bullet train tickets. JAL and ANA are the big players. The main “budget” carriers are Peach and Jetstar Japan.

Japan is not a huge country, and I much prefer the train or bus, but if you are short on time and don’t feel like hopping from island to island on a ferry or taking the bullet train, you can fly (though it’s a lot more of a hassle!).

Here are some typical prices between a few popular destinations in Japan:

Tokyo-Kyoto:
JAL: 8,767 JPY ($81 USD) (one-way), 17,759 JPY ($164 USD) (return)
ANA: 11,239 JPY ($104 USD) (one-way), 20,323 JPY ($189 USD) (return)

Tokyo-Nagoya:
JAL: 7,081 JPY ($65 USD) (one-way), 14,611 JPY ($135 USD) (return)
ANA: 9,329 JPY ($86 USD) (one-way), 16,972 JPY ($157 USD) (return)

Osaka-Hiroshima*:
JAL: 11,352 JPY ($105 USD) (one-way), 42,036 JPY ($388 USD) (return)
ANA: 18,881 JPY ($175 USD) (one-way), 37,649 JPY ($348 USD) (return)

Hiroshima-Tokyo:
JAL: 11,576 JPY ($107 USD) (one-way), 21,018 JPY ($194 USD) (return)
ANA: 16,409 JPY ($152 USD) (one-way), 25,738 JPY ($238 USD) (return)

*No direct flights

Moreover, ANA offers special last-minute fares for 10,800 JPY ($99 USD) or less at ana.co.jp/en/us/promotions/share/experience_jp/. These fares are available only to foreigners and can sometimes be cheaper than the flights you find on other sites, especially for longer routes.

When deciding whether to fly or travel via train, keep in mind that you’ll need to get to the airport somehow. Not all airports are close: for instance, Kyoto’s nearest airport is in Osaka. If you find flights to be really expensive (as in those to and from Hiroshima), check nearby airports and, most of all, be flexible with your itinerary.

Getting Around Japan By Ferry

Passengers lining up for a large ferry to take them to an island in Japan
Another option in Japan is an interisland ferry, and there is an extensive selection of routes. Ferries typically carry passengers, vehicles, and cargo. Passengers have a choice of three classes: second (with or without a bed), first, and special. You will not have your own private room on a ferry, though the first-class option has just two beds in each room.

Japan’s four main islands are connected by bridges and tunnels, but a lot of the smaller islands can be reached only by water. If you plan on exploring these, the Japan Ferry Pass 21 is a good option. It gives you six trips on certain longer-distance ferry routes for 21 days. The pass is 21,000 JPY ($189 USD) and is available only to foreign travelers. The pass is good for second-class travel and can’t be used during peak season; ferries must be reserved in advance. For more information, visit jlc-ferry.jp.

If you decide to go this route, keep in mind that the trips can be very long! Here are some example routes, durations, and costs:

Route
Duration (hrs)
Second Class (no bed)
First Class (with bed)

Tokyo – Kitakyushu
34
17,000 JPY ($157 USD)
20,000 JPY ($183 USD)

Osaka – Shibushi
15
$14,660 JPY ($134 USD)
22,000 JPY ($203 USD)

Kobe – Takamatsu
4
2,290 JPY ($21 USD)
4,300 JPY ($39 USD)

Niigata – Otaru
17
6,680 JPY($61 USD; shared room with bed)
14,160 JPY ($130 USD)

Getting Around Japan By Car

The blurred lights of a busy superhighway in Japan at night
I don’t recommend renting a car and driving around Japan on your own. For one, rental cars are much more expensive than public transit options. In most places, traffic is frustrating, parking is a big hassle, and unless you speak Japanese, getting around is going to be very difficult.

Getting Around Japan By Hitchhiking

If you are feeling adventurous, you can hitchhike. Japan’s a really safe country, and it’s a chance for a free ride! While almost no Japanese hitchhike, many are more than happy to pick up foreigners. It’s an opportunity for them to practice their English and engage a new culture, so don’t be afraid to stick out a thumb!

