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The Cost of Travel in Japan: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

It took me six years to get to Japan.

I didn’t think I could afford it.

Every time I seriously looked into visiting, I would wince at the high cost of the train passes, read about how the hotels were super-expensive, and then fly to Vietnam instead. Or Taiwan. Or even Australia. Japan was simply too expensive for a budget traveller, so I decided to save it for when I was rich.

With that not happening any time soon, I decided to blow my money anyway, because I wanted to go and the gushing blog posts from travel writer friends had convinced me it would be worth the splurge.

Imagine my surprise, then, when I discovered that it really wasn’t that expensive.

I arrived in Japan fully expecting it to be the priciest country I’ve ever been to, but I discovered it’s more on a par with Western Europe or North America, and cheaper than Australia. It was way more affordable than Namibia , where my daily expenses came to $132, and way, way, way more affordable than the Democratic Republic of the Congo , where I averaged, um, $550 a day.

Anyway!  This is about the cost of travel in Japan rather than my poor financial decisions, so let’s get started!

My 16-Day Japan Itinerary

Here’s a brief rundown of where I visited over my 16 days in the country — I think I managed to put together the perfect itinerary for first-time travellers to Japan .

Tokyo:  4 nights Hakone: 1 night Yudanaka: 1 night Kanazawa: 2 nights Takayama: 1 night Kyoto: 3 nights Hiroshima: 1 night Osaka: 3 nights

What’s Included in this Post

This budget breakdown covers how much I spent on accommodation, transportation, activities, food, and whichever miscellaneous items popped up while I was in country.

I’ve not included my flights into and out of Japan because this is going to vary significantly based on where you’ll be arriving from. In case you’re interested, though, I paid $320  for a return flight from Rome to Tokyo, which I scored through browsing my favourite site for flight bargains,  Secret Flying . 

The amounts in this guide are listed in Japanese Yen and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S. And finally, these are the three rules I always abide by on this site:

• I do not accept sponsored trips, so everything listed in this post is something I personally paid for with my own money
• I travel anonymously to ensure my experiences accurately reflect what yours will be. I don’t want special treatment!
• Every single word of this article was written by me, based on all of my own experiences. I strictly do not use AI to compose my guides.

Okay — let’s get started with my expenses.

The Cheapest Accommodation Options in Japan

Like practically every country in the world, prices in Japan have increased post-pandemic.

In 2024, you’ll be paying a little more for everything than you would have done a few years ago — in fact, prices almost doubled between my first trip in 2017 and today! — however costs are still on a par with most Western countries. Travel in Japan shouldn’t be too devastating to your travel budget.

I’ll start on the lower end of the spectrum. If you’re willing to put in the time and effort, it’s possible to avoid paying for accommodation entirely.

Couchsurfing  exists in Japan and allows you to stay with a local for free , usually sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. Yeah, it’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget’s tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can browse through the 300,000+ Japanese hosts on  the Couchsurfing site — just be sure to read the references of anybody you choose to stay with.

Housesitting  is a more upmarket option, aimed at mid-range and luxury travellers. Housesitting involves taking care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, often (but not always) looking after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees, as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you’ll need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you  do  have that freedom, though, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while.  Trusted Housesitters  is the main site for getting started with housesitting, as they have the highest number of listings.

Finally, when it comes to free accommodation, you could take a look at  WorldPackers in Japan , where you’ll be able to volunteer for locals in exchange for food and board. There are some seriously cool options available on the site right now, from helping harvest honey for a bee farm in the countryside to lending a hand in the garden of a Buddhist temple. Readers of this site get a $10 discount for WorldPackers with the promo code  neverendingfootsteps .

If you’re not looking to travel for free and just want a clean and comfortable room to sleep in, there are plenty of great budget options, too.

And then we have  hostels . In Japan, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, large cities, and even within the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Japan  are on a par with the rest of major cities in East Asia, and you can expect to spend  $25 a night for a dorm bed  for a well-reviewed hostel, with the price increasing slightly to around  $45 a night  for the absolute best of the best.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you’ll be looking at  $50 a night  for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.  $90 a night  will get you an exceptionally well-reviewed private room in a hostel.

I use  HostelWorld  to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And then there are hotels, which I’m going to jump into next.

The Cost of Accommodation in Japan

There are so many different types of accommodation in Japan! I attempted to experience as many as possible while I was in the country.

I stayed in a capsule hotel, prioritised hunting down a ryokan, slept on a tatami mat floor, stayed in family-run guesthouses, and checked out some pretty cool hostels. While I did attempt to save money by staying in some cheaper places, I was also happy to splurge on extremely well-rated rooms, too.

As always with these budget breakdowns, I like to share the prices of where I personally stayed, along with a description of the property and whether I’d recommend choosing it, too — hopefully this helps make your trip planning easier!

I visited Japan with my partner, Dave, and we travelled on a mid-range budget; searching out good value accommodation that was highly-rated and in a central location. We prioritised locally-run properties that weren’t too flashy or fancy; for us, a cosy vibe, unique furnishings, and welcoming staff are far more important than the generic decor of a hotel chain.

(Oh and just a quick note: hotels do charge different prices across a range of dates, depending on how busy a certain travel period is going to be. Because of this, it’s hard to be super accurate in the costs that I list. To get to the quoted prices below, though, I looked at the rates across the next six months and took the average: it could be slightly cheaper or more expensive, depending on when you’re visiting.)

Tokyo: $135 a night Odds are, you’re probably going to kick off your Japan adventures in Tokyo, and if so, it only makes sense to really throw yourself into the local experience. That’s why we decided to stay at this lovely onsen-ryokan in Shinjuku. (Whenever readers ask me which neighbourhood to choose in Tokyo, I always recommend Shinjuku or Shibuya.) The reason why I loved this specific property, though, is because it’s a ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn) that also has an onsen (hot pool). It’s a great way to jump immediately into all things Japanese.

And it was wonderful; my favourite hotel in the country. The rooms were small and cosy and felt super-traditional and calming. The views over Tokyo at night from the window were incredible. And the rooftop onsen? With free popsicles afterwards? So good. It’s located in a quieter neighbourhood, but still only a 10-minute walk to the subway. I really recommend this one!

Hakone: $80 a night In Hakone, we opted for a private room in a lovely guesthouse , with a tatami mat floor to sleep on and a private onsen on-site. The photo of the tatami mat room above is of our room here. It ended up being another one of our favourite stays in Japan! The staff were lovely and there was a restaurant/bar that served up fantastic pizzas. It had a cosy and chilled-out atmosphere, with great food and wine, and lots of blankets to snuggle up with as we ate. It was also worth staying here just to experience the private onsen — we got to go in as a couple!

Yudanaka: $105 per night In Yudanaka, we opted for a stay in a wonderful little ryokan ; this one was even more traditional than the one in Tokyo! Often, ryokans can be super-expensive in Japan — as much as $500 a night for the experience — so I was thrilled to have stumbled across a more budget option in Yudanaka. It was run by an adorable Japanese couple and their house came with a private onsen, return transport to see  the snow monkeys , and one of the most extravagant meals of my life. A kaiseki is a multi-course (like, 20 courses) meal that will see you eating roughly a week’s worth of food in a single night, sampling fresh, local-to-the-region Japanese cuisine. It was phenomenal, and I loved having no idea what anything was. It even included homemade plum wine, which was so good! I highly recommend the experience (although strongly advise you not to add breakfast to your booking — we were still so full that we couldn’t eat any of it!)

Kanazawa: $65 per night Kanazawa is home to some seriously cool accommodation! We had a hard time choosing where to stay because every property looked so cosy and inviting. In the end, we settled on this minimalist, modern set-up — it was great value for money relative to most other places we stayed in Japan, especially when you consider it’s only been open a year. It’s in a great location, right outside Omicho Market, where you’ll sample the best sushi of your life. Also within walking distance is Kanazawa Castle and Kenroku-en Garden, so you’re really staying in the heart of it all. I recommend signing up for the traditional Japanese breakfast, as you’ll likely not have had anything else like it before! There’s also an onsen and laundry facilities (always appreciated mid-trip!), and the staff were so sweet and kind.

Takayama: $76 per night In Takayama, we stayed in a small, locally-run guesthouse  in the centre of town. It felt like particularly good value for Japan, as it was one of the few places we stayed that you could describe as spacious! It even had a kitchen and washing machine. The beds were comfortable and the hotel was within walking distance of everywhere, including the train station. It was quiet, the staff were lovely, and overall, it made for a comfortable stay!

Kyoto: $84 a night In Kyoto, we stayed in a cosy hotel in the heart of town — we loved this place so much in 2017 that when we returned to Japan this year, we knew we’d have to stay there again! The property was in a fantastic location for exploring Kyoto and the bathrooms were nicer than anywhere else we stayed. It’s one of the top-rated guesthouses in the city — while also being one of the cheapest — so when you take that into consideration, I’m convinced you won’t find anywhere better to stay in Kyoto.

Hiroshima: $40 per bed In Hiroshima, we opted for a capsule-style hostel because I didn’t want to leave the country without trying one — you can see a photo of the “capsule” at the top of this section. Fortunately, we found ourselves in a room with only two other people staying there, so our capsule room with 20-odd beds was light on snorers. The owner of this place was ridiculously lovely and it was within walking distance of all of the monuments and activities. Really great bathrooms, a fun common area, and a cheap price: surprisingly, I would have stayed another night!

Osaka: $108 a night I rounded off my time in Japan with a little bit of a treat, opting for this four-star hotel that offered a ton of freebies. It’s all about the onsen here — it’s open all day and is simply beautiful. After you’ve finished your daily bathe, there’s free ice cream to eat, free comics to read, massage chairs to relax in, and even free ramen to slurp on. Yes, really! It was in a great location for Osaka — just a couple of blocks from the nearest metro station. The decor was calming and traditional; the perfect way to say goodbye to Japan.

In total, I spent an average of $97 per day on accommodation over my 16 days in Japan.

The Cost of Transportation in Japan

Okay, so let’s talk about transportation now. And specifically transportation post-2024.

It used to be the case that practically every visitor to Japan would invest in a JR pass (a train pass that grants you unlimited rides over a certain time period). After all, the best way to explore this country is by train, and by buying said rail pass, you’d be saving a significant amount of money on your trip — especially if you were taking a similar route to my one. A JR Pass pre-October 2023 would have saved me a whopping $175 over buying individual train tickets.

Seems like a no brainer, right?

In October 2023, the Japan Rail Pass skyrocketed in price. No exaggeration here: prices increased by an incredible 70% .

What a baffling decision.

What that means is that it’s not such a clear-cut decision anymore. The Japan Rail Pass still holds some benefits: If you’re a first-time visitor to Japan and don’t feel too confident about buying multiple single-journey train tickets, the pass will make it a lot easier: you just show it at any station and get on a train. You won’t need to worry about any extra charges and will have the flexibility to take train-based day trips whenever you want.

For most travellers, however, the value proposition is simply no longer there. For example, my recent 16-day itinerary (Tokyo – Hakone – Tokyo – Nagano – Kanazawa – Takayama – Kyoto – Nara – Kyoto – Hiroshima – Osaka) cost me 50,000 Yen ( $350 ) with single tickets. However, a 14 day rail pass is priced at 80,000 Yen ( $530 )!

Alas, the Japan Rail Pass is no longer something I recommend — unless you’re going to be taking enormous, lengthy rail journeys (like across the whole country) in a short period of time. Alternatively, if you do want that added sense of security and ease by not having to juggle a dozen train ticket bookings, you may find the extra price worth it.

So with all that being said: you’re most likely going to be using the JR West website to book your single train tickets online. This covers the entirety of Japan that’s west of Tokyo (all of the places I visited were west) and allows you to book your train tickets all in one place — and then you can reserve a seat on said train one month before its departure date. Honestly, it’s pretty easy to use, book, and reserve — and being able to do it all online means you can get everything sorted before you step foot in the country.

Let’s take a look at the some of the prices that a typical train journey in Japan costs — in this case I’ll use my itinerary mentioned above to plot out the costs:

Tokyo – Hakone: 2,500 Yen ( $17 ) Hakone – Tokyo: 2,500 Yen ( $17 ) Tokyo – Nagano: 7,500 Yen ( $50 ) Nagano – Kanazawa: 8,500 Yen ( $57 ) Kanazawa – Takayama: 5,000 Yen ( $33 ) Takayama – Kyoto: 9,000 Yen ( $60 ) Kyoto – Nara: 700 Yen ( $5 ) Nara – Kyoto: 700 Yen ( $5 ) Kyoto – Hiroshima: 10,500 Yen ( $70 ) Hiroshima – Osaka: 10,000 Yen ( $67 )

So if you were to replicate my Japan route exactly, you would end up spending $381 on rail tickets. It sounds like a lot of money but I do want to stress that the trains in Japan are some of the best in the world. They’re spotless, comfortable, modern, and lightning-fast. You will feel like you’re travelling in luxury.

If you’re not down to spend hundreds of dollars on trains, then the buses are going to be your best option. They’re cheaper, slower, less comfortable, often run overnight, and are complicated to book. The best sites I’ve found for booking long-distance buses is Willer Express and Japan Bus Online — but even they don’t run buses for several of the routes I took on my trip.

I thought it would be a good idea to share the cost of buses for the trip I took, so that you can compare them to the train and see how much money you could save.

Tokyo – Hakone: 2,250 Yen ( $15 ) Hakone – Tokyo: 1,800 Yen ( $12 ) Tokyo – Nagano: 2,200 Yen ( $15 ) Nagano – Kanazawa: No bus for this route Kanazawa – Takayama: 3,300 Yen ( $22 ) Takayama – Kyoto: 3,800 Yen ( $25 ) Kyoto – Nara: No bus for this route Nara – Kyoto: No bus for this route Kyoto – Hiroshima: 4,300 Yen ( $29 ) Hiroshima – Osaka: 4,000 Yen ( $27 )

As you can, see prices are generally around half what they are for the trains. You’d be looking at paying $212 in total for taking the bus, with three trains replacing the routes where I couldn’t find any existing buses.

We’ve covered the main ways to get in between the destinations, so now it’s time to take a look at how much you could spend on transportation within the cities.

Fortunately, this was where I found Japan to be really affordable. I love to explore cities on foot and I found many of the places I visited to be surprisingly walkable. In total, I spent $6 on the metro in Tokyo, $7 on the metro in Osaka, and $2 on the metro in Kyoto! Everywhere else, I just walked.

A reasonably big expense was our Hakone Free Pass (spoiler: not free), although this was more of a combined transportation and activity cost. At a cost of 6,100 Yen, or $41 , It provides you with unlimited transport around Hakone (where you’ll find Mount Fuji), and discounted entrance to all the attractions in town. If you’re going to Hakone, this will save you money because it covers everything you’ll definitely do there.

The Cost of Food in Japan

If you love Japanese food but have yet to travel to its homeland, you have such a treat in store for you. The food in this country is phenomenal; packed full of flavour and surprisingly inexpensive. It’s true: eating out is the easiest way for you to cut costs in Japan.

In fact, the vast majority of my meals in this country came to less than ¥1000 ($6.50) .

I’ll start first by breaking down the typical costs that you can expect to spend on the most well-known of Japanese dishes. Then, I’ll cover what you’ll be likely to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with the costs associated with each of these meals. Finally, I’ll round out the section off by sharing some of my favourite food experiences in the country and describe which options are worth a splurge and which ones you can happily skip.

You can’t think of Japan without picturing sushi, so that feels like the most logical place to start. If you eat fish, this is going to be such a revelation for you! The sushi and sashimi in Japan is better than any I’ve had in the world and it was here that I finally understood how raw fish could ever be described as buttery.

To combine your sushi/sashimi-eating with a cultural experience, head to Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo or Omicho Market in Kanazawa. For a bowl filled with a selection of sashimi, like in my photo above, you’ll pay between ¥1,800 and ¥4,000 , depending on the size and quality of the fish. That’s the equivalent of $12-$25 .

Slurping on a steaming bowl of ramen is my personal definition of a true travel joy, so I opted for this cheap and cheerful dish most evenings as a way to save money. Note: the ramen in Japan is incredible , so don’t interpret my frugality as a hardship. Once you’ve tried the ramen here, I’d be surprised if you didn’t immediately start planning a return visit.

One of my favourite aspects of ordering ramen in Japan is how you’re given the option to customise the dish to your own tastes. It’s not uncommon to be handed a small slip of paper where you’ll get to mark down all of your preferences. Do you want your broth to be rich or light? Your noodles to be firm or soft? Added spiciness or none at all? Extra spring onion? A hard- or soft-boiled egg? Most options come out to ¥1000 ($6.50) for a bowl of pork ramen.

Speaking of cheap and delicious food options, I highly recommend sampling a couple of versions of okonomiyaki while you’re in town. This savoury pancake dish is so delicious, extremely filling, and inexpensive at just ¥1000 ($6.50) – ¥1500 ($10) . The cities of Osaka and Hiroshima each offer up their very own version of okonomiyaki and strong opinions are held by many over which is best! If you’ll be heading to both destinations, make sure you try one of each and let me know which is your favourite.

A dish that I tried for the first time while I was in Japan was Japanese curry and what a wonderful experience that turned out to be! In comparison to Indian curries, I found the Japanese version to be richer, sweeter, and less creamy, with plenty of umami vibes. Once more, you can expect to pay ¥1000 ($6.50) for a plate of katsu (pork cutlet) curry.

One of the most delightful aspects of my Japanese eating experiences was sampling all of the different snacks in the country.

Street snacks like takoyaki were  ¥500 ($4.50) . We splurged on our kaiseki experience at our guesthouse in Yudanaka and paid ¥4000 ($36) for our food extravaganza. It’s a budget option compared to many other kaisekis, which can easily come to $100 for the experience, but still our most expensive meal. Another splurge was on sushi in Kanazawa, which I paid  ¥2000 ($18) for.

Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, it’s essentially impossible to eat badly in Japan. If you’re on a really tight budget, you can even get surprisingly decent food from 7-Eleven !

My total cost of food in Japan averaged out to $23.20 per day.

The Cost of Activities and Entrance Fees in Japan

Activities and entrance fees in Japan were very reasonably priced, and I never found myself outraged over the cost of anything. You’ll typically pay less than $5 to enter most temples, museums, and gardens.

Here’s how I spread my cash around:

Entrance fee for the hedgehog cafe in Tokyo: $13/1400¥ Entrance to the Snow Monkey Park : $7/800¥ Entrance to Kenroku-en gardens in Kanazawa: $3/310¥ Entry to the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto: $3/300¥ Entry to Ryoan-ji zen garden in Kyoto: $5/500¥ Ticket for the Hiroshima Peace Memorial: $2/200¥

My total cost of activities in Japan averaged out to $2 a day.

Miscellaneous Expenses in Japan

A local SIM card: $14

I mentioned above that I was able to buy a local SIM card when I purchased my rail pass. If you aren’t going to be using a rail pass in Japan, I recommend taking a look at Airalo instead. Airalo is a company that sells local e-SIM cards for travellers. What that means is that you can buy a virtual SIM card online before you arrive in Japan, and then as soon as you land in the country, can switch on your data and start using it.

It’s worked flawlessly for me and I’ll never go back to physical SIM cards. It’s just so easy! You’ll pay  $6 for 1 GB of data  or $14 for 3 GB for Japan and can also top-up through the Airalo app.

If you’re going down the Airalo route, just make sure your phone is e-SIM compatible first (all recent iPhones and many Androids are).

Insight Guides guidebook to Japan: $10 

My sister bought me  this guidebook as a gift before I left for Japan and at first I was like, Insight Guides? Meh. I wish she’d got me the Lonely Planet instead. Then when I opened it up and started reading, I swiftly discovered that Insight Guides are my new favourite guidebook company. It was so, so useful!

What I love about Insight is that their books focus heavily on the history and culture of Japan, with big, beautiful pictures, tons of information about local customs, food, and how to travel responsibly and respectfully. I recommend picking up a copy before your trip to Japan, but not taking it to the country with you — they’re big and heavy, so this is one for inspiration, planning, and education. 

Luggage storage at Snow Monkey Park near Yudanaka: ¥500 ($4.50)

We had our backpacks with us when we visited the snow monkeys, so utilised the on-site storage facility while we hiked up the mountain in the snow. You can also hire snow shoes and winter gear if you’re unprepared for the climb, but I was fine in my totally impractical sneakers. 

Travel insurance for 16 days in Japan: $60

If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to the Japan. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re more affordable than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  $1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

How I Track My Expenses While I Travel

Every time I share my expenses, you guys always want to know how on earth I manage to keep track of so many details from my travels!

Because Never Ending Footsteps is my company, the vast majority of my travel expenses are business expenses. I therefore studiously record everything I spend everywhere I go. I take photos of every receipt I receive and use Xero accounting software to record these expenses. In cases where I can’t get a receipt, I’ll take a photo of the price list and my ticket or food, or something as evidence.

Once a week, I then sit down and spend an hour or so uploading my receipts to Xero and making note of every penny I spent in each country I visit. It makes writing these posts super easy!

How Much Does it Cost to Travel in Japan?

It’s time to tally up all of my expenses to see my total travel costs!

Accommodation:  $97 per day Transportation:  $27 per day Food:  $23 per day Activities/Entrance Fees:  $2 per day Miscellaneous:  $2 per day

Average amount spent in Japan: $151 a day!

I don’t know about you, but given Japan’s pricey reputation, I’m fairly impressed with the amount I spent in the country, especially as I included quite a few splurges in there.

How about you? How expensive were you expecting a trip to Japan to be?

Related Articles on Japan 🇯🇵 What’s it Like to Travel in Japan? 🏯 How to Spend Two Weeks in Japan: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors 🍣 15 Weird and Wonderful Things to Eat in Japan 🎌 23 Incredible Things to Do in Osaka, Japan 🗼 21 Spectacular Things to Do in Tokyo, Japan 😎 Hipster Harajuku: The Coolest Neighbourhood in Tokyo 🦔 Should You Go to a Hedgehog Cafe? My Experience in Japan 🐒 Why Seeing the Snow Monkeys in Japan Sucked

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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106 comments.

Wow! that’s amazing. I especially got fascinated seeing the capsule hotel…must have been a unique experience.

It was surprisingly cosy! I would totally stay in one again.

Thank you so much for your information. We will go to Japan in October 2023 for 1 month. Have paid fully for 16 days. Using your guides to budget the remaining 2 weeks. Thanks again.

This is great! Do you think it would be much more expensive in summer or any of the peak holiday seasons? I’m going over July this year and wondering if the prices change much with the seasons.

Wow! That’s quite an eye-opener! I’ve wanted to visit Japan for years, and this has certainly nudged me a little closer, as I assumed it was expensive too. The costs seem much better than I found in Amsterdam this spring! (my boyfriend still gets a thousand-yard stare when I mention how much we paid for drinks in one bar.)

Yay! Yeah, it really did feel about the same price as Western Europe, if not cheaper. The transportation is more expensive, but the food was cheaper in Japan.

This is super awesome! I, too, was under the impression that Japan was a super expensive place to visit! Good to know that you can save so much on accommodation and activities! Are you going to be posting about food in Japan? My knowledge of what to eat there is very minimal…

Yes! I published a guide to my favourite things to eat in the country last week: https://www.neverendingfootsteps.com/best-food-japan/

Ditto for here in New Zealand Lauren. All said it would be expensive. But we house sat – rent-free – and saw that food and travel are on par or cheaper than New Jersey. We also saw that virtually all things are cheaper than folks said. Methinks many labeling Japan and NZ as expensive as can be are used to paying $1 for lunch in Chiang Mai LOL. Budget folks see all Western lands as expensive. Granted I am from NJ; living by NYC makes for a high cost of living. But not bad at all, living in these lands.

Yeah, definitely true. I know that when I wrote off Japan as being too expensive, it was in the early days of my travels, when I could only afford to live in Southeast Asia!

Loving the posts about Japan so far. Do you have many more articles planned? I’ve a trip booked in November and this has been the most useful of the blogs so far for help in planning – thank you. Although I’ve had to cut the hedgehog cafe off my plans after reading your article as I hadn’t quite considered the ethics enough!

Yes! So many. I’ll probably post another half a dozen or more over the next few weeks :-)

I always assumed Japan to be very expensive. Thanks to your blog I don’t anymore. Cheers!

This is all very useful info! I’m impressed with your budgeting skills. Awesome, Thanks for sharing this!

Ha! Thank you :-) It comes naturally (finally) after seven years of doing this.

