by Syed Haider, NoboFeed contributor.Throughout the ubiquitous 24hr internet cafes of Tokyo, a subset of people that the Japanese affectionately refer to as “netto kafe nanmin”, or Net Café Refugees, is on the rise. The subjects of a recent documentary, these people are often temporary workers, who make up nearly 30% of Japan’s working population, and can otherwise not afford accommodations.
The price of living in Tokyo is extremely high, and homelessness is a concern, leading to the rise of capsule hotels turning into semi-permanent residences. However, even a capsule hotel can cost an upwards of $30 a night. For just 1400 yen, or $11 dollars a day, you can instead rent a cubicle in one of the many internet cafes, who have embraced this business model. Internet cafes are now equipped with modern – and most importantly clean, kitchens, showers, bathrooms, and enough space to lie down for bed.
Read More: Japan’s Net Cafe Refugees