Even out in the countryside, you won’t have a hard time finding a ride. Even people who don’t speak English will pick you up, as the people really are incredibly kind and giving. Don’t be surprised if you get asked to meet their family or friends or share a meal with them!

Our Community Manager, Chris, spent a month backpacking and hitchhiking in Japan. He never waited too long for a ride, and people were incredibly friendly. They bought him snacks and meals, drove way out of their way to help him, and even took them to their homes to meet their family. If you’re comfortable doing this, it can be a very culturally rewarding experience!

If you decide to go this route, make a sign letting people know which direction you’re headed. Add a smiley face and other cute drawings to up your chances of finding a ride. A good resource for finding the best places to find a ride is Hitchwiki.

How Long Does it Take to Get Around Japan?

Here are some distances and travel times. I think this will convince you that the train really is the way to go.

Route
Road (km/miles)
Air (hrs.)
Train (hrs.)
Bus (hrs.)

Tokyo-Kyoto**
453/281
1
2:40
7:30

Tokyo-Nagoya
347/216
1:10
2:10
6:30

Nagoya-Kyoto**
135/84
4*
0:50
2:50

Kyoto**-Hiroshima
361/224
3:50*
1:40
7:20

Hiroshima-Tokyo
8017/501
1:50
5
12

Kyoto-Osaka
58/36
N/A
0:25
1:30

***

The Best Way to Get Around Japan

Bottom line: The best transportation option really depends on the length of your trip. If you only have a week or so in Japan and want to get around really quick, get a rail pass and take the train everywhere you need to go. It’s not going to be cheap, but it will be the most efficient. If you have more time and have a lot of places to visit in a similar geographic region, take the bus. If you’re not comfortable hitchhiking, try an app like CarpoolWorld, which helps you find all sorts of carpool, vanpool, and rideshare listings by destination.

Whichever method you choose, you’ll be in good hands. Japan has some of the safest, cleanest, most efficient travel options in the world, so enjoy!

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. They’re the best booking site out there. My favorite places to stay in Japan are:

  • Khaosan Tokyo Kabuki (Tokyo) – This is one of the best hostels in the country. The staff go above and beyond, each room has its own bathroom, and it’s in a great location to help you explore the city.
  • Jiyujin (Kyoto) – This is a smaller hostel that’s great for anyone looking to have a more quiet and relaxed stay in the city.
  • K’s House (Hiroshima) – This is a great chain of hostels around the country. The staff are helpful, the common areas are always full of people, and they also have free tea and coffee.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for more travel tips for Japan
Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money, costs, tips on what to see and do, suggested itineraries, reading, packing lists, and much, much more!

Photo Credit: 1, 2, 4, 5, 6

The post How to Get Around Japan on a Budget appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

My 12 Favorite Hostels in Bangkok in 2019

Bangkok at night
Posted: 1/10/2019 | January 10th, 2019

Bangkok is a wonderful city full of history, gorgeous temples, and excitement. It’s an excellent place for travelers, as there is a lot to do and see here. It is one of my favorite cities in the entire world, and I can never get enough of it! Stick me in a Thai market surrounded by food stalls and I’m a happy man!

Bangkok is the hub for travel in Southeast Asia, and chances are you’re likely to pass through it on your travels around the region.

The city has thousands of guesthouses and hostels. There are so many that it can take hours to narrow down your choices when looking online.

Luckily, as I’ve been visiting since 2005, I’ve stayed all over town and know the best hostels and guesthouses in Bangkok. Rather than waste hours searching online or reading tons of reviews, I’ve created this list so you can save time and just stay at an awesome place without having to worry if you made the right decision!

Just stay at one of these places on your next visit!

