Visiting Japan on a Budget: 15 Essential Money-Saving Tips

Japan is a dream destination for many travelers, but you might be wondering how you can visit Japan on a budget. When you add up the costs of flights, accommodation, transportation, food and activities, it can all get pretty pricey. For those visiting Japan for the first time, keeping costs low might seem overwhelming or even impossible. The good news is that with the right strategies, you can explore Japan without having to spend a fortune.

Visiting Japan on a budget is possible by using regional travel passes, staying in budget-friendly accommodations, enjoying free attractions or eating at wallet-friendly places. Tourists can save significantly without sacrificing the experience by using some essential tips.

This guide will show you practical, actionable tips to make your dream trip to Japan more affordable and stress-free.

Saving Money on Flights and Transportation

Air China is a good option to visit Japan on a budget
Air China airplane ©Ana Costa

1. Book Flights During Off-Peak Seasons

One of the best ways to save on your Japan trip is to book flights during off-peak seasons. Airfare can really impact your budget, so timing your trip right can make a big difference. If you’re able to travel between certain dates, you can avoid the busiest times for flights and get a better price.

Japan’s peak seasons, like cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (November), attract crowds from all over the world, so flights, accommodation, and even local attractions are more expensive. If you travel during off-peak times, like January (after New Year’s), February, or early June, you can save hundreds of dollars on airfare alone. Flights during these months are often 20-50% cheaper, depending on where you’re leaving from.

How to Save Money on Flights

  1. Understand Off-Peak Seasons in Japan: Try to avoid major holidays and festivals like Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year’s (late December to early January). Instead, focus on the quieter months when there are fewer tourists around.
  2. Use Fare Comparison Tools: Websites like Trip let you compare prices across different airlines and see the cheapest dates to fly. For instance, a round-trip flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo could drop from $1,200 during cherry blossom season to as low as $700 in February (that’s around 40% less the usual price).
  3. Book Early or Watch for Deals: It’s usually cheapest to book flights in advance (about three to eight months). Set up price alerts on fare tracking websites so you can be notified when prices drop (Trip offers this possibility). Also, keep an eye out for airlines’ promotional sales, which often happen mid-week.
  4. Be Flexible with Dates and Airports: If you can, move your departure and return dates by a few days to find flights at a better price. You might also want to check flights arriving in different airports, like Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) instead of Tokyo Narita (NRT), if it makes sense with your itinerary.
  5. Consider Layovers: It’s true that direct flights save time, but it’s often cheaper to take flights with layovers. For instance, you could save upwards of $200 per ticket by flying to Japan via South Korea, Taiwan, or China.
  6. Additional Savings with Flight Bundles: Some platforms, like Trip, let you combine your flight with accommodations. These packages often include big discounts, especially during off-peak seasons.

2. Use Budget Airlines for Domestic Travel

If you’re visiting multiple cities or regions, flying with budget carriers can save time and money compared to bullet trains (shinkansen). While the shinkansen offers a convenient and scenic way to travel between cities, ticket prices can add up quickly. For example, a one-way trip from Tokyo to Osaka on the shinkansen costs around ¥14,000 (94 USD).

In contrast, budget airlines like Peach Aviation, Jetstar Japan, and Spring Airlines Japan offer flights for as low as ¥4,000 (27 USD) during promotions. Even after factoring in luggage fees, this is often cheaper than train travel.

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How to Save Money on Domestic Travel

  1. Search for Budget Airlines: Use websites like Trip or Google Flights to compare prices and find the best deals for domestic flights. Search early and keep an eye out for flash sales.
  2. Book Early: Like international flights, budget airlines offer the best prices when you book months in advance. The closer you get to your departure date, the higher the fares will be.
  3. Know the Main Budget Airlines in Japan: Familiarize yourself with Japan’s top low-cost carriers:
    • Peach Aviation (hubs in Osaka and Tokyo)
    • Jetstar Japan (hubs in Tokyo and Osaka)
    • Air Do (specializing in flights to/from Hokkaido)
    • Skymark Airlines (offering many routes nationwide)
  4. Watch for Extra Fees: Budget airlines make up for low ticket prices with additional fees. Plan ahead to avoid extra costs:
    • Luggage Fees: Pack light to avoid checked baggage fees.
    • Seat Selection Fees: Skip this option unless necessary.
    • Food and Drinks: Bring your own snacks to avoid paying onboard.
  5. Use Convenient Airports: Budget airlines often operate from smaller or less central airports like Tokyo Narita (NRT) or Osaka Kansai (KIX). Factor in travel time and costs to/from the airport when comparing prices.

