Japan on a Budget: How to Travel for Under ¥10,000 a Day

Japan has a reputation for being expensive, but with the right strategy, you can travel comfortably on a budget. Here is how to keep your daily spending under ¥10,000 (about $65 USD).

Accommodation: ¥3,000-4,000/night

• Capsule hotels: ¥2,500-4,000 per night. Clean, efficient, and a uniquely Japanese experience.
• Hostels: ¥2,000-3,500 for a dorm bed. Great for meeting other travelers.
• Manga cafes (manga kissa): ¥1,500-2,500 for an overnight stay with free drinks and showers.

Food: ¥2,000-3,000/day

• Breakfast: Convenience store onigiri and coffee (¥300-500)
• Lunch: Gyudon (beef bowl) chains like Yoshinoya or Sukiya (¥400-600)
• Dinner: Ramen or curry (¥800-1,200)
• Snacks: Convenience store bento boxes, bread, and snacks (¥200-500)

Transportation: ¥1,000-2,000/day

• Get a day pass if you plan to ride the metro a lot (Tokyo Metro 24-hour pass: ¥600)
• Walk — Tokyo neighborhoods are very walkable
• For intercity travel, the Japan Rail Pass pays for itself with 2-3 shinkansen rides
• Highway buses are the cheapest way to travel between cities (Tokyo to Osaka from ¥2,000)

Activities: ¥0-1,000/day

• Many of Tokyo best attractions are free: Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Imperial Palace gardens
• Parks and gardens are usually ¥200-500 entry
• Free walking tours are available in most major cities (tip-based)

Money-Saving Tips

• Eat at places with plastic food displays — you can see exactly what you are getting and the price
• Supermarkets discount bento boxes 20-50% after 7 PM
• 100-yen shops (Daiso, Seria) are great for souvenirs and daily necessities
• Tap water in Japan is safe to drink — carry a reusable bottle
• Free Wi-Fi is available at most convenience stores and train stations