2024 Japan Travel on a Budget: Tips and Tricks for a Memorable Trip - Trip.com (2024)

How much does it cost for food when travelling to Japan?

Osaka Dotonbori

• Street food or fast food: around 300 to 800 Japanese yen (around $3 to $8 USD)
• Casual dining or local restaurants: around 800 to 2,000 Japanese yen (around $8 to $20 USD) per meal
• Mid-range restaurants: around 2,000 to 5,000 Japanese yen (around $20 to $50 USD) per meal
• High-end or luxury restaurants: around 10,000 to 20,000 Japanese yen (around $100 to $200 USD) per meal or more.

In addition to restaurants, there are also many affordable options for food in Japan, such as convenience stores and supermarkets, which offer a variety of tasty and healthy food at reasonable prices. It's worth noting that tipping is not customary in Japan, so the prices listed above are typically the final price you will pay. Also, keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the location and the time of year.

How much does it cost for souvenirs when travelling to Japan?

Blue Bottle Coffee

• Japanese snacks and sweets: prices vary depending on the item and packaging, but small boxes or bags of sweets can cost around 300 to 500 Japanese yen (around $3 to $5 USD), while larger boxes or packages can cost around 1,000 to 2,000 yen (around $10 to $20 USD).
• Traditional crafts and goods: prices for traditional crafts such as pottery, lacquerware, and textiles can vary widely depending on the item's quality, size, and the artist's reputation. Prices for traditional crafts can range from a few thousand yen to tens of thousands of yen (from around $20 to $200 USD or more).
• Anime and pop culture merchandise: items such as figurines, keychains, and clothing featuring popular anime or manga characters can range from a few hundred yen to several thousand yen (from around $3 to $30 USD or more).

It's worth noting that many souvenir shops in tourist areas have fixed prices, but there may be room for negotiation in other types of stores, such as flea markets or antique shops. Additionally, keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the time of year, and it's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

How much does it cost for transportation when travelling to Japan?

Osaka Nankai Line Airport Express

• Train and subway: The cost of train and subway tickets in Japan depends on the distance traveled and the type of train. For example, a single ride on a Tokyo subway line can cost around 200 to 400 Japanese yen (around $2 to $4 USD), while a ride on a long-distance bullet train (Shinkansen) can cost around 10,000 to 20,000 yen (around $100 to $200 USD) or more, depending on the distance and train type.
• Bus: Local buses in Japan generally cost around 200 to 500 Japanese yen (around $2 to $5 USD) per ride, depending on the distance and location.
• Taxi: Taxis in Japan can be quite expensive, with prices starting at around 600 to 700 Japanese yen (around $6 to $7 USD) for the first kilometer and increasing by around 100 to 200 yen (around $1 to $2 USD) per additional 200 to 300 meters.
• Rental car: Rental cars in Japan can be expensive, with prices starting at around 5,000 to 8,000 Japanese yen (around $50 to $80 USD) per day, depending on the type of car and rental location.

It's also worth noting that Japan has several transportation passes and discount tickets available for visitors, such as the Japan Rail Pass, which allows unlimited travel on most JR trains for a fixed period, and the Tokyo Subway Ticket, which provides unlimited travel on Tokyo subways for a fixed period. These passes can be a good value if you plan to do a lot of traveling in a short period.

How much does it cost for sightseeing when travelling to Japan?

Universal Studios Japan

• Temples and shrines: Many temples and shrines in Japan are free to enter, while others may charge a small admission fee ranging from 200 to 500 Japanese yen (around $2 to $5 USD).
• Museums and galleries: Admission fees for museums and galleries in Japan vary widely depending on the location and type of museum. Prices typically range from around 500 to 2,000 Japanese yen (around $5 to $20 USD) per person.
• Theme parks: Admission fees for theme parks in Japan vary depending on the location and type of park. Prices typically range from around 2,000 to 8,000 Japanese yen (around $20 to $80 USD) per person.
• Onsen (hot springs): Prices for onsen vary depending on the location and type of onsen. Prices typically range from around 500 to 3,000 Japanese yen (around $5 to $30 USD) per person.
• Tours and activities: Prices for tours and activities in Japan vary depending on the type of activity, location, and duration. Prices typically range from around 2,000 to 10,000 Japanese yen (around $20 to $100 USD) per person.