3. Travel Overnight to Save on Accommodation

Accommodation costs in Japan can be pretty high, especially in cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, where even budget hotels often start at ¥6,000–¥10,000 (40–68 USD) per night.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to explore Japan, overnight travel is a great option. It saves money on both transportation and accommodation while giving you the chance to make the most of your time. There are lots of affordable options, so it’s a great strategy to consider for long-distance trips.

How to Save Money with Overnight Travel

  1. Choose the Right Mode of Overnight Travel
    • Overnight Buses: These are the most affordable option. Companies like Willer Express, JR Bus, and Kosoku Bus offer various comfort levels, from basic seats to luxury sleepers with reclining chairs and blankets.
    • Night Trains: Though limited, options like the Sunrise Izumo and Sunrise Seto night trains let you travel in comfort. Rail pass holders can even book certain seats at no extra cost. For example, using the night train Sunrise Izumo from Tokyo to Himeji takes 7h30m and costs around ¥13,000. The same route using the shinkansen costs ¥15,000 plus the cost of a night at the hotel.
  2. Book Early for the Best Deals: Just like flights, overnight bus tickets are cheapest when booked in advance. Visit bus websites or use platforms like Japan Bus Online to compare schedules and prices.
  3. Pick the Right Bus Class: Overnight buses in Japan range from basic (standard seating) to premium options, which provide more space and amenities. If you’re willing to pay a little extra, the upgraded classes can still save money compared to hotels.
  4. Plan Your Trip Around Transit Hubs: Many overnight buses leave from or arrive at major transportation hubs like Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, or Osaka Station. Stay near these areas to make your journey easier.

4. Use Regional Travel Passes

Be aware that train and bus fares in Japan can really add up, especially if you’re traveling between cities or visiting multiple attractions in one area. A regional pass gives you unlimited travel within a certain area at a fixed price, which is often cheaper than buying two or three regular round-trip tickets.

For instance, the Kansai Area Pass (¥4,800 for two days) covers unlimited travel in the Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara region, which could easily cost over ¥6,000 with individual tickets. The Kansai-Hiroshima Pass (¥17,000 for five days) is great for exploring places like Tottori, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. A one-way ticket to Hiroshima costs almost ¥10,000, so this pass is already worth it for a round-trip from Osaka to Hiroshima.

Popular Regional Passes

How to Choose the Right Pass

  1. Take a Look at Your Itinerary: Calculate the cost of individual tickets for your planned destinations. If the total exceeds the pass price, the pass is a better deal.
  2. Check Validity and Coverage: Make sure the pass covers the routes, or transport modes you intend to use. Some passes include private railways, buses, or even ferries.
  3. Timing Matters: Passes are typically valid for consecutive days. Plan your travel schedule to maximize their usage during the validity period.

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Saving Money on Accommodation

Capsule hotel
Nine Hours capsule hotel ©Ana Costa

5. Stay in Capsule Hotels for Short Stays

Capsule hotels are a great budget-friendly option for travelers in Japan, especially for short stays or solo trips. These tiny sleeping pods are compact and efficient, providing a clean place to sleep at a great price—without the high rate you’d pay for a traditional hotel.

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Capsule hotels are much more affordable than standard hotels, with prices typically ranging between ¥2,000 and ¥5,000 ($15–$40) per night. This makes them perfect for:

  • One-night stays when you need to catch an early train or flight.
  • Exploring city centers, as many are located near major train stations or attractions.
  • Solo travelers who don’t need extra space or amenities.