Great article. I’m planning a visit for early 2025 to go with my grandson … was the budget breakdown for one person or a couple … because you mentioned going with your partner?

The accommodation prices are the total cost of the room (rather than just my share), while the transportation, food, and activities are all my share of the costs.

Fantastic article. Love your budget posts because you never leave anything out.

I try not to! Thanks so much :-)

Beautiful photos, Japan look amazing and thank you for sharing your budget tips as well. :)

No problem! :-)

Thank you so much for this! I’m going to Japan in September and I’ve been worrying about my budget. This has definitely put my mind at rest!

Yay! Happy to hear that :-)

I’m so happy that you have posted so much lately, you’re my favourite travel blog and I check this page a lot more often now that the pace of the posts has increased :)

Thank you! :-) I’m aiming to stick to a three-times-a-week posting schedule now that I have a base and more time to dedicate to writing.

This is so much cheaper than I expected. Do you have any idea about prices for solo travellers though? Would I have to pay for a double room most of the time (apart from dorm beds of course)?

No, lots of hotels and guesthouses have single rooms, so you wouldn’t need to pay out for two people very often, if at all.

Thanks, that’s good to know!

Very useful breakdown that would be very helpful for first-timers to Japan.

Just to share, one of my own major expenditure in JP is … vending machine contribution! I simply can’t resist them and can end up buying seven times a day. “P

Yes! I couldn’t believe how many vending machines there were in the country, as well as the variety of things you could buy from them.

Hello! This is a very timely article for me to read as I’m actually going to visit Japan for a week on September. I really love Japan’s culture and their people. There are a lot of places that I want to visit and a lot of things I want to do but I am on a strict budget. Hopefully, your article would be able to help me fix my budgeting for my trip to Japan.

I hope so! I really didn’t find it horrendously expensive, so I think you’ll be surprised by how much you can do there for free.

I love your budget posts because they give me such a good idea of how much I can expect to spend in places around the world. Are you thinking of doing them for everywhere you visit?

That’s my plan! I’m slowly working my way through my records and adding more and more to the site.

Hey, thanks so much! :-)

I’ve planed to visit Japan next year, Thank you for sharing your budget, I’ll try to not exceed 100$/day, following your information on this post.

Have a fantastic trip, Ingrid! :-)

Which month you visited Japan? I am thinking for Cherry blossom (April 2019) and everything is coming up too expensive. Are those above for cherry blossom season you visited?

Ah yeah, unfortunately, the cherry blossom season is the most expensive time of year to visit Japan. I was there in December, so prices will be higher than the ones mentioned in this post. I’ll add that detail to my post now!

I was under the impression that Japan was a super expensive place to visit! Good to know that you can save so much on accommodation and activities! This article includes all the places you can visit in Japan and their expenses. It is very educative and it can be improved by providing expenses in INR. Thank you for posting this useful information.

Thank you! I usually just price these articles in the local currency and USD, which is where the vast majority of my readers are located. If I started including currencies for everyone, the post would quickly get ridiculous :-)

Seems a dumb question, but I’m assuming all the values are in USD, is it correct?

Yep! I write at the start of the post: “The amounts in this guide are listed in Japanese Yen and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S.”

That is a very good breakdown cost analysis there. i am planning to go to japan as well with my wife. and planning to stay for 10 days only. 4 in tokyo 3 in kyoto and 3 in osaka. i like to idea of 100 aud / day it’s a good target to keep but i guess the expense on buying cloths and souvenir would be uncontrollable though i heard things in japanese is not that dear if you know where to shop and avoid tourist trap. i didn’t see you mention buying internet data in advance ? or i missed it somewhere. i guess the expense for a couple will be double up. but i guess 3000 aud for 2 people is unavoidable.

amazing detailed guide

You’re welcome!

I’m so glad I found your website! I love the detail and photos. I just booked a trip to Japan with my boyfriend for this upcoming October, and your site will be very helpful. Question: do most hostels and accommodations that you experienced have you sleeping solo? I’m wondering if I should expect to sleep in a separate area than my partner for most of the trip…

Hi Lauren, Thanks for such a detailed description of your time in Japan! I’m going to Japan October this year with my wife and my major concern is how you managed to book sleeping pods for you and your boyfriend as almost all accommodations are either “male only” or “female only” from the options I’ve seen so far. Did you have to get separate beds for those nights?

Yeah, the capsule hotel-style accommodation is all single beds. You can see in my photo in this post that there’s not much room for anybody else!

My wife and I are heading to Japan in mid May and I plan to use your itinerary.

Would it be possible for you to write something about the travel logistics if you can remember them – ie to get from Tokyo to Mt Fuji we booked the following train, leaving at…from the following platform which took X hours and arrived at Mt Fuji at. We then bought our day pass from….and ……..

This would be really helpful to me and other independent travellers – from where did you buy your JR pass and how did you book your individual train rides?

Cheers Paul

Oh, man. That would take me hours and hours to put together and I’m sure times and platforms change so it would be impossible for me to keep the information up-to-date and accurate.

I recommend downloading the mobile app Hyperdia — you can plan your train travel out using that. Just enter in your destinations and it will tell you which train to take and from which platform. Super easy to use! :-)

The site I used to buy the JR Pass is this one . I booked the other train tickets in person at the stations when I arrived — there weren’t many that weren’t covered by the rail pass. Just the small regional ones to get to and from Yudanaka, I think.

Hello Lauren, I love the details in your blog. Your expenses were for 1 or 2 people?

I cover that at the start of the blog post: “And finally, these are the expenses I paid while travelling with my boyfriend. That means that accommodation prices (with the exception of the dorm bed in Hiroshima) have been halved to indicate my share.”

Great super helpful article. THANK YOU!

Hi Lauren, Thanks so much for this article, it is so helpful!!! on which dates did you fly to japan? what dates are you recommending on?

I spent the first two weeks of December in Japan. I’d recommend looking at May or September as the best months to travel there.

Hi Lauren I’d love your advice. I’m traveling with my 22yr old daughter to celebrate her graduation and my birthday. I booked the first two nights a hotel in Tokyo and then figured we would VRBO or Airbnb but after reading your post it looks like things have changed. I love the idea of the capsule hotels and the standard tatami mat rooms look enchanting. So how do I search for either? We’d like to experience both for the trip. oh by the way, I’m a traveler too, let me know where in the world are you now. Perhaps we can meet up and collaborate, I do video production, just got back from Colorado and am going to Cancun in June.looking forward to hearing back from you, Peace and Love always, “L” oh let’s connect on IG

Just book them through Booking.com — no need to go to any specific site. I’m in Bristol, in the UK. I actually don’t have an Instagram account — it wasn’t doing good things for my mental health, so I deleted it :-)

G’day Lauren,

Loved your detailed description of your travels through Japan. However; I’m not so brave as you travelling around on my own, especially with the language problem. I am a single traveler from Bangalore, India and would love to spend 7-8 days in Japan, with my journey starting and ending in Tokyo, reasonably priced hotels or local hostels, but preferably single accommodation, if possible. (willing to pay extra).

I love train travel and Japan is one of the best places to do that..your take on that would be appreciated. If you feel, I meet your requirements, would love to get an itinerary and costing for my 7-8 day stay in Japan.

Hello! I am really curious on how you got a 14 days pass JR for only 420$, from where I am from (Canada) it is 567!

If you click the link in the post, you can buy it through there. It’s currently listed for 414 USD.

$95/day seems cheaper than what I had expected – is that a tight budget? What can you do more with $150/day? I’d prefer to spend that extra on living in nice hotels + do more activities. Does that seem possible with $150/day?

No, not really. It was a mid-range budget and all of the hotels we stayed in were nice — I made zero effort to stick to a tight budget.

Hope you’re well. I’m wondering if you still advise from not booking Airbnb for Tokyo? Thanks.

Until moments ago, I had always assumed Japan to be too expensive to even consider. Never thought the cost of activities and entrance fees would be so cheap. This is an encouraging article, thanks, Lauren!

Really remarkable post, Lauren. Extremely thorough and helpful. I’m looking to plan a trip to Japan soon and stumbled across your blog. As you clearly hoped from city-to-city, (this may be a silly question) what did you do with your luggage on a day-to-day basis?

Thanks for any insight.

Oh, just left it in my hotels. If I spent less than a full day somewhere, it was visited as a day trip, so I didn’t take my luggage with me. And then whenever I arrived somewhere, I’d time my arrival with the check-in time of the hotel, drop my bags first, then head out exploring.

great article! As I have said in the past you always put out great stuff that’s very valuable information.

I just came across your website when searching for trips for Japan for my son. I have to say I am really so happy and want to thank you so much for the information. My eldest son has been taking Japan as a language course for the last 3 years and was looking forward to trying to get into the high school Japan trip in end of july beginning of August 2020. He also wanted to go to TUJ(Temple University Japan).

However, because of the olympics the high school Japan trip has been canceled for 2020. Unfortunately, he will be a senior next year so the 2021 high school program will not be available for him. Plus going to olympics are so expensive. If you can give me any advice, I would greatly appreciate. Thank you so much in advance for your time!!!

What advice do you need? About what?

Hi Lauren, I really liked you post and I think is really helpful. When exactly did you go in Japan? We have to change our plans for next February (previous planned for Philippines but to risky for my wife pregnancy) and we consider to go in Japan instead. So, do you think it is good idea travelling in Japan in February? Thank you and advance.

I went during the first half of December. As long as you keep in mind that it’ll be pretty cold (5-10 celsius), I think it’s a great time of year, as it won’t be as crowded as peak season.

is it favorable to use credit card or cash is much preferred? thanks

Hi. Thank you for the information! I am so inspired to go to Japan now. My mom who was from Japan, always told me it’s too expensive to go back and visit. I am now 56 and it has been my lifelong dream to go. My husband and I will go with backpacks like we did when we were younger and before having kids. Is October a good time to go? I read September can be humid. I want to follow your itinerary for the most part. My mom lived in Kanazawa. My heart is full right now and my eyes are misty. Thank you for making my dream a little bit closer.

Hey Lauren!

Thank you so much for the information. I actually got invited on a delegation to go to Japan this evening and am trying to get the average cost to travel in the country. Obviously, your trip was on a very impressive budget. I have two questions, 1. Based on the $95/day over the course of your 16-day trip, would it be right to say that (flight included) you only paid ~$1,600 for your entire trip? 2. Would you say for a trip including cultural experiences, transportation and stays in nice hotels for a week, a grand total of $3,700 is reasonable?

In advance, I appreciate your advice on this!

Hi Lauren, Are you able to name all the accomodations you stayed with? I would like to visit Japan next year on a very tight budget. Thanks.

Yes, they’re already linked in the post along with the reviews of them under the accommodation section.

Hi Lauren. I’m debating spending 5 nights in Osaka and doing day trips to kyoto, nara and himeji castle. (I have hotel points where i can stay at osaka). Based on your experience – is that ok? or is better to stay 2 nights in Osaka and 3 nights in kyoto. There is a lot of different opinions online, thought id ask you if you think i’d be missing out on anything if staying in osaka. The one plus is i can save some money if using points and also staying in 1 location for 5 nights vs packing and moving to another location. Thanks so much for your posts!

Hey i found this really helpful but I’ve been planning to visit japan for a while and have hopes of going after i graduate high school. With some research i found that the JR pass isn’t needed if you’re just staying in one city. How much do you think i would spend on transportation for 2 weeks in Tokyo? Will it come out to more than what you spent or less?

Definitely less! You can walk to a lot of places, but otherwise the metro won’t cost much at all — a dollar or two per trip.

Would you be able to give recommendations for food places in Kyoto that are affordable.

Hi Lauren. Came across your site on a Google search for budget travel. It convinced e that a trip to Japan is affordable. Never have done international travel and would like your advice on a couple of things. 1. What is the best way to pack? Do I have to just use a back pack? 2. Can I use a credit card or should cash be used? 3. Can I get cell phone coverage in Japan.

Thanks, you site is great!

1) I prefer to travel with a backpack, but you’ll do okay with a suitcase, too. I personally find backpacks easier for navigating train stations, as you don’t have to drag it up and down stairs, etc. It doesn’t really matter either way, though. Depending on how long you’ll be staying there, I usually pack for a week no matter how long my trip is, then do laundry once a week.

2) Japan is mostly cash-based, so plan for lots of trips to the ATM. I didn’t find many places that accepted cards, although I also wasn’t looking very hard either.

3) Yep, you can pick up a local SIM card at the airport when you arrive. I bought mine through the rail pass company I link to in this blog post, but you can also just buy one when you arrive. Super easy to do and they’ll get it set up for you in the shop, too.

Love your posts! have been browsing but when I stumbled upon your page found it really helpful! Planning for Japan and Singapore so finding both blogs is perfect timing :) We are still not sure if the JRpass will help us- when we did calculation for the main routes we are going it resulted not worth it, however then not sure if we will require any additional rails/trains in between these. Tokyo>Hakone>Kyoto> Osaka without returning back… your input will be appreciated :) P.S. Feel free to visit the island of Malta, my home country

Wooow !! This is amazing , My wife and I have been planning to visit japan and we always had a misconception that Japan is expensive to visit .. This is a great blog .. So the overall cost including your flight tickets and local travel in japan would cost around 2500 $ per person ?

This was so incredibly helpful! Normally I don’t find myself reading entire articles but yours was so informational and in depth. Thank you so much for helping me get an idea of how much I would roughly spend!

Ah, no problem! Thanks for reading, and I’m glad you found it useful :-)

I super love this article Lauren! I thoroughly enjoyed it. When all is well and my country allows us to travel again, this is going to be on my top 3 places to visit (the 1st 2 will be diving spots as I’m a freediver). I made sure to bookmark this page for reference. Again, thank you for writing this. One question though, when you say $ do you mean USD?

Yep, USD! “The amounts in this guide are listed in Japanese Yen and U.S. dollars, simply because the vast majority of my readers are from the U.S.”

How much did you spend on transportation in Tokyo? I mean if you hadn’t had the JR Pass? How much did you save in Tokyo by having the pass?

Oh, I didn’t activate the pass when I was in Tokyo — I activated it on the day I left — so that was my total expenses without using it.

Hi Lauren! I just read your post. My boyfriend and I are backpackers and we are planning our next trip to Japan. I wanted to ask you when did you go there? (what time of the year). Because we can only take time off during winter time (dec-jan) and I don’t know if that’s a good time of year to go. We are from Denver and snow doesn’t bother us but we also want to enjoy it.

Thanks in advance! Love your blog

I was there in December! There’s fewer crowds then, which makes it a great time to go! As an added bonus you get to enjoy all of the cosy onsens in the snow :-)

Even in these unprecedented times, I feel as if I have already traveled to Japan! I loved every minute of the information you gave me. This place is definitely next on my list, of course! It can be months or a year from now.

It appears you’re still getting traffic in the comments here (excellent) so I thought I would ask a broad question. Wife and I are thinking to take our 6 and 9 year old to Japan for about 11 days. Any destinations you might leave off your itinerary given a bit less time and traveling with kids?

Fantastic! I’ve never seen any article about travelling to japan so specific and detailed before!! It sure will help me prepare for my own first&solo trip! thank you so much

Great post, but the prices are wildly outdated now. Your $30/night hotels in 2018 are going for around $220/night in 2023. Insane!

Hi CS, what time of year are you looking to visit? I’ve had a quick check and every hotel I link to still displays roughly the correct prices (a couple were out by about $10-20 a night, but nothing like $190!). If you’re looking at going in May, for example, Hakone Tent prices their rooms at $176 a night, but then offers rooms at a price of $73 a night a month later in June, so the time of year can affect the pricing. I’ll make a note to mention this in a future update to the post.

I visited in the low season, in December, so the prices I paid were lower than they might be at a more popular time of year.

This is amazing on every level. Thank you! only issue is prices for accomodations double during sakura season so what can I do

Thank you Lauren, for this insightful and complete post.

Out of curiosity, do you know what was the average USD/YEN exchange rate when this trip took place?

Kind Regards,

I update the prices in this article every two months so the exchange rate used in the post is recent

How recent was your travel to Japan and what exact dates were you there? I’m planning to take my family of 4 there in 2025 and would like to schedule it during cherry blossom season. I heard prices usually go up during this time so I was wondering if your trip happened during peak or off-peak season.

I was there in December. Prices do increase a lot during cherry blossom season, unfortunately — that’s the most expensive time to visit.

very good post for budget travellers. thanks for sharing.

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Travel Budget Japan: How much it costs and how to save

This article may contain links to products and services we use and recommend. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. For more information, see our Disclosure Policy .

Are you planning a trip to Japan and wondering how much it will cost you? You’ve come to the right place. In this article, we outline our actual travel costs during our three-month trip to Japan in 2023. Contrary to popular belief, Japan can be an affordable travel destination, with surprisingly reasonable accommodation and dining options. Plus, with the current exchange rate working in your favour, now is the perfect time to explore the Land of the Rising Sun . We also share some useful tips on how to save money during your time in Japan .

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What is the currency of Japan?

The Japanese Yen (JPY) – the word yen meaning circle or round object – has been in existence since 1871. In circulation these days are

• Banknotes in JPY1,000, JPY 2,000, JPY5,000 and JPY10,000 denominations; and
• Coins in JPY1, JPY5, JPY10, JPY50, JPY100 and JPY500 denominations (though the latter two are most commonly used).

Travel Cost Assumptions

When reading this article, please keep the following in mind:

• Our travel costs are based upon a couple travelling together.
• We are independent travellers, researching and organising our own itinerary using our go-to travel planning tools .
• Accommodation: We usually stay in self-catered accommodation (homestays, locally owned guesthouses, hostels and short-term rentals) - in our own room with (preferably) our own bathroom, though the kitchen may be shared.
• Dining and Groceries: We have at least two meals a day at home . We like to eat out once a day to every few days (and prefer locally owned restaurants and small eateries away from the tourist hotspots).
• Transportation: We walk a lot, and wherever possible, we travel by public transport . Only occasionally do we hire a vehicle.
• Experiences: Many of the activities we do are free of charge or cost very little. When we pay for attractions or activities , we are selective as our funds are limited (just like everyone elses).
• In addition to above expense categories, we include in our total daily costs our mail scanning and forwarding service , mobile phone plans and travel insurance - though only for the period we are in the country.
• We use a multi-currency personal account with Wise to manage our currencies XE to transfer money as required.
• Not included are the costs for entry or exit transportation into/out of the country.

During our most recent visit, we spent the maximum time we could in Japan (that is, 90 days on a tourist visa ), which means we travel slower and see fewer attractions/do fewer activities each day than someone who spends two or three-week vacation in Japan and tries to see and do as much as possible each day.

Japan Travel Cost Summary

Bearing those assumptions in mind, we spent on average JPY9,205 per person per day in Japan (or USD69 using the foreign exchange rate applicable at the time).

Certainly not the cheapest country we’ve visited to date , but surprisingly more affordable than we thought.

Map of Accommodation, Points of Interest, Eateries and Transport

Below is a map of the recommended accommodation, points of interest, eateries and transport terminals/stops mentioned in this article.

If you are interested in our other detailed maps containing recommended accommodations, points of interest, eateries, and transport terminals/stops, check out:

How much does accommodation cost in Japan?

As independent travellers, we booked almost all our accommodations ourselves via the various platforms we recommend below. We only used the help of an agent when organising accommodation for our two multi-day hikes – the Kumano Kodo ( Kumano Travel ) and the Nakasendo (the Tsumago Tourist Information Center). Most accommodations were short-term rentals – studios or one bedroom apartments with a small kitchen (where basic meals could be prepared), bathroom and laundry facilities. During our hikes , we also stayed in family-run guesthouses (minshukus), often with onsen facilities.

During our three months in Japan , our accommodation costs averaged JPY7,720 (USD58) per room per night :

Our most expensive accommodation was at Koyasan Saizenin [ Google Maps location ], a Buddhist Temple in Koyasan – at JPY14,199 per night. While not cheap compared with our other accommodations in Japan , the temple stay (shukubō) was well worth it, as it allowed us to experience a multi-course shōjin ryōri dinner and breakfast (not included in above price), bathe in the traditional onsen and attend the Buddhist early morning prayer.

At just JPY4,500 per night , our most affordable accommodation was a stay at Guest Cafe Kuchikumano [ Google Maps location ] on Day 0 of our Kumano Kodo Hike. This was a traditional Japanese guesthouse (minshuku) with a large shared kitchen and bathroom. The host was super nice, and we had a lovely evening around the fire, toasting mochi balls (the Japanese version of marshmallows) and then dipping them in zenzai, delicious sweet red bean soup .

Interacting with your Japanese hosts and other guests is a wonderful experience

Laundromats

Although most of the accommodations we booked had a washing machine, over the three months in Japan , we did use laundromats eight times, costing us a total of JPY4,600 (or JPY575/USD4 per laundromat use ).

Communications

Prior to arriving in Japan , we purchased and received two NIPPON 4G-LTE SIM cards (one for each of our mobile phones) at a cost of JPY3,280/USD25 each – to use when we didn’t have access to Wi-Fi while travelling. Each SIM card came with 15 GB of data, valid for 180 days.

How much to budget for experiences in Japan?

You can pack a lot into a three-month trip in Japan , and we did. All our experiences added up to JPY131,583 (USD984) between the two of us – on average, JPY756 (or just under USD6) per person per experience.

Here are some of our favourite things to see and do (including the cost per person when we visited – note that some were FREE):

• Chubu Region
• Chugoku Region
• Hokkaido Region
• Kansai Region
• Kanto Region
• Kyushu Region

Gifu Prefecture

Kamitakara-no-Yu Onsen , Shinhotaka [ Google Maps location ]: JPY800 Kanda House , Shirakawa-go [ Google Maps location ]: JPY400 Matsuri no Mori Museum , Takayama [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,000 Takayama-Shinhotaka Ropeway (Bus and Cable Car) Two-Day Pass, Takayama [ Google Maps location ]: JPY6,800

Ishikawa Prefecture

Yasue Gold Leaf Museum , Kanazawa [ Google Maps location ]: JPY310

Nagano Prefecture

City Museum of Art , Matsumoto [ Google Maps location ]: JPY410 Miyamoto shōkai one-day bicycle rental, Nagano [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,500 Nagano Marathon Foreign Athlete Entry Fee: JPY15,437 Obuse 3-in-1 Museum Pass (Hokusai, Kozan Takai and Obuse Museums), Nagano: JPY1,300 Togakushi Bus Day Pass , Nagano: JPY3,000

Yamanashi Prefecture

Bike ride around Kawaguchi and Saiko Lakes, Fujikawaguchiko: FREE (bicycle was provided by accommodation) Witnessing Magomi Matsuri/Chigo-no-Mai at Kawaguchi Asama Shrine and Hike to Tenku no torii, Fujikawaguchiko: FREE Kubota Itchiku Art Museum , Fujikawaguchiko [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,300

Hiroshima Prefecture

Mt Misen Hike, Miyajima : FREE Hiroshima Castle , Hiroshima [ Google Maps location ]: JPY370 History and Folklore Museum , Miyajima [ Google Maps location ]: JPY300 Mitaki-dera Temple, Hiroshima [ Google Maps location ]: JPY200 Peace Memorial Museum , Hiroshima [ Google Maps location ]: JPY200

Hokkaido Museum , Sapporo [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,200 Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium , Sapporo [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,000 Sapporo Snow Festival : FREE Teine Ski Field (Day Pass and Gear Hire), Sapporo [ Google Maps location ]: JPY11,800 TV Tower , Sapporo [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,000

Hyōgo Prefecture

Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial , Kobe [ Google Maps location ]: JPY600 Himeji Castle and Koko-en Garden , Himeji [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,050 Nunobiki Herb Gardens , Kobe : JPY1,130

Kyoto Prefecture

Botanical Gardens , Kyoto [ Google Maps location ]: JPY400 Free Walking Tour , Kyoto: FREE/Donation Hike Mt Inari , Kyoto [ Google Maps location ]: FREE Gion Corner Cultural Performance , Kyoto [ Google Maps location ]: JPY5,500 Ninomaru-Goten Palace , Kyoto [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,050

Naha Prefecture

Todai-ji , Naha [ Google Maps location ]: JPY600

Tokyo Prefecture

teamLab Planets , Koto City [ Google Maps location ]: JPY3,500 Hokusai Museum , Sumida City [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,000 Japan Olympic Museum , Shinjuku City [ Google Maps location ]: JPY500 Watching the sunset from Carrot Tower , Setagaya City [ Google Maps location ]: FREE Yayoi Kusama Museum , Shinjuku City [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,100

Kanagawa Prefecture

Open-Air Museum , Hakone [ Google Maps location ]: JPY1,600

Okinawa Prefecture

Rental Charinko Bike Ishikawa , Zamami [ Google Maps location ]: JPY2,800 Fukushuen Garden , Naha [ Google Maps location ]: JPY200 Himeyuri Peace Museum , Naha [ Google Maps location ]: JPY310 Japanese Naval Underground Headquarters , Naha [ Google Maps location ]: JPY600 Okinawa Prefectural Museum , Naha [ Google Maps location ]: JPY555 Shuri Castle Grounds, Naha [ Google Maps location ]: FREE Tsushima-maru Memorial Museum , Naha [ Google Maps location ]: JPY500

How much to budget for Dining and Groceries in Japan?