It's also worth noting that there are many free or low-cost sightseeing options in Japan, such as walking tours, parks, and public gardens, which can provide a great experience without breaking the bank. Additionally, some attractions offer discounts or free admission for foreign visitors, so be sure to check before you go

How much does it cost for WiFi & communication when travelling to Japan?

Japan eSIM Day Pass

1. Rental Wi-Fi router: Rental Wi-Fi routers are a popular option for tourists in Japan. Prices typically range from around 700 to 1,200 Japanese yen (around $7 to $12 USD) per day, depending on the rental company and plan. Some companies offer discounts for longer rental periods.
2. SIM card: Another option is to purchase a prepaid SIM card for your mobile device. Prices typically range from around 3,000 to 5,000 Japanese yen (around $30 to $50 USD), depending on the data plan and provider.
3. Free Wi-Fi: Many public places in Japan, such as airports, train stations, and coffee shops, offer free Wi-Fi. However, the quality and availability of free Wi-Fi can vary widely.

It's also worth noting that some hotels and accommodations offer free Wi-Fi for guests, so be sure to check before booking. Additionally, some smartphone apps, such as Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi, provide access to free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout Japan. Overall, the cost of Wi-Fi in Japan can vary depending on the method of access and the data plan. However, there are many options available for travelers to stay connected while in Japan

How much does it cost for passport when travelling to Japan?

Sensō-ji

• In the United States, the cost of a new passport book for an adult (16 years or older) is $145, while a child's passport (under 16 years) is $115. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.
• In the United Kingdom, the cost of a standard adult passport is £75.50, while a child's passport is £49. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.
• In Australia, the cost of a new adult passport is AUD $298, while a child's passport is AUD $148. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.

It's important to note that passport fees can vary depending on the country of citizenship and the type of application. Additionally, some countries may require additional fees for visa applications or other travel documents. It's always a good idea to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on passport and visa requirements and fees.

How much does it cost for insurance when travelling to Japan?

• For a single trip to Japan, travel insurance can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 USD, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip.
• For an annual travel insurance policy that covers multiple trips to Japan and other destinations, the cost can range from $100 to $500 USD or more, depending on the coverage and frequency of travel.
• Comprehensive travel insurance policies that include medical coverage, trip cancellation/interruption coverage, and other benefits can cost more than basic policies that only cover certain aspects of travel.

It's important to shop around and compare travel insurance policies from different providers to find the coverage that best meets your needs and budget. Be sure to read the policy details carefully and understand what is and isn't covered, as well as any deductibles or exclusions. Additionally, some credit cards and travel booking sites offer travel insurance as a benefit or add-on, so be sure to check those options as well.

How much does it cost for 2 nights & 3 days when travelling to Japan?

TeamLab Planets TOKYO

• Flights: Depending on your location, flights to Japan can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 for a round-trip ticket.
• Accommodation: Budget hotels or hostels can range from $20 to $50 per night, so for 2 nights, you can expect to spend around $40 to $100 for accommodation.
• Transportation: Japan has an excellent public transportation system, and a one-way subway or train ticket can cost around $1.50 to $5. For 3 days, you can expect to spend around $30 to $50 for transportation.
• Food and drinks: Meals at budget restaurants can cost around $5 to $10 per meal, while street food and convenience store meals can cost even less. Drinks can range from $1 to $5, depending on the type of drink and location. For 3 days, you can expect to spend around $60 to $100 for food and drinks.
• Sightseeing and activities: Some popular attractions like temples and shrines may be free or cost a small entrance fee, while other attractions like theme parks or museums can cost upwards of $20 per person. For 3 days, you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 for sightseeing and activities.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $200 to $400 for a 2-night, 3-day trip to Japan. It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, activities, and other expenses.

