Catching an early morning flight can be stressful, especially if public transportation isn’t running by the time you need to leave. That’s exactly the situation I faced with my trip to Kitami in Hokkaido. Luckily, there’s a capsule hotel right inside Terminal 1 that made sure I got to my flight on time. That’s First Cabin, and here’s my experience staying there.
What is First Cabin?
First Cabin is a unique type of accommodation designed to offer the experience of staying in a first-class airplane cabin. Located conveniently in various city centers and major transportation hubs like airports, First Cabin combines the compact efficiency of a capsule hotel with the luxurious feel of first-class air travel. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for a convenient, stylish, and affordable place to stay.
Unique Concept: Airplane First Class Experience
The concept behind First Cabin is to provide guests with a high-quality stay in a compact space that mimics the elegance and comfort of first-class airline cabins. Each cabin is meticulously designed with modern amenities, ensuring guests have everything they need for a comfortable stay. From the cozy beds and smart storage solutions to the ambient lighting and sleek decor, every detail is crafted to enhance the overall experience.
Locations and Availability
First Cabin locations are strategically placed to cater to travelers needing quick and easy access to transportation hubs. You can find First Cabin hotels in bustling city centers, near train stations, and inside airports like Haneda Terminal 1. This strategic placement makes it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers who value convenience and efficiency. Whether you’re catching an early flight or arriving late at night, First Cabin ensures you have a comfortable place to rest without the hassle of long commutes.
My Experience at First Cabin
Arrival and Check-In
Arriving at Haneda Terminal 1 for my overnight stay at First Cabin, I was immediately struck by the sleek and stylish design of the reception area. The check-in process was smooth and efficient, with friendly staff who quickly provided me with a key card for access to the women’s cabin area. The security measures were reassuring, especially for a solo female traveler like myself.
Cabin Tour
As I stepped into the cabin area, the first thing that caught my eye was the modern and clean aesthetic. The cabins were compact, yet thoughtfully designed, giving off a chic, first-class vibe. The quiet and calming atmosphere was a pleasant surprise considering the bustling location.
Inside my business-class cabin, I found a comfortable bed, a 32-inch LCD TV, a side table, and a small safe for valuables. The bed was neatly made with pajamas and essential amenities like a toothbrush and slippers placed on top. While there wasn’t much room for large luggage, the smart use of space made it easy to settle in comfortably.
Common Areas and Facilities
The common areas were spacious and well-maintained, offering various seating options for relaxing or catching up on work. The lounge area had vending machines stocked with snacks and drinks, and the overall ambiance was conducive to unwinding after a long day of travel. There’s also free Wi-Fi, which is fast and reliable, making it easy to stay connected.
The shared bathrooms and showers were also pleasant. They were impeccably clean and well-equipped with quality shampoo and conditioner. The shower rooms were spacious, and there was a designated dressing area complete with hairdryers and makeup stations. It was clear that attention to detail was a priority, ensuring guests had a pleasant and hassle-free experience.
Comfort and Security
Sleeping Experience
When it was time to sleep, I pulled down the roll screen to “close” my cabin. While the screen provided privacy, it didn’t completely block out light or noise. The bed itself was very comfortable, with a firm mattress that provided excellent support. However, I found it challenging to sleep deeply due to the occasional sounds of other guests coming and going.
The biggest downside of staying at First Cabin was the noise. Despite the efforts of fellow travelers to be quiet, the sound of footsteps and doors opening and closing was noticeable. The thin partition walls didn’t do much to muffle the noise, so if you’re a light sleeper, this could be a significant drawback.
Safety Measures
Security at First Cabin was overall commendable. The separate men’s and women’s areas, along with the key card access, made me feel secure throughout my stay. The small safe provided in the cabin was an added layer of security for my valuables, though the inability to lock the cabin door itself was a bit unsettling.
Pros and Cons of Staying at First Cabin
What I Liked
- Convenient location inside Haneda Terminal 1
- Sleek and stylish design
- Comfortable bed and quality amenities
- Clean and well-equipped shared bathrooms and showers
- Strong security measures
Areas for Improvement
- Noise levels due to thin partition walls
- Limited space for large luggage
- Lack of complete privacy with roll screens
Is First Cabin Right for You?
First Cabin is an excellent option for travelers needing a convenient and stylish place to stay near major transportation hubs. If you can tolerate some noise and don’t mind the compact space, it offers a unique and comfortable experience. It’s perfect for short stays, especially for those with early flights or late arrivals.
While the facilities and amenities were commendable, it wasn’t the right fit for someone who has a hard time sleeping like me. While I don’t think I would be staying again, I would still recommend it for its convenience and cleanliness, so long as you can sleep through the noise.
