Travelling to Japan on a budget? Here are 10 money-saving tips, from transport hacks to exchange-rate tricks, to help you keep your Japan vacation affordable.
Planning a trip to Japan? A picturesque country with a perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern tech, Japan is easily many tourists’ favourite destination. But as much as we admire the culture and landscapes, one can’t ignore that Japan can be really expensive. From accommodation to food and transportation, these add up to quite a lot. But fret not! We have some great budget travel hacks that will help you keep your wallets happy while you explore this beautiful country.
Follow these little tips and you can save a few yen here and there!
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🇯🇵 10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan:
1. Plan Ahead and Research Discounts
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Before anything, the very first tip for saving money while travelling is research and planning. Being on a budget, you might want to pick places with a slightly lower cost of living as the costs of travelling, food, and accommodations there would probably be proportionate to the area’s cost of living. Example Fukuoka vs. Tokyo — one of the Top 20 most expensive cities to live in.
Before your trip, research discount passes, coupons, and special offers available for tourists. Many attractions offer reduced prices for advanced bookings or combination tickets. Being prepared can lead to significant savings. Additionally, keep checking and making price alerts on booking platforms to hunt for the best deals.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Find out more about YouTrip Perks here
2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons
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Timing is everything when it comes to saving money in Japan. Consider visiting during the off-peak seasons, such as late winter or early spring. Avoid peak seasons, such as cherry blossom season and the New Year holidays, as prices for accommodations and flights skyrocket. Instead, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons like autumn or late winter, when you can enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds. You’ll not only enjoy lower airfare and accommodation costs but also experience fewer crowds at popular tourist spots.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Find out more here
3. Snag Good Exchange Rates
When it comes to travelling, one of the key aspects to consider is locking in the best rates efficiently. With YouTrip, you have a powerful tool at your disposal to secure the best JPY rates well in advance of your trip. Simply top up SGD into your YouTrip wallet and lock in those favourable JPY rates. Oh, you’ll get free withdrawals of S$400 per calendar month, with a 2% fee imposed thereafter if you feel more secure with some cash on hand. Since Japan accepts contactless payment widely, you’ll definitely enjoy convenience at your fingertips.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Sign up and get your YouTrip card — learn more here!
4. Stay in Budget Accommodations
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While Japan offers luxury hotels, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available. Consider staying in hostels, guesthouses, or even capsule hotels to save on accommodation costs. For budget travellers, capsule hotels are a great option. They are cheap, equipped with bare basic necessities and little storage space but are good enough for a single person to rest their weary bones. Hostels, on the other hand, offer more privacy and have a communal vibe, good for those who are keen on making friends. For those who prefer to have their own space, Airbnb is a popular choice.
For more savings, booking your stay in advance can often secure you discounted rates. Additionally, remember to compare prices on booking platforms and directly through your choice of accommodation to see which offers the best deals!
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out our guide to Hokkaido ski resorts for all budgets
5. Make Use of Overnight Buses
Image credits: Japan Guide
Travelling on overnight buses in Japan is often underrated, yet it provides an economical, delightful, and scenic means of traversing the country. Not only are they cheaper than trains, but opting for an overnight route on the bus can also spare you the expense of a night in often costly accommodations. Moreover, many of these bus services are covered by the JR Pass.
If you’re considering coach travel, the top websites for researching routes and securing tickets include willerexpress.com, VIPLiner, and highway-buses.jp. Willer Express offers an array of coaches, including the splendidly lavish ReBorn coaches, introduced in 2020. Passengers enjoy personal pods equipped with reclining seats, footrests, electrical outlets, tables, and blankets. A one-way journey from Tokyo to Kyoto aboard one of these coaches will cost you approximately S$75, which is significantly less than the equivalent trip on the Shinkansen (bullet train), priced at around S$135.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Find out more here
6. Use Japan Rail Pass Strategically
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A Japan Rail (JR) Pass is a must for efficient travel across Japan, especially if you’re exploring multiple cities in a short time. Although these passes may seem costly at first, they can be incredibly cost-effective. To maximise your savings, choose the pass duration that matches your travel plans. For instance, if you’ll be in Japan for 18 days but won’t need it for the first two days in Osaka or your last days in Tokyo, opt for a 14-day pass instead of a 21-day pass to save a significant amount.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out our guide on whether the JR Pass is still worth it with prices increasing in October
Leverage on JR Rail Lines in Cities
Image credits: Got Tokyo
While the JR Pass is renowned for covering long-distance travel, it’s also your ticket to economical city transport. Many cities like Kobe, Kyoto, and Tokyo have JR Train Lines within them. Simply show your valid JR Pass at the gates, and you can hop on these JR Lines at no extra cost. By making the most of this option, you can explore cities like Tokyo for several days without spending a penny on local transport.
