ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Capsule Hotels Expand Beyond Japan to European Cities

architecture-design · 2026-06-22

Capsule hotels are making their mark in key European cities. In 2025, Zedwell will unveil the largest capsule hotel globally in London’s Piccadilly area, boasting 1,000 capsules priced from £30 per night. Cathy Adams from The Times referred to it as the 'Ryanair of hotels' due to its automated check-in process. In Spain, Optimi Rooms runs capsule hotels in both Madrid and Bilbao, offering larger capsules tailored to local preferences. These establishments feature shared spaces, work areas, and communal bathrooms. Each capsule is equipped with power outlets, adjustable lighting, and ventilation, while quiet regulations are enforced in hallways. The appeal lies in their affordability for solo travelers and business professionals. In Italy, ZZZLeepAndGo provides airport capsule accommodations. The concept originated with Capsule Inn, which opened in Osaka in 1979.

Key facts

  • London's Piccadilly district hosts the world's largest capsule hotel, opened in 2025 by Zedwell chain with 1,000 capsules from £30/night.
  • Cathy Adams of The Times called Zedwell the 'Ryanair of hotels' due to automation and minimal human interaction.
  • Optimi Rooms chain operates capsule hotels in central Madrid and Bilbao with larger capsules than Japanese ones.
  • Capsule hotels share common areas, bathrooms, and often have bars or cafés.
  • Capsules are stacked in two levels with fabric or electric curtains.
  • First capsule hotel Capsule Inn opened in 1979 in Osaka, designed by Kisho Kurokawa for workers missing last trains.
  • European airports have autonomous capsule areas; ZZZLeepAndGo operates in Italy.
  • Capsule hotels appeal to solo travelers and business travelers due to low cost.

Entities

Artists

  • Kisho Kurokawa

Institutions

  • Zedwell
  • Optimi Rooms
  • ZZZLeepAndGo
  • Capsule Inn
  • The Times
  • El País

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Piccadilly
  • Madrid
  • Spain
  • Bilbao
  • Milan
  • Italy
  • Corso Buenos Aires
  • Centrale station
  • Osaka
  • Japan
  • Tokyo

Sources