The 12 Best Hostels in Bangkok

1. Bella Bella House

Bella Bella House
This multistory guesthouse is centrally located, close to the river and Khao San Road, and attracts a calmer crowd. The rooms are super basic (they only have beds in them), but they’re cheap, clean, and quiet. For rooms with shared bathrooms, you only have cold-water showers; the air-conditioned private rooms have hot showers. The beds are pretty comfy, but the pillows are hard as a rock. The staff is friendly and helpful. There are tons of rooms, so walk-ins aren’t normally an issue.

Single rooms from 220 THB/$7 USD (fan, shared bathroom), double rooms from 320 THB/$9.75 USD (fan, shared bathroom)

2. Lub d Bangkok Silom

Lub d Bangkok Silom
Lub d Silom is a very popular spot for backpackers looking to stay somewhere other than Khao San Road. The hostel is kept in good condition, the rooms are spacious and have electronic key locks, the staff speaks fluent English, and there are plenty of group activities. It’s a more European-style hostel than traditional Asian guesthouse.

Beds from 305 THB/$9.30 USD (discounts for booking ahead and longer stays)

—-> Book your stay at Lub d Bangkok Silom

3. Golden Mountain Hostel

Golden Mountain Hostel
About a mile away from crazy Khao San Road and near the famous Golden Mountain Temple is this small, family-run hostel. It’s one of the newest and nicest hostels in the city. The dorm beds are actually cubbies built into the wall for added privacy, and each room sleeps eight people. The décor is super beautiful and well thought out. The mattresses are soft, the pillows and comforters are cozy, and the bathrooms are beautiful and clean (two showers, toilets, and sinks for each eight-person room!). This is a great hostel if you want some peace and quiet. It’s one of the best in Bangkok.

Beds from 350 THB/$10.60 USD

—-> Book your stay at Golden Mountain Hostel!

4. Khaosan Immjai Hostel

Khaosan Immjai Hostel
This hostel has air-conditioned dorm rooms and a lovely staff and is a good choice for solo travelers looking to meet other people and get fairly cheap beds. It’s only a 10-minute walk to Khao San Road, so you’re close enough to the action without being kept up all night by it. The staff is friendly, the beds are cheap, and the place is kept clean. There’s also a women-only floor. Overall, it’s a solid guesthouse. You can’t go wrong.

Beds from 350 THB/$10.60 USD

—-> Book your stay at Khaosan Immjai Hostel!

5. HQ Hostel

HQ Hostel
Another European-style hostel, HQ has amazing beds with reading lamps, electrical outlets, and digital lockboxes. The facilities are clean and modern. The staff is incredibly helpful, and there’s also exercise equipment to work off all those Chang beers! Located in Silom, it’s also one of the best hostels in the city, even if it’s slightly more expensive than the rest.

Beds from 360 THB/$11 USD (discounts for groups and longer stays)

—-> Book your stay at HQ Hostel!

6. Mad Monkey Hostel

Mad Monkey Hostel
Another backpacker institution near Khao San Road, this is probably the best hostel in Bangkok if you want to party. It has a restaurant, pool, and tour desk with some of the cheapest and most competitive prices in town. Additionally, you’ll get comfy beds, a cozy blanket, and your own outlets and lamps! All the rooms have air-conditioning. Even though it’s slightly more expensive than other places in the area, you’re making up for it with one of the best social scenes! If you’re looking to meet backpackers, it’s easy to do here!

Beds from 410 THB/$12.45 USD, rooms from 1,000 THB/$30.40 USD (book through their own website for the cheapest rates)

—-> Book your stay at Mad Monkey Hostel!

7. Green House Hostel

Green House Hostel
This large hostel is a backpacker institution, with large rooms, tour services, a bar, a pool table, and a decent restaurant. It’s the best overall hostel in Bangkok! As an added bonus, you can negotiate your room price if you walk in. The rooms are really basic (as you can see from the photo of my room above), and while the beds are hard, the pillows are pretty soft. There’s a nice desk, and the bathrooms are cleaned every day — they are simple but the water pressure is great! Tip: Avoid rooms in the front of the building, as the noise from the streets blasts up and you won’t get any sleep.

