Wandering Japan, you may notice hotels with signs out front offering several prices. You may see rests, stays, short stays, long stays or overnight stays on the signage along with bright neon signs on the hotel. You have found a love hotel. I may have just offended a hotel owner however. Love hotel is the old term and probably the easiest term to use as well. Business persons and more proper minded people would prefer that I call them leisure hotels, couples hotels, theme hotels, fashion hotels, or maybe boutique hotels. Those terms are also used by other types of hotels around the world so “love hotel” is still the best term in my opinion. You’ll also find these in other places like South Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan. If you are in Central America and Mexico, the term is “autohotels”.

Inside the door, in what would otherwise be a hotel lobby, you’ll probably find a menu wall. It’s like a big vending machine only you are getting a room instead of a candy bar. This wall will have lots of photos of rooms, some of them are lit up and some are darkened. If it is lit up and visible, the room is available right now. Push the button next to the photo. Hand over the cash and a faceless shadowy person behind the smoky dark glass gives you the keys to the room you selected. That’s it. You are on your way to a room in a love hotel.

The Reality

Sound sordid? Not really. Is it some dark underground market? No. Are the floors sticky like an old theater just off Times Square? No. The fact is that in Japan, dwellings are tiny and there may be many people or multiple generations living in a small space. The walls may be just rice paper. Privacy just isn’t found in abundance if at all. So many years ago, love hotels starting popping up all over. You pay for the room for the time that you need it and no more. This allowed married couples to have time to themselves. Of course, other relations would use them too. Sex seems to be accepted as more of a fact of life in Japan than it is in the west. And love hotels usually only allowed a man and a woman into a room.

Business hotels in Japan are very expensive. Love hotels are usually reasonable and some may even say cheap. Some of them are just nice hotel rooms. Some have more mirrors than normal, large TVs with Karaoke, a bathtub and a bed. Those are the basics but it has been taken to all new levels over the years. Whatever you can imagine good and bad, dirty and twisted, it has probably been done with a love hotel. From bumper cars to swings and mini-Hollywood like sets, you can find it and fulfill your fantasies in them. I won’t go into any details here but if you can order certain kinds of toys from room service and have a cash machine in your room, you know where you are.

For some great down time entertainment, look for the love hotel diaries in your room. These are little books left in the room for customers to write notes and messages to one another. They may be written by anyone that had the room which could be university girls, older married couples or men on business.

The Business

Love hotels started out with guys in mind. Just think back to the 1970s. The designs were basic and not very feminine. Now the business realizes that you have to attract the female and the guy will always follow. The designs are getting better and amenities are greater. The rooms are cleaner with nicer bathrooms. More upscale touches are everywhere. This change benefits everyone however, not just women. I like a clean bathroom!

It is big business. Both for locals who use it as intended and tourists who just have to experience it once. Imagine flipping a room every few hours instead of just once a day? The rent is adjusted accordingly of course. You don’t have it for the night and you can’t come and go as you please. You pay one price to get in and you pay again if you come back. It is important to know the rules in advance. You pay for the time you used. You should also take off your shoes before entry of the room.

The Decline

Despite their improvement and going more mainstream, the number of old love hotels is declining. New big theme park places are built on the edge of cities. Contracts limit the ability to transfer ownership of old love hotels as well so they may just close down when an owner dies instead of going to the next generation. Many of them were built above cemeteries since land is at a premium. No one wants to live above a cemetery but a love hotel? Yes. Overall the numbers of love hotels are in a massive decline. There are less than half as many as in the 1980s. The long standing turmoil in the economy in Japan probably hasn’t helped.

The rates are higher in the evening and late at night. If you can spend your time in a love hotel in the morning to mid afternoon, you’ll pay a fraction of the later rate and save some cash.

I had a couple of good resource websites I wanted to list here but they seem to have gone away. I can only find dead sites and broken links so the subject is one that you just have to have your feet on the ground and be there when you need the room. You can’t really plan a trip to these places in advance. LovehoMap, mostly in Japanese, can be useful if you can figure it out.

