Tips to Manage Your Budget in Japan
Japan is often seen as expensive, but with some planning, it’s absolutely possible to manage your budget in Japan without missing out on incredible experiences.
Here is a practical, detailed guide with real addresses, apps, and concrete tips to help you save money on transportation, accommodation, and restaurants during your trip.
1- Transportation: Getting Around Affordably
Transportation in Japan can be costly, but you can optimize your budget with these options:
✅ Japan Rail Pass (purchase before arriving): Unlimited JR travel for 7, 14, or 21 days. Perfect if visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima.
More info here
✅ IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo, Icoca): For easy use on metros and buses without buying tickets each time. Recharge at stations or konbini.
✅ Willer Express (long-distance buses): Affordable overnight buses like Tokyo-Kyoto from around €30, saving on a night’s accommodation.
Book here
✅ Bicycle rental:
- Kyoto: Kyoto Cycling Tour Project
- Tokyo: Docomo Bike Share
✅ Useful apps:
- Navitime Japan Travel: For route planning and transport info.
- Google Maps: Reliable for walking, buses, and metro navigation.
2- Accommodation: Sleep Comfortably Without Breaking the Bank
Accommodation is often a major expense in your budget in Japan. Here are affordable and comfortable options:
✅ Capsule Hotels:
- Nine Hours (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka): Modern and minimal from €25/night.
- First Cabin: Premium capsule experience.
✅ Hostels:
- K’s House Kyoto: Great atmosphere from €20/night.
- IRORI Nihonbashi Hostel (Tokyo): Cozy with kitchen access.
✅ Business Hotels:
Chains like APA Hotel, Toyoko Inn, and Super Hotel offer compact, clean rooms with breakfast included.
✅ Airbnb & Guesthouses:
Affordable for longer stays or if traveling in groups, especially in Osaka or smaller towns.
3- Restaurants: Eat Well Without Spending a Fortune
🍜 Eating is part of the Japanese experience, and it doesn’t have to be expensive:
✅ Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Lawson, Family Mart):
- Onigiri: €0.80-1.20
- Fresh bentos: €3-5
- Try local snacks.
✅ Kaitenzushi (Conveyor Belt Sushi):
✅ Lunch Sets (Teishoku):
Many restaurants offer complete lunch sets (main dish, rice, miso soup) for €5-8.
✅ Street Food & Markets:
- Dotonbori (Osaka): Try takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
- Nishiki Market (Kyoto): Local snacks.
- Ameya Yokocho (Tokyo): Affordable skewers and street food.
🌸 Traveling in Japan Without Breaking Your Budget
Planning your budget in Japan carefully allows you to enjoy temples, lively neighborhoods, onsens, and delicious food without overspending.
With these practical tips and addresses, you can savor your trip fully while keeping your finances under control.
🎁 Want to go further?
Download my free ebook “Start Japanese with Maya” to learn essential phrases for traveling in Japan, understanding menus, and interacting with locals.