Beds from 410 THB/$12.45 USD, double rooms from 620 THB/$18.86 USD. There’s a 3% credit card fee, so pay in cash.

—-> Book your stay at Green House Hostel!

8. @Hua Lamphong Hostel

@Hua Lamphong Hostel
This hostel is pretty straightforward, with six-bed mixed-gender dorms, huge lockers, and en suite bathrooms. It’s slightly more expensive than others in the area, but the private rooms are hotel quality. This is the best hostel for travelers taking the train, as Bangkok’s train station is right across the street.

Beds from 420 THB/$12.75 USD

—-> Book your stay at @Hua Lamphong Hostel!

9. New Siam Guesthouse III

New Siam Guesthouse III
This place isn’t great. The beds are kind of hard, and the rooms a bit dull under the fluorescent lights, so why is it on a list of the best hostels in Bangkok? Because it offers some of the cheapest private rooms in the Khoa San/Rambuttri area. The rooms come with water, a desk, A/C, and hot water. Most of the rooms in the area with those kinds of amenities cost over 1,000 baht! If you’re looking to save money on a private room, you should stay here!

Double rooms from 840 THB/25.55 USD.

—-> Book your stay at New Siam Guesthouse III!

10. D&D Inn

D&D Inn
D&D Inn is an institution on Khao San Road (it’s been around for decades) and perfect for those with last-minute travel plans. There are always rooms available, and reception is open 24 hours. There’s a bar and a pool on the rooftop that gets packed with travelers. They also upgraded the facilities and rooms in recent years. The rooms are cleaned often, some have fridges and hairdryers, the water pressure is great, the beds are soft, and there are a lot of beautiful wood finishings around.

Double rooms from 920 THB/$30 USD.

—-> Book your stay at D&D Inn!

11. Baan Kachitpan

D&D Inn
This home-turned-guesthouse makes you feel like you’ve gone back in time. There are fresh flowers all over, and the light switches look like they’re from the 1920s. The owner, Jam, and her mother (who grew up in this house) live right next door. You can tell that Jam put her heart into making this guesthouse feel like a home, too. The beds are not the softest, but the water is hot, and the place is pristinely decorated and very clean. It is only a six-minute walk to Victory Monument and a 20-minute walk to the Grand Palace.

Single rooms from 950 THB/$28.89 USD, double rooms from 1,590 THB/$48.36 USD.

—-> Book your stay at Baan Kachitpan!

12. Bangkok Tree House

Tree House
Located just south of town along the river, this eco-friendly guesthouse is a wonderful place to get away from the concrete jungle of Bangkok. The floors, walls, and ceilings are all made of reclaimed wood and local bamboo, juice cartons provide the insulation, and renewable energy provides electricity. The accommodations are basic, but you get to wander one of the more pristine parts of town. Inspired by Henry David Thoreau’s Walden, it’s probably the most unique accommodation in Bangkok. They have lots of land to ride bikes on too!

Rooms from 4,590 THB/$139.60 USD (15% discount for buying online, bringing a bike, being an expat, and staying more than four nights)

—-> Book your stay at the Bangkok Tree House!

****
Bangkok is a huge city with a lot of accommodation options, but if you stay in one of these amazing and unique hostels, you’re going to be centrally located, comfortable, and able to save money and meet people! Win-win!

These are the hostels I return to time and time again. I hope you do too!

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Bangkok!

Nomadic Matt's Guide to BangkokMy detailed, 80-page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guidebooks and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money while in Bangkok, a city I used to call home (so I know it really well!). You’ll find suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on- and off-the-beaten-path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, and much more! Click here to learn more and get started!

Book Your Trip to Bangkok: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Get Your Guide
Check out my detailed guide to planning a visit to Bangkok with suggested itineraries and information on places to stay, things to do, where to eat, and how to get around. Just click here to get the guide and continue planning today!

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines, because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use it all the time.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money — and I think they will help you too!