As mentioned above, during our time in Japan , we stayed mostly in accommodation that had a kitchen with basic cooking facilities, enabling us to have at least two meals a day at home . That said, it was sometimes easier and cheaper to buy ready-to-eat meals from convenience stores such as Lawsons, 7-Eleven or Family Mart – though we did try to limit those occasions to avoid adding to Japan ’s plastic waste problem .

Our daily dining costs in Japan averaged JPY1,193 (USD9) per person , with our most expensive dining experience costing us JPY2,350 per person at Steakland Kobe-kan ​ [ Google Maps location ] – a worthwhile luxury to taste the famous beef the city is renowned for.

Our most expensive meal was at Steakland Kobe - but it was well worth it

Our daily groceries expenses in Japan averaged JPY1,043 (USD8) per person . We found Aeon supermarkets offered some of the best value for money, and between the major convenience store brands of 7-Eleven, Lawson and FamilyMart, we found Lawson offered the best range at the most affordable prices.

If you happen to visit Sapporo, make sure to pop into a Bostonbake branch [ Google Maps location ]. They have delicious pastries and buns daily (which are super affordable) – great to stock up on some items when you’re out and about during the Snow Festival . Sadly, Bostonbake only exists in Hokkaido.

In Japan , ready-made meals are always available at supermarkets and convenience stores

Recommended Foodie Experiences

As Anthony Bourdain is famously quoted as saying: You learn a lot about someone when you share a meal together. And the best way to learn about a destination is by spending it with locals, in their homes and in local markets. If you're a foodie and would like to join some incredible cooking classes and food tours, here are our recommended EatWith offers in Japan :

• Food and Sake Pairings in a Traditional Kyoto House
• Home style Ramen and Gyoza cooking class in a Japanese home
• Tokyo West-Side Walking and Street Food Tour
• Izakaya Food Tour in Shinjuku

How to save money on dining and groceries?

Dining out all the time can quickly get expensive. We always try and book accommodation where we have access to a kitchen - either our own little kitchenette or the kitchen of our host. That way, we can store food in the fridge and make our own meals. We usually have breakfast and one other meal at our accommodation, and one meal when we're out and about.

Restaurants (even in tourist hotspots) often have special lunch offers (for example, a three-course meal for EUR10). Portion sizes in many parts of the world are usually quite substantial, so we often share a three-course meal. The same applies if you go out for dinner: Order a starter or salad and a main, and that's usually enough for two people. An added benefit: there is less food waste.

As for groceries: every country has more expensive and cheaper supermarkets. Ask your host what the cheaper options are (for example, Aldi or Lidl in many European countries) and avoid convenience stores as much as possible.

Experiencing the local cuisine is one of the reasons why WE travel… Paul and I tend to only eat out once a day (sometimes only once a week), usually at lunchtime. This allows us to try local dishes while taking advantage of awesome lunch deals. It also means we don’t have to roam around unknown parts of town every night in search of a restaurant.

A Japanese apartment kitchen is not big but allows you to prepare your own meals (and save on dining out)

How much to budget for Transportation in Japan?

Our transport costs over the three months we explored Japan averaged at JPY1,569 (just under USD12) per person per day .

Given Japan is an island country, we ended up taking two internal flights: The flight from Sapporo, Hokkaido to Nara, Okinawa cost us JPY16,580 each (with Peach Aviation ); while the flight from Nara, Okinawa to Hiroshima on Honshu cost JPY14,460 per person (with ANA ). In both cases unfortunately, we had to check in our travel packs as the strict carry-on limit was seven kilograms.

Train Travel

As we were keen to see the country and had more time to explore Japan than most foreign tourists, we always considered taking slower (and thus cheaper) train options over the Shinkansen. That said, we did want to ride the Shinkansen (and in some cases, there was just no feasible alternative). In the end, we took the bullet train three times: Our Hiroshima to Himeji trip cost JPY8,040 per person ; the Kanazawa to Nagano journey JPY8,590 each and the train ride from Odawara to Tokyo JPY3,280 per person .

The Shinkansen was always markedly more expensive than slower train options. As an example, the distance from Hiroshima to Himeji was 239 kilometres, with a per kilometre cost of JPY33.64 on the Shinkansen, whereas the (slower) Rapid Express train from Himeji to Kyoto – a distance of 127 kilometres – cost JPY2,310 per person or JPY18.19 per kilometre. So if you have time, take the slow train and save money.

And speaking of travelling slowly: If you’re in the Hakone area, make sure to ride the Hakone Tozan Train [ Google Maps location ] between Gora and Odawara. The scenery is stunning, and the train does a number of switchbacks as it journeys down the mountain (or up if you do the trip in reverse) – a very unique experience.

Take the Hakone Tozan Railway for its unique switchbacks down (and up) the mountains | Photo on Wikimedia Commons

How to save on transport costs in Japan?

Japan boasts an efficient transportation system. But, as we found out, transportation costs add up quickly, especially if you’re travelling a lot around the country.

Rail Transportation

Japan-wide rail pass.

The Japan-wide JR Rail Pass is a cost-effective option for visitors who plan to move around a lot during their stay. It’s available for 7, 14 and 21 day periods and valid on consecutive days within the chosen timeframe. The pass allows unlimited travel on JR-operated services, including JR trains – even the Shinkansen (just NOT the Nozomi and Mizuho) – and JR-operated city buses. Seat reservations are included with the JR Rail Pass but need to be obtained (free of charge) prior to travel.

The Japan-wide JR Rail Pass can only be purchased by foreigners outside of Japan and must be exchanged for the actual pass upon arrival.

Although the JR ( Japan Rail) Pass is a popular option for foreign tourists visiting Japan , it’s not the only way to save, and it may not even be worthwhile pending your itinerary. To determine if the Rail Pass is worthwhile, use an online route calculator  to compare the costs of individual ticket purchases against the price of the pass.

Trains in Japan are (almost) always on time, making train travel easy and convenient | Photo by Armin Forster on Pixabay

Regional Rail Passes

If the Japan-wide JR Rail Pass is of no use to you, one (or several) of the many Regional Rail Passes might be worthwhile. A big difference to the Japan -wide Rail Pass: you can buy these passes while already in Japan (though they are slightly more expensive than if you bought them from overseas). Worthwhile options to check out include:

• JR East: the JR Tokyo Wide Pass
• JR West: the Kintetsu Rail Pass, JR West Kansai Area Pass, JR West Kansai Wide Area Pass or the JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass
• JR Central: the JR Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass or JR Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Pass.

Without Rail Passes

Even without any of the rail passes, there are still ways to save on train travel in Japan :

• Shinkansen – Buy a non-reserved seat ticket (where available): This also offers greater flexibility as you’re not bound to a specific train. Which carriages are non-reserved varies from train to train (most often it’s carriages 1-3 or 1-5). Arrive at the platform early to check out where the non-reserved carriages are located and position yourself/queue at the door marker of one of those carriages to increase your chances of getting a seat as you board.
• Alternatives – Opt for Limited Express trains: You may need to change trains along the way, but the trains in Japan are usually on time, and changing trains in Japan is not really stressful, especially if you travel light. Unless you’re travelling during rush hour, Limited Express trains are often less crowded than the Shinkansen, which also means you can save the seat reservation cost (where possible).

Extra tip: In many areas in Japan , you can use an IC card to tap on/off rather than having to purchase individual paper tickets for each journey. This saves time and makes train travel more convenient.

What are IC cards?

In Japan , you will come across the term IC card a lot (IC stands for Integrated Circuit ). IC cards are essentially plastic cards that can be topped up and the amount stored on the card is used for transportation - simply by tapping on/off at the card reader - and more and more at convenience stores and other places.

Each region issues their own version of the IC card, for example

• If you enter via Tokyo Narita or Haneda Airports, you would buy the Suica Card or PASMO card.
• If you enter via Osaka Kansai Airport, you will find the ICOCA card for sale.

Fortunately, 10 of the most common IC cards (including the two above) can be used across regions (and likely more will be added over time). Some regions (including Nagano and Okinawa prefectures) only allow their own IC card (at this stage) or cash.

Also, note:

• Cards (including any stored funds) will expire after 10 years of non-use, which means you can reuse the card if you return to Japan within that timeframe.
• You can return it (and get a refund of the money on the card plus the deposit you paid for the card itself) - as long as it's in the region you bought it.
• You can load the IC card onto your smartphone - via Apple Pay or Google Pay - but you won't be able to get a refund of your deposit or any funds stored when you leave the country.

Bus Transportation

Buses can be a good alternative to trains (especially for medium to long-distance travel and on competitive routes). Do note though that while train timetables are (mostly) reliable, buses can be stuck in traffic just like any other road transport (and delays of 30 minutes and more are not unusual).

One way to save on transport costs in Japan is by purchasing a Willer Express Bus Pass . This pass allows you to travel for 3, 5 or 7 days within a period specified by you.

• Advantages: The days of travel do not need to be consecutive, giving you flexibility in your itinerary. Willer Express has a number of night buses which can save on accommodation costs. Additionally, you can easily book your seats in advance online through the user-friendly Willer Express website.
• Disadvantages: The pass can only be used on Willer Express buses and only on the least comfortable 4 seats per row bus types.

Travellers to Japan may also be able to save on transport costs by using intercity bus services like those provided by Willer Express | Photo on Wikimedia Commons

Even without a bus pass, you can save money when travelling by bus in Japan :

• Avoid backtracking and travel point to point instead – For example, stop in Shirakawa-go on the way from Takayama to Kanazawa (or vice versa) rather than visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site on a day trip – this also reduces carbon emissions.
• Make use of specials – Just ask at the local tourist office at your destination or check the websites of the bus companies operating at your destination, for example Alpico and Nohi Bus in the Japanese Alps. Do make sure though they are worthwhile by comparing individual fares (via Google Maps ) against the special fare.

Other Expenses you may incur when travelling to Japan

Travel insurance.

We always buy travel insurance – because medical expenses overseas can add up quickly and because our carry-on backpacks are pretty much everything we own.

Whenever we buy travel insurance , we make sure we thoroughly read the fine print. It’s tedious, we know. But if you’re planning certain activities (for example, hiring a motorbike or hiking above 3000 metres), it’s crucial to know whether your insurance pays if the worst happens. Otherwise, you may have paid all that insurance premium and are still left to foot a (potentially) massive bill.

For this trip, we used Cover-More. For our three months in Japan , our joint Cover-More Travel Insurance Single Trip International Comprehensive+ Policy cost us AUD1,519/USD1,022 (or just under AUD9/USD6 per person per day) . Although we didn’t need to submit a claim and therefore don’t have first-hand experience of their claims process,we won’t be buying another policy from Cover-More again, 

Finance and Bank Fees

To our surprise, cash is still King in Japan , thus ATM withdrawals are a regular occurence. To avoid unnecessary ATM withdrawal fees we always research before our trips to figure out which overseas bank/s offer/s the best exchange rate and charge/s the lowest fees for ATM withdrawals.

In the case of Japan , we had done all our research. We knew our Bankwest Debit Card charged no foreign transaction fees, and that 7Bank ATMs charged no ATM withdrawal fees. What we didn’t know was that you had to press “Credit” when trying to withdraw with the debit card overseas (Bankwest only told us about that small fact when queried afterwards). After our debit card was declined multiple times, we ran out of time and had to use our credit card. While we had topped up the card with some money beforehand (to avoid nasty cash advance fees), the credit card provider still charged us AUD4 (or JPY382) for the ATM withdrawal. You live and learn.

Luggage Transfer and Storage Services

Unless you’re planning to hike the Kumano Kodo or Nakasendo , you are likely not going to need luggage transfer service. We ended up using luggage transfer twice (both times with Yamato Transport):

• on our final day on the Kumano Kodo , paying JPY2,500 for the same-day transfer of one travel pack from Koguchi to Nachikatsuura; and
• during our Nakasendo hike , paying JPY1,620 for the standard transfer of one travel pack from Osaka to Matsumoto.

We also used luggage storage facilities on occasion to store our travel packs for a few hours or excess luggage during our Kumano Kodo hike for a whole week. Those storage costs added up to JPY3,640 in total ( an average of JPY607 per storage use ).

If you need to store excess baggage in Osaka, we recommend Daikoku Locker . Alternatively, you can try Radical Storage who have agencies all over Japan .

Haircuts and Massages

When you explore a country for three months, you will likely need a hair cut (in that country). I had mine at a barber in Osaka about half-way through our trip for JPY2,200 (a bit over USD16) .

We both also took the opportunity to get a 90 and 60 minute massage, respectively, just before the Nagano Marathon at Relaxation Salon Lovina [ Official website , Google Maps location ] for a total cost of JPY13,200 (or JPY6,600/around USD49 per massage ). It was well worth it, and we both would recommend it to anyone visiting Nagano.

Withdrawing cash overseas can be expensive but it doesn’t have to be. We can show you how to avoid unnecessary fees and make your travel budget stretch further.

How do you determine which card is best for your overseas trip? Using the right one can save bank fees and make your travel budget stretch further.

Ever been caught out by the bad FX rates and exorbitant commissions charged by FX bureaus? These tips allow you to minimise these charges in future . We also recommend XE Money Transfer to keep more of your money when you complete a transfer.

Donations and Gifts

When visiting a Shinto shrine, it is traditional and appropriate to make a donation. It doesn’t have to be a lot, especially when you are throwing loose change into the large container before you bow your head and clap your hands. All our donations added up to JPY1,511 .

How much did it cost you to explore Japan?

I wrote this Japan Travel Costs article based on our own unique experience. If you have been to Japan recently as well and you have something to add to the costs for exploring Japan , please feel free to contact us. If you liked my Japan Travel cost tips and found them helpful, I would appreciate it if you could share them with your friends and family via the Share buttons below. Even better, link to the page from your personal blog or social media platforms.

Author: Paul Ryken

Budget Travel in Japan – Ultimate Backpacking Guide [2024]

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

From seeing up close the famous Mt Fuji, exploring the architecture of Japanese castles to slurping down the best bowl of ramen you ever had, all these epic memories to-be-made are possible even with our guide to  budget travel in Japan .

Today’s Japan is a fascinating example of blending the ancient traditions and modern day culture.

Throughout the country you’ll witness dynamic mountainscapes in stark contrast to futuristic cities that are inspiring new trends in architecture worldwide.

It’s also thought of to be notoriously expensive but we managed to travel to Japan on a budget, and so can you.

Table of Contents

Get A JR Rail Pass

Take some flights, deals in hiroshima, deals in osaka, deals in kyoto, deals in tokyo, cheap eating and drinking in japan, save this pin for later, budget travel in japan.

Japan has had a reputation as being expensive for a very long time, people paying hundreds of dollars for a piece of Kobe beef or a sliver of the finest blue fin tuna.

Prices of hotels can be among some of the most expensive in the world. Public travel, whilst incredibly reliable, can sometimes be quite expensive.

Well, some of this is true and some of it is a little more than a rumour that we have all perpetuated. Many people are put off traveling around for a long period of time because of the belief that the costs will be astronomical.

This isn’t always the case.

We have just finished 1 month of travel in Japan and it is comfortably cheaper than Australia, New Zealand, Western Europe and in some cases is even cheaper than China!

It sounds crazy, but here are a few really simple tips for budget travel in Japan that will save you some dollars on your next trip.

Note – At time of travel $1 USD was equal to about 110 Japanese Yen.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our brand new complete guide to help you travel to Japan!

This is a no-brainer. Anyone travelling between cities in Japan should consider investing in one of these.

However be very careful about which JR pass you choose as you could end up spending more than you need to.

I’ll use our situation as an example.

We spent our first 12 days figuring out an excellent Hokkaido itinerary , which is absolutely incredible and definitely our favourite part of Japan. From Sapporo we flew down to Hiroshima .

From here we planned to go on to Miyajima, Osaka, Himeji, Nara, Kyoto and Tokyo.

A few of these were day trips and a few were for a bit longer, but as you can see we had a lot of travel ahead of us.

A regular JR pass that allows travel across the whole country costs 29,100 yen. This is incredibly reasonable. If you take a train from Tokyo to Kyoto, throw in a day trip to Nara and you’ve started saving money.

Our plan was as follows:

• 3 days – Hiroshima and Miyajima
• 2 days – Osaka
• 1 day – Himeji
• 1 day – Nara
• 4 days – Kyoto
• 5 days – Tokyo

We decided to purchase a Kansai-Hiroshima pass through JR West for 13,500 yen per person.

We activated this when we travelled from Hiroshima to Osaka. We used it for our day trips to Himeji, Nara and our trip to Kyoto. We then travelled from Kyoto to Tokyo by night bus for 6500 yen per person.

A total of 20,000 yen, 9000 yen less than a 7 day rail pass.

We would not have had time to do everything we wanted to do around Kansai and get to Tokyo in 7 days. Hence why we elected to go this route.

The JR pass website states that a JR pass cannot be used on the Nozomi or Mizuho trains. However if you purchase ANY JR west railway pass, which ours was, you can use these trains. This is great for longer routes, notably Hiroshima to Osaka/Kyoto.

Plan where you want to go and what you want to see and then search on the Klook website to find the pass that best fits your plan.

You could end up saving yourself a lot of money.

I read about this little deal on the amazing website Japanguide , a must for anyone planning a trip to the land of the rising sun.

In essence, this deal covers cheap flights all over Japan for any visitors to the country. It’s advertised as a 10,000 yen deal however there are some flights that are cheaper and some that are slightly more expensive.

We paid 10,000 yen each to fly from Sapporo to Hiroshima. If we were to booked these flights without this deal it would cost us closer to 50,000 yen per ticket.

There are two airlines that participate in this amazing deal: JAL and ANA. We ended up flying with ANA and it was great.

One thing to remember is that for this to work you usually have to book from outside Japan. As always in Japan there are a variety of deals.

The deals that we researched are linked below, but the link above has information on all of the deals available.

• JAL – Japan Explorer Pass
• ANA – Experience Japan

Both of these links take you straight to the booking page where you can research and compare prices. This deal is a must for anyone looking to get away from the Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka route. This saved us a huge amount of money.

Day Passes for Attractions

Many of Japan’s cities have a variety of day passes allowing giving unlimited rides and even discounts to various attractions. This is a lifesaver for budget travel in Japan.

In Hiroshima you can purchase a 1 day street car and ferry pass for 840 yen. This is a great option if you are doing Miyajima as a day trip.

• Street Car to Miyajimaguch i = 280 1 way – total of 560
• Ferry to Miyajima = 180 yen 1 way – total of 360
• 560+360 = 920

This also means that you can use the streetcars to get around in the evening as your legs will be knackered after a day in Miyajima.

In Osaka you can pick up the “Osaka Amazing Pass” that covers subway and entry in a huge number of attractions for one day.

When we used it we headed to Osaka Castle, did the HEP5 ferris wheel, went to the top of the Umeda tower and took in an evening cruise (which was not that great to be honest).

It costs 2500 and it ended up saving us 2500 yen in transport and entrance fee’s definitely worth it.

Possibly the most popular tourist destination in Japan (it certainly felt that way when we were there).

Kyoto’s subway system is quite useful for accessing Northern Higashiyama and the city centre, but other than that it’s the bus and JR that are king.

However the JR routes to Arashiyama and Inari are very cheap so it’s not worth activating a rail pass just for this. Save it for intercity travel.

Kyoto’s bus network is both extensive and convenient. For 500 yen you can pick up an all day bus. You end up saving money if you take 3 or more buses. With Kyoto’s sites spread all over the city, this will not be a problem.

Here’s our list of the best things to do in Kyoto .

Japans greatest urban metropolis has one of the most impressive and confusing transportations systems on planet earth. The truth is there are huge number of tickets. Outlines of all of them are listed here .

Suica: This is just a simple subway card, like the oyster card in London or the octopus card in Hong Kong. You need to pay a 500 yen deposit for the card, but this is returned to you when you return the card at the end of your trip. Also the fares a few yen cheaper than if you buy tickets at the machine. They can be used on every line in Tokyo.

All Day Pass:  There are 2 all-day pass options. The all-day metro card for 600yen which can only be used on the Tokyo metro, or you can include the Toei lines for 1500yen.

We found the all-day metro card fantastic value. If you take 4 trips you will be saving money. Just remember, neither of these passes include the JR lines, so sometimes the journeys are a little longer.

While you’re at it, check out these great things to do in Tokyo.

Eating out in Japan can be extremely cheap, in some case it was far cheaper than eating similar food in Beijing. Obviously eating out can be as cheap or as expensive as you wish, but here is a very rough price guide based on 2 people eating.

• 500-1000 Yen – Bento boxes – can be brought from any convenience store
• 1000-1500 Yen – Ramen and Udon
• 1500-2000 Yen – Katsu Curry
• 2000-3000 Yen – Tempura Sets
• 3000-5000 Yen – Yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), Izakaya/Yakitori (Japanese style pub serving sticks of meat, sashimi and other wonderful delights), Sushi and Sukiyaki (type of Japanese hot pot)

This is not a definitive list, but it’s generally a good guide as to what type of food is generally cheaper or more expensive.

The big thing that raises the cost of meal is alcohol. A couple of draft beers would generally add at least 1000 yen to the bill. So an easy way to save is to limit your alcohol intake.

Budget Accommodation in Japan

Accommodation is usually the most expensive part of any trip.

Hokkaido – Booking.com and agoda.com offered us the best rates for anything outside Sapporo. In this region of Japan AirBnB is can be pretty pricey. In the national parks it can be around 9000yen per night, with breakfast included. However this is offset by the cost of food being much cheaper than other parts of Japan.

Hiroshima to Tokyo – Here AirBnB was generally cheaper and that was what we used the majority of the time.  We managed to rent entire apartments for half the price of a hotel room in Hokkaido.

Another thing to be aware of is that paying for 2 beds in a dorm is usually more expensive that getting a room in a hotel or guesthouse, so plan accordingly.

Sign up using our AirBnB link to get $50 credit to go towards your first booking and make help make your trip even cheaper.

In truth Japan is much more affordable than people would believe. Hope you found this useful. Head over to www.abearandapig.com to see more of what we do.

That’s it for our guide to budget travel in Japan. Please leave a comment below if you found this article useful, or if you have anything else to add.

Richard Barnes

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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People may think that Japan is very expensive, but there are many ways to travel in there very cheaply if you know some “secrets” like right organizations where you can get some very unbelievable travel deals 😉

What kind of organizations would those be?

Thanks for sharing this kind of information Thanks for the tips I’ve always enjoyed traveling, the idea of seeing the world fascinated me, but I was never able to take a very long trip

Thank you for your comment Luana. Travelling is definitely amazing in so many ways. Hope you can travel where you want to soon and stay for a long trip and immerse yourself in the country and the people. Happy travel planning 🙂

I love to visit this places in japan this year..Thanks for sharing such kind of information..I think Travelling is the most important way to enjoy life and know something different from your routines..

We agree. Travel is amazing. Have a great trip.

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Stretch your holiday cash with our smart-spending tips

Travel smart in Japan by saving money on transportation, accommodation, eating out, cultural activities and shopping.

Accommodation

There are a wide range of cheaper business hotels all around the country, and the iconic capsule hotels offer you a cheap—if slightly tight—night's accommodation. A new wave of boutique hostels are springing up, offering you the individuality of a boutique hotel at hostel prices. Traditional ryokans can vary wildly in price, but it is possible to find some at the cheaper end of the spectrum in places a little out of the way. Be aware that even though reserving a room without meals might seem like a cost-cutting option, it is possible that there aren't any other places to eat in the area. Research is recommended to find the best accommodation to suit your taste and budget.