The closest the big hotel chains get to this business is to fill your TV with pay per view options and then not talk about all the extreme money they make off of it. But that’s another story.

Osaka has many great options if you are looking. The best love hotels tend to be around here. There are four popular areas: Umeda, Namba, Ikutamateramachi, and Sakuranomiya.

Here are just some hotels to look for if you are so inclined. As mentioned before, love hotels are not something you book ahead of time for a vacation so they don’t have websites like I wish they did. These are some of the bigger names and most likely to still be around for a while as others come and go. You can do searches for any of these and find more photos online. Because I run a family site here, I just can’t post some of the photos that should be seen by interested travelers.

Ikutamateramachi area

Adonis
Osaka, Tennoji-ku, 5-5-15, Tel. (06) 6761-0168
Adonis is theme heavy with all it’s rooms. From S&M to cartoon characters, you can have dreams or nightmares.

Gang Snowman
Osaka, Tennoji-ku, Ikutamateramachi 4-4, Tel. (06) 6772-1414
It’s what this named hotel used to be but it still deserves mention. There’s a big red 70’s Cadillac on the roof that’s been converted into a bed, Guests can use it for free for forty minutes. Gang Snowman is located close to Namba and just a 5 minute walk south of Shitennoji Station on the Tanimachi subway line.

Public Jam
Osaka, Tennoji-ku, Uehonmachi 5-5-12, Tel (06) 6762-6338
A nice modern hotel, typical except for the merry go round in one of the rooms.

Namba area

Hotel U’s
Osaka, Chuo-ku, Dotonbori, 2-3-14, Tel. (06) 6211-5199
This is famous for the basket chair room. It is a chair hanging from the ceiling with a hole in the bottom of it. Although you can buy this stuff for your private home nowadays, it all starts somewhere and that somewhere is probably in a love hotel in Japan.

Hotel Pamplona
Osaka, Chuo-ku, Dotonbori 2-4-11, Tel. (06) 6212-4615
A love hotel to love. Only here can you can find a bed with a cage around it, torture chambers, Hello Kitty, Winnie the Pooh and Mickey Mouse. I bet those big corporate folks love that.

Umeda

Little Chapel Christmas (two locations)
Osaka, Kita-ku, 11-5 Doyama-cho, Tel. (06) 6365-7750
Chuo-ku, Nihonbashi 1-9-18, Tel. (06) 6212-7322
It is Christmas every day and you can relive the most romantic moments over and over again in a room here. This is definitely a place designed to appeal to women more than men with tasteful decor and old fashioned beds.

Sakuranomiya area
This area east of Umeda is a bit more run down than the others. Many of the places are cheap but that also means old. It may not be the place to take your romantic getaway.

Tower’s Hotel
Osaka, Miyakojima-ku, Nakanomachi 1-12-18, Tel. (06) 6353-3760
This is an upscale modern hotel with a pools, billiard tables, bumper cars and more.

Kobe
The love hotel area is near Shin-Kobe station.

Tokyo
You need to just walk around and find something that strikes you. There isn’t as much that stands out here as in Osaka. Shibuya’s Love Hotel Hill is the most famous area in Japan due to sheer numbers of people.

P&A Plaza
Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Dogenzaka 1-17-9, Tel. (03) 3780-3211
Kinky fun for groups or lots of people in some of the rooms.

P&A Plaza II
Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Dogenzaka 2-26-12, Tel. (03) 3780-0023
The second Plaza is more refined and appealing to women than the first.

Sagamiko Elizabeth Sekitei
Kanagawa-ken, Tsukui-gun, Fujinomachi, Hizure 1680-1, Tel. (0426) 87-4001
This is a replica of the HMS Queen Elizabeth II and is one of the most famous of love hotels in Japan. Nautical themes are popular here of course.