Tips for Staying in Capsule Hotels

  1. Book in Advance: Capsule hotels in popular areas like Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking ahead ensures availability and sometimes better rates. With Trip you can filter your research by property type and select only capsule hotels.
  2. Pack Light: Space is limited, so bring only the essentials for your stay. Large suitcases can often be stored in a separate luggage area, but a smaller bag or backpack is easier to manage.
  3. Know the Rules: Most capsule hotels have strict quiet hours and rules about using shared facilities. Respect these to ensure a pleasant experience for yourself and others.
  4. Choose the Right Capsule Hotel: Some are designed with specific types of travelers in mind, like women-only floors or business-focused amenities. Check out the reviews and features that align with what you’re looking for.
  5. Use Provided Amenities: Many capsule hotels provide free toiletries, towels, and sleepwear, saving you packing space and extra costs.

6. Use Airbnb or Hostels for Group Stays

Traditional hotels can get pricey for groups, but Airbnb and hostels offer more affordable options that still provide comfort and convenience. If you split the cost of a rental or private hostel room, you’ll save a lot over booking individual hotel rooms. These types of accommodations frequently include amenities like kitchens and shared spaces that add value for those looking for cost savings.

An entire Airbnb rental might cost ¥12,000 per night, which, split among four people, is only ¥3,000 each. By comparison, a mid-range hotel room can easily cost ¥10,000 per night per person. Hostels also have private rooms, which are often cheaper than multiple hotel rooms, and are great for groups.

How to Save Money

  1. Start Your Search Early: If you want to get the best deals on Airbnbs or hostels, it’s a good idea to book well in advance, especially if you’re going to a popular destination like Tokyo or Kyoto.
  2. Use Reliable Platforms: There are several platforms for house rental in Japan, but I prefer using Japan Experience because it’s not filled with low quality houses.
  3. Verify Amenities: Look for kitchens, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi to cut down on additional costs.
  4. Understand Policies: Check cancellation policies and house rules. Renting a house it’s not the same things as renting a hotel room.

Saving Money on Food and Dining

7. Eat at Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurants

Conveyor belt sushi restaurants, also known as kaitenzushi, are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh and delicious sushi in Japan without breaking the bank. Plates of sushi rotate on a conveyor belt, and you can pick whatever you like as it passes. Prices are often based on plate color or design, making it easy to control how much you spend. These spots are casual, fun, and perfect for both solo travelers and groups.

At conveyor belt sushi restaurants, plates typically range from ¥100 to ¥300 each, meaning you can have a satisfying meal for under ¥1,000. Compare this to dining at a high-end sushi restaurant where a single set meal might cost ¥3,000 or more.

Actionable Steps

  1. Research Locations: Use Google Maps or apps like Tabelog to find highly-rated conveyor belt sushi spots near you.
  2. Choose Peak Times for Freshness: Visit during lunch or dinner hours when there’s high customer turnover to enjoy the freshest sushi.
  3. Mind the Colors: Pay attention to the plate colors, as they indicate the price. Stick to affordable options to stay within your budget.
  4. Look for Seasonal Specials: Many chains offer limited-time seasonal dishes, giving you variety without extra cost.

8. Buy Bento Boxes from Train Stations

Bento boxes from train stations, known as ekiben, are a great way to enjoy delicious and authentic Japanese meals on the go. They’re convenient and budget-friendly. These boxes are often arranged beautifully and feature regional specialties, including rice, proteins, and side dishes.

A typical ekiben costs between ¥700 and ¥1,500, which is a great deal compared to dining at a sit-down restaurant, where a similar meal might cost ¥2,000 or more.

How to Choose Bento

  1. Explore the Selection: At larger stations like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, browse through the many ekiben options before choosing. They’re usually displayed in glass cases for easy viewing.
  2. Check the Labels: If you’re feeling unsure about the ingredients, no problem! Just look for English descriptions or photos on the packaging.
  3. Time It Right: It’s a good idea to buy your ekiben close to mealtime to make sure it’s as fresh as possible, especially if it includes perishable items like sushi or seafood.

9. Take Advantage of Supermarket Discounts

If you’re looking to save money while you’re in Japan, shopping at supermarkets is a great way to do it, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Japanese supermarkets often have great deals on prepared meals, snacks, and fresh produce. You can save even more by timing your visit right. Many supermarkets discount items at the end of the day to clear out inventory.