Many restaurants offer lunch-time specials, so consider eating big at lunch to save some money. If you venture out at night-time, find the places that offer all-you-can-eat or all-you-can-drink deals, or if you are traveling with families and young children, eat out at one of the “family restaurants” that are dotted throughout the country. If the place you are staying in has a kitchen, cooking at home is a great way to save some money. Many local supermarkets offer good quality produce—often locally grown. Farmers markets—often on Saturday and Sundays—are also a good place to pick up fresh produce.

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Japan on a budget: 17 ways to get more for your yen

Mar 28, 2024 • 7 min read

These top tips to low-cost living can help you stretch your budget on a trip to Japan © Monzenmachi/Getty Images

Japan has a reputation as an expensive place to travel, but it’s an image that doesn’t hold up on the ground.

With a little strategy, a visit can be very reasonable – budget-friendly, even. Many of the country’s major sights, for example, cost nothing, and free festivals take place year-round.

With these top tips on finding the best-value places to stay, the right transportation tickets and places to eat that suit all tastes and wallets, you can make your yen go further on a visit to Japan .

A guide to daily costs in Japan

• Capsule hotel room: ¥4,000 (US$30) 
• Basic room for two: ¥8,000 (US$60)
• Self-catering apartment: (including Airbnb) ¥6,000 (US$45)
• Coffee:  ¥400 (US$3.50)
• Sandwich: ¥300 (US$2.20)
• Beer/pint at the bar: ¥600 (US$4.50)
• Dinner for two: ¥5,000 (US$38)
• Hour of karaoke for two:  ¥2,000 (US$15)

1. Consider staying in a business hotel

These economical (and, to be honest, rather utilitarian) hotels offer the best prices for private rooms with en suite facilities.

It’s possible to find double rooms for as low as ¥8,000 (and single rooms for as low as ¥6,000), though these will be a little more expensive in cities like Tokyo , Kyoto and Osaka .

Look for places that include a free breakfast buffet – they can be substantial enough to keep you going for hours. 

2. Book direct at a guesthouse or hostel 

Japan has fantastic guesthouses and hostels all over; not only are they generally clean and well-maintained, but friendly English-speaking staff are usually on hand to offer near concierge-level service.

A double or single room is comparable to a business hotel (but usually has shared facilities); dorm beds cost around ¥3,000.

Some places do charge extra for towel rentals, so you can save a few yen by bringing your own. Note that rates are often slightly cheaper if you book directly rather than through a booking site.

3. Sleep in a capsule hotel in the cities

Capsule hotels, which offer small rooms with enough space for just a bed, provide a budget-friendly place to spend the night.

A capsule berth costs slightly more than a dorm bed in a hostel (¥4,000 per night), but you get more privacy.

You probably wouldn’t want to stay every night in a capsule, but they’re good for saving money in cities where hotels are pricier. 

4. Go camping in the summer months

If you really want to do Japan on the cheap, you can rely on its network of well-maintained campsites in rural or resort areas; prices range from ¥500 to ¥1,000 per person or tent. Note that many sites are only open in the summer. 

5. Swap a night in a hotel for an overnight bus ride 

Long-distance buses, like those operated by Willer Express , are the cheapest way to get around, and longer routes have night buses, which saves a night on accommodation. There are also bus passes, which can make this an even cheaper option. 

6. The Japan Rail Pass is a great travel bargain

Like the famous Eurail Pass, the JR Pass is one of the world’s great travel bargains and is the best way to see a lot of Japan on a budget.

It allows unlimited travel on Japan’s brilliant nationwide rail system, including the lightning-fast shinkansen (bullet train).

There are also more regionally specific train passes that are cheaper, so examine your itinerary carefully before deciding. Purchase a pass online or from a travel agent like JTB in your home country.

7. Ride local trains for less with the Seishun 18 Ticket

The Seishun 18 is another great deal, but with very specific conditions: for ¥12,050, you get five one-day tickets good for travel on any regular Japan Railways train (meaning not the shinkansen or any high-speed limited express trains) during a limited period of a few weeks.

The Seishun 18 Ticket is only available at certain times during the year – during school holidays (the ticket is designed for students, but there’s no age cap) – and can only be purchased from JR ticket windows in Japan.

If the timing works, and you’re a fan of slow travel, this is a unique, ultra-cheap way to get around in Japan .

8. Consider renting a car to go beyond the cities 

Highway tolls and petrol in Japan are expensive; however, renting a car can be economical if you’re traveling as a group or family, or are plotting an itinerary that takes you away from major rail hubs. 

9. Take domestic flights with low-cost airlines

Japan has several budget carriers, like Peach , Jetstar and Air Do , that offer bus-like pricing on some routes – just be sure to factor in the time – and cost – of going to/from the airport. 

10. Japan’s shrines and temples are free to visit

The vast majority of Shintō shrines in Japan cost nothing to enter. Likewise, the grounds of many temples can be toured for free (often, you only have to pay to enter the halls or a walled garden). 

11. Eat cheap food and meet locals at a traditional festival

Throughout the year , festivals take place at shrines and temples and through city streets. They’re free, an excellent way to see traditional culture come alive, and are well attended by cheap food vendors.

12. Opt for hikes and walking tours

Going on a hike or a trek is free and can be the most rewarding part of your trip: explore an up-and-coming city neighborhood , walk  old pilgrimage trails or rural lanes, or get up into the mountains in one of Japan’s national parks . 

Japan’s cities, especially Tokyo, have some fantastic buildings designed by many of the big names in Japanese architecture. With a little bit of planning, you could chart your own architecture tour. Ask at a tourist information center or your accommodation for suggestions.

13. Spend time relaxing in the city parks 

Urban parks are generally free to enter (and some gardens are, too) and are popular with locals on weekends; pack a picnic and settle in for an afternoon of people-watching. If you time your visit right, you could be bathing in the beauty of Japan's cherry blossoms . 

14. Shop for cheaper goods at a local market 

Many seaside towns have fish markets, some rural spots have morning markets, and some cities still have their old-fashioned open-air markets. Visits here are a great way to connect with local culture and are often a source of cheap, fresh food. 

15. Choose the right dish in the right place to save money

You can get a good, filling meal in shokudō , Japan's answer to the greasy spoon, for under ¥1,000. A steaming bowl of tasty ramen can be picked up in many places for as little as ¥600.  

Tachigui (stand-and-eat counter joints) sell soba (buckwheat noodles) and udon (thick white wheat noodles) for even less – starting as low as ¥350 per bowl.

Many upscale restaurants in Japan offer a smaller course at lunchtime for significantly less than they charge at dinner, so for a bargain deal have your larger meal then. In all restaurants in Japan, tea and water are complimentary, and tipping is not required. 

16. Bentō are a budget alternative to a meal out

These "boxed meals," which include a variety of dishes, can be picked up for under ¥1,000 at supermarkets. Department store food halls sell gourmet ones for a little bit more; visit just before closing to buy them on markdown.

17. Get everything you need and more at the convenience store

Convenience stores are the best friend to all budget travelers. They stock sandwiches, rice balls, hot dishes and beer, all of which you can assemble into a very affordable (if not exactly healthy) meal. Accommodations always have kettles, so cup noodles are always an option. 

Keep planning your trip to Japan:

Save this guide to the top things to do in Japan . Find out what to expect during every season from cherry blossoms to winter skiing .  Before you book your trip, read these t op things to know before you go .   Do you need a visa? Discover more here. Want to see Japan by train?  Railway enthusiast John Walton shares his advice.  

This article was first published May 2012 and updated March 2024

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Japan on a Budget: The Complete Guide to Cheap Travel in Japan

How to Travel Japan on a Budget:  The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need

Is is possible to travel to Japan on a budget?  Definitely!  Japan is one of the most fun and amazing travel destinations in the world.  However, many travelers are reluctant to plan a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun because of the cost.

Known for being an expensive place to visit, many Japan lovers give up when they hear how much it costs to travel to Japan.  In doing so, they miss out on the trip of a lifetime.  It’s true that Japan has tons of luxury hotels, world-class restaurants, and first class transportation options that cost more money than most people’s mortgages.

However, Japan also has lots of cheap lodging, amazing food, and transportation options that are very easy on the wallet. In fact, Japan can be one of the CHEAPEST destinations to travel on a budget. If you want to visit Japan on a budget, this article will provide you with all of the tips, tricks, and advice to save you as much money as possible.

How to Get Cheap Flights to Japan

While it is possible to visit Japan by boat (namely from Australia, China, Taiwan, and Korea) the vast majority of visitors choose to go by air.

If you live in one of these nearby countries and have LOTS of time, check out your local boat companies for deals. Sometimes they sell last minute tickets at a fraction of the cost.

However, it’s almost always more efficient to travel by air.

So here are 5 tips to getting the cheapest airline tickets to Japan.

5 Tips to Find Cheap Flights to Japan

 1.  book as early as possible.

When searching for a flight to Japan, booking as far in advance as you can is best. Waiting until the last minute to grab reduced price tickets can certainly pay off, but it’s a big gamble if the tickets sell out (which happens more often than not).

You’re better off by being prepared, planning in advance and choosing to visit Japan at a cheaper time of year.

I usually buy my tickets at least a month before my travel date. I found that this is the latest I can wait before tickets sell out or really get expensive.

2.  Avoid Peak Periods of Travel: Peak Times

Not only does the cost of airfare increase during peak times of travel in Japan, but hotels, attractions, and even restaurants raise their prices as well (usually buffets or nice restaurants that offer things like “special” holiday menus). If possible, try to avoid these peak travel times in Japan if you are on a tight budget:

• Golden Week: End of April – start of May
• Cherry blossom viewing: Late March – early May
• Summer: Mid-August is the busiest due to the Obon Festival
• Autumn: Changing colors of leaves (busiest time is late September due to Silver Week, a period of national holidays grouped close together)
• Spring: The end of March – the beginning of April. School children are on spring break, and lots of families travel during this time
• New Years: A popular time to travel during this time (domestic and international)

3. Cheapest Time to Fly to Japan

Here are the dates that generally have the cheapest flights to Japan

• Early to late December (before New Years)
• Just after the New Year holiday ends (people are usually back to work by January 5th) up until the end of March. However, Hokkaido has lots of visitors during this time due to all of the incredible ski slopes and winter foods. The world-famous Snow Festival also takes place in early February, which makes finding a cheap ticket to Hokkaido difficult.
• Mid May – June is also a cheaper time to visit.

While the winter season might not be the best time to visit Japan in terms of weather, you’ll usually save money on plane tickets. Winter foods in Japan are absolutely delicious as well. Delicious hot pot dishes, fresh crab, and other seafood are especially delicious in winter.

If you want all of the details and insiders tips on when to visit Japan, check out our  best time to visit Japan   guide.

4. Check for Internet Deals

Or course you could get cheap airlines tickets by choosing non-direct flights with long, inconvenient waits in between. But who wants to do that? Sure, you can save some money, but you’ll be giving up a lot of time and comfort by doing this.

Before going this route, spend an hour or two searching the Internet for the best deals. You can decide if a reduction in price with a 12-hour wait in some random airport is worth the inconvenience.

How to do Internet Research for Cheap Flights to Japan

Here are the steps I use to find the best deals to Japan:

1. Determine Both Your Budget and Which Airlines Companies You Want to Use

Of course, if you are willing to fly with any airlines, you’ll have the best chances of finding a cheap flight. However, I highly recommend you only use reputable carriers. There are lots of airlines with cheap flights to Japan, but they usually have very long layovers or delays, poor service, and safety issues.

Sometimes, it’s just not worth the risk. So to minimize your chances of having a bad flight, go with a reputable airline company. Airlines that fly to Japan differ depending on where you live, but I like Hawaiian Airlines, Japan Airlines (JAL), All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Korean Airlines.

2. Always Check Your Favorite Airline Carrier’s Website First

I always check the Hawaiian, JAL, and ANA Airlines website first. Most of the time, I find the best deals directly on their website.

Booking directly with the airline carrier is usually safer and more secure than booking with a third-party company. Be sure to check the prices often, as they can change frequently.

If the prices are high, proceed to step 3.

3. Do a Quick Search for Ticket Prices on a Multi-Search Website like Kayak.com

Other websites such as Skyscanner, Expedia, Jetstar, Kayak, Lastminute, and Farecompare are also good places to analyze ticket costs. Remember that flight costs will depend on where you’re flying from. Heading out from a major “hub” airport rather than a local one will certainly cut costs.

These websites search hundreds of travel sites and find the cheapest tickets out of all of them. Filter the searches by the airline carrier and how many layovers you are willing to have on your trip. Be sure to check the prices for different dates. Sometimes traveling just 1 day later can drop the prices significantly.

NOTE: I just do this to see what the average prices are for that dates of travel. I DO NOT purchase my tickets through Kayak unless there is an amazingly good deal though a REPUTABLE company. While there are usually cheap tickets that show up in the results, most of these are either a) flights with LONG layovers or b) flights listed by bad, untrustworthy third party companies.

In my experience, many of the companies that are listed on their website aren’t very trustworthy. Many of them have very bad reviews, with some even having complaints filed against them. Stick with the bigger companies like Expedia. Just use it to check the prices of the airlines you want to fly on.

4. Consider Buying a Ticket from Another Country or with a Different Currency

Choose the best 3 or 4 itineraries you found on Kayak/Expedia/Priceline/etc. I usually have the best results with Expedia.

At the bottom of the Expedia website, there’s a section called “Global Sites” with pictures of flags of different cultures. Choose a different country and search for the same flight. The ticket prices might be lower if you book it through another country with Expedia.

5. Fly into a Different Airport in Japan

If all of the flights to your desired airport in Japan are crazy expensive, consider flying to a different airport and then using the JR Rail Pass to take the train the rest of the way. If you don’t mind having a longer trip, the JR Rail Pass is a good way to cut costs.

You can fly into another major airport in Japan and then cash in your rail pass at the nearest participating station. Then you can take the bullet train to your desired location. While this does take more time, it can save you money and is much more fun that riding an airplane.

The seats on the bullet train are much more spacious than a plane and are much easier to travel. The only downside is that the bullet train doesn’t have space for big pieces of luggage.

Transportation in Japan: Saving Money on Domestic Travel

Finding a cheap way into the country is only half the problem. Domestic travel within Japan is also expensive. Of course, you could explore only one or two cities, which can cut costs dramatically by only paying local fares, especially if there are city passes available.

What makes Japanese so awesome is traveling to different areas to eat local foods and to experience the culture throughout Japan. If you want to explore many places in Japan, purchasing a travel pass will be your best bet. These passes can save you both time and money if you plan to travel a lot in Japan.

The JR Rail Pass: The Best Deal in Japan

The Japan Rail Pass is essential if you want to experience all that Japan has to offer. This pass allows you unlimited rides on most JR trains, including the bullet trains, as well as some JR buses and the JR ferry to Miyajima.

This pass opens up the whole Japan to you. You’re free to travel wherever, and whenever you want. I highly, highly recommend getting this pass.

This pass also makes traveling much easier. You don’t need to research ticket prices or deal with buying or keeping track of your tickets for each trip. Just walk on through the gates on the side and show your pass to the attendant.

Also, if you don’t mind sitting in the unreserved area, you can walk straight onto the train too – although reserving specific seats ahead of time is certainly recommended for busy times/seasons/routes.

How the JR Rail Pass Works

IMPORTANT: You can’t buy a Japan Rail Pass while in Japan. You must purchase your pass before you arrive in Japan. The pass is only for those on a tourist visa.

Also, keep in mind that the JR pass cannot be used on every type of transport. For example, you cannot ride the NOZOMI or MIZUHO type bullet trains using a Japan Rail Pass. This isn’t usually a problem, though.

The NOZOMI trains travel the exact same route as other types of bullet trains but only stops at major stations. A full list of what you can and can’t use the pass for can be found on the rail pass website .

JR Rail Pass Prices

There are two types of pass you can buy. A “green pass” allows you to sit in the first-class section of the train. However, not every train has a green car (first class section). The “ordinary” JR Rail Pass is the more economical option. Both of these passes can be used to make seat reservations for the bullet train.

Passes are available for periods of 7 days, 14 days, or 21 days. The countdown will start on the day you activate your pass. You do not have to activate it as soon as you arrive in the country. You can redeem it anytime during your trip.

Just take your rail pass voucher to a JR Station that can redeem it. A list of places should be included on a sheet with your voucher. However, most big, urban JR stations can activate your rail pass.

JR Rail Pass Prices (2017)

Prices for adult “original” passes:

• 7-day pass: 29,110 yen
• 14-day pass:  46,390 yen
• 21 day pass:  59,350 yen

Prices for child passes (age 6 to 11):

• 7-day pass:  14,550 yen
• 14-day pass: 23,190 yen
• 21-day pass:  29,670 yen

The passes may seem expensive but can save you an incredible amount of money if you travel a lot during your trip. A round-trip ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto would already cost 28900 yen, nearly the full price of a one week pass.

A typical 7-day trip for tourists would look like this:

• Days 1&2: Tokyo
• Day 3: Osaka
• Days 4&5: Kyoto
• Day 6: Hiroshima

This itinerary would cost you 41,640 yen, not including all of the local trains you’ll ride within these cities. If you were to return to Tokyo from Hiroshima, the total cost would be 60,200 yen, which is more expensive than a 21-day pass.

If you plan to visit more than one city by bullet train on your trip to Japan, a rail pass is an absolute must.

Where to Buy the JR Rail Pass

There are a few different agents you can use to order your Japan Rail Pass. Be sure to check the details. Some airlines sell rail passes, but you must book your airlines ticket with them as well.

Here are some of the main agents through whom you can purchase the pass: Tobu Top Tours, JTB Corp., KINTETSU INTERNATIONAL, Japan Airlines, Nippon Travel Agency, ANA Sales Americas (Los Angeles), and JALPAK. Check the website for details on how to purchase a rail pass.

Special Passes to Save You Money on Travel in Japan

As well as the Japan Rail Pass, there are other special tickets and passes you can buy to cut costs on your trip to Japan. Some tickets are regional, but others can be used all over the country.

Seishun 18 Pass

This is another offer from the JR (Japan Rail) company. This ticket is similar to the Japan Rail Pass, but it is more limited. However, the reduced cost makes this pass a great option if you’re trying to travel on a budget (and have lots of time).

The Seishun 18 ticket is a seasonal offer only. You can use the ticket for a 5 day period during the spring (early March to early April), summer (mid-July to early September), or in the winter (early December to early January). The exact dates are released when the tickets become available.

You can use this pass for unlimited travel on all local and rapid JR trains. You cannot use it on Shinkansen rides (bullet train) or on limited express travel.

The Seishun 18 is a 5-day ticket, costing 2,370 yen per day – a total of 11,850 yen.

A fraction of the price of the Japan Rail Pass, this is a great option if you want to do lots of little trips or one or two big journeys during the 5 day period. Interestingly, the ticket can also be shared between up to 5 people. You could have use of it for one day each and your friends could use it the other days.

Where to Buy the Seishun 18 Pass

You can buy the Seishun 18 ticket in the JR East station travel centers, or at JR Ticket Offices. Advance booking is available. Dates for when the passes go on sale are listed on the website along with the details, which usually becomes available from 1 to 3 weeks before the pass becomes available.

Hakone Free Pass

Hakone is an amazing place to visit. It is filled with stunning natural beauty, especially when the autumn leaves change and the cherry blossoms bloom in the spring. Whatever the season, Hakone is a wonderful place to visit. Amazing hot springs, outdoor walks, mountain hikes, surrounded by peace and quiet. It’s pure bliss.

The Hakone Free Pass is a must for people heading out that way. It gives you free travel on eight different types of transport in the Hakone area for a 2 or 3 day period, as well as discounted entry to dozens of attractions, including hot springs, museums, galleries, historical sites, parks, restaurants, shops and more. A full list is available on their website .

The Hakone Free Pass has different prices depending on where you depart from.

While you can get passes that are valid from Machida and Odawara, most travelers start their journey at Shinjuku. However, if you are heading off from one of the other two locations, be sure to check out the details as those tickets are a little cheaper.

From Shinjuku:

2-day adult pass:   5,140 yen

3-day adult pass:  5,640 yen

For children:

2-day pass:  1,500 yen

3-day ticket:  1,750 yen

Where to Buy the Hakone Free Pass

Hakone Free Passes can be purchased at any Odakyu line station, including Odakyu line ticket machines.

JR Tokyo Wide Pass

If your trip to Japan will be focused in and around Tokyo (there is so much to do there that you could easily spend your whole holiday there) then you should consider buying the Tokyo Wide Pass.

This 3-day ticket offers unlimited travel in Tokyo and the surrounding Kanto area. Including both the Narita and Haneda airports, you can pick up your pass on arrival, and it will cover the cost down into central Tokyo, and everything else for the rest of the period of validity.

Like the Japan Rail Pass, this ticket is only available to people with a tourist visa. As it is only valid for 3 days, you could easily get yourself one of these passes to use for a few days in Tokyo, then after that head off around the rest of the country using a Japan Rail Pass.

The 3-day pass is 10,000 yen for adults and 5,000 yen for children aged 6 to 11.

Where to Buy the JR Tokyo Wide Pass

You can buy a Tokyo Wide Pass at the JR Ticket Offices and JR Travel Agents located in the Haneda International Airport and in the Narita Airport Terminals 1 and 2, and 3.

The passes are also available at JR travel centers and general travel service centers at various locations, including Shinjuku, Tokyo, Ueno, Shinagawa, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Yokohama, and Mito. Check the website for details.

Domestic Air Travel

Train passes are good for people who want to travel a lot, but what if you only want to explore one or two areas? While the rail passes are, on the whole, cheaper than buying individual tickets, they are still quite costly if you aren’t going to be getting a lot of use out of them. So if this applies to you, take a look at budget local airlines for domestic travel.

Low-Cost Carrier (LLC) Flights

Several airlines in Japan offer flights to various locations, and often at a fraction of the price of the same journey by train. Of course, you need to factor in all costs to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Keep in mind that getting to the airport might involve time-consuming/costly trips on the subway or train.

However, this depends on the city. For example, in Fukuoka, the airport is only a 5-minute subway ride away from the central train station.

Two of the most well-known budget airlines in Japan are Peach and Jetstar.

Both of these airlines fly to a variety of locations, including Tokyo, Osaka, Sapporo, Kagoshima, Fukuoka, and Nagasaki.

Other popular domestic airlines include JAL (Japan Airlines) , ANA (All Nippon Airways) , Skymark Airlines , Vanilla Air , Spring Airlines and Solaseed Air .

Taking a plane instead of a train, even for a short journey, can make a huge difference in price.

For example, reserving a seat on the train from Kumamoto to Tokyo will cost a total of around 27,000 yen (and take about six hours!) whereas the same journey by plane (using Jetstar airlines) will cost less than 7,000 yen.

Taking the train from Kagoshima to Osaka will set you back around 22,000 yen, vs. a flight on Peach Airlines can cost you less than 6,000 yen. That’s a huge discount!

Special Airlines Discounts

If you prefer to take Japan Airlines or ANA Airlines, here are a couple of special discounts you can use.

JAL: Special Japan Explorer Pass – 10,800 yen flights to over 30 different cities in Japan.

Restrictions: Only for short-term visitors. Must have a ticket leaving Japan to be eligible for this special pass. You also need to purchase these flights directly through the JAL website.

ANA: Experience Japan Special Fares : 5,500 yen flights to cities within Hokkaido, or 7,700 – 11,000 yen flights for any other destinations.

Restrictions: You need to reside outside of Japan, have a passport from a country other than Japan, and have an international ticket leaving Japan.

Traveling by Bus

Probably the cheapest way to travel long distances in Japan is by bus. Taking a highway bus is not the most popular option, but can be a great way to save money on both short and long trips.

A popular bus provider is Willer Express. You’ll be surprised to know that you can make online reservations in English when booking through Willer Express. Most other bus companies don’t have online or English reservations.

Other companies to look into are Japan Bus Online, Hankyu Bus, and JR Bus branches (split into eight regional companies).

Insider’s Tip

Most bus companies offer different types of seating for overnight buses. These range from the cheapest 2-seater style seats (think of an American school bus) to super comfortable individual seats.

The price difference is significant, but if you’re taking a long bus (over 8+ hours) I highly recommend that you purchase a better seat. The buses with 3 seats per row are very comfortable. The seats are not connected, which makes it feel like you have your own personal space.