Hotel Art
Tokyo, Shibuya-ku, Dogenzaka 2-26-2, Tel. (03) 3780-6211
If you love modern art while taking a rest…

Hotel The Rock
Gunma prefecture, Takasaki-Shi, Kamisanomachi 1095-3, Tel (027) 325-6969
Did you ever dream of romance in a prison? Well you can pay for it here. Lots of rock and a warden to greet you.

The numbers are in decline but the demand is still there and always will be part of human nature. So to be like a local in the 1980s and 1990s, put your sunglasses on, pull your hat down and take a peek inside one of the hotels. And if you are up to it with company, take a rest while you are there.

Have you ever been to a Japanese love hotel? Please share your thoughts and (clean) experiences if you have.

More information:
KansaiNow
Tokyo Journal’s Top Ten Tokyo Love Hotels

I have a confession to make. I am a hopeless romantic. There are very few things that I love more than a good love story, especially the ones that can make me cry. Love stories don’t have to end with “and they lived happily ever after.” I guess that’s why I find the story of Boldt Castle so fascinating. And, since tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, I want to share it with you.

George C. Boldt, a young immigrant from Prussia, immigrated to America at the age of thirteen. His first job was as a busboy in a busy hotel restaurant. After a failed attempt at ranching out west, he moved back to the East coast and returned to the hotel business. He met and fell in love Louise Kehrer while working as a steward at her father’s Clover Club in Philadelphia in 1876. George was twenty-six, and Louise was just fifteen. Their son, George Jr., was born in 1879, and their daughter, Louise Clover, in 1885.

Soon, George was the manager of the Waldorf Astoria, and the owner of a couple of smaller hotels. His booming success allowed him to purchase Hart Island, part of the Thousand Islands of northern New York. The Boldts had a beautiful summerhouse built there, and reshaped the island into a heart shape, changing the spelling of the name to Heart Island. The family spent several happy summers there.

In 1900, George ordered the construction of a castle where the family’s summer home was located. It was to be a Valentine’s Day surprise for his wife, as a testament of his love for her. In January of 1904, with the castle almost complete, tragedy struck. Louise Boldt died. It was both sudden and very unexpected. In his grief, George halted the construction of the castle. He would never set foot on Heart Island again.

For years, the castle sat neglected, left to the whim of vandals and northern NY weather. Finally, in 1977, the property was bought by the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority. $15 million dollars, and several years later, the castle was reopened as a tourist attraction. Renovations are still ongoing, though, and probably will be for a long time.

Whenever I visit Heart Island, I can’t help but be swept away by the sheer scale of this place. Sure, the Boldt family was incredibly well off, allowing them to afford a castle this size, but the kind of love shared between George and Louise was obviously something very special and rare. And the castle has become just what George dreamed of- a lasting testament of the love he felt for his wife.

Want to visit this beautiful castle for yourself? I highly recommend it. They are open May-October, but the best time to visit is in the mid-to-late spring. This is when all the flowers are in bloom, and it’s not as crowded as it will be during the summer months. The island is accessible by boat, and there are several ferries, from both Canada and New York, that go to the island numerous times a day. For more information, check out the Boldt Castle website.

Where is the most romantic place that you’ve ever visited?

1. Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California

Embrace nature and each other from the cliffs of Big Sur at this romantic getaway. With a rustic, comfortable level of luxury, you can enjoy the dramatic ocean views or the Ventana mountains. You can fully embrace both nature and luxury while being one with the environment. The Post Ranch Inn has won numerous awards including ones for Green Lodging.

2. Auberge du Soleil, Napa Valley, California

This romantic getaway spot is in one of the world’s greatest wine regions and what is more romantic than wine? How about being on a hillside amongst an olive grove? With private terraces overlooking the valley, rooms have stone fireplaces and hot tubs. The onsite restaurant can provide the perfect romantic dinner.

