In a world where unusual travel experiences grab the internet’s attention, a small hotel in Fukuoka, Japan, has found the most bizarre and brilliant way to stand out. Asahi Ryokan, run by 27-year-old Tetsuya Inoue, offers a room for just ¥100 (about $1) per night. But the price comes with an unexpected twist: your entire stay is livestreamed online
A $1 Room That the World Can Watch
Inoue took over the hotel from his grandmother and immediately wondered how to reinvent its future in the digital era. His solution? Turn one of the rooms into a content machine. Guests who choose the ultra-cheap room agree to be filmed throughout their stay, with the footage streamed on YouTube under the channel name One Dollar Hotel. The surprising part? Travelers are actually signing up for it.
Privacy With a Modern Twist
Despite the livestream, guests aren’t completely exposed. The feed is video-only, meaning conversations, calls and private discussions remain off-limits. No audio, no secrets. Just silent surveillance for the world’s entertainment. “Young people nowadays don’t care much about privacy,” Inoue says. And he’s not wrong. So far, multiple curious guests have taken the deal.
From Ryokan to Revenue Stream
The $1 room isn’t about profit, it’s about popularity. The YouTube channel has already crossed 27k subscribers. Once it hits enough watch hours, Inoue can monetize the stream. And on days the room is empty, he turns the camera on himself at the front desk, holding signs to inform viewers when he steps out.
Why Visit Fukuoka Anyway?
Even without the livestreamed fame, Fukuoka is worth the trip. A seaside city packed with world-famous food like tonkotsu ramen from the iconic Ichiran chain and a vibrant arts scene.
So the real question is: Would you trade your privacy for a $1 stay and a shot at internet fame?