I took an overnight bus from Kobe to Tokyo on Willer Express with the cheapest seats (which was only 2,500 yen or so). While the bus looked new and the ride was smooth, it was the one of most cramped, cold (it was during winter), and uncomfortable experiences of my life. The better seats were 2 to 3 times more expensive, but I would definitely purchase those seats next time. These upgraded seats would still be much cheaper than taking a bullet train.

Taking the bus can also save you on money on hotels. You can sleep on overnight buses that run late into the night.

Japan Bus Pass

If you plan on traveling all around Japan, consider the Japan Bus Pass.

This pass can be used on all daytime and overnight buses provided by Willer Express. There are 3-day, 5-day, and *7-day passes, with 2 different prices depending on if you’ll be using it from Monday to Thursday or over a weekend period. A 3-day Monday to Thursday pass costs just 10,200 yen.

*NOTE:  The 7-day pass is only valid during Monday – Thursday, but you don’t need to use the 7 days consecutively.

There are a few rules. The pass can be used for up to 3 rides per day, but you can’t use it on premium buses. However, on the plus side, this is one of the “only for foreign visitors” passes which can also be used by foreign residents. That means that JET teachers and other ex-pats who usually miss out on the great travel deals can use the Japan Bus Pass.

For more information:  Willer Bus Pass Page

Cheap Places to Stay Overnight in Japan

Finding a place to stay is one of the major concerns for people wanting to travel Japan on a budget. There are tons of luxury hotels that cost a fortune, but there are also lots of budget hotels as well. A discerning eye can track down cheap accommodation all over Japan. The key is knowing what kind of lodging to look for, and where to find it.

Finding Cheap Deals Online

With price comparison websites and dedicated travel companies providing endless lists, this is the best place to start your search. However, bear in mind that these websites have more listings in big cities. Small towns in the countryside will probably yield very few search results. If you’re hoping to visit somewhere off the beaten track, you may need to find other ways to find lodging there.

One of the best websites to use is Booking.com . This website is easy to use and often has great deals. It is also a reputable company that most people trust. I recommend Booking.com because it offers a whole range of different sorts of accommodations. From fancy hotels to local ryokans, you can find something in your budget.

However, there are some popular hotels that are not listed on Booking.com. Agoda.com comes to the rescue in most cases.

Most of the lodging options that aren’t listed with Booking.com can be found on Agoda. I always check both of these websites anyway, to compare prices for the same hotels.

Other good websites are Rakuten, Hostelworld, Japanican and Jalan.

Accommodation Booking Websites

Booking.com :  Best choice to reserve most types of accommodations (hotels, Japanese inns, hostels, capsule hotels, etc.)

Agoda.com :  Not as easy to use as Booking.com, but has some hotels that are not listed on Booking.com

If you’re having trouble finding something, or the hotel you want is fully booked, check out the Japanese version of the site.

Particularly on Jalan and Rakuten, it might appear that something is fully booked, but when you check the local website, there is still availability! Also, the Japanese website sometimes lists a cheaper price.

The only downside to this is you need to be able to read Japanese.

However, if you are just booking a room (no meals or other services) you can probably book a reservation in Japanese by using “rikaichan” which is an add-on to the Mozilla Firefox browser (for Google Chrome, the extension is called “rikaikun.” When you turn it on and hover your mouse over Japanese characters, it will show you the reading and the definition of the word.

Google Chrome:  Rikaikun Mozilla Firefox:   Rikaichan

Business Hotels

One of the most affordable types of accommodation in Japan, business hotels are certainly “no frills, ” and you get what you pay for.

They are hugely popular, as the name suggests, with Japanese business people (mainly men) who travel a lot for work.

Business hotels are a good choice if you plan to explore Japan all day and just want a bed to sleep in at night. You find them all over Japan, with many big chains all over the country, with their rooms looking the same whether you’re staying in a big city or out in the countryside.

Major companies to look out for include Toyoko Inn, Daiwa Roynet Hotel, Dormy Inn, Chisun Hotels and Route Inn.

How Comfortable are Business Hotels?

Rooms are functional with minimal decorations. Some rooms can be very small (the bed and drawers take up most of the space). Beds are very standard but usually pretty comfortable. There’s usually a TV, small refrigerator, a hot water pot, and internet access (either by ethernet cable or wi-fi).

The bathrooms are usually very tiny but they do the job unless you are very tall or big. Most business hotel bathrooms are stocked with basic amenities (toothbrush, soap, shaving razor, etc.).

Average Prices

A single room in a business hotel will cost you between 4,000 Yen to 10,000 yen a night, whereas a twin or double room will be the cheaper option if split between 2 people. For a twin, prices are around 7,000 yen to 12,000 yen per night.

Capsule Hotels

One of the most famous types of Japanese lodging, staying in a capsule hotel is definitely an experience. The first ever capsule hotel opened in Osaka, Japan, and now you can stay in similar lodgings all around the world.

They may look like fun, but capsule hotels aren’t always all that they’re hyped up to be. It is small, but not as small as most people think. Most capsules are big enough for you to sit up inside without hitting your head.

However, it’s somewhere to sleep and nothing else. Also, many capsule hotels are for men only. They’re geared at businessmen and often don’t have capsules for women. Some capsule hotels have a “female only” floor, though. You’ll find them in big cities, but smaller towns throughout Japan are unlikely to have mixed gender capsule hotels if they have one at all.

Are Capsule Hotels Comfortable?

For the first day or so, capsule hotels are decently comfortable. However, it doesn’t take an expert traveler to know that these are not good for long term stays. There is only so many nights in a row that sleeping in what is basically a well-lit coffin can be counted as a fun novelty rather than an annoyance.

Depending on your fellow travelers, capsule hotels can easily be noisy, crowded places, and while many hotels offer lockers or other places to store your belongings, theft, while not rampant, is more common in these lodgings than in other types of accommodation.

Capsule hotels are far from the most luxurious hotel, but they do come cheap! Spending a night in a capsule hotel can cost as little as 2,000 yen. However, is it worth it? Some travelers thrive on this sort of “simple” accommodation, but if it doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, move on to another type of hotel.

At best, make your stays in capsule hotels a one-night-at-a-time affair when you are just stopping over or arriving somewhere too late to make use of a regular hotel room. In these instances, the low cost is worth the inconveniences.

Japanese Hotels

This is probably the type of lodging with the widest variation between properties. Some hotels in Japan are little better than business hotels. The rooms have basic furnishings, no decorations or excessive comfort, and is just somewhere to spend the night.

At the other end of the scale, you have fancy hotels which are amazingly luxurious. Fully furnished rooms, spacious bathrooms, communal areas with massage chairs, gym facilities and even swimming pools.

There is great variety between different hotels in Japan. The number of choices can be overwhelming. The good thing is that many hotels are conveniently located near to train stations or bus stops.

Are Hotels in Japan Comfortable?

This really depends on what kind of deal you’re looking for. A cheap hotel will, naturally, not be very comfortable, but it will cost a mere fraction of the cost when you compare it to mega hotel chains like MyStays, APA or Nikko. In general, bigger hotels in Japan are comfortable and are good for both sleeping and relaxing in.

Cheaper hotels are usually around 8,000 yen per night, with luxury hotels priced 30,000 yen to 60,000 yen or more per night. While many hotels might look out of your budget, it’s worth keeping an eye out for special deals. For example, the MyStays chain is a delightful place to stay, but with the rooms usually priced at 20,000 yen per night, it’s not exactly a budget choice.

However, on websites like Booking.com you can regularly see special deals when booking in advance, which see those rooms listed at half price, or less!

Why pay 8,000 yen to stay in a terrible business hotel when you can splash out a little and stay in a palace for 10,000 yen?

Even budget travelers need to relax once in a while, so if you need a night of luxury, this is a great option to check out.

Minshuku / Ryokan

These are types of traditional Japanese accommodation, which are just as popular with foreign visitors as they are with locals. Cheap hotels are all well and good, but if you want to experience local hospitality and step back in time, you can’t beat spending the night in a ryokan or minshuku.

They are pretty similar, it’s just that minshuku tend to be smaller, located in older buildings and usually run as a family business. Ryokans are often run like this too, but sometimes they are located in newer, bigger buildings and have more staff with more services.

Are Ryokan and Minshuku Comfortable?

Staying in traditional Japanese accommodation isn’t for everyone.

For starters, you’ll be sleeping on the floor on a traditional futon, and the flooring will probably have tatami mats rather than carpet.

Sometimes ryokans and minshukus have showers, but often they only have traditional communal bathing facilities – and these will likely be down-to-earth and not luxurious unless you’re staying in an “onsen ryokan” which is specifically designed for spa relaxation.

However, if you like experiencing different cultures in local style, these can be very comfortable places indeed. They vary a lot – some have fun, bubbly atmospheres like youth hostels, with a variety of characters lounging in the common areas, and are quieter than an emply library. Check reviews to see what other travelers think before you make a booking.

These can vary quite a lot, particularly between little minshuku out in the countryside, and fancy onsen ryokan in a swanky location. However, lodging like this is seen less and less in big cities – it’s more frequent to see ryokan and minshuku out in the countryside and on the outskirts of small towns.

The cheapest minshuku can be seen at around 4,000 yen per night, up to about 9,000 yen per night. Ryokan can be as cheap as 5,000 yen or less per night, up to 60,000 yen per person for luxury inns. Be sure to check whether prices are per person or per room.

Internet Cafe / Karaoke Rooms

If you told a Japanese person that you were planning on spending the night in an internet cafe or private karaoke room instead of booking into a hotel, they’d probably think you were a bit weird. That isn’t because you can’t stay overnight in these places – it’s certainly a popular option.

It’s just that few people plan to use this kind of accommodation. The usual overnight clients at these types of establishments are salarymen who stayed out too late drinking and don’t want to go home and face the wrath of their wives, or young party animals who missed the last bus home and need somewhere to stay.

You can choose a public or private space, and choose between a normal chair, reclining chair, floor space or whatever other options they provide.

Are Internet Cafes in Japan Comfortable to Sleep In?

Generally not comfortable in at all. These rooms are not designed for sleeping in, they’re designed for surfing the internet or playing online games. You probably will not get a good nights sleep in a place like this.

They can be noisy, uncomfortable and full of people who are doing anything but sleeping. However, they are super cheap, and often there are shower facilities which you can use for a small charge, and machines which provide free soft drinks, ice-cream, etc.

If you want to try and get a good night’s rest in an internet cafe, be sure to choose the “floor” type of room. This is the only type of room that has enough space to lie down. The other types, come with reclining chairs, or small couches, which makes sleeping difficult.

This depends on how long you stay. Some places charge by the hour, and others have deals where you can stay up to a certain number of hours for a fixed price. You may have to pay in advance. Generally, one night in an internet cafe or similar place will cost 2,000 yen or less.

You can’t book in advance – just turn up, and be wary of busy times. There is usually a crowd around the time just after the last trains/buses have left, so be sure to arrive before then.

Food on a Budget

Eating out in Japan can cost a lot of money if you don’t know where to go. When you arrive in Tokyo, everything looks so delicious it can be difficult to hold back, even when you know you’re on a budget. But there are several ways to make savings in Japan without sacrificing all the delicious culinary experiences that are waiting for you.

Knowing a few tricks can save you a bundle – which you can use to treat yourself to a really extravagant meal. Use these tips to eat well while saving you some cash.

Cheap Restaurants in Japan

Just because you’re cutting down on costs doesn’t mean you need to miss out on eating at restaurants during your trip. There are plenty of budget restaurants in Japan where you can get a tasty meal for a reasonable price. Following these few hints will ensure you get the best value for money without sacrificing your dining experience.

Lunch Deals

If you want to find deals for food in Japan, lunchtime is king. Many restaurants have special menus at lunchtime where you can get the same food available in the evening, but at a lower price. The portions are usually a little smaller, but still worth it.

There are some hearty lunch sets that will leave you stuffed until dinnertime though. Even fancy restaurants offer lunchtime sets for 1,000 yen to 2,000 yen.

Cheaper restaurants sometimes offer a “one coin” lunch which will set you back just 500 yen (1 coin). This is especially a good deal for expensive foods like Kobe beef. Eating Kobe beef for lunch can save you a lot of money.

Gyudon (beef bowl) is one of the more popular cheap eats in Japan, and it soon becomes a favorite of foreigners traveling Japan on the cheap. “Don” means a bowl (with rice), and “Gyu” refers to the beef topping. Plenty of different “don” are available throughout Japan.

Thin strips of beef and slices of onion are simmered in a sweet sauce consisting of soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine) and dashi (Japanese broth). Gyudon sets are often accompanied by a raw egg (for dipping the beef in), miso soup, salad, pickles, and tofu. You can get extra toppings like kimchi, cheese, green onion and grated yam.

Popular chain restaurants where you can purchase these dishes, and other cheap options, are Sukiya, Matsuya, and Yoshinoya. You can find these restaurants all over Japan, serving gyudon in portions of different sizes depending on how hungry you are.

A simple bowl of gyudon will cost you about 350 Yen (bargain!). For a set, you’re looking at between about 500 yen and 750 yen. An awesome deal for a quick and delicious meal for the hungry traveler.

Famiresu – Family Restaurants

As eating out is a popular weekend treat for families in Japan, there is a special type of restaurant which cater to this demographic – famiresu ファミレス , which stands for “family restaurant.”

With a mix of Japanese and Western style food at low prices, these places are also a great choice for budget travelers as it allows you have a filling meal in a comfortable environment for a relatively cheap cost. They also tend to have cheap alcohol so are good of you need a treat!

There are many different chains of famiresu in Japan, some of which have specialty dishes or styles, but they are all pretty much the same.

Here are some of the big names which you’ll see around: Gusto, Royal Host, Jolly Pasta, Denny’s, Joyful, and my personal favorite, Saizeriya. Meals cost as little as 500 yen, but taste great.

Teishoku Restaurants – Set Menus

Teishoku restaurants serve meals that follow this basic principle: one main dish, soup, and one side dish. You order whichever main meal you’d like, and it comes with a little plate of pickles, perhaps some tofu or a salad, and a bowl of miso soup.

These vary from place to place, but the combinations are the same. Main meals vary, serving seasonal products throughout the year but also traditional Japanese favorites: udon, katsu don, gyudon, karaage fried chicken, etc.

Some restaurants have a vending machine at the front where you purchase a ticket for your meal. You then hand the ticket to the server once you’ve taken your seat. Food is cheap, ranging from about 500 yen to 1,000 yen for a meal. Teishoku meals give you a taste of popular Japanese foods that can be found all over Japan.

Japanese Supermarkets

You may not think of visiting a supermarket for food during your trip to Japan, but it’s actually a great place with lots of choices. Supermarkets in Japan, whether they are small or large, have a great selection of ‘prepared food,” and they usually have a microwave where you can heat it up too.

Larger supermarkets will often have a seating area with tables where you can sit and eat. Bento boxes are a popular choice, with rice, meat, vegetables all packaged up neatly together. You can get all sorts of food in the supermarket – tempura, sushi, tendon, udon, salads, sandwiches, onigiri (rice balls), fried rice, Chinese steamed buns…the list goes on and on.

Price wise, a small bento at the supermarket could be 300 yen or less, while bigger bento with lots of different dishes cost around 400 yen to 600 yen.

Daily Discounts

The best thing about supermarket dining is the price discounts at the end of the day. From the early evening up until closing time, supermarkets reduce the price of their prepared food, making it even cheaper. At about 6:00 pm you can see savings of 10% or 20%, and then by 9:00 pm the reductions are as low as 50% off, or more.

However, by this time it’s slim pickings and the other customers around at that time as just as eager to grab a bargain, so you have to be decisive and time your visit wisely. If you go too early the savings are small, but go too late, and all of the food is gone.

This is a great option if you’re staying somewhere with a fridge. You can buy your meal late at night and then keep it for lunch the next day. If you really want to save money, you could easily get by on spending around 1,000 yen per day on food.

Cheap Attractions in Japan

If you aren’t fussy about how you spend your leisure time in Japan, it doesn’t need to drain your bank account to see and do amazing things. There are plenty of attractions which you can see cheaply, or even for free.

Parks and temples are often free to visit, and while some specialist museums can be costly, many others have very cheap admission fees.

Hiking and city walks don’t cost a thing, and attending local festivals are some of the best attractions you can see for free in Japan.

For attractions you need to pay for, you can often get combination tickets or discounts. Some small towns offer a combination ticket to encourage visitors to see more of their attractions. Big cities offer pricier combination tickets where you can get entry to dozens of attractions with just one ticket.

The best place to find out information about free and cheap attractions is at a local tourist center. Many centers have brochures with coupons for discount tickets, and the staff there can advise you on how to make the most of your trip for the cheapest cost.

Free local guides are a popular way to see Japan on the cheap. Often run by volunteers who want to practice their English, taking a free tour can be done in a group or even on a one-to-one basis. Research free guides for the area you’re visiting to see what’s available.

Shopping on a Budget in Japan

The cost of shopping in Japan varies greatly depending on where you are and what you want to buy, but the best tip I can offer you is to visit a 100 yen store.

These shops sell everything under the sun, including stuff that tourists want to buy (like Japanese fans, hand towels, chopsticks, fake lacquer bowls).

Almost everything in the store costs 100 yen (+ 8% tax) and if things cost more then they are clearly marked.

Popular 100 yen store shops are Daiso, CanDo and Seria.

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15 Tips For Visiting Japan on A Budget (How to Travel Cheap in Japan!)

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Japan is widely known as the most expensive destination in Asia. I’m not going to contest that fact, but I am going to show you how to save LOTS of money on your next trip. Because Japan is one of those places that everyone wants to visit. A bucketlist destination if you will. While it wasn’t cheap, it was also not nearly as expensive as we had originally thought. And with these tips for visiting Japan on a budget, it can even be a rather affordable destination open to exploration by all kinds of travelers. 

This list isn’t going to include any Workaway or long-term travel tips for those staying months in the country. Instead, it’s going to focus on actionable easy budget-saving tips that people on a short trip can use to save bigtime in Japan. 

15 Tips For Visiting Japan On a Budget 

Transportation is by far the most expensive cost for travelers in Japan. We’re gonna start with ways that you can save while hopping from destination to destination in the country. 

1. The big question: Japan Rail Pass or no Japan Rail Pass? 

I actually wrote an entire post detailing my decision NOT to buy the Japan Rail Pass for $370 per person. The low-down is that we saved about $100 each by purchasing bullet train tickets on our own. We didn’t have to do an immense amount of research either. We just turned up and bought tickets. 

Check out my full post to see everywhere we went so you can compare your itinerary and make sure that buying the Japan Rail Pass isn’t right for you. 

2. Get Unreserved Train Seats. 

When you’re purchasing your Shinkansen (Bullet Train) tickets be sure to specify that you want unreserved seats. This means you’ll be sitting somewhere in cars 1-6 and left to choose your own spot. These are much cheaper. If you’re traveling as a duo you’ll most likely still be able to find seats next to one another. 

3. Choose buses. 

Buses are cheaper than trains & astronomically cheaper than bullet trains. If time isn’t a constraint for you (or if you can plan for these travel days) choose at least a few buses to save hundreds of dollars. 

4. USE the Metro! 

I probably don’t need to tell you that Japan has impressively clean, well-connected metro and train lines in each major city so you’ll never need to use a taxi. You can reach every single destination by metro, bus, or walking. I promise. In slightly smaller cities biking is a great way to get around and is very popular among Japanese people. 

Keep in mind that most metro stations (and all buses) require cash to purchase tickets. 

5. Skip the SIM. 

Everyone told us you need a SIM card to travel in Japan. But honestly, we found Japan super easy to travel without one. There’s free wifi everywhere (buses, trains, some towns) and  maps.me  has accurate metro info for offline use. All kiosks for restaurants and metro use had English language options and for the few menus that didn’t— use can download Google translate offline. 

6. Book your accommodation ahead of time. 

Budget-friendly places fill up first. Unfortunately, Japan is one of those countries where planning ahead is going to save you lots of money. Our guesthouses and hostels were all booked on Booking.com and Hostelworld.com for anywhere from $7.50-$23 per person. Hakone and the areas around Mt Fuji are the most expensive regions while Osaka had a $15 private room (not a great one but hey, what can you expect). 

You’ll probably need to book at least a month ahead for the high season. 

7. Where you stay in Tokyo matters. 

Tokyo is huge. Sprawling. But luckily there are lots of interconnected metros including one circular JR line that rings the best part of the city. We stayed in Nippori. This is in the far northeastern part of the city. Most of the places we wanted to see were located in the West and Southwest. This meant lots of metro trips, most 40 minutes or more.

If you plan to stay less than 4-5 days in Tokyo, instead of simply choosing the cheapest place to stay, look for a conveniently located neighborhood. Otherwise, you’ll spend a lot of time and money on the metro.

Consider the 24-hour Tokyo Pass (cost: 800 yen) on days you’ll do LOTS of sightseeing in various neighborhoods. You can purchase it at all the major metro stations.

8. Don’t visit ANYWHERE on a weekend. 

Obviously, you have to do something on a weekend. Make sure it’s Tokyo, Osaka, or another major city. Tourist cities like Hiroshima, Kyoto, Magome, Hakone, and more are absolutely flooded with local tourists. I mean A LOT of tourists. It’s kind of insane. You’ll have to wait in incredible lines. Plan accordingly. 

9. Kyoto is all about picking and choosing. 

To keep Kyoto budget-friendly you can’t see everything. Many Buddhist temples in the city charge an $8-$15 entrance fee. This is probably to combat overtourism in an area that sees an incredible amount of visitors. We found that the free shrines were often the best because they saw fewer people and it wasn’t just massive crowds jostling for a photo op. Shoren-in Temple even has a tea ceremony that’s authentic for half the price of typical touristy tea ceremonies. I wrote about how to attend it here. 

I recommend making a list of a few attractions and sticking to those rather than trying to see everything. These are our favorite things in Kyoto.

• Bike to the Bamboo forest just out of town early in the morning. 
• Hike to the top of Fushimi Inari Taisha, not just a quick photo op visit. 

If you’re looking to splurge on food in Kyoto, and it’s got some excellent options, definitely pay Teppan Tavern and La Bac a Sable a visit. Teppan Tavern serves Wagyu A5, traditional Kyoto bites, and homemade Umeshu (plum wine) that’s better than anywhere else for dinner. Seriously, this is the highlight of Japanese hospitality and it won’t break the bank. We spent $40 on a full meal with a few drinks. The French bakery is the perfect lunch pick-me-up. 

10. 7/11, Family Mart, and Lawsons. 

These are convenience stores scattered all over Japan. They have the cheapest beer and chu-hi, the cheapest coffee, and a wide array of Japanese snacks and desserts. But the best part is the bento boxes and hot food. You might be put off by the sushi, pizza or curry stuffed bao, habanero chicken strips, and tonkatsu meals but they are actually excellent and good quality! It’s a very popular stop for commuting Japanese residents. Keep in mind that hot food is usually restocked just before popular meal times. 

In my professional opinion, the best food goes to Family Mart— but the best coffee goes to Lawsons. 

Most restaurants don’t open until 10-11 AM and few hostels offer breakfast which leaves you out of luck. But these stores are a great cheap option for breakfast. Or late night meal. Or lunch. 

11. Another cheap meal option? Conveyor belt sushi. 

These places are the best. And they happen to be the most budget-friendly restaurants for great traditional Japanese sushi. You can typically get 10 plates between $8-15 depending on the items you select. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with sushi menus and sample new things too without having to commit to a whole set. 

12. Share meals! 

Unlike South Korea , a country we visited just before Japan, it’s very easy to order one dish and share. In Korea, you often pay by the person for popular meals like Korean BBQ. A major pain in the wallet for budget travelers looking to sample a lot of different items. Japan, fortunately, does not follow this rule and it’s quite easy to share several small plates for cheap. 

13. Buy food for your Magome excursion. 

I wrote an entire post detailing everything you need to know about hiking from Magome to Tsumago. I highly recommend this trip but since all restaurants close by 5 PM and I found most to be overpriced in the area— be sure to buy your own food from a Family Mart before you head to the mountains. Don’t forget trail snacks! 

14. Beer is the most expensive alcohol in Japan. 

Skip the beer and instead opt for Japanese Whisky highballs, Plum Wine, Shochu, and sake for cheaper drinking options. 

15. Choose Omoide Yokocho over Golden Gai for a night out.

If you are looking for Tokyo drinking hot spots and nightlife, Omoide Yokocho is cheaper and more authentic than the late-night Golden Gai district. In Golden Gai, the drinks aren’t as strong and you’ll often have to pay a cover to even sit at the bar. It was still worth wandering through the alleys of each but I much preferred Omoide for dinner and a night of drinking. 