3. Wheatleigh Hotel, Lenox, Massachusetts

Dating back to 1893, this hotel is situated on 22 acres in the Massachusetts countryside. Each room is like it’s own museum with antiques and unique furnishings. It has been restored from once being a private Italian inspired villa. For the ultimate experience, we recommend the Treehouse Suite with it’s spiral staircase and views.

4. The Setai, Miami Beach, Florida

Can you have romance on South Beach? Passion and sexy attitudes abound all over Miami Beach but you can retreat to your own paradise at The Setai. Your in room spa tub and champagne can set the mood in this Art Deco landmark. Private day beds let you enjoy the beach or three different pools each set at a different temperature. Surely, one of them will be perfect for you and your partner.

5. Four Seasons Resort Lanai at The Lodge at Koele, Lana’i City, Hawaii

Hawaii has romance all over the islands and Four Seasons Resorts are at such a level that they all are romantic in different ways. But combine these two with your own quiet piece of paradise and you have The Lodge at Koele. Peace and tranquility are in excess here, from your suite to the surrounding highlands.

6. Amangani, Jackson, Wyoming

Eastern Zen meets the western mountains in the form of the snow-capped Teton range. If you brave the cold outside, it gives you all the more reason to come back inside to your warm and cozy room with a fireplace and amazing views.

7. Salish Lodge and Spa, Snoqualmie, Washington

Just thirty minutes from Seattle, you can escape the city and surround yourself in nature at this romantic mountain retreat. You can hike trails and listen to the silence of the trees or the roar of whitewater going over granite cliffs and down 300 feet into a canyon at the Snoqualmie Falls. Whether it’s your wedding night or you’re just getting away from the city, you’ll enjoy the fireplaces and oversized whirlpool tubs in every room. The staff is happy to do some extra romantic touches upon request.

New York City Skyline - Photo by Tony the Misfit (Flickr)

There are so many wonderful places to explore in New York City, aside from the tourist-saturated attractions. The Statue of Liberty is so yesterday, even though the Empire State Building is timeless, there is the hassle of rickety elevators. There’s a reason why the slogan goes “I heart New York.” Once you get past the rude taxi cab drivers and the expensive prices, it’s all about love.

I personally don’t spend that much money when I go to the City. I’m one of those people who only spend $25 in Tiffany’s. It’s possible, people! Now, more than ever, you can get great deals without busting your budget, while staying romantic.

Here are my best tips on loving in New York. Where to Stay

What can be better than staying at The Plaza Hotel while in New York? It’s one of those hotels mentioned in the movies. Following a $400 million dollar renovation, it’s absolutely gorgeous! And expensive. Now I know I promised budget, but you can’t skim on where you’re sleeping, because part of the luxury of love is spending time with your love in an appeasing atmosphere. It doesn’t get much more appeasing than this. Rates start at $595 and include butler service. Score!

Where to Stroll

Beautiful Central Park - Photo by echiner1 (Flickr)

Central Park is the best place in New York for long, rambling walks. And, if you get tired of walking, go to the The Central Park Boathouse to rent a row boat for $10 per hour. What a lovely way to experience Manhattan. And inexpensive too!

Where to Snack

Chinatown - Photo by jorbasa (Flickr)

You’ve heard the phrase eat like a king for breakfast, and like a pauper for dinner. Well, I’m taking that to the next level. As you already know, it’s cheaper to eat at restaurants for breakfast or bunch, or even lunch, but dinner is always inflated. So, flip the switch. Eat brunch on the cheap, at a romantic restaurant like One if by Land. It’s only $20 per person for Sunday brunch. And for dinner, travel into China Town, and explore the local ambiance. You can find some really great dinner deals there, and it’s just a fun atmosphere to be in.

What do you think is the most romantic way to spend the day (and night) in New York City? Leave me a comment to let me know!

