Henn na Hotel: Japan's "strange" Robot Hotel

When it comes to the hospitality industry, Japan is often at the forefront of innovation, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Henn na Hotel, the world’s first hotel to be staffed almost entirely by robots. Translating to "Strange Hotel" in English, the Henn na Hotel pushes the boundaries of modern technology and redefines what a hotel experience can be. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone just looking for a unique stay, Henn na Hotel promises a one-of-a-kind experience. But what exactly makes this hotel so "strange," and why was it created?

(Robotic Huminoid Check-in Staff at Tokyo Ginza Source: https://tokyo-ginza.hennnahotel.com/our-hotel/)

Henn na Hotel is a chain hotel mostly located in Japan, with its flagship location opening in 2015 in Nagasaki's Huis Ten Bosch theme park. The hotel quickly became famous for its robotic staff, from robot dinosaurs checking you in, to automated bellhops that carry your luggage. It was a bold experiment in using technology to enhance and streamline the hospitality experience, making it the first of its kind.

The hotel was created with efficiency and innovation in mind, aiming to reduce labor costs and provide a futuristic, memorable stay for guests. Its purpose was to prove that robots could handle routine tasks typically performed by humans in a hotel setting, making the operation more sustainable and energy-efficient.

Hotel culture, especially more traditional (Ryoka) ones, vastly differ from their American counterparts. When talking about Henna na Hotel in particular, the obvious difference is the reliance on robots. While American hotels might incorporate automated systems—like keyless entry or self-check-in kiosks—the staff is usually human. At Henn na Hotel, many human roles are replaced by machines, and the interaction with human employees is minimal.

(Robot Dianasore Check-in Staff at Tokyo Nishikasai Source: https://tokyo-nishikasai.hennnahotel.com/our-hotel/)

At check-in, for example, guests are greeted by multilingual robot receptionists. Some locations have velociraptor-like robots or humanoid robots, that scan passports, handle bookings, and provide room keys. Even luggage can be transported by robotic porters. In comparison, most American hotels still heavily rely on human staff for a personalized touch.

Some locations offer the latest “light hologram” technology to bring customers a reliable “Non-Face-To-Face” hologram check-in.

Henn na Hotel is also more minimalist and tech-centric in design, focusing on high-tech amenities rather than traditional hotel luxuries like sprawling lobbies, grand ballrooms, or in-house restaurants that cater to every taste. The rooms are typically outfitted with cutting-edge technology, such as voice-activated assistants and facial recognition technology for unlocking doors.

Some locations offer an “LG Styler” smart steam closet that can be used to sanitize, dry restore creases, and more for both washable and unwashable suits, backpacks, and more! In contrast, American hotels, particularly high-end ones, often emphasize personal services such as concierge assistance, room service, and on-site dining experiences.

(Tokyo Asakusa LG Styler Semi double Source: https://tokyo-asakusa-tawaramachi.hennnahotel.com/our-hotel/)

What truly sets Henn na Hotel apart is its heavy use of futuristic technologies. 

Henn na Hotel offers a unique, futuristic experience where most of the staff are robots. From check-in to luggage handling, guests interact with machines throughout their stay. As mentioned earlier, the check-in staff ranges from robots to light holograms. 

Did you ever think to yourself, “Man I wish I could be welcomed with a song and dance by mini robots.”? No? Well, for those cultured few that have, look no further. Upon walking into select Henna na Hotel locations, tiny robots called “Robohon” are ready to welcome you with songs, dances, and even an orchestra!

(Fifteen of Sharp’s “Robohon,” Source: https://tokyo-asakusabashi.hennnahotel.com/our-hotel/)

Keeping to the “all technology” theme, guests use facial recognition technology instead of room keys to access their rooms, providing convenience and security. Each room is also equipped with “Tuly,” a voice-activated AI assistant similar to Alexa or Google Assistant, which helps guests control room settings and request information. Tuly is also motion-sensitive, and will automatically turn the lights off if no movement is detected for a while. 

 

The hotel is designed with energy efficiency in mind, utilizing geothermal energy and smart systems that automatically turn off lights and air conditioning when rooms are vacant. In some locations, robots handle luggage, eliminating the need for human bellhops. Despite the reliance on automation, the hotel maintains a welcoming atmosphere through its diverse, quirky robot characters, which include dinosaur robots, humanoid receptionists, and small, friendly robotic creatures that enhance the guest experience.

The flagship hotel is located in Nagasaki’s Huis Ten Bosch theme park, a Dutch-inspired amusement park. Over the years, the hotel expanded, and now there are multiple Henn na Hotel locations across Japan, including in popular cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. The hotels are strategically located near major transport hubs or tourist attractions, making them ideal for travelers looking to explore urban areas.

(Light hologram Check-in at Tokyo Asakusa Source: https://tokyo-asakusa-tawaramachi.hennnahotel.com/our-hotel/)

If you actually read everything then you are awesome! But, if you’re looking for the TL;DR, here is a condensed version of why you should take the leap into the Henn na Hotel.

Travelers seeking something different from the conventional hotel experience, Henn na Hotel is a must-visit. It appeals particularly to tech enthusiasts, families with kids, and anyone intrigued by robotics and artificial intelligence. The novelty factor alone makes it a memorable place to stay, whether you’re in Japan for leisure or business.

Guests can expect an immersive, futuristic environment with technology doing most of the heavy lifting. If you're looking for efficiency and eco-friendly features, Henn na Hotel checks those boxes too. However, if you prefer a more traditional, human-centered hospitality experience, it might not be the right fit for you.

Ultimately, staying at Henn na Hotel offers the chance to experience the future of hospitality today, blending automation, sustainability, and a touch of whimsy in a way that only Japan can deliver. It’s a unique opportunity to step into a world where robots are part of everyday life, making your stay feel like something out of a sci-fi movie!

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