You can often get 20–50% off prepared meals like sushi platters or bento boxes in the evening. A sushi platter that costs ¥1,200 could end up costing as little as ¥600 after discounts. That’s a big saving compared to dining out, where a similar meal might cost over ¥2,000.

How to Save Money with Supermarket Discounts

  1. Shop in the Evening: The discounts usually kick in around 7 or 8 PM. If you want to get some items at a reduced price, it’s best to visit during this window.
  2. Look for Discount Labels: Discounted products are often marked with brightly colored stickers indicating the percentage off.
  3. Stock Up for Later: Buy discounted meals or snacks that can be stored in your hotel room or eaten during travel the next day.
  4. Know What to Expect: Popular discounted items include sushi, bento boxes, tempura, and baked goods.

Saving Money on Activities

Senso-ji to visit Japan on a budget
Senso-ji in Tokyo

10. Visit Free Temples and Shrines

Visiting Japan’s temples and shrines is a great way to experience the country’s culture and beauty without spending a lot of money. Many famous places, like Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Taisha or Tokyo’s Meiji Jingu, let you in for free. This way, you can enjoy the beautiful buildings, peaceful gardens, and spiritual ceremonies. These sites offer a great way to learn about Japan’s history and traditions without having to spend a lot of money.

Some temples and gardens in Japan charge between ¥300 and ¥1,000 per visit. If you focus on free-access locations, you could save anywhere from ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 if you visit multiple spots during your trip.

Actionable Steps

  1. Research Free Options in Advance: Try to find free temples and shrines in the cities you’ll be visiting. Some good examples are Tokyo’s Senso-ji, Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine, and Nara’s Kasuga Taisha.
  2. Plan Visits Around Other Activities: Many of these locations are near other attractions, so you can include them as part of a day’s itinerary.
  3. Observe Local Customs: Learn the basics of shrine and temple etiquette, like bowing before entering and avoiding prohibited areas.
  4. Capture the Moment: Take photos of iconic features like torii gates, pagodas, and lanterns to bring home memories of your visit.

11. Enjoy City Parks and Gardens

Japan’s parks and gardens are great places to find peace and quiet in the middle of busy cities. They offer beautiful scenery and relaxing spaces, and the best part is that you don’t have to spend any money to enjoy them. Parks like Yoyogi Park in Tokyo or Maruyama Park in Kyoto show how Japan mixes natural beauty with urban design.

Some of Japan’s most famous gardens charge between ¥300 and ¥1,000 to enter. So, if you’re planning to visit multiple spots, you can save ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 by choosing free options like Tokyo’s Ueno Park or Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path.

Actionable Steps

  1. Look for Iconic Free Parks: You should add places like Ueno Park (Tokyo), Ohori Park (Fukuoka), or Maruyama Park (Kyoto) to your itinerary.
  2. Pack a Picnic: You can save even more by picking up affordable snacks or bento boxes to enjoy while relaxing in the park.
  3. Combine Activities: Take a look at some of the local attractions nearby. Ueno Park has museums, for example, while Yoyogi Park is just a short walk from Meiji Jingu Shrine.

12. Explore Free Observation Decks

Enjoy free, stunning views of Japan’s cities from observation decks. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku and the Abeno Harukas Building in Osaka are great places to catch some amazing city views, especially at sunset or when the city lights make the sky all sparkly at night. These spots let you experience Japan’s vibrant urban landscapes from above, which makes for some great photo opportunities.

You can pay around ¥1,500–¥2,500 per person to visit paid observation decks like Tokyo Skytree or Roppongi Hills Sky Deck. If you choose a free observation deck, you can save easily ¥2,000.

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Actionable Steps

  1. Visit Well-Known Free Decks: Check out the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Shinjuku), Osaka Abeno Harukas Building, or Kobe’s City Hall Observation Deck.
  2. Go During Off-Peak Hours: Avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning or on weekdays.
  3. Research Operating Hours: Many observation decks close by 8 or 9 PM, so plan accordingly to catch the sunset or night view.

