December 13th 2024.
These peculiar structures hold a special place in Japanese history. Along the highways of Japan, you can spot a teal-colored castle, a lifelike whale, and a massive blue ship. These impressive buildings are known as love hotels and attract an estimated 500 million visitors every year.
It's not hard to guess what these hotels are used for- intimacy. The origin of their name can be traced back to the "Hotel Love" in Osaka, which was designed to provide a private space for couples to spend quality time together. So, what sets a love hotel apart from a regular one? The exterior is usually adorned with love hearts, and as we have seen, they can be quite flashy.
Love hotels have been around since the Edo period, and their unique architecture is not the only distinguishing factor. Lack of windows and the advertised pricing are also tell-tale signs. While traditional hotels usually have a fixed rate, love hotels offer a lower price for a daytime "rest" and a higher rate for an overnight stay. The rates may vary, but a price list from a hotel in Tokyo's Shinjuku area shows that a daytime rest costs around 2,800¥, while a full night stay can cost between 9,000¥ and 12,000¥.
The check-in process at love hotels is usually discreet, as is the norm in Japan. Reservations are not accepted, so spontaneity is encouraged. The interaction with staff is minimal to respect the privacy of the guests. Checking in is as simple as pressing a button, and payment is often done through a vending machine. In some older establishments, payment is made to a staff member through a frosted glass window.
Once inside, you will find a variety of kinky interiors, including ceiling mirrors and sometimes even S&M gear. And for an added dose of excitement, karaoke machines can also be found, just like in the famous scene from "Lost in Translation."
The history of love hotels dates back to the Edo period when discreet-looking establishments were established in Edo and Kyoto. These early versions masqueraded as teahouses and had the same secretive entry process that is still in use today. They were primarily used by sex workers and their clients.
In the twentieth century, the popularity of motels revolutionized the concept of private spaces, paving the way for love hotels. By 1961, there were 2,700 love hotels in the center of Tokyo, many of which were known for their flashy exteriors. However, these hotels were not just used by the sex industry or people looking for affairs. As traditional Japanese houses were small and intimate, married couples often struggled to find privacy. This led to the love hotel becoming a popular choice for couples.
From the 1980s onwards, the ostentatious features of love hotels were toned down. In 1984, an act was passed to regulate these hotels, resulting in new establishments being built in a more discreet style to avoid scrutiny. So, if you happen to come across a unique architectural building while traveling in Japan, be mindful that it could be a love hotel.
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