Japan Travel Fixes
What's the "deposit" hotels ask for at check-in?
It's a temporary hold, separate from your room rate, in case of damage or unpaid extras like room service. If nothing comes up, it's refunded in full — or the hold on your card is simply released — at checkout.
Most often it's a credit card authorization hold rather than an actual charge, so no cash typically changes hands.
Some properties collect it in cash instead — if so, it's worth confirming it was returned before you leave.