How much does it cost for family, couples or single when travelling to Japan?

Tokyo DisneySea

• Airfare: The cost of airfare to Japan can vary depending on the departure city and the time of year. A round-trip ticket from the United States to Japan can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 USD per person.
• Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Japan can vary depending on the type of lodging and the location. A budget hotel or hostel can cost around $50 to $100 USD per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost around $100 to $200 USD per night. Luxury hotels and ryokans can cost upwards of $500 USD per night.
• Food and drink: The cost of food and drink in Japan can vary depending on the type of cuisine and the level of luxury. A budget meal at a local restaurant can cost around $7 to $15 USD per person, while a mid-range meal can cost around $20 to $50 USD per person. A cup of coffee can cost around $3 to $5 USD, while a beer can cost around $5 to $8 USD.
• Transportation: The cost of transportation in Japan can vary depending on the mode of travel and the distance. A single metro or train ticket can cost around $1 to $5 USD, while a long-distance bullet train ticket can cost upwards of $100 USD. Taxis and car rentals can also add to the transportation costs.

Overall, the cost of traveling to Japan can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person, depending on the factors mentioned above. A family, couple, or single traveler can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 USD or more for a trip to Japan, depending on the travel style and preferences.

Methods to save money when travelling to Japan

Akihabara

1. Visit during the shoulder season: The high season in Japan is during the cherry blossom season in spring (late March to early April) and the fall foliage season in autumn (October to November). If you can travel during the shoulder season (April to May and September to November), you may be able to find lower prices on flights and accommodation.
2. Use public transportation: Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trains, subways, and buses. Using public transportation instead of taxis or rental cars can save you money on transportation costs.
3. Eat like a local: Japan has a diverse and delicious food culture, and there are many affordable options for eating out. Look for local restaurants and street food vendors that offer affordable options like ramen, udon, and sushi. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson also offer affordable and tasty meals.
4. Stay in budget accommodations: Japan has a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Staying in a budget hostel or guesthouse can save you money on accommodation costs, and many hostels offer private rooms as well as dormitory-style accommodations.
5. Take advantage of free attractions: Japan has many free attractions, such as parks, temples, and shrines. You can also find free museums and art galleries in some cities.
6. Purchase a Japan Rail Pass: If you plan to travel around Japan by train, purchasing a Japan Rail Pass can save you money on train tickets. The pass allows you to travel on most JR trains, including the bullet train, for a set period of time.

Tips for travelling to Japan

1. Learn some basic Japanese phrases: While many Japanese people speak English, it is still helpful to learn some basic Japanese phrases like hello, thank you, and excuse me. This can make it easier to communicate with locals.
2. Follow local customs and etiquette: Japanese culture has many customs and etiquette rules that may be different from what you are used to. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain businesses like traditional ryokans. Be sure to read up on local customs and etiquette before you go to avoid any cultural misunderstandings.
3. Carry cash: While credit cards are accepted in many places in Japan, some smaller businesses may only accept cash. Be sure to carry some cash with you, especially if you plan to visit more rural areas or small towns.
4. Use public transportation: Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that includes trains, subways, and buses. It is a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the country, especially in larger cities like Tokyo.
5. Purchase a prepaid transportation card: If you plan to use public transportation in Japan, consider purchasing a prepaid transportation card like Suica or Pasmo. These cards can be used on most public transportation systems and make it easy to pay for fares without having to purchase tickets each time.
6. Take advantage of free Wi-Fi: Many train stations, convenience stores, and tourist attractions offer free Wi-Fi. You can also rent a pocket Wi-Fi device or purchase a SIM card for your phone.
7. Be mindful of the weather: Japan has a diverse climate, with different regions experiencing different weather patterns. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly. In the summer, it can be hot and humid, while in the winter, it can be cold and snowy.

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