Photo credits: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13

The post My 12 Favorite Hostels in Bangkok in 2019 appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site.

My Top 11 Hostels in Hong Kong

aerial view of Hong Kong from Victoria Peak
Posted: 12/16/2018 | December 16th, 2018

What’s not to love about Hong Kong? The bright lights, the amazing markets, shopping, temples, hiking, food, the view from Victoria Peak. I could go on and on.

Hong Kong is one of my favorite cities in the world. It has everything you could ever want and more. (Be sure to check out my guide to the city!)

Hong Kong, a city of 7.3 million people, has a ton of accommodation options. There are literally thousands of places to stay.

And hundreds of cheap hostels in Hong Kong!

Dorm room prices do vary widely. They start around 125 HKD/15 USD per night but, on average for a decent and clean room, expect to pay closer to 150 HKD/20 USD (smaller rooms are usually more expensive). Private rooms in hostels start at around 250 HKD/30 USD per night and go as high as 500 HKD/65 USD for a double room. Free WiFi is standard at almost all of the hostels in the city, as are shared kitchens.

Out of all the places to stay in the city, what are some of the best hostels in Hong Kong?

How do you choose from that endless list on Hostelworld?

Having visited enough times to write a guidebook on the city, I can tell you that it’s easy to find accommodation in Hong Kong – it’s less easy to find awesome accommodation that’s cheap, fun, and clean.

Here is my list of the best hostels in Hong Kong that accomplish this:

11 Best Hostels in Hong Kong

1. Hong Kong Hostel

Hong Kong Hostel
This is my favorite hostel in Hong Kong! The common area is perfect for meeting other travelers, and there’s always a really diverse crowd hanging out here. A majority of the rooms come with a TV, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. It’s one of the cheapest places to stay! Plus there’s free coffee and tea in the mornings.

Beds from 129 HKD/15 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hong Kong Hostel!

2. Hop Inn

Hop Inn, Hong Kong
A modern hostel with a unique touch – each room is designed by a different local artist. This kid-friendly accommodation has 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and air conditioning, with towels and linens included. There are two locations in Hong Kong, with the first being the larger. Carnarvon also has a better common area and laundry as well as an awesome rooftop patio with stunning views. If you stay at one of the locations, you can use the facilities at both!

  • Hop Inn on Carnarvon – Beds from 150 HKD/20 USD.
  • Hop Inn on Mody – Beds from 195 HKD/25 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hop Inn on Carnarvon!

—-> Click here to book your stay at Hop Inn on Mody!

3. Urban Pack

Urban Pack, Hong Kong
Urban Pack is a cozy hostel owned by two Canadians and located on Kowloon Island. It’s decorated in a very stylistic way with murals, maps, and funky furniture giving it a lively atmosphere. Catering to budget travelers, it offers free Wi-Fi, Nintendo Wii, board games, books, coffee and tea all day, irons, hairdryers, and a kitchen to cook your own food in. It offers a variety of accommodation, from single rooms and small dorms to eight-person dormitories and serviced apartments. It’s one of the cheaper hostels in town.

Beds from 150 HKD/20 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Urban Pack!

4. Yesinn @ Causeway Bay

Yesinn @ Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
One of the better-value hostels in the city, this place has a nice sized common room and a rooftop garden. The beds are big, the rooms are clean, and the linens are free. Each bed comes with a side curtain for privacy, built-in universal adapter sockets, and a bedside lamp. They also have free coffee and tea, free local calls, a massage chair, iPad lending, and Wi-Fi.

Beds from 159 HKD/21 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Yesinn @ Causeway Bay!

5. Jockey Club Mt. Davis Youth Hostel

Jockey Club Mt. Davis Youth Hostel, Hong Kong
This hostel has a spectacular view of Mount Davis and Victoria Harbor. It’s also close to the buzzing center of clubs, bars, and restaurants and has free Wi-Fi, backpack-sized lockers with power sockets, a common room equipped with a pool table, board games, a canteen/ multipurpose room, a TV room, barbecue sites, and a self-serve laundry service. There’s also a hiking path next to the hostel that will take you straight up to Victoria Road!

