Question about cheapest/best lodging in Japan

[superabbytcs]

I am writing a research paper on organizing a vacation trip to Japan, and I am having a hard time determining what the cheapest type of housing would be. So, what, in your opinion, would be the best choice of lodging for a month for 3 adults? Also, please take into account that we would probably be visiting different islands during that month.

I looked at a few hotels near Tokyo, but none of them would be available for an entire month and the prices were of course expensive.

If you could just list the different types of accommodations, that would be perfectly fine. All that I can think of is a hotel, staying with a host family, or becoming a hobo.

Thanks in advance. =)

[samurai007]

Probably youth hostels.

[Polar]

Host family is out of question with 3 people.

[superabbytcs]

Originally Posted by samurai007

Probably youth hostels.

Oh thank you very much. This is very helpful. ^^

[superabbytcs]

Originally Posted by Polar

Host family is out of question with 3 people.

Yeah I wasn't sure. That does seem pretty outrageous now that I think about it. Thanks for the help.

[Firebird]

Search for:
youth hostel
hotel
ryokan (traditionell hotel)
minshuku (kind of like a B&B, mostly available in small to midsize town)

If you want to move around alot, why would you want to rent a place for the whole month? Japan is quite big, not everywhere is a daytrip away!

I guess your best option comparing price/comfort would be a minshuku, but most of them don´t speak alot of english and are not in all the guidebooks, try the local touristoffices or inside the trainstation on arrival.

You could also look into "gaijin houses" but im not sure if they rent if your on a tourist visa.