How much did we spend in Japan on a Budget? 

Let’s look at a quick budget breakdown of what we spent while visiting the country. Keep in mind, we only took trains and bullet trains because we had a short amount of time. We also didn’t know many of the above tips beforehand and would have booked our Magome accommodation much further in advance. So basically, I think you could save hundreds by following our tips above. 

How much we spent in total for 19 days for two people: $2,687.55

How much we spent per day per person: $70.72 per day per person!!!

I hope this information helps you feel more confident to visit Japan on a budget and save lots of money while you do so! This was our most expensive trip BY FAR and with these tips, we could have easily cut costs by hundreds of dollars. Let me know in the comments if you think you have any Japan budget travel tips to add to my list.

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Further Reading...

How to Score Cheap Flights for Any Destination

The Nakasendo Trail: How to Hike Magome to Tsumago

Skip The Tour: 10 Reasons to Travel Egypt & Jordan Independently

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Travel Budget

This page is meant to give you a rough idea of the cost of individual travel in Japan by introducing some sample budgets. Note that accommodation rates can increase during peak seasons in popular destinations which is not reflected by the numbers below. View also our pages about budget travel , package tours and suggested itineraries to see the sample budgets applied to specific itineraries.

Sample daily budgets

The numbers below do not include the cost for transportation and heightened accommodation rates during peak seasons. Click here for the current yen exchange rates.

Accommodation

Below are typical rates for accommodation outside the peak seasons . Rates can increase considerably during the peak seasons! Check our accommodation page for more information on different accommodation types and corresponding price ranges.

Low budget: 3,000 - 5,000 yen per night and person Dormitories and hostels , found in most cities of Japan, typically charge below 5000 yen per night and person. Furthermore, booking services like Hostelworld offer great deals.

Medium budget: 6,000 - 12,000 yen per single room and night 8,000 - 15,000 yen per double room and night At this level, you will find rooms in business hotels , minshuku and inexpensive, no-frills ryokan . Some tour packages (for individual travelers) include accommodation at quality Western-style hotels at this price level.

High budget: over 12,000 yen per single room and night over 15,000 yen per double room and night Starting around 12,000 yen per person, you can get rooms in better business hotels and inexpensive Western-style hotels. A stay at a ryokan with two meals included typically costs between 15,000 and 30,000 yen per person and night. For a room in a 4 or 5 star Western-style hotel, you typically pay from 25,000 to 50,000 yen per room and night.

Low budget: 500 yen per day At this level, you will have to live from convenience store food (bread, rice balls, etc.) and fast food restaurants like McDonald's or Mister Donut which offer inexpensive breakfasts.

Medium budget: 500 - 1000 yen per day Many coffee shops and some restaurants in shopping areas and around train stations offer breakfast sets for around 500 to 1000 yen.

High budget: above 1000 yen per day Hotel breakfasts and breakfast buffets will usually cost you more than 1000 yen. Breakfast buffets in first-class hotels typically cost at least 3000 yen.

Low budget: 500 - 800 yen per day Inexpensive lunch boxes are available in convenience stores and stands in railway stations and business districts. Various fast food restaurants , specializing in noodles, curry, domburi or hamburger, also offer relatively filling meals for 800 yen or less.

Medium budget: 800 - 1500 yen per day At this level you will have an even larger range of inexpensive restaurants such as the above mentioned fast food places, plus restaurants which offer lunch set specials for around 1000 yen.

High budget: above 1500 yen per day A lunch at better restaurants costs typically between 1500 and 3000 yen.

Low budget: 500 - 1000 yen per day Convenience stores sell various, inexpensive ready-to-eat meals. Other options are again cheap fast food restaurants .

Medium budget: 1000 - 2500 yen per day Conventional restaurants are generally more expensive in the evening than during lunch time, as there are no lunch specials. At this level, you will be able to enjoy a nice dinner at a wide range of fast food and conventional restaurants, including the restaurants found in department stores where meals typically cost between 1000 and 2500 yen, not including alcoholic drinks.

High budget: above 2500 yen per day With 3000 yen per person you will be able to have a good dinner at a wide range of restaurants . Calculate 5000 yen upwards per person for a dinner at upper class restaurants specializing in sushi , French cuisine, sukiyaki, kaiseki ryori, steaks, etc.

Sightseeing

Low budget: 0 - 500 yen per day Japan offers many free attractions. Most shrines and some temples do not charge admission fees. A few museums charge no admission on one day of the week or month.

Medium budget: 500 - 2000 yen per day Admission to famous temples costs between 300 and 1000 yen. Most museums and castles charge about 500-1500 yen per person.

High budget: above 2000 yen per day Some museums and attractions (usually outstanding ones or tourist traps) charge between 1,500 and 3,000 yen per person. Admission to large theme parks typically cost around 5,000-10,000 yen per day.

Transportation

Low budget: Highway buses , the Japan Bus Pass and the Seishun 18 Kippu (only available during certain times of the year) are among the cheapest ways of traveling in Japan.

All budgets: Travelers of all budgets should consider purchasing a rail pass . Over long distances, domestic flights are often more economical, if you take advantage of the various discount offers .

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• How much does it cost to travel to Japan? (Average Daily Cost)
• Japan trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in Japan?

Is japan expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to Japan?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Japan?

You should plan to spend around $122 (¥18,714) per day on your vacation in Japan. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $30 (¥4,568) on meals
• $18 (¥2,719) on local transportation
• $116 (¥17,840) on hotels

A one week trip to Japan for two people costs, on average, $1,709 (¥261,998) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 122 ¥ 18,714
• One Week Per person $ 855 ¥ 130,999
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,709 ¥ 261,998
• One Month Per person $ 3,663 ¥ 561,425
• One Week For a couple $ 1,709 ¥ 261,998
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 3,419 ¥ 523,997
• One Month For a couple $ 7,325 ¥ 1,122,850

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Japan cost?

A one week trip to Japan usually costs around $855 (¥130,999) for one person and $1,709 (¥261,998) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Japan on average costs around $1,709 (¥261,998) for one person and $3,419 (¥523,997) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Japan will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Japan on average costs around $3,663 (¥561,425) for one person and $7,325 (¥1,122,850) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Japan is $433 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Environmental Conservation Volunteering, Cultural Immersion and Temple Stay on Sado Island 8 Days - 1 Destinations $ 759
• Japan´s Landscapes 13 Days - 21 Destinations $ 4,468

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Japan is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Asia, Japan is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Taiwan or Macao.

For more details, see Is Japan Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Japan?

The average Japan trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Japan travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Japan

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Japan is $58 (¥8,920). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Japan is $116 (¥17,840). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 58 ¥ 8,920
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 116 ¥ 17,840

Hotel Prices in Japan

Looking for a hotel in Japan? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Japan based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $102. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Toba View Hotel Hanashinju Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 174
• Aman Tokyo Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 699

Local Transportation Budget in Japan

The cost of a taxi ride in Japan is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $18 (¥2,719) per person, per day, on local transportation in Japan.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 18 ¥ 2,719

Recommended Services

• Tokyo private transfer to Narita Airport (NRT) Viator $ 200
• One way transfer from NRT to Tokyo private transfer by minivan Viator $ 240

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for Local Transportation in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Subway ¥ 1,200

Food Budget in Japan

While meal prices in Japan can vary, the average cost of food in Japan is $30 (¥4,568) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Japan should cost around $12 (¥1,827) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Japan is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 30 ¥ 4,568

Recommended

• YANAKA home cooking experience, homely and local style. Viator $ 90
• Sapporo Bar Hopping Food Tour Viator $ 83

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for Food in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Food for Fuji Hike ¥ 721
• Meal at Airport ¥ 1,043
• Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack ¥ 800
• Late Night Noodles ¥ 800

Entertainment Budget in Japan

Entertainment and activities in Japan typically cost an average of $19 (¥2,909) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 19 ¥ 2,909

Recommended Activities

• Private guided hidden gems tour by local English speaking driver Viator $ 65
• Experience all of Japanese culture and Japanese food experience classes "origami, udon,… Viator $ 80

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Osaka Aquarium (for 2) ¥ 4,600

Tips and Handouts Budget in Japan

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Japan is $3.29 (¥505) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Japan is Never .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 3.29 ¥ 505

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Japan

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Japan is $2.79 (¥427), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 2.79 ¥ 427

Alcohol Budget in Japan

The average person spends about $15 (¥2,338) on alcoholic beverages in Japan per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 15 ¥ 2,338
• Pub Crawl in Nagoya Viator $ 47
• Kyoto Sake Bar and Pub Crawl (Food & Sake Tour) Viator $ 200

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Alcohol prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Sake ¥ 600

Water Budget in Japan

On average, people spend $4.42 (¥677) on bottled water in Japan per day. The public water in Japan is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 4.42 ¥ 677

Related Articles

Japan on a budget.

At A Glance

• Japan is recognized for its strikingly different culture from the west. If you do some research on this country's interesting customs before your trip, you will find your experience all the more enlightening. You will also better understand how to handle different situations as they arise.
• This is a complex country with a diverse and rich history. A great way to familiarize yourself with the region is to read any number of books on the country, fiction or nonfiction, before you begin your trip. You'll be able to see the people, customs, and cultures through different eyes, and your experience will be even more meaningful and memorable when you can put it in context.
• Japan is a great country for cyclists. If you're comfortable on a bicycle head to the countryside and find a good route. You'll pass through beautiful landscapes, picturesque towns, and meet some friendly people. It's a wonderful and unique way to experience the country. It will also help you cut down on transportation costs which can be quite high throughout Japan.
• Make sure you keep your passport on you at all times. Police can question you and will often fine you if you do not have it on you. Some first time offenders get off with just a warning. In particular, nightclub raids are common, so if you're going out for the evening, don't leave home without your passport.
• Public transportation in Japan is excellent but expensive. There are many different types of transportation passes that offer any number of ticket combinations and various discounts. Make sure you fully research and understand your options before you purchase a ticket. Some passes have stricter limitations than others so make sure you look into this before buying a pass.

Top Tourist Attractions

Transportation, popular foods, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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The complete budget guide for a 2 week trip to Japan

Our trip to Japan was like a dream come true. We waited for it for a long time, we were worried about the plane tickets, we planned everything carefully and we made mistakes. It’s the way things work for us. But planning the budget for the trip was never a problem, as you will see in this complete budget guide for a 2-week trip to Japan.

Yes, it’s true guys, there might be affiliate links in this awesome, free post. This means that if you decide to buy something that you find here, and you use one of my links to do so, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I plan to use this money on ice cream, chocolate, and to travel more so I can write these useful guides for you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Not because we have won the lottery (as if…). And even though everyone thinks that living and working in Switzerland automatically links you to a full bank account, we still travel the same as before: budget to mid-level. What does this mean?

It means we’re usually spending around 50$ per hotel night, and we never go to hostels. I did too much of that in college, don’t want to go back. It also means we usually go to local restaurants, and half of our meals are to-go. Still, from time to time, we’ll splurge and invest in a night at a special hotel, or a nicer island in the Maldives , or even a room above average in Indonesia .

And lots of times we hear this question when we come back from a trip: “How much did you spend, overall?”. We usually know roughly how much we spent, but we rarely focus on the details. But, since I’m trying to become a better blogger (or WTH am I doing here anyway), I started keeping a better track of our costs for the trip to Japan.

Table of Contents

What you need to know.

First of all, I have to tell you that these numbers are all approximate. Japan is still a cash-based country, so we had to withdraw money from an ATM and spend it like this. And spending cash makes it pretty hard to track what you spent on. I have a rough idea, but please take this information with a grain of salt.

Second, we didn’t visit everything that we wanted, due to lack of time (and sometimes bad planning, because why not?). But we researched a lot before going, and at the end of this post you’ll find a printable sheet with entry fees to all the cool places to visit in Japan, plus our comments and helpful tips.

Third, we were always on the run, so half of our meals were things we bought from grocery stores, not proper restaurant meals. Breakfast was almost always taken either in the room or on a train on the way to the next adventure. I also only had one cup of coffee to go, since I felt guilty about producing so much waste. Since then, I have bought a to-go coffee cup so that I can enjoy my guilty pleasure without the actual guilt.

Forth: even if you’re on a budget, never ever travel without travel insurance. It used to be fairly OK, but during the last few years, we have learned that it’s not OK anymore. You can get a quote in the widget below.

And the last one: the prices are displayed in Yen, for two persons. We used 2 Revolut cards and one TransferWise to withdraw money (50.000 Yen in total), and we paid everything we could in Yen since this is the best option, so here’s a pro tip for you: while traveling, always, ALWAYS pay in the currency of the country you’re in.

Are you ready to find out how much is a trip to Japan for 2 weeks going to cost you? Good. Let’s start!

Don’t have time to read it right now? Pin it for later!

How much to budget for the flights to japan.

Of course, it depends on where you’re coming from, the season when you’re traveling, if you could find a crappy combination that takes you there cheaper or have miles that take you there free. In our case, we used my benefits, so the price we paid is irrelevant.

But, since this will be a large chunk of your budget, I looked into it a bit. I used Skyscanner for this, filtered for round trips from Tokyo, in November (using the whole month feature), and verified the prices from the US, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Of course, you can use the same features to search for the flights by yourself, but I’ll attach my findings just to provide an idea.

From the US

• 900-1.200$, from the West Coast (LA, San Francisco)
• 1.300-1.500$, from the East Coast (New York, Washington)

From Europe

• 900 euro from Italy
• 1.000 euro from Spain or Germany
• 1.100 euro from France
• 1.200 euro from Netherlands or Switzerland
• 350$ from Thailand or Hong Kong
• 550$ from Singapore
• 650 from India

From Australia

As you can see, the prices are somewhere in the area of 1000-1.200$ for a round trip for 2 people. It’s not as bad as I thought. We paid 1800 euro (about 2000$) for the crappiest flight we ever had, so my standards are not that high.

So, how much does it cost to fly to Japan? About 1200$, I would say. This means 131.527 Yen .

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How much does accommodation in Japan cost for 2 weeks?

This is a tricky one. Of course, it can cost anything from 30$ to 1.000$ a night. And Japan is known to have one of the most expensive accommodation offers in the world. And we’re saying this while we know the prices for accommodation in Switzerland (in short, we need to start crapping money before we take a 2-week vacation in Switzerland).

I’ll give you two views about this. The first one is the options that you have so that you know your options for any budget. The second one will be our exact costs for accommodation, with detailed information about the places, nights and everything you may need.

How expensive can accommodation in Japan be?

• Hostel – 50-80$
• Capsule hotel – 30-50$
• Guesthouse – 80-100$ (but are not very different than hostels, to be honest)
• Love hotel – 120-130$ (but you can rarely book ahead, usually they’re booked per each night individually)
• Ryokan (traditional inn) – 50-500$ (no exaggeration, you can find either of these prices and everything in between)
• Budget hotel – 60-100$
• Mid-range hotel – 100-250$
• High-end hotel – 250-1.000$

As a reminder, these are the prices for 2 people per night. Multiply this with the number of nights you’re planning to stay, and you’ll have a good overview. Also, I have to specify that I found these prices using Agoda . This is my favorite toy to use for finding accommodation, and the prices are often better than other competitors, especially in Asia.

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What was the cost of accommodation in japan for us.

OK, now you have an overview. The next prices are the ones that we have paid. Our target budget was to fit, on average, below 100$ per night. And, in my opinion, we nailed it. The prices were good, the places were great, and everything worked out smoothly.

• Hamamatsu – Hotel Daiwa Roynet – 9.211 Yen
• Kyoto – Shizutetsu Hotel Prezio – 8.280 Yen
• Gero (ryokan) – Yukai Resort Geroonsen – 19.110 Yen
• Tokyo – Hotel Keikyu Ex Inn – 9.700 Yen

We stayed for a total of 12 nights. The first one was in Hamamatsu, the next 5 in Kyoto, the next in Gero, and the last 5 in Tokyo. For these 12 nights, we paid a total of 116.961 Yen .

How much does transportation cost in Japan for tourists?

Boy, am I on a roll here or what? So, for transportation, you have two main topics: the JR Pass and the rest. Luckily, I covered this subject in a detailed guide to transportation in Japan , so I am already informed about the subject.

How much does the JR pass cost?

Well, first of all, you have to analyze if you need it. There are lots of ways to do this, and I’ll cover them separately, but a good rule of thumb is that if you’re going to do the Tokyo-Kyoto return trip at least once and a day trip somewhere outside Tokyo or Kyoto, you already need the pass.

The JR pass is quite expensive. We paid 96.417 Yen for the one valid for 14 days. This is around 800$. It hurt, it really did. But, and this is a big one, but it would have been even worse if we wouldn’t have had it. We used it intensively, and I think it paid for itself in the first half of the trip.

And this price is valid if you buy it outside Japan. In the last years, they have enabled an option to buy the JR Pass inside Japan as well, but this will cost you even more than that, about 105.920 Yen. The difference doesn’t seem that much, it’s about 50$, but you can invest this in a better hotel room, a nice souvenir, or a gallon of ice cream. No one’s judging.

If you’re buying any JR Pass product with my affiliate link, whether it is a train pass , a portable Wi-Fi , or the Meet & Greet package, send me a copy of your receipt at [email protected] and you’ll get my Japan Map Collection entirely for free!

How much does transportation in Japan cost, apart from the JR?

And now it’s the challenge. The other transportation has to be paid cash. No matter if you use Suica/Icoca/Pasmo or any other card, you will fill it up with cash. There’s no way to do it by card, and, believe me, we have tried. That’s why it’s challenging.

Out of everything that we paid from the cash amount we took from the ATM (50.000 Yen), my estimations tell me we have spent around 20.000 Yen on transportation. This includes:

• 500 Yen per each card as a deposit (you get it back when you redeem your card, don’t worry, but you need to provide this amount)
• a 1.400 Yen trip with a local bus to see a cool cave near Hamamatsu
• a 4.200 Yen trip with a local bus from Odawara to Hakone
• a 3.200 Yen round trip by cable car to see Mount Fuji

These expenses are the bigger ones. The rest of them were around 200-250 Yen each, and we also walked a great deal. My Fitbit was so proud of me those two weeks…

So, the total amount spent on transportation in Japan is…( drumrolls )… 116.417 Yen . A big chunk, I know.

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So, we got to my favorite part. I mean food. Japanese food, on the other hand, is a story for another time. How much did we spend on food? Well, again, it boils down to your spending behavior.

We ate a maximum of one meal per day at a restaurant (main dish, drink and sometimes dessert), and the other meals were gracefully provided by all sorts of grocery stores, pastry shops, random street food isles, and quite a few ice cream stands.

Costs for eating out in Japan

In 12 days, we spent around 33.952 Yen on food in restaurants. We paid by card in most of them, and tipping is not a thing in Japan, so there are no extra charges in this field. One complete meal for two was usually around 35 to 40$, no matter where we ate.

We didn’t eat in fancy restaurants, we tried to find places where we could eat like the locals. No worries, the food is good everywhere and it’s worth it to order based only on pictures. I honestly have no idea what I have eaten in there, but I seem to still be alive so, can’t be that bad, right?

Costs for eating on the go in Japan

In grocery stores, we spent around 16.495 Yen , out of which my estimation is that only 15.000 Yen was food and water. Because, unfortunately, while tap water IS drinkable in Japan, it tastes too much like chlorine to be actually drinkable.

Some of the grocery shopping visits were influenced by us buying large amounts of fruit, which we missed there, and some others by us randomly taking things just to see what they were. There were some isolated occasions when we paid for food in cash, but it’s an amount not worth mentioning.

So, in total, we spent about 55.952 Yen on keeping our weight as it is. Maybe we added a little bit though…

How much did we spend on entry fees?

Well, now you’ve caught me. I lied before, the food is not my favorite part (although you won’t say that based on my figure…). Visiting the stuff is my favorite part. I even create Trello boards for this part of every journey. Kind of explains why people don’t come with us on trips. Anymore.

Because we spent more time moving from one place to the other compared to what we thought we will, and also due to my lack of skills for basic functions like counting days, we missed some of the places we wanted to visit. Also, some of them were free of charge, and no one loves a bargain more than I do.

In the end, we spent about 32.000 Yen on entry fees. This included expensive stuff like the Digital Art Museum in Tokyo (it’s totally worth the 6.400 Yen we spent on it) or a geiko and maiko show in Kyoto , but also some things that didn’t impress us that much (some rebuilt castles, for example), and some totally useless things like the audio guide in Hiroshima.

For each one of us, this price will vary deeply. I didn’t see the point in paying to walk on a bridge in Nikko, for example, when I could see it very well from the bridge next to it. Others will feel templed out after 2-3 temples and shrines, and will invest this money in other things, or will just not spend it altogether.

To help you with this decision, I have prepared a printable PDF with prices for the most important places to see in Japan. I have also added some personal comments to it, which I think will be of great help when it comes to the decision of what to visit in Japan. And yes, I also did the currency exchange for you, you’re welcome.

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Any other additional costs we should know of?

Of course, not everything comes down to these categories mentioned above. What other things we spent our money on include, but are not limited to:

• commissions for ATM withdrawals – 917 Yen
• a bag to be able to split our luggage, because I packed like crazy and didn’t expect that many stairs – 3.080 Yen
• a short visit to the pharmacy because I am not only unable to count, but I’m also unable to walk safely – 198 Yen
• souvenirs – 5.840 Yen (it honestly could have been a lot more)
• a SIM card that saved our buts SO many times – 3.700 Yen

All of this got to a whopping amount of 15.340 Yen . This is money we don’t have anymore and we’re not exactly sure why. #responsible_adults right? I promise, we didn’t do anything illegal or immoral, we’re too old for this sort of thing.

Want to have a helpful resource to make your planning efforts not only easier but also more enjoyable? Check out my Japan Travel Guide from the shop!

The complete budget guide for a 2 week trip to Japan – Key takeaways

Phew, that was a big one. Was it as hard for you to read as it was for me to write it? I hope not, I’m trying to be helpful here. So, how much does a trip to Japan cost for 2 weeks, you ask?

In case you’re more of a visual person, I have created a chart for the budget needed for a two week trip to Japan. Because who doesn’t like charts? Right? Right? * awkward silence *

As you can see, the total budget for this trip went up to 468.197 Yen , which means around 4.300$ . It’s not cheap, I know. I feel your pain.

It’s similar to what we paid for the trip to the Maldives . But the Maldives is known as a luxury destination (not how we did it though), and Japan offers so much more than beaches and sunshine.

But, with proper planning , you can do this without feeling it is such a burden. If you split the big money suckers across a whole year, it may feel less stressful.

In any case, now you know everything about how much it costs to travel to Japan.

Wait, there’s more! You almost forgot your printable PDF with the entry fees for all the important things to visit in Japan.

2 thoughts on “The complete budget guide for a 2 week trip to Japan”

Wow, about $300 USD a day for 2 people is pretty expensive! Going to Japan is definitely on my bucket list and I love your approach to food and fun but those hotel costs are what always dissuade me from heading to that country! Don’t get me wrong, I have no issue even at 44 years old with staying in a Private Room in a hostel with my wife since we don’t plan on staying in the room beyond sleeping and storage! But dang that is ridiculous with pricing!

I know, right? Again, this is pretty similar to what we paid in The Maldives if you catch my drift. But there are two things to keep in mind: 1. I included the airfare in the price. This can vary widely depending on so many factors and can be quite helpful if you can score a better deal here. 2. We decided we’re too old for hostels, and my husband didn’t want a capsule hotel experience (you can see which of us is older this way :)) )

If you can go lower with airfare and accommodation, you can probably score this to about 200 $ per day, which is still not cheap, but might make you decide to go already 🙂

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Japan 2023 Cost | A Two Week Itinerary And How Much To Budget For Your Trip

Visiting Japan In 2023

Japan has such an incredible array of offerings for travelers that it can be overwhelming trying to see everything in one trip.

Some careful planning is your best chance at successfully making your way through some of the major sites to see in the country for your first trip. 

With how much there is to see and do in Japan, it’s a country that people will often come back to more than once.

Not only does it allow them to see and do more, but even experiencing Japan in different seasons is worth coming back for.  This guide will help you plan your own trip of a lifetime.

What Makes Japan So Enticing?

One of the many fantastic traits of Japan compared to other countries is the way it’s been able to retain a lot of tradition and remnants of culture from centuries ago while also embracing modern technology and Western influences.

You can move from a big city to a small town in a short train ride, almost as if you’re being transported from one time period in Japan to another. 