Beds from 180 HKD/23 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Jockey Club Mt. Davis Youth Hostel!

6. Rainbow Lodge HK

Rainbow Lodge, Hong Kong
What I love that the staff at this hostel organize tons of activities for guests. There are cooking classes, walking tours, and bar crawls, as well as a well equipped game room. The hostel is clean and quiet and provides everything you need for a comfortable stay. The beds have curtains for maximum privacy.

Beds from 185 HKD/24 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Rainbow Lodge HK!

7. Chungking Mansions

Australia Guesthouse, Hong Kong
Chungking Mansions offers some of cheapest lodging in Hong Kong. If you’re on a tight budget, stay here. The mansions is really the name for a huge shopping and dining complex where you can buy the knocked off version of anything you want. On the top floors, there are a variety of guesthouses that you can choose from. I mean there are dozens in this building! Two of my favorites are:

8. The Mahjong

The Mahjong, Hong Kong
This is a new and clean boutique hostel. The neighborhood is quiet and you’re close to both the mountains and coast here. There’s no metro (it’s coming soon, though), so you need to learn the bus system. Still, it’s just a 15-minute bus ride to downtown. The deluxe beds are comfy, cozy, and spacious, and the dorm beds are pod-style so you can have a good night’s rest. There are events hosted here daily – including city walks!

Beds from 255 HKD/33 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at The Mahjong!

9. YHA Mei Ho House

Mei Ho House, Hong Kong
Part of the YHA global chain, this hostel located in Sham Shui Po is wonderful for families and those looking for a quiet place to stay. All of the rooms have en-suite bathrooms, and the hostel has massive common areas, like a courtyard, garden, guest pantry, café, mini-store, and laundry. They serve free breakfast every morning in the cafe.

Beds from 300 HKD/38 USD; YHA members can get a reduced rate on rooms.

—-> Click here to book your stay at YHA Mei Ho House!

10. Y-Loft

Y Loft, Hong Kong
Y-Loft has great amenities: each room has an en-suite shower, there are common areas on each floor, there’s a gym, Wi-Fi, linens are included, and it’s located close to shopping, delicious places to eat in the city, and a metro station. The dorm rooms have all be designed by local artists, making for some beautifully colorful and interesting spaces. This hostel is huge and has 148 rooms of varying sizes (including handicapped accessible rooms!). It’s kid-friendly too.

Beds from 400 HKD/51 USD.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Y-Loft!

11. Studio Studio HK

Studio Studio, Hong Kong
Studio offers long-term rentals for visitors, students on internships, travelers on extended tours, or others living in Hong Kong. There are common-access full kitchens (stoves, sinks, refrigerators, cookware, and utensils) and living rooms. This is one of the best places for people staying long-term.

Beds from 6,000 HKD/770 USD per month.

—-> Click here to book your stay at Studio Studio!

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There are a lot of amazing hostels in Hong Kong but, to me, these places are the best. They offer all things that I think are important in picking a great hostel. If you stay in any of these hostels while in town, you won’t go wrong!

If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments!

Get the In-Depth Budget Guide to Hong Kong!

Hong Kong Guidebook Nomadic MattWant to plan the perfect trip to Hong Kong? Check out my comprehensive guide to Hong Kong written for budget travelers like yourself! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel and save money in one of the most beautiful and exciting in the world. You’ll find suggested itineraries tips budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, and my favorite non-touristy restaurants, markets, and bars, and much more!! Click here to learn more and get started.

Book Your Trip to Hong Kong: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. I use them all the time. They’re my favorite website!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the best companies to save money with?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel – and I think will help you too!

Looking for more information on visiting Hong Kong?
Check out my in-depth destination guide to Hong Kong with more tips on what to see, do, costs, ways to save, and much, much more!

Photo credits: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13

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