Japan's futuristic airport hotel lets you rent tiny pods for power naps

There aren't many frills at the Nine Hours hotel, but when you're only staying for a nap or a layover between flights, soft sheets and a dark space are pretty much all you need.

Nine Hours is a Japanese chain of pod hotels started in 2009, with each chain designed to accommodate people for between one and nine hours depending on their needs.

For $44, guests gain access to a private pod, sleepwear, and access to the bathrooms and lounge. Or for $7 you can just take a shower.

Here's what the express hotel is all about.

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The five locations include Narita Airport, Kyoto, Sendai, Shinjuku-North in Tokyo, and a women-only location in Kanda, also in Tokyo.

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Owing to its business model, each location relies on a minimalist design. The reception desk, walls, floors, and lockers are all white.

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There aren't even any words, since many of the guests tend to be international travelers. Signs on the floor guide you to your desired location.

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