What it's Really Like to Stay in a Capsule Hotel

Is there enough room in Sydney’s first Japanese-style mini-stay, The Capsule Hotel, to swing a cat? Steve Madgwick takes the question (almost) literally.

With one hand I swing the cat around my capsule like a helicopter blade. I throw in comical meowing and hissing sound effects for good measure.

With my spare hand, I film it, shakily, on my iPhone. The phone’s battery suddenly dies. I swear at it. I sense a presence. I turn around. I’ve left my capsule door ajar.

A fluorescently dressed Japanese girl in puppy slippers stands behind me in the corridor; back firmly against the wall, eyebrows as high as they’ll go, as if deciding which way to run or whether to cry. From behind, it probably looks like I am swearing at the cat.

She shuffles past, towards the room’s exit, with a look on her face that screams “you’re not well, Mister, and I’m going to tell the world!" Luckily, she doesn’t rat me out to reception. In the middle of an undercover hotel review, it’s a challenge to explain why you’re undertaking the ‘can’t swing a dead cat around’ challenge.

For the record, you can liberally swing Pusheen the pizza-eating (stuffed-toy) cat around the deluxe side-entrance pod (two metres by 1.7 metres) at Sydney’s first Japanese-style mini-stay, The Capsule Hotel, without touching either roof or sides.

First Impressions

Capsule Hotel, Sydney — In your room, you get lockers for security.

I pop my head into one of the smaller (two metres by 1.2 metres) front-entrance ‘single’ capsules (that my Japanese friend seems to have left open in her bid for freedom), and I assess that no nylon fur would fly in there, either. Undeterred, I continue my tiny-capsule tests.

I slide across my big plastic door (it definitely needs a Star Trek-like ‘ssshhh’ sound effect) and crudely execute an upward-dog yoga pose. Tick; two nose lengths to spare below the roof. Next, I throw an old-school breakdancing backspin and I don’t even glance the sides (warning: may dramatically and instantly unmake your bed).

Unfortunately, these fully-sick space-proving manoeuvres will do nothing to disperse a claustrophobic’s deeply-held anxieties. A front desk guy tells me later that so far only one person has freaked out and not made it through the evening. Not bad for a 70-pod hotel that has been doing a thriving trade since opening in May.

“But, really, it’s not the kind of place they tend to check into," the front desk guy adds as if I have no concept of the disorder.

The Capsule

Each capsule is thoroughly air-conned, but there are a handful of safety features that, ironically, could themselves, or in unison, be accidental triggers for a claustrophobic’s unquiet mind: the ‘SOS button’; a flashing red light that looks like it’s been plucked from an ambulance (60 centimetres from your face); and a mini fire extinguisher provocatively baptised the ‘Flame Fighter’. Yep, no reason at all to panic when that door magnetically locks closed.

Visually speaking, the capsules are nerd magnets, with functional-looking indents and angles that gift them a retro spaceship vibe; a cross-breed of the original Stars Wars and Alien sets seems to be the consensus.

The control panel gives you Vader-like power over your space; there’s a USB port, powerpoint, sensor light switches, combination safe, and wide lit-up mirror to help identify formerly unseen wrinkles or just to see how big your pupils are when you run out of things to do.

Other capsule conveniences include an LCD television, recessed behind glass to save space (mine, and a few others on the night, had temporarily lost connection); a detachable table; two (fairly poorly aimed) reading lights; plus a very handy, one-touch sleep button, which shuts everything down with one drowsy swipe.

The fist-thin-mattress is no Cumulonimbus, but it’s not uncomfortable, either. If you don’t get an idyllic eight hours here, it’s probably going to be down to a couple of other factors, anyway. You see, for all their kitschy cred, the capsules are simply snapped and screwed together plastic; stable enough, but far from sound- or lightproof. If you’re a light snoozer, the odd clumsy mount/dismount from a neighbour’s capsule and the late night/early morning George Street ‘ambience’ may be your early wake-up call(s).

In shared areas, however, The Capsule Hotel does the cheery ‘poshtel’ thing rather well (yep, that means shared bathrooms. What did you expect? Bedpans?). It’s fun with a just a hint of the boutique: parquet (look) flooring, chequered kitchen floor and (mostly fake) potted plants dotted around charming retro-look furniture.

Clever lighting, funky mirrors and bright pastels suggest space where there isn’t much at all, which is fine because most of the hotel’s clientele (a good mix of ages, sexes and nationalities) seem either perpetually getting ready to go out, are out already, or are coming home to crash out after going out.

What’s Around

As for going out, you don’t get too much more ‘downtown Sydney’ than this. Perhaps a shade too much, if – like me – you’re not a diehard fan of the George Street cinema strip.

The level-three hotel sits atop The Century Bar , which thanks to a makeover is no longer one of Sydney’s grittiest (read grottiest) pubs. Nowadays, level one is a decent option for a discreet pre-revel beverage. Ironically, or perhaps deliberately, The Capsule Hotel’s doorbell sounds like a paying-out poker machine on the floor below.

Century Bar, Sydney — Drop into Century Bar for a quick bevvie.

Speaking of big nights and, yes, we have to talk about this… no, you can’t squeeze two peas into these pods. It’s strictly one person per capsule, even in the deluxe ones. I reckon that’s a good thing; otherwise, this place could turn into a (reasonably priced) one-night-stand drop-in centre.

In the context of a novel concept like this, which is cheaper than an Uber or taxi fare if you live more than about 25 minutes away, it’s difficult to say too many truly hurtful words about The Capsule Hotel. It doesn’t take itself too seriously so neither am I.

You might want to bring some earplugs, though. Lest too many pizza-eating cats get swung around in furious faux anger.

The Details

The Capsule Hotel

Address: Level 3, 640 George Street, Sydney

Verdict

A fun one-off adventure if you need a crash pad or are just curious, as long as your standards are not sky high and you don’t mind sharing loos. Book ahead!

Score

2.5/5

We rated

Lots were thrown in for the price including (limited) cooking facilities and wi-fi. While it had the odd blip, the pods, showers and common areas are clean and tidy, especially when compared with some stays in this price range.

We’d change

The atmosphere feels a little transient, but it’s early days. The key card system is annoying and needs to be fixed – you stand there endlessly swiping. Ask for a bottom capsule if co-ordination is not your forte.

All AT reviews are conducted anonymously and our writers pay their own way – so we experience exactly what you would.

Head to our ultimate travel guide for more details on where to eat and what to do in Sydney.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery . Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda , and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey ‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines .

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk , one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines , where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala . Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie , right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk , an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park . Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast , a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery , where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm . Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal , which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores , between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple , the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch . Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong . A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery , which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen . It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach , right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

What it’s really like to stay in a Capsule Hotel