13. Join Free Cultural Events

There’s no better way to experience authentic Japanese traditions without spending money than by taking part in free cultural events. Many Japanese cities host seasonal festivals, tea ceremony demonstrations, or craft workshops that are open to the public. The lively summer matsuri or the cherry blossom viewing events are great ways to experience Japan’s rich culture and interact with locals.

Free cultural events can save you anywhere from ¥1,000 to ¥5,000 per person compared to paid workshops or guided cultural experiences.

Actionable Steps

  1. Check Local Listings: Visit tourist information centers, city websites, or apps like Japan Travel by NAVITIME to find free events happening near you.
  2. Explore Temples and Shrines: These often host free performances or rituals during festivals like Gion Matsuri in Kyoto or Asakusa’s Sanja Matsuri.
  3. Plan for Season-Specific Events: For example, join summer Obon dances or winter illumination events like those in Osaka or Tokyo.
  4. Visit Cultural Hubs: Spots like Kyoto’s Nishijin Textile Center or Tokyo’s Ueno Park frequently host free demonstrations and exhibitions.

Saving Money on Shopping

Tax Free info
Tax Free info for tourists ©Ana Costa

14. Shop at 100-Yen Stores

100-yen stores are great for budget travelers, with a wide range of affordable items that are both practical and unique. From snacks and drinks to paper products, kitchenware, and even souvenirs, these stores have almost everything you could need for your trip at unbeatable prices. You’ll find major chains like Daiso, Seria, and Can Do in cities across Japan, which makes them great for quick shopping trips.

You can save thousands of yen by shopping at 100-yen stores instead of department stores or gift shops. For instance, picking up a set of chopsticks as a souvenir for ¥110 instead of ¥500 adds up quickly, particularly if you’re buying for friends and family.

Actionable Steps

  1. Locate Nearby Stores: Use Google Maps to search for “Daiso” or “100-yen shop” in your area. Popular spots include Shibuya, Kyoto Station, and major shopping areas in Osaka.
  2. Choose Thoughtful Souvenirs: Keep an eye out for items like small lacquerware, origami paper, or Japanese fans that make great gifts.
  3. Combine Visits: If you’re exploring nearby attractions or shopping districts, it’s a good idea to plan a stop at a 100-yen store to save time.

15. Use Tax-Free Shopping

Tax-free shopping is a great way to save money when buying items in Japan. Many stores exempt taxes for tourists on purchases over ¥5,000 (excluding tax), so you can skip the 10% consumption tax.

Avoiding the 10% consumption tax can result in significant savings, particularly on high-value items. For example, if you buy a souvenir for ¥10,000, you’ll actually be paying ¥11,000 including tax. But as a tourist, you only have to pay the base price of ¥10,000.

Actionable Steps

  1. Look for Tax-Free Signs: Stores offering this service usually display “Tax-Free” signs near their entrance or checkout counters.
  2. Bring Your Passport: You must present your passport to receive the tax exemption. Ensure it has the entry stamp from customs.
  3. Know the Spending Minimum: Purchases must total at least ¥5,000 (excluding tax) in a single store on the same day to qualify.
  4. Use the Sealed Bag Rule: Tax-free items may be sealed in a bag by the store and cannot be used until you leave Japan. Plan your purchases accordingly.

Conclusion

It’s totally possible to travel to Japan on a budget if you make the most of these handy money-saving tips. Just by using each of the easy tips once, you could save about ¥30,000-¥40,000 (around 200-267 USD). That covers everything from cheaper flights, budget dining options, and free activities to affordable shopping. These simple strategies guarantee you’ll enjoy the best of Japan without having to spend a fortune.

If you’re willing to put in a bit more effort with the moderate tips, you can save even more—up to ¥50,000-¥60,000 (around 333-399 USD) or more. By traveling overnight, using budget airlines, and opting for regional travel passes, you can make the most of your budget.

Saving money doesn’t mean you have to give up on your Japan adventure. You can plan smarter and create even more unforgettable memories.

Which tips are you most excited to try? Please let me know in the comments if you have any questions or need further information!

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