Pro Tip 1: Get a Virtual Suica card & top up with YouTrip via Apple Pay
Suica cards are a popular contactless smart card used for seamless transportation and payment in Japan. However, JR East suspended the sale of rechargeable physical Suica cards due to production shortages of the chips used to make them with no update on whether sales will continue at the time of writing.
Fret not, if you’re an Apple user, you can easily download the Virtual Suica card onto your Apple devices and top up via YouTrip on Apple Pay. No more rummaging for coins at vending machines or waiting in line for train tickets — just a simple tap with your Virtual Suica card, and you’re good to go!
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Read more about topping up your Suica Card with Youtrip via Apple Pay here
Pro Tip 2: Refund your ICOCA card
Image Credits: Life Of Doing
When navigating non-JR transport in cities like Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, Nara, or Hiroshima, you’ll need an ICOCA Card. These cards come with a JPY2000 (S$18.41) starting cost, which includes JPY1500 (S$13.81) credit for transportation and a JPY500 (S$4.60) card deposit. To save some money before leaving the Kansai region, make sure to visit a ticket office and request a refund for the JPY500 (S$4.60) card deposit and any remaining credit on your ICOCA Card. It’s a simple way to recoup some of your expenses.
Or, if you’re an Apple user, opt for the virtual ICOCA card instead! It can be found under ‘Travel Cards’ just like the virtual Suica card.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out how to capitalise on the Japanese yen here
7. Eat Cheaply with Street Food & Convenience Stores
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While Japanese food is generally pricey, you can opt for lower-cost options from local markets, street food vendors, small local hole-in-the-wall eateries, as well as convenience stores.
Japanese street food is not only delicious but also wallet-friendly. Find mouthwatering treats like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), and yakitori (grilled skewers) from street vendors and local markets.
Researching online and talking to locals can also help you find some affordable restaurants. Locals might even have wonderful recommendations that are less touristy but authentic and affordable.
Image Credits: Travel Mentor
There’s another option for you to dine cheaply and that’s Japan’s convenience stores also known as konbini. The standard of Japanese convenience stores is the envy of convenience stores worldwide. They have great offerings from beverages, small snacks and cold desserts to hearty instant meals like bento boxes and even piping-hot oden soup! The best thing is these meals go for a fraction of what you’d pay at restaurants. Sometimes, they even have fruit and vegetables; so if you think it’s just going to be fried food and carbs all the way, don’t worry, a balanced diet is definitely possible.
The stores are highly accessible as they are ubiquitous, with one on almost every street. The space is usually clean and well-lit, with all the amenities you need like utensils, hot water and a microwave. Plus, they’re open 24/7, so you can always find something to eat anytime. For budget-conscious travellers, this place is heaven.
If you’re looking to buy beverages from the vending machine, take note of the price before getting them as some of them might be priced higher than convenience stores. Rest assured, you can still experience Japanese flavours without splurging on restaurant dining.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out our guide to Japanese Konbinis
8. Take Advantage of Free Attractions
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Consider adding places of interest that don’t cost anything to your itinerary. Japan boasts a plethora of free attractions, from serene temples and shrines to picturesque parks and beaches. Explore the historic streets of Kyoto’s Gion district, take a stroll in Tokyo’s Ueno Park, or visit the beautiful Fushimi Inari Shrine—all without spending a yen. Don’t miss the chance to witness cherry blossoms in full bloom at parks like Ueno Park in Tokyo. You might still end up having to pay transportation fees but at least you save some on entrance or admission fees.