Japan is also a very safe country comparatively, both for locals and tourists. Tourists who are respectful of Japanese culture are embraced and treated with kindness and hospitality wherever they go. Many people in Japan love to share their traditions, food, and their ways of life with those willing to learn. 

Getting Around Japan 

It’s completely unnecessary to rent a car when traveling through Japan, though it is something you can do should you need one.

The public transportation system in Japan is one of the best systems in the world and is clearly the best way to venture from city to city or within a city itself. 

While it takes some time, planning out the specific routes for where you want to go in Japan is crucial, so you know how to budget for your transportation costs. It also helps you understand what your options are in terms of getting from one place to another. 

It can be overwhelming traveling through a foreign country when you don’t speak the language fluently .

It’s highly recommended that you purchase a pocket wifi device so you can pull up translation apps and maps with ease, as well as communicate with your loved ones back home. 

It’s relatively inexpensive and easy to find these devices; you can book one in advance and pick it up at the airport you fly into.

To have access to pocket wifi for a two-week trip, you’re looking at around $50 USD or so. It’s worth adding that to your budget to stay connected and look up directions when needed. 

The Japan Rail Pass 

One of the most economical ways to utilize public transportation when making your way through Japan is to purchase a Japan Rail pass . A JR Pass gives you the ability to ride many of the local trains and even some bullet trains, or shinkansen, simply by presenting your pass at any train station. 

You’ll save a lot of money using a pass, even if some of the routes you plan on taking don’t accept the pass. The 14-day pass is an excellent bargain if you want to see as much of Japan as possible. If you’re mainly spending your trip in Tokyo , it’s not worth buying a pass. 

The cost of the Japan Rail Pass will likely vary depending on which pass you choose, as well as whether or not you want to buy an upgraded pass to get luxury seating on select trains .

While it’s quite a cool experience to have a green pass, especially if you plan on riding a bullet train, it’s not a necessary expense. 

The Limits Of The JR Pass 

It’s important to note that while the JR Pass is extremely convenient and cost-effective for traveling through Japan, there are some limitations to where you can use the pass.

You’re only going to be able to use it when traveling on a Japan Rail-owned public transportation medium.  Take note that there is some extra cost when using limited express or shinkansen routes.

If you find that you’ll have to ride some subways or public transportation owned by other transportation companies in Japan, it’s worth looking into an IC Card . IC Cards are available for major transportation companies such as Pasmo and Suica.

These cards let you board these trains and subway cars, as the Japan Rail pass doesn’t work on them. 

The IC Card doesn’t get you any special deals when you use them, but they help you limit the number of yen you have to carry on you.

Furthermore, you can use these cards at some vending machines and convenience stores around Japan , so it’s worth setting it up and having some extra yen on it just in case. 

Since there are numerous companies that offer IC Cards, your research is going to have to be thorough once you decide where you’re going, so you choose the right card.

You can purchase and load an IC Card at a train or subway station; Tokyo Station will likely be your best bet since you’ll likely make your way there on your trip. 

Tips For Using Public Transportation In Japan 

When you’re planning out your routes for getting around Japan, planning around where the JR Pass and IC Cards can get you is the most effective way to get around.

It’s not only convenient but helps you keep your travel costs down as much as you can. 

What most seasoned travelers and locals do is use their JR Pass to get as close to their intended destination as possible, as JR routes tend to go pretty far through Japan.

Then, they will use their IC Cards for the more direct route to get to their intended destination. 

You can take your luggage on public transportation with you, but you’ll want to be cognizant of how much you pack when you know you’ll be using public transportation.

Some trains will have limits on what you can bring on board with you in an effort to make sure you don’t take up too much space. 

Preparing For Your Trip To Japan 

You’ll want to prepare yourself with a good portion of yen based on what you decide to do on your trip. A lot of places in Japan either only accept cash or prefer cash.

Be sure you have a small and secure spot for storing your cash when you have it on you. Japan is safe, but you can never be too careful. 

Japan has centuries of history that may be overwhelming to some, but taking the time to learn basic manners and important aspects of the culture can help you navigate the country much more seamlessly. Some light online reading about manners and a translation app on your phone will do wonders for you. 

So long as you’re sure to be polite, say please and thank you, and avoid being too loud or rowdy, you’re likely going to fit in very well in the country. 

Visiting Japan: Why Two Weeks?

Japan is not a country to visit for only a couple of days, or even a week. Two weeks will give you the opportunity to see a sufficient portion of the country.

One of the best ways you can pack in as much adventure and sightseeing as you can hope for is to organize your trip by the cities you want to stay in. 

If you plan to spend two or three days in each city, you’ll have the opportunity to not only explore the city itself but explore nearby towns. Pretty much all of Japan is accessible by train or bus, so you have the ability to make day trips to nearby cities or towns a part of your trip. 

A Two-Week Itinerary For Visiting Japan In 2023

Japan is a fairly big country, and narrowing down where to go can be tough. If you have two weeks, planning to see a couple of cities at minimum is not only doable but recommended, especially if you have a JR Pass. While Tokyo is a grand city and is worth spending a couple of days in, it’s not the only big city worth seeing. 

You also don’t want to overlook smaller villages and cities where the amount of learning you can do is tremendous. So many of these smaller cities and towns have remnants of traditional Japanese culture and ways of living that you have the opportunity to witness. 

When visiting Japan for the first time, you’re likely going to want to hit some of the popular spots that bring people to the country every year.

You’ll eventually want to come back again to explore some of the hidden gems of the country and the smaller neighborhoods where unique culture abounds. 

To make your two-week trip as comprehensive and adventure-packed as possible – without spending too much time traveling and overwhelming yourself – your best bet is as follows: 

• Start your trip in Tokyo and spend three to four days there, with the option of staying in the Fuji Five Lakes for a day
• Make your way to Kyoto for three to four days
• Next go to Hiroshima for two days, making a jaunt to Miyajima island for the day
• Spend your remaining days in Osaka before heading back to Tokyo to head home

Below are some of the top destinations for each of these cities, as well as some other ways to enjoy your time in between seeing the big sights.

It’s important to note that there are so many other places in Japan that are just as beautiful and full of places to see, but you’d need much more than two weeks to see them all. 

There are lots to see and do in the large city of Tokyo, and you have access to so many other places in Japan through a bus or train ride. For instance, making your way to Mount Fuji from Tokyo to spend a day or two there is very easy. You could easily spend your whole two weeks in Tokyo, but you don’t want to limit yourself.

Tokyo is made up of several different districts and neighborhoods and is divided by Central, North, South, East, and West Tokyo.

No matter which part of Tokyo you decide to stay in, you have the opportunity to visit special districts dedicated to certain aspects of Japanese culture while also being able to shop, see shrines , and enjoy various activities and delicious foods. 

In Central Tokyo, you’ll find Tokyo Station, the Akihabara District, which is perfect for anime, manga, and tech lovers, as well as Ginza , home to the best shopping you’ll do in Tokyo. You’ll also find the Tokyo Dome and the nearby Koishikawa Korakuen garden, as well as the Yasukuni Shrine. 

North Tokyo features the infamous Tokyo Skytree and the Tokyo National Museum, in addition to Ryogoku, known as the sumo wrestling epicenter . You’ll also want to see the Sensoji Temple or the landscapes of the Botanical Garden or Ueno Park . 

South Tokyo is home to some temples and shrines , such as Sengakuji, and the man-made island of Odaiba . You can also enjoy a ride on the Tokyo Water Bus, or do some shopping and exploring in Roppongi or Shiodome districts . 

Finally, West Tokyo is home to the fantastic Shibuya , Harajuku, and Shinjuku districts, full of shopping, fun activities, and various subcultures. Yebisu Garden Palace is a great place to enjoy some Japanese beer, and the Meiji Shrine is a gorgeous place to see. 

Tokyo can be a confusing city to traverse, so google maps are highly recommended to aid you in your exploration.

Tokyo Station 

You’re likely going to make your way through Tokyo Station a few times in your travels through Japan. Don’t just let the station pass you by, though; in and around Tokyo Station, you’ll find a wealth of things to see and do.

Tokyo Station is also where you’re able to catch the shinkansen , or bullet train, which is likely to get you to many of your intended destinations. 

When you venture outside of Tokyo Station, which is in Central Tokyo, you’re surrounded by the Marunouchi business district , a vast array of shopping, and the Imperial Palace and accompanying garden. There’s also a lot of green space to sit down, relax, and enjoy some fresh air. 

Mount Fuji And Fuji Five Lakes 

Mount Fuji brings floods of tourists to Japan every year. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a crucial element of Japanese culture and spirituality and is a very important symbol for Japan.

The beauty of Mount Fuji cannot be understated, and it’s worth the trek to the area. There’s a lot more to do around the Mount Fuji area than some might realize. 

The Fuji Five Lakes area surrounds Mount Fuji, and you’ll find various ryokans to stay at, as well as shrines, hot spring baths , and even an amusement park.

While it can be hard to pick where to stay since there are so many enticing spots in Fuji Five Lakes, you’ll want to stay at least one night to get to explore as much as possible. 

You’ll be surrounded by some of Japan’s main attractions in this one region. Mt. Fuji is the symbol of Japan itself. There is a cable car in the area, but it does not offer a trip to the summit of Fuji. If you have a few extra days to spend in the area, you’ll be rewarded with incredible mountain views at sunset and sunrise .

Kyoto is a place in Japan that is so full of history, a lot of which can be learned about from various museums and temples in the city . Many of these historically significant sights in the city have been standing for a very long time, despite the amount of devastation the city has seen over centuries of strife.

Like Tokyo, Kyoto is split up into Central, Eastern, Western, Northern, and Southern Kyoto, so you’ll want to spend a couple of days in the city at least. Central Kyoto is home to palaces and temples galore, such as Sento Palace and the Kyoto Manga Museum.

In Eastern kyoto, you’ll find numerous temples and shrines, as well as Maruyama Park and Gion, the famous geisha district.  

Northern Kyoto houses a wealth of stunning locations of both historical and spiritual importance, including the Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion , the Enryakuji Temple, and the Kamo Shrines.

In Western Kyoto, you can sip some Japanese whiskey in the Yamazaki District, or take a boat ride through the Hozugawa River. Southern Kyoto has the Fushimi Sake District and the Daigoji Temple among other sites. Don’t forget to visit Nishiki market in downtown area. Kyoto itself is one of the best cities to see cherry blossoms in the spring.

Of All Japanese cities kyoto is one you should not miss if you want to see the real Japan.

Hiroshima is the city known for falling victim to the atomic bomb, but the resilient city is so much more than that. The picturesque city is full of natural and created beauty, and there’s a lot to be learned from the major sites there.

The Peace Memorial Park is the place to remember the lives lost from the atomic bomb, and the Hiroshima Castle is truly a marvel in construction. 

When you make your way to Hiroshima to stay for a couple of days, you’ll want to split up your trip to venture to nearby Miyajima. 

Miyajima is a stunning island that’s not too far from Hiroshima, and you can take a short boat ride to spend the day there before heading back to Hiroshima.

Miyajima is also where you’ll find the very famous red torii gates of Itsukushima.

Nature lovers will enjoy seeing the very large Mount Misen, and making their way along the various walking trails around the island.  A truly beautiful city you will want to see if you’re visiting Hiroshima.

Finally, you’ll absolutely want to make your way to Osaka to spend the final days of your trip there. Osaka is full of bright lights, bustling city life, and many things to see and do. For instance, you can do some shopping and exploring in Shinsekai, a district that looks a lot like old Japan. 

Minoo Park and Mozu Tombs are great places to get some sun and see some nature, and the Tenma District is the place to go for arcade games. Kuromon Market is a great place to go for some food-based souvenirs or some snacks to take home for yourself. 

Osaka is the perfect place for hardcore foodies. The good news is that so many restaurants ensure you have enough time to sample Osaka’s various dishes.

If your visiting Osaka for more than a couple of days, a short train ride will take you to Himeji Castle Japan’s most visited castle.

Making Your Two Week Stay Memorable

When you’re finalizing your two-week itinerary, there are some things to keep in mind before you make your final decisions.

These travel tips can not only help you keep to your intended budget, but they can also help you make the most of your trip. 

Take Advantage Of Free Experiences 

Exploring Japan doesn’t have to be expensive. There is a lot to see and do that doesn’t require any money, other than what you might need to spend traveling to and from the spot as well as any sustenance you might need. 

That said, with your JR Pass or IC Card and some snacks bought at a convenience store beforehand, you can easily spend at least half a day exploring Japan for free.

For instance, parks in Japan offer green space, plenty of seating, and even some amenities and trails to walk around. 

Visit Temples And Shrines 

Even if you don’t practice religion, visiting some of the thousands of Buddhist temples, Shinto temples, and accompanying shrines is not only inexpensive but will be an especially memorable experience.

Many of these spots have guides you can learn from, picturesque gardens to walk through, and works of art in their architecture. 

Hot Spring Baths/Onsens 

An onsen is a hot spring bath, usually sourced from natural spring water in the area of the bath. One can find these baths indoors and outdoors, and onsen towns have been created by many sources of hot spring water throughout Japan.

These small and inviting towns are some of the best places to stay in Japan if you’re looking for a reprieve from the stresses of life. 

Hot spring baths and bathing culture are big in Japan. Before homes had accessible baths, the only option in Japan was to enjoy a public bath or Sento .

Outside of the social aspect of bathing culture, hot spring baths have been utilized in Japan for centuries for various ailments and health concerns. 

If you plan on spending any time near Mount Fuji, you’ll definitely be able to enjoy your fill of hot spring baths. That said, there are plenty of onsens all around Japan so no matter where your travels take you, you’re likely to find at least one. 

Where To Stay In Japan 

The specific accommodations you book for your travels are going to be dictated by where you want to go.

The fantastic aspect of accommodations in Japan is that many of them is an experience in and of themselves rather than simply a place to sleep. Your options are quite extensive, from hostels to capsule hotels to traditional Japanese inns, also known as ryokans, that have a traditional Japanese private rooms. 

The language barrier is not as big a problem as you might imagine, as most accommodations will have at least one persons who understand basic English.

Japanese Hostels 

A hostel is most often the cheapest option, especially if you’re not picky about your accommodations.

What’s important is to research hostels to ensure that where you’re staying is suitable to your needs and comfort level.

Best Hostels In Japan Via Tripadvisor

That said, Japanese hostels have a fantastic reputation for being clean, full of friendly and hospitable people, and very affordable. 

Japanese Capsule Hotels 

A Japanese capsule hotel is a unique experience where you sleep inside a pod. Most of these capsule hotels are fairly affordable, though, of course, a hostel or a hotel may end up being more affordable.

If you have the room in your budget, it’s worth checking out a capsule hotel for a night.  If you’re looking for a cheap hotel, this is your best option.

Japanese Hotels 

Staying at a regular hotel in Japan can easily become expensive, depending on what kind of hotel you choose to stay at. As expected, hotels range from mid-range to luxury in terms of price, amenities, and location. You can find a lot of recognizable hotel chains in Japan, as well as a mixture of local and smaller hotels. 

Hotels cost more if you stay right in the heart of major cities . Given how great public transportation is in Japan, there’s no need to stay in a hotel right in the city.

Instead, you can save a few bucks if you stay in a hotel just outside of the city and take the train in when you’re planning on sightseeing. 

Japanese Ryokans 

A ryokan is a preferred accommodation option if you’re looking to immerse yourself into Japanese culture as much as possible.

These traditional inns can offer a range of different experiences and amenities depending on where you’re staying. Typically, you’ll have a small, clean room to yourself, though bathrooms are often shared between guests.  Most ryokan has hot springs on site.

Some of their hotel rooms even have a private onsen (hot spring bath) located within the room. One of the most important things to remember if your using a shared onsen with other guests is that nudity is part of the onsen experience.

Eating In Japan 

Going out and experiencing authentic Japanese food is well worth making a part of your travel budget. While it’s not economical to indulge at five star restaurants every night, you don’t want to miss out on local delicacies and unique dining experiences based on where you’re staying.

There is so much more to Japanese food than sushi, though sushi in Japan is better than anywhere else. 

Comparatively, it’s not expensive to feed yourself when traveling through Japan. Your best plan of action to ensure you get to indulge in some memorable meals is to seek out the local delicacy in each place you stay in as you make your way through your itinerary.

You can either chat up the locals or do some research beforehand, depending on what you’re comfortable with. 

Seeking out an izakaya is also highly recommended at least a few times when you’re in Japan. These are Japanese bars that serve small bites and snacks often using locally sourced ingredients crafted in unique ways. 

Budget-Friendly Eating In Japan 

You have a ton of options to get your fill of delicious Japanese food without blowing your food budget too quickly. You won’t miss out on good eating even when you opt for budget friendly options.

There are ways to find authentic, yummy Japanese fares without having to go to a restaurant for every meal. 

Street food is pretty bountiful in Japan, from vendors on the street to various stalls at a market. You can even find vending machines that offer inexpensive yet delicious snacks.

You can also grab some quick meals at convenience stores that are high quality, made with fresh local ingredients, and are also very budget-friendly. 

Shopping In Japan

Japan is an epicenter of some very unforgettable shopping, as it’s one of the biggest fashion trend-setting countries in the world.

Outside of fashion, there is so much shopping to be done in Japan that it’s very easy to spend a lot of money doing so.

Having a strict budget for yourself can help you avoid spending all your money on other parts of your trip buying things.  Tokyo department stores often have multiple levels of goods and services. The best thing is the onsite restaurants that have incredible dining experiences.

Japan is known as a cash-based society, so its a great idea to have Japanese yen in case credit cards are not an option. Many small mom-and-pop coffee shops are cash-only.

Budgeting For Your Trip To Japan 

Budgeting is a major priority as soon as you know you’ll be planning a trip anywhere. The time of year you opt to travel to Japan can have some influence on cost. For instance, Japan is a popular place during cherry blossom season , which starts in April, so you can end up paying premiums for travel and accommodations. 

Despite popular belief, traveling within the country of Japan isn’t as expensive as one might assume. Some careful planning and having an itinerary mapped out beforehand can help you get a better sense of how much money you’ll need. 

Having a safety net such as a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign exchange fees can give you some peace of mind, even if you don’t end up using it.

You can use a credit card at many places in Japan you’ll likely frequent, though it’s good to note that many places, especially tourist destinations, prefer cash when possible. 

An Estimated Budget Of A Two Week Japan Trip In 2023 

The biggest expenses you’re likely to see will be your flights and your accommodations. Your flight costs will vary depending on where you’re flying from, what season you’re choosing to fly in, and whether you pick a direct or indirect route, with added advice on the best time to fly. 

Keeping your eye out for deals or seeing if you can cash in some reward points towards your flight can potentially save you a lot of money flying such a potentially long way. 

There’s no exact answer for how much money you’ll need for a trip to Japan, no matter if you’re looking for a trip on a budget or not. All things considered, you could travel to Japan and stay for two weeks with between $3000 to $6000 USD based on what your final itinerary looks like and how well you manage your money in the country. 

The following list features estimates based on a two week stay in Japan, considering some of your major and minor expenses. It’s important to note that estimates are just estimates and cannot be considered exact due to the numerous variances in costs associated with travel. 

Furthermore, this chart and the estimated costs are based on traveling from the United States and are based on American currency USD.

Estimates may also be a little bit higher than what you could actually spend based on a number of factors. It’s always better to budget extra and have extra wiggle room than underestimate how much your trip will cost. 

Estimated Costs (USD)

Airfare (international flights)

$1000-$2500

Transportation

Accommodations 

Attractions and Experiences 

Miscellaneous Expenses

TOTAL (Estimate by Budget)

Below is a further explanation of the budget seen above in the chart to understand how prices can vary depending on your specific plans and overall Japan cost. 

It is a good idea to purchase a sim card to ensure your phone will operate on Japanese networks. The following is a more detailed look at cost of your Japan itinerary:

You’re likely looking at anywhere between $1300 to $1800 USD for your flights to and from Japan if you’re traveling from the United States.

If you have the option to, fly into the Haneda Airport . It’s the most convenient airport to fly into as it’s close to Tokyo, which you’re likely going to travel in or through as you make your way through Japan. 

Depending on your origin city, there are many direct flights to Tokyo and Haneda and Narita are the easiest way to begin a journey in Japan.

Transportation 

Conveniently, you can purchase a JR Pass for a 14 day trip for unlimited travel on most of Japans train system. The cost for a 14 day Japan Rail pass is about $400 USD.

If you decide you want the upgraded pass, you’re looking at around $600. With how clean, safe, and accommodating transportation is in Japan, it’s really not needed for you to upgrade to a green pass to get luxury seating.  If your traveling with a small group JR Pass will save you a lot on public transport.

If you also plan on getting an IC card, you’ll have to account for the deposit and the minimum amount needed on the card. This only accounts to about $15 USD altogether.

If you put $50 USD on your card, you’ll be able to use it for local transportation fares and likely not have to reload it, though doing that is pretty simple. 

You can also choose to add a little more since you can also use the card at vending machines and select convenience stores. It’s good to have a little extra cash on you for transportation in the very off-chance you can’t use either of your passes. 

Accomodations 

Accommodations can make up a moderate to big portion of your budget depending on what kinds of places you choose to stay in.

Generally speaking, accounting for between $100 and $125 dollars per night you’re in Japan is a good place to start. 

You’ll find quite a few accommodation options that are going to fall under this amount, though whether or not you choose to stay in those options is based on your comfort level. 

You could easily feed yourself well on a budget in Japan without missing out. If you consider a food budget of about $30-$50 USD a day, you’ll have a lot of freedom in terms of being able to mix in some indulgences with some more budget-friendly options.

For two weeks, you’re looking at anywhere between $400 to $700 USD, though it’s very easy to be flexible with your food budget at many great restaurants . 

Attractions And Experiences 

This is likely to be one of the trickiest parts of your budget to plan. Traversing through Japan can be affordable or very expensive depending on how you plan and what it is you’d like to do.

The good thing is that you have a range of affordable places to see and things to do in Japan, many of which are highly desirable tourist spots. 

When possible, it’s worth seeing if you can purchase admission or tickets for your planned excursions in advance.

This won’t usually save you money, but in some cases, it might; it’ll definitely save you a lot of time you could waste waiting in long lines to get admissions. It can also help you reserve your spot should you indulge in something where participants are limited. 

Your shopping budget will also have a lot of flexibility depending on your shopping habits. You always want to keep in mind what you have the capacity to bring back with you.

You want to be somewhat generous with your shopping budget no matter your habits, as letting yourself experience all the incredible districts with unique shopping opportunities is a must.

It’s important that you don’t over-promise people regarding what kinds of souvenirs you’ll bring back for them, as you don’t want to blow your spending budget on souvenirs for other people.

There are many places where you can find inexpensive souvenirs for people, however, and not just cheap, boring souvenirs, either. 

Miscellaneous Expenses 

You’ll want to have some room in your budget for things like incidentals or extras that you may not necessarily need but can make your trip more convenient. This can include things like a pocket wifi device so you can look up maps and connect to the internet safely when needed. 

If you can budget for some wiggle room or have a backup plan should you run out of money, it can be a safety net of sorts if you find a few things you just can’t do without.

This is where a credit card with no foreign fees can be handy, though not if you’re the type of person who will be tempted to continuously swipe their card. 

There are some costs associated with traveling to Japan that can’t be avoided, such as your plane ticket and your accommodations. The further in advance you can plan your trip, the better off you’ll be in terms of being able to shop for deals on tickets to sites, plane tickets, and even hotels or ryokans . 

Don’t just stick to fancy restaurants when eating out either; some of the best food you’ll find will be in the streets or in little hole-in-the-wall restaurants that you’ll only discover once a local tells you about it. 

Final Pro Tips On Visiting Japan

Depending on what your travel goals are, Tokyo is the best place to begin your exploration. Even if you are planning on spending your time in another city, it’s best to plan at least one full day there.

It’s a great way to see ultra-modern Japan and experience good food, luxury hotels, and the many Buddhist temple sites.

japan is known as an expensive country to visit and so having credit cards for an unplanned emergency is a great idea.

The Japanese people are incredibly well-mannered and kind. First-time visitors will be surprised, even in crowded Tokyo, by how willing they are to assist you if you find you need help.

The price range for visiting Japan can vary greatly depending on your personal budget, and travel guides are a popular option for your first day in Japan.

It is one of the most expensive countries in the world to visit there is still room for a good deal for savvy travelers. Some single-room business hotels can have lower average prices over larger chains, and many of Japan’s big cities have business hotels.