One of the biggest reasons why couples choose to marry away is cost. With the average wedding costing $20,000, destination weddings seem like the way to go for price-conscious couples. Think about it: you’re already at your honeymoon spot!

Destination weddings make for great weddding photos! Photo by whoALSE

So, what is the perfect location for your destination wedding? Well, this is where your imagination kicks in. Traditionally, destination weddings took place on beaches, but recent trends show couples going to ski resorts, or on safari to tie the knot. Here are some tips you may want to consider when choosing your destination: Where do you really want to go on honeymoon?

Some people are not fascinated by the beach. I know–it’s weird. Some people may already live by the beach, and want a totally different change of scenery. If that’s you, consider going to the mountains, or the Grand Canyon, or even Italy. You are in complete control of your location. If you want, you can even get married at Disney World (they do have a marriage package)!

Where can your family afford? This one is tricky. You want to celebrate your marriage, but you also want to choose a place where your loved ones can come to be with you. The best way to do this is decide how important it is that your loved ones attend, and if you’re willing to pay for their trip if they cannot.

Depending on your location, and the time of year, you can get fantastic airline deals to the destination of your choice. Even if you decide to buy the tickets for a select few loved ones, you may still be way below the $20,000 it takes for the traditional wedding. Don’t get yourself in a bind, though. Make sure you can afford it before committing to pay.

Rent a house for the entire wedding party If you’re paying for your loved ones to come, instead of getting expensive hotel rooms, think about renting a house or bungalow. This option may cut down on privacy with your new spouse, but it will add to the atmosphere of a family vacation. Besides, you have the rest of your life to be alone with each other.

Think about traveling off-season. Instead of going with the crowd, when prices are soaring, think about going to a destination out of season. For example, go to Aspen in the spring or the beach in the fall. This is a great trick to getting personalized service from the now-quiet hotels and restaurants in your location, and getting the most bang for your buck.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a bed and breakfast that does not take pride in itself, and its ability to provide a comfortable and peaceful getaway. I’ve found that most bed and breakfasts offer an enjoyable visit, but these are the specific ones I’d stay in with my significant other.

1. Ballastone Inn, Savannah, GA

This award-winning B&B, in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, is all you would want in a romantic destination– old southern charm and modern conveniences such as 24 hour service. A mansion built in 1838; Ballastone consists of 4 stories and 16 bedrooms. Rates start from $199. Be sure to check out Paula Deen’s restaurant, The Lady and Sons, while in town.

2. Swann House, Washington, DC.

The rooms in this B&B are absolutely magnificent, ranging in theme from African safari to Asian fusion. The Swann House is consistently voted best B&B in Washington, DC. You can partake of amenities like massages, or champagne and strawberries. Rates start from $175. (http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd274/pearlofafrika/3-3.jpg)

3. Village Inn & Pub, St. Simons Island, GA

Georgia has a lot of great B&Bs, and this one cannot be overlooked. This 1930s B&B features 28 rooms with tranquil patio views. Of special interest is the private three-story beach-front home with views of dolphins at play. This home can be rented by contacting Village Inn directly. Rates start from $150.

4. Pomegranate House and Cottages, Granbury, TX

Considered on of the top 12 B&Bs in the world, the idyllic Pomegranate House is sure to remind you of simpler times. This house is shaded by a 300 year old oak tree that is also the focal point of the outdoor courtyard. Speaking of outdoors, sit out on the country veranda to enjoy breakfast in the morning, or cuddle together on the outdoor swing hanging off the oak tree. Rates start from $95.

5. Queen Anne Bed and Breakfast, Natchitoches, LA

If you’re a history buff, you might like to know that Natchitoches is the oldest city in Louisiana, and a wonderful place to explore on a weekend excursion with your honey. The Queen Anne is also an award-winning B&B that combines luxury amenities like bedside chocolate candies, Jacuzzi tubs for two, and high thread count sheets with down-home Louisianan comfort, like ceiling fans and tea. Rates start from $145.