Free things to do in Japan by popular cities:
Tokyo
| Free Attractions in Tokyo | To do / Activity | Address |
| Imperial Palace Grounds 皇居 | Explore the moats and paths surrounding Tokyo’s central point. The Imperial Palace East Gardens and Kokyo Gaien National Garden are particularly beautiful must-sees! | 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 100-8111, Japan |
| Sensō-ji Temple / Asakusa Kannon Temple 浅草寺 | Follow the pilgrim route to this famous Buddhist temple in Asakusa. Check out colourful stalls and traditional architecture along the way. | 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito City, Tokyo 111-0032 |
| Ueno Park 上野公園 | Take in the sights of the city park’s foliage which is a popular spot for cherry blossom watching. It also has a zoo and many museums within the compound which are ticketed attractions. But the Bentendo Hall is free to visit | Uenokoen, Taito City, Tokyo 110-0007, Japan |
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out our guide on free things to do in Tokyo
Kyoto
| Free Attractions in Kyoto | To do / Activity | Address |
| Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine 伏見稲荷大社 | Visit to explore the iconic rows of tori gates and hike up Mount Inari | 68 Fukakusa Yabunouchicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto 612-0882 |
| Arashiyama Bamboo Grove 嵐山竹林 | Stroll and enjoy picturesque views of towering bamboo | Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394, Japan |
| Gion District 祇園 | Walk around Kyoto’s Geisha District. Check out the wooden architecture of the tea houses and geisha clubs, and even potentially catch a glimpse of a maiko or geisha. | Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto |
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out our guide on the best things to do in Kyoto & Osaka
Osaka
| Free Attractions in Osaka | To do / Activity | Address |
| Dotombori District 道頓堀 | Dive into the lively atmosphere of neon signs, street food, and entertainment of the district. | Dotonbori, Chuo Ward, Osaka 542-0071 |
| Osaka Castle Park 大阪城公園 | Stroll around Osaka Castle and see sights like Otemon Gate, and its surrounding gardens. | 1-1 Ōsakajō, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan |
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out our not-so-ordinary guide to Japan
Yokohama
| Free Attractions in Yokohama | To do / Activity | Address |
| Sankeien Garden 三溪園 | Bask in the tranquillity of the classical Japanese garden stretching over 175,000 m2, with ponds and small rivers, renowned for its seasonal beauty. | 58-1 Honmokusannotani, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0824, Japan |
| Yamashita Park 山下公園 | Stroll this public park for views of the waterfront and the Hikawa Maru ship | 279 Yamashitachō, Naka Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 231-0023, Japan |
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Check out our guide to the best Japan autumn destinations to visit
9. Shop at Kinken Shops
Image credits: Japan Concert Tickets
Kinken shops, also known as ticket shops, offer a wide range of second-hand items, from jewellery to electronics. However, the primary attraction for most visitors is their selection of travel passes, train tickets, and tickets for various events such as sports matches, concerts, and theatre performances that have been legally resold. In fact, many Kinken shops specialise exclusively in selling train or bus passes and event tickets.
When it comes to discounts, these shops often offer substantial savings, particularly on transportation passes, which can be as high as 90% off their original price. Event tickets also come at reduced prices, though the discounts may not be as steep. Nevertheless, you can still find great deals, especially for events that are otherwise sold out.
Kinken shops are typically located near train stations and shopping malls, making them easily recognisable by their windows adorned with available tickets for purchase. Look for a sign that reads “金券ショップ” (ticket shop) if you’re unsure. Alternatively, you can inquire with the staff at your hostel or hotel for directions to the nearest Kinken shop.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Find out more here
10. Crash at Manga Cafes
Image credits: Suki Desu
Consider spending the night at a manga cafés / ‘manga kissa’ (漫画喫茶) if you’re looking to save on accommodation costs in Japan. Hotels in Japan can be quite expensive, but if you’re just stopping over in the city and don’t want to splurge on a traditional hotel room, manga cafes are a budget-friendly alternative.
These cafes operate round the clock, and you have the flexibility to choose how many hours you’d like to stay. Upon payment for your selected time slot, you’ll be directed to a semi-private booth equipped with reclining chairs where you can relax. At these cafes, you can nap, read manga graphic novels, engage in video games, or enjoy a movie. Some manga kissa even provide amenities like showers or private rooms with tatami mats, akin to a unique airport lounge experience. Prices typically range from S$15 to S$35 for a 10-hour package.
10 Ways To Save Money While Visiting Japan 2023: Find out more here
Your Affordable Japan Getaway Awaits!
Japan is easily a captivating country with a plethora of experiences to offer. It’s an expensive country to visit but by following these top 10 travel tips, you can explore the Land of the Rising Sun without breaking the bank. Immerse yourself in the culture, savour the cuisines, and create lasting memories — all while staying within your budget.
Remember, careful planning, a thirst for adventure, and a willingness to embrace local traditions can make your journey to Japan truly unforgettable! And as usual, don’t forget to bring your trusty YouTrip card along for the best yen rates all day.
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Happy travels!
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