Finally, if your planning to travel long distances, then train travel is your best option, and comfort and speed is a good reason to opt for the shinkansen if only for a single trip between cities.

Flights can vary greatly depending on your home country, so remember to use sites that can search for great deals on flights, such as Kayak or Flight Hacker, which will charge a small commission to save more.

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The japan vacation budget calculator.

I love researching the best places to go when I go on holiday, especially when it’s in Japan. I love planning, and I love knowing I’ve got the money to do it all. But I can absolutely see that for some people, calculating all of the potential costs associated with a vacation to Japan seems like their worst nightmare.

Well, now you don’t have to! I’ve built a Japan vacation budget calculator to do all the hard work for you. Either compare your holiday’s actual spending to your initial budget or plan everything out beforehand and find out how much money you’ll have left to spend on fun things!

Halfway down this page, you’ll find that calculator and I hope it’ll change the way you plan your trips to Japan!

Table of Contents

Why You Need a Budget in Japan (5 Reasons)

Before you use the Japan trip cost calculator, let’s run through a few reasons why you actually need a budget in Japan (Even if that yen is burning a hole in your pocket!) and why I made it in the first place.

If you’re dreaming of savoring sushi in Tokyo, meditating in serene temples, or getting lost in the vibrant streets of Kyoto, then Japan is calling your name. As a seasoned adventurer and as someone who lives here, I can vouch for the incredible experiences that await you in the Land of the Rising Sun .

However, there’s one essential tool that’ll make your Japan trip even more unforgettable and stress-free: a budget! Actually sitting down and making a budget sounds a bit boring to me, so instead I made something that does it all for you!

Here are just a few reasons why having a budget will make your trip to Japan just that little bit better.

1. Making the Most of Your Yen

Let’s face it – Japan isn’t the cheapest destination on the map. While it offers an array of experiences that are worth every penny, you want to make sure your hard-earned money goes where it matters most – creating memories, not going down the drain.

By having a budget, you’re putting yourself in the driver’s seat of your spending. You’ll know exactly how much you can allocate to flights, accommodations, food, activities, and shopping. This way, you can focus on the things you’re truly passionate about, whether it’s riding Japan’s last sleeper train or skiing on Mount Fuji , without worrying about overspending.

2. Avoiding Post-Trip Regrets

So you’ve had this incredible time in Japan and have all these fantastic memories, and then you return from your magical Japan adventure, only to be greeted by an alarming credit card bill. Ouch!

That’s the last thing you want after having such an awesome trip.

Budgeting in advance helps you avoid those post-trip regrets and the unpleasant surprise of a depleted bank account. By planning your expenses, you’ll have a clear idea of your financial boundaries throughout the trip, ensuring you don’t overspend and end up with a mountain of debt when you return home.

3. Unleashing Your Adventurous Spirit

Here’s a little secret – budgets aren’t about killing spontaneity; they’re about empowering it! Once you’ve used the Japan trip cost calculator and you know how much you can spend on various aspects of your vacation, you can embrace your adventurous spirit fully (and buy all the Pokemon cards in Tokyo that you want ;)).

Imagine being able to say “yes” to that thrilling helicopter ride over Hiroshima or indulging in a Michelin-starred dining experience without guilt. With a budget as your trusty guide, you’ll feel liberated to explore Japan in all its glory, knowing you’ve got your finances under control.

4. Discovering Hidden Gems and Local Experiences

One of the most incredible aspects of traveling is uncovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in local culture. Japan has this in bucketloads!

The beauty of budgeting is that it encourages you to seek out these authentic experiences that often cost little to no money at all.

From strolling through quaint alleyways to stumbling upon a traditional festival, Japan has a plethora of magical moments waiting for you. The latter of which has happened to me in Kyoto before!

A budget helps you prioritize these local adventures, making your trip more meaningful and unforgettable.

5. Creating Lifelong Financial Habits

Last but not least, budgeting isn’t just a travel skill; it’s a life skill that you’ll carry with you long after your Japan journey. Maybe it’s not entirely relevant to your trip, but learning how to manage your money effectively, set financial goals, and stay accountable are invaluable habits for your future endeavors, whether they involve travel or not.

With a budget in hand, we’ll make the most of every yen, embrace our adventurous spirits, and craft memories that’ll last a lifetime.

How can you set a budget for Japan as easily as possible? By using the Japan trip cost calculator underneath!

How to use the Japan vacation calculator

So! It’s time to get to the fun part, the Japan Travel Cost Calculator – your ultimate tool for planning an unforgettable trip to Japan!

Follow these simple steps to gain valuable insights into your travel expenses. And no need to worry if you’ve already been, you can use it as a retrospective calculator to see how your initial budget matches your actual spend.

If you haven’t been yet, it’s a great way to get your head around some of the finances. A lot goes into planning a holiday, especially somewhere like Japan.

It’s all too easy to spend way more than you thought!

This calculator will show you how close you stuck (or will stick) to your initial budget, and let you know the actual cost of your holiday to Japan vs your original budget.

• Select Your Currency and Exchange Rate: Begin by choosing your preferred currency from the dropdown menu. Enter the current exchange rate to Japanese Yen (JPY) or the rate you exchanged your currency for yen. All subsequent inputs will be in your chosen currency, making it easy for you to manage your budget comfortably.
• Input Your Ideal Overall Budget: Enter your ideal overall budget for the entire trip. Don’t worry if it’s not exact; you can always fine-tune it later after the calculations have been made.
• Estimated Flight Costs: Add the expected flight costs per person. This will give you a clear picture of the flight expenses, ensuring you stay well within your budget.
• Consider Hotel Costs: Include the cost of hotels per night for all travelers. Ensuring comfortable accommodation within your budget is crucial. Plus, Japan can be overwhelming and there’s nothing like coming back to a nice relaxing room!
• Calculate Daily Transport and Food Costs: Estimate the expected daily transport and food costs per person. Even a rough estimate will do if you haven’t finalized your itinerary yet. $20-$30 per person should easily cover you for an average day’s traveling.
• Ensure You’re Covered with Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to add the total cost of travel insurance. Having comprehensive travel insurance ensures peace of mind throughout your trip and really isn’t worth skimping on.
• Account for Miscellaneous Costs: Miscellaneous costs can be diverse, ranging from airport parking to pre-booked trips and other expenditures. Make sure to include these costs to have a complete overview of your budget, and be as thorough as you can.
• Specify the Number of Travelers and Trip Duration: Enter the number of travelers joining you on this adventure and the number of days you’ll be exploring Japan.
• Hit Calculate and Uncover Your Insights: With all inputs in place, click the “Calculate” button, and let the magic unfold. Discover valuable insights into your trip costs, including the total estimated expense, a detailed cost breakdown, and any budget left over for extra exploration!

Let’s talk a little bit about those insights and how to understand what they mean.

Your Trip Cost

Upon entering your travel expenses and clicking the “Calculate” button, the Japan trip cost calculator instantly provides you with a comprehensive overview of your estimated total trip cost. The magic happens as the calculator considers essential elements like flight expenses, hotel costs, daily transportation, food, travel insurance, and miscellaneous expenses.

The total trip cost is displayed in your selected currency, such as USD, GBP, or EUR, and simultaneously converted to the Japanese Yen (JPY) for your convenience. This yen conversion allows you to have a clear understanding of the local currency, enabling seamless financial planning while in Japan.

In the case where the total cost exceeds your initial budget, the calculator promptly notifies you, prompting an opportunity for reevaluation and adjustments to align your expenses with your planned budget effectively.

Conversely, if the total cost falls within your budget, you’ll be reassured that your financial planning is on point. This reassurance provides peace of mind and empowers you to embark on your Japan vacation confidently.

Cost Breakdown

The Japan Vacation Budget Calculator goes beyond presenting the total trip cost. It provides a detailed cost breakdown, categorizing expenses to unveil a more comprehensive view of your budget. The breakdown includes individual expenses for flights, hotel accommodation, daily transportation, food, travel insurance, and miscellaneous costs.

For each category, the expenses are presented both in your chosen currency and its equivalent in Japanese Yen (JPY). This dual presentation ensures that you have a crystal-clear understanding of how your expenses translate into the local currency, making your financial decisions in Japan hassle-free.

The cost breakdown also reveals the cost per person, which allows you to analyze expenses on a per-traveler basis. This insight is incredibly beneficial for group trips, ensuring transparency and equal distribution of costs among all travelers.

Budget Left Over

One of the most exciting aspects of using the Japan Vacation Budget Calculator is discovering how much budget you have left after considering all your expenses. If the calculator determines that you have a remaining budget, it will provide this information in your chosen currency, as well as its corresponding value in Japanese Yen (JPY).

Having a budget left over allows you the flexibility to explore additional activities and indulge in unique experiences during your trip. This extra budget, expressed in daily amounts and per person, provides a practical guideline for your daily spending while ensuring you have a safety net for unexpected opportunities or expenses.

With this knowledge, you can confidently immerse yourself in Japan’s rich culture, savor local delicacies, and engage in memorable adventures, knowing that you have budgeted wisely for an unforgettable experience.

Anyway, that’s enough talking from me. It’s time to have a go for yourself!

The Japan Travel Budget Calculator

Japan vacation budget calculator.

Has the calculator shown you a bigger number than you first thought? No problem, here are 5 ways to save money on your trip to Japan

5 Ways to Save Money on Your Trip to Japan

Traveling to Japan doesn’t have to be a drain on your bank account, even if it can sometimes feel like it might be. With a little savvy planning and some insider tips, you can experience the best of this fascinating country without breaking the bank.

Here are five practical ways to save money on your Japan trip:

1. Scoring Cheaper Flights

Let’s start with the big expense – flights. Booking early is your ticket to snagging those sweet deals.

Keep an eye on airlines’ sales and sign up with Going to catch the best prices (literally like 90% off your flights…). Also, consider being flexible with your travel dates – flying mid-week or during shoulder seasons often comes with lower fares.

Another nifty trick is to check nearby airports and alternative routes. Sometimes, flying to a different city in Japan and taking a domestic flight can save you a bundle. Not always the case, and not always ideal, but it can sometimes work out well.

2. Making Extra Income Along the Way

Now, this might sound a bit unconventional, but hear me out – you can actually make some extra yen while traveling in Japan! How? Well, put your skills to good use! If you’re a talented photographer, consider offering photography services to fellow travelers. Love writing? Start a travel blog and share your Japan adventures.

I’ve written a massive article about how to earn money in Japan , and while the majority of those suggestions are for people considering living in Japan, it could absolutely work for you as well

Alternatively, and depending on your visa, you can teach English online during your downtime or offer language exchange sessions with locals. This gives you a chance to earn a little extra income and enriches your travel experience by connecting with people on a deeper level.

3. Traveling Off-Peak

Want to experience the beauty of Japan without the crowds and the hefty price tags? Travel during the off-peak seasons. Spring and autumn are popular, but consider visiting during the shoulder months when the weather is still lovely, and prices are more budget-friendly.

Not only will you save on flights to Japan and accommodations, but you’ll also enjoy a more authentic experience, mingling with locals rather than fellow tourists. Plus, attractions and activities are less crowded, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in Japan’s culture and beauty.

4. Embracing Free Things

Ah, the beauty of freebies – they’re the traveler’s best friend! Japan offers a wealth of free or low-cost activities that are as enriching as they are enjoyable.

Explore the serene gardens, parks, and temples scattered throughout the country – many of them are open to the public at no charge. Enjoy the city lights by taking a leisurely stroll through bustling neighborhoods.

Don’t forget to research free events, festivals, and cultural activities happening during your visit – they’re fantastic opportunities to experience Japan’s traditions without spending a yen.

5. Eating Smart and Savvy

Let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic – food! Japanese cuisine is undeniably delicious, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. While treating yourself to something special during your trip is a must, balance it out with more budget-friendly options as well.

Seek out local eateries, “izakayas” (Japanese pubs), and “tachinomiya” (standing bars) are perfect for affordable and tasty meals. Convenience stores are your best friend for quick and cheap bites, and they’re also so damn delicious!

Additionally, some restaurants offer lunchtime specials or “set meals” that give you great value for your money.

Congratulations! You have now mastered the art of budgeting for your dream vacation to Japan with the help of our Japanese Travel Budget Calculator. Armed with valuable insights into your trip costs, including the yen conversion, you can confidently plan your itinerary, book accommodations, and explore the wonders of Japan without worrying about exceeding your budget.

So, you’ve sorted out the budget, but you’re still a little sure about where to go? Take this Japan travel quiz I’ve made specifically for you. It’ll tell you where your next great adventure lies in Japan!

My Top Japan Travel Resources:

What’s the best way to get cheap flights to Japan?

Going  is BY FAR the best way to secure dirt-cheap flights to Japan. We’re talking as much as 90% off!

Should I live in Japan?

Maybe  – I’ve made  this quiz  specifically for you! Who knows, perhaps you’re closer to those bowls of ramen than you think 😉

Where should I visit next in Japan?

It depends  – To help you figure it out, I’ve made  this quiz  just for you!

Can I get online in Japan?

You can!  –  The eSIM  is the one I’d recommend using, plus it’s perfect if you’re planning to travel somewhere else afterward.

Can you help me plan my trip to Japan?

Yes  – I’ve got a  Japan bucket list  just for you! Simply download the PDF, print it out, and tick off some of the things you’d like to see, do, and eat.  

Can I get money out in Japan without getting charged?

Yep  –  The Zero-fee card    I use to get money in Japan hasn’t steered me wrong yet. Highly recommended to any traveler!

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Jonny Gleason

Jonny is the founder of A Day of Zen and has an unhealthy obsession with Japan. In 2022 he moved to Japan on a mission to give his audience the best possible information. He's helped over 300,000 plan their trip so far, and is eager to make that number much bigger!

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Japan Travel Budget Reddit

Traveling to Japan for the first time can be an exciting and intimidating experience, especially when it comes to budgeting for the trip. Many travelers turn to the Reddit website for discussion and advice on topics such as Japan travel budget. Reddit is a great platform for researching Japan travel budget tips and questions, with many active forums.

With a population of 130 million, Japan is the world’s tenth most populous country. Japan is an island nation in East Asia that is known for its unique and fascinating cultural attractions ranging from historical temples to high-end cuisine. Tourists from around the world visit Japan to experience its cultural richness. It is estimated that the number of international visitors to Japan in 2020 will exceed 30 million.

When it comes to preparing a budget for a trip to Japan, it is important to do some research and plan ahead. On Reddit, one can find numerous travelers sharing their thoughts on their experiences and cost estimates, including discussions on accommodation prices, transportation fees, and cultural activities. Other topics often discussed include how inexpensive Japan is for travelers, currency exchange rates, exchange rate trends, and areas to watch out for when dealing with money in Japan.

Currency exchange is also another consideration when budgeting for a trip to Japan. In Japan, the primary currency is the Japanese yen, and when traveling to the country, one should exchange enough money for the duration of the trip as it is not safe to rely on foreign currency exchange outside Japan. It is also important to factor in the cost of local transportation, such as trains, buses, and subways.

Accommodation is another key factor in preparing a budget for a trip to Japan. Japan offers a wide range of accommodation choices, from budget hotels to luxurious ryokans. On Reddit, users often share their experiences and advice on the types of accommodation to look out for, such as budget hotels with excellent amenities, and compare different hotel prices.

When it comes to budgeting for food, Japan has a wide variety of cuisines to choose from. Most restaurants and cafes offer excellent value for money, but one should also consider meals prepared at home in order to save money. Some travelers on Reddit have suggested packing snacks to save on food costs. The cost of alcoholic drinks is also something to consider when budgeting for a trip to Japan.

For many travelers, preparing a travel budget for a trip to Japan can be a daunting task. Fortunately, discussions on Reddit can offer helpful hints and advice. The forums are filled with experienced travelers who are happy to share their tips and experience on budgeting for a trip to Japan.

Travel Tips

Travelers to Japan should always plan ahead to ensure they are making the most of their trip. Reddit discussions offer plenty of advice on effective decision-making when it comes to budgeting for a trip to Japan. Users often share information on the best time to travel, the most economical way to get around, and the best places to stay.

It is also important to research the various transportation options, such as trains, buses, and subways. Travellers should get familiar with Japan’s railway system and look for the most cost effective transportation option for getting around. Japan Rail Pass and regional passes are also popular choices for long distance travel.

When planning a trip to Japan, it is also important to allocate some money for cultural activities. There are many attractions to visit, from ancient shrines and temples to trendy shops and museums. Cultural activities have an associated cost, which should be considered when budgeting for a trip to Japan.

Finally, one should also consider the cost of medical care and insurance when traveling to Japan. While travelers from most countries can access services in Japan without a Visa for up to 90 days, it is important to check the current travel regulations before departure.

Money Saving Tips

When budgeting for a trip to Japan, it is important to factor in the cost of living. While Japan is not an inexpensive country, it is possible to experience all of its wonders without breaking the bank. Travelers on Reddit often share their money saving tips, including comparison shopping for accommodation and transportation, looking out for discounts, and utilizing coupon books.

One of the best ways to save money when traveling to Japan is to make a list of activities that one wishes to do and allocate a set amount of money towards each one. This way, travelers can set a budget for each activity and stick to it. Additionally, it is also important to be mindful of the money spent on souvenirs and gifts while in Japan. Careful budgeting can help keep costs down and make the experience more enjoyable.

Japan has a wide variety of restaurants and cafés, many of which offer great value for money. Eating at these establishments can help save money in comparison to fine dining. In addition, travelers should research grocery stores to find bargains on local foods. Buying food in supermarkets is often much cheaper than eating out.

Finally, when shopping for clothes, it is a good idea to visit local markets where one can find great bargains. In many cases, shoppers can haggle for better prices. Shopping around at different stores can also help travelers find the best deal for their desired items.

Safety Tips

While traveling in Japan is generally considered safe, it is important to maintain awareness of one’s surroundings and practice safety precautions, especially at night. On Reddit, travelers often suggest avoiding dark and deserted areas at night and carrying a map and wallet to minimize risks.

It is also important to be aware of the laws in Japan, as the penalties for breaking the law are very severe. It is important to make sure any drugs or medication in one’s possession is allowed in Japan, and to always take identification with one when going out.

Finally, travelers should also be aware of the potential risk of natural disasters in Japan. Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis are a potential risk that should be taken into consideration when planning for a trip to Japan. It is important to stay up-to-date with the latest weather reports and updates from the local authorities.

Destination Advice

With travelers from around the world flocking to Japan to experience its unique culture, there are plenty of destinations to choose from. Tokyo is the most popular city in Japan, and a great place to start. On Reddit, travelers often share their experience and provide destination advice on experiencing the best of Tokyo and other cities.

When it comes to experiencing traditional Japanese culture, Kyoto is the destination of choice. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, and it is known for its temples, shrines, and picturesque gardens. Many travelers recommend visiting Kyoto for its historical and cultural sites.

Hokkaido is another popular destination in Japan, and it is known for its unspoiled natural beauty. From the spectacular Lake Toya to the snow covered ski slopes, Hokkaido is sure to enchant visitors. Those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city should consider visiting the rural towns and villages of Hokkaido.

For visitors looking to experience modern Japan, Tokyo is the perfect destination, as it is filled with a variety of attractions, from shopping malls to cutting-edge restaurants. Those looking for a more relaxed experience should consider checking out Osaka, which is known for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and cozy restaurants.

Finally, Okinawa is the perfect place to visit for a tropical getaway. Okinawa is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and unique cultural attractions. It is the perfect destination for those looking for a laid-back vacation in the sun.

Travel Apps

One of the main concerns for travelers when planning a trip to Japan is navigating the country. Smartphones are a great tool when traveling, and they can be used to help travelers find their way around. On Reddit, travelers often share their experiences and advice on useful travel apps for Japan.

Google maps is an essential tool for navigating Japan, as it can help identify different locations and provide directions. Additionally, when walking in urban areas, one can find walking apps which can provide useful information on landmarks and attractions in the vicinity.

For those looking for transportation options, train and bus navigation apps can be extremely helpful. These applications can help identify the most efficient routes and anticipate delays. Additionally, there are also taxi and ride-hailing apps available in Japan.

Finally, there are a variety of useful language apps that can help travelers make sense of Japan’s complex language barriers. These applications provide helpful phrasebooks which allow travelers to converse with local people. Additionally, smartphone translations can decipher complex signs and menus.

Miscellaneous Tips

Over the years, the Reddit forums have become a rich source of tips and advice for travelers preparing for a trip to Japan. Below are some miscellaneous tips and advice on preparing for a trip to Japan-

1. Research prepaid SIM cards – Prepaid SIM cards are a great way to stay connected when traveling to Japan. On Reddit, travelers often share their experiences and advice on which SIM cards are the best for different cities in Japan.

2. Take plenty of cash with you – In Japan, many establishments do not accept credit or debit cards. It is important to carry enough cash to cover all expenses.

3. Exercise caution when taking photographs –

Nancy Weiner

Nancy A. Weiner is an experienced journalist and author specializing in Japan. She is a published author of several books and articles about Japanese culture, history and politics. She has also been a featured guest speaker at many international conferences on Japanese culture, politics and education.

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US Pentagon chief speaks with Chinese counterpart for first time since November 2022

FILE - Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin testifies before Senate Committee on Armed Services during a hearing on Department of Defense Budget Request for Fiscal Year 2025 and the Future Years Defense Program on Capitol Hill in Washington, April 9, 2024. Austin has spoken with China’s national defense minister in the latest in a series of U.S. steps to improve communications with the Chinese military and reduce unsafe and aggressive incidents in the Indo-Pacific. It is the first time Austin has talked to Adm. Dong Jun. And it’s the first time he has spoken at length with any Chinese counterpart since November 2022. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke with China’s national defense minister Tuesday morning, in the latest in a series of U.S. steps to improve communications with the Chinese military and reduce unsafe and aggressive incidents in the Indo-Pacific.

It was the first time Austin has talked to Adm. Dong Jun and the first time he has spoken at length with any Chinese counterpart since November 2022. The call, which lasted a bit more than an hour, comes as Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to travel to China this month for talks.

Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, said that Austin “emphasized the importance of continuing to open lines of military-to-military communication” between the United States and the People’s Republic of China. And he underscored the importance of respect for freedom of navigation on the seas, especially in the South China Sea.

Washington and Beijing have been working to expand communications and ease escalating tensions. Military-to-military contact stalled in August 2022, when Beijing suspended all such communication after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan , which China claims as its own.

The thaw in relations between the two world powers got a kick-start last November when President Joe Biden and China’s President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco. About a month later, Gen. CQ Brown , chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, spoke with his Chinese counterpart in a video call — in the first senior military-to-military contact since the Pelosi visit.

Austin’s call with Dong has been widely anticipated, but the admiral was only appointed to the defense job in December. Previous defense minister Wei Fenghe turned down a Pentagon request to speak with Austin last year after the U.S. shot down a Chinese spy balloon that had floated across the country. Austin had previously met with Wei in 2022 on the sidelines of a defense conference in Cambodia.

Defense officials are concerned about unsafe and unprofessional incidents involving the U.S. and Chinese militaries in the Pacific.

Pelosi’s visit sparked a surge in military maneuvers by China. Beijing dispatched warships and aircraft across the median line in the Taiwan Strait, claiming the de facto boundary did not exist, fired missiles over Taiwan itself, and challenged established norms by firing missiles into Japan’s exclusive economic zone.

During the following two years, U.S. military officials repeatedly objected to a range of unsafe intercepts by Chinese aircraft in the Pacific and other dangerous incidents. Some of those confrontations have ebbed a bit, but the U.S. has been concerned about aggressive behavior by Chinese vessels against Philippine ships in the South China Sea.

Ryder said that Austin in his conversation with Dong also discussed Russia’s war in Ukraine, concerns about North Korea and the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

A senior defense official told reporters that Austin’s call on Tuesday gives the U.S. the opportunity to prevent ongoing competition with China from veering into conflict. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to provide a preview of the call, said the U.S. hasn’t seen any unsafe or unprofessional intercepts of American aircraft since last November, but China’s coercive behavior toward Philippines’ ships risks escalation.

U.S. and Chinese defense officials met earlier this month in Hawaii to discuss aggressive ship and aircraft incidents between the two militaries in the Pacific region. The two-day China-U.S. Military Maritime Consultative Agreement meeting included about 18 military and civilian personnel from each side and it was the first time since 2019 that it was held in person. There was a virtual meeting in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic.