Hawaiʻi’s First Capsule-Style Hotel to Open in Waikīkī
Well known in Japan, First Cabin will open its first U.S. property in Spring 2025.
If you’ve even planned a trip to Japan, you might have stumbled on something called “capsule hotels,” or kapuseru hoteru in Japanese. These are pod-style rooms, just big enough for a bed, meant for quick and cheap overnight stays. Amenities such as toilets, showers and dining rooms are communal.
Like hostels but way nicer—and more private.
Hawaiʻi is set to get its first luxury capsule-style hotel this spring.
First Cabin, a compact hotel brand popular in Japan, is opening its first U.S. location in Waikīkī this spring. The accommodations are inspired by the luxury pods in the first-class sections of airplanes. The hotel will occupy the 14th floor of the Waikīkī Business Plaza.
What the capsule rooms look like in the first-class accommodations.
Photo: Courtesy of First Cabin
The $6 million project features spacious sleeping areas beyond traditional capsule sizes—think premium beds—and offers flexible day-use to accommodate the needs of short-term travelers. There will be 103 single-person pods, and guests will have access to shower rooms, fully stocked powder rooms, lounge areas, luggage storage services and more.
It’s secure, too, with each pod accessed by smart keys.
Its location—in the middle of Waikīkī and near public transportation—makes it an ideal spot for couples, business travelers and solo adventurers.
The shared lounge area.
Photo: Courtesy of First Cabin
Since its launch, First Cabin has grown in popularity for its innovative approach to compact hospitality, with 10 locations nationwide, including major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Fukuoka. It also operates within Haneda Airport Terminal 1 and Kansai International Airport, providing a convenient rest stop for travelers catching early-morning or late-night flights, as well as those affected by sudden flight cancellations or transit delays.
(808) 207-5000, first-cabin.us, @firstcabinhawaiiofficial
