Affordable Travel Methods in Japan: Saving Strategies Revealed
Revised Article:
Chill, bud! Let's talk about how to slash your travel expenses and enjoy Japan on a budget. Now, you might think Japan is expensive, but here's the deal: it ain't all that pricey if you know the tricks! Here's the lowdown on cheap ways to navigate Japan.
1. Travel in the Off-season
Peak seasons (translate: higher hotel rates) for Japanese travelers are during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) and autumn foliage season (mid-November to early December). Japanese holidays like Golden Week and Obon are also peak season for domestic travelers. To save buckaroos, consider visiting in the off-season (late autumn through early March except for the New Year's holiday season, and from late May to early July). Keep in mind, though, that June to early July is usually the rainy season (tsuyu). But hey, no worries! There are loads of indoor activities, and even in Tokyo, it rains more in September to October due to the typhoon season. So it's cool to visit in June to early July!
2. Get Around on the Cheap
JR Pass
You know, traveling between cities in Japan by Shinkansen (bullet train) can be hefty on the wallet. But a one-, two-, or three-week JR Pass will make long-distance rail trips more budget-friendly. The 1-week JR Pass is about ¥30,000 (US$276), the 2-week JR Pass is about ¥47,000 (US$440), and the 3-week JR Pass is about ¥60,000 (US$560). That means you can save big bucks if you're hitting up Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, then making your way back to Tokyo. Score! Remember, the JR Pass isn't only for Shinkansen. You can also save even more by choosing JR over metro or other private railway companies to explore the city!
Buses
If you want to see more or save a few bucks, moving around by bus can be a great choice. Buses are usually cheaper than trains for long-distance travel and may cover areas unreachable by JR trains.
For example, from Narita Airport to central Tokyo, the Narita Express train will set you back ¥3,070, while the Airport Bus TYO-NRT costs just ¥1,000. Long-distance buses are clean, quiet, safe, and comfy with reclining seats. Bonus points: some overnight buses have head blinds or curtains between seats!
Transit Pass
Many transit companies in Japan offer transit passes to save a good chunk of change when exploring. For instance, in Tokyo, you can grab the Tokyo Metro 24-Hour Pass (¥600), Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway One Day Pass (¥900), or Tokyo Free Pass (¥1,600), all of which allow you free access to Tokyo Metro, Toei Subway, Toei Bus, and JR trains within 23 wards in Tokyo within 24 hours. Just pop down to the ticket vending machines in train stations to get these passes!
3. Chow Down Economically
Fast Food
What you might think of as fast food in Japan ain't all about fried, processed junk. You can find speedy eats serving great bowls of rice, udon, and soba noodles, and Japanese curry rice. Some popular wallet-friendly chains include Matsuya, Sukiya, and Yoshinoya. You can grab a rice bowl with savory meat for around ¥350. And CocoCurry House Ichibanya offers a pork curry for just ¥500!
Take-out Meals at Grocery Stores and Convenience Stores
Cheap and fresh bento boxes, noodles, rice balls, sandwiches can be found at grocery stores and convenience stores. These make dandy picnic, hiking, or home/hotel meals! Prices range from ¥150 to ¥500.
Kaiten Zushi (Conveyor Belt Sushi)
Why not try one of Japan's most popular foods, sushi, at an affordable price and experience their unique dining culture? Sushi-go-round (conveyor belt sushi or "kaiten zushi") can be a cheap and fun way to chow down. For instance, at Sushi Ro or Kura Zushi, a plate of sushi starts at ¥100. The plates are color-coded by price. Sushi Ro also serves miso soups, fried chicken, fried potatoes, tempura, and Japanese desserts.
4. Save on Accommodations
Airbnb
For multiple-day or week-long stays, Airbnb apartments in popular cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka can be a serious budget saver. These rentals offer a more local feel compared to hotels.
Business Hotels
Business hotels (found, like, everywhere in Japan) offer no-frills accommodation for a decent price. Rooms typically have a bed, desk, TV, refrigerator, AC, bath, and basic kitchenette. WiFi is usually included, and some hotels offer on-site laundry facilities.
Hostels / Guest Houses
Choosing a hostel or guest house can be a fun and affordable way to sleep during your Japanese adventure. Hostels and guest houses come with a welcoming, modern, and stylish atmosphere. They're perfect for meeting locals and fellow travelers if you're looking to swap stories and experiences!
5. Explore Affordably
If you're hitting up several museums and art galleries in the Tokyo region, the Grutt Pass offers substantial savings. With this pass, costing just ¥2,200, you can get free admission and discounts to a whopping 99 facilities, including the Edo Tokyo Museum, Sankeien Garden, and Ueno Zoo. Score!
6. Shop on a Budget
Tax-Free
Many department stores and shops across Japan offer tax exemptions to visitors from overseas. Be sure to have your passport handy! As you stroll through Tokyo, you might spot many stores with tax-free signs. For example, Donguri Kyowakoku (an official store for Ghibli movies) and Kiddyland waive taxes on their wares.
100 yen Shop
Stores like Daiso, Can Do, and Seria have a dizzying array of goods, from daily essentials to designer stationery to innovative products – all for ¥100. It's amazing the quality and designs you can find at such low prices!
So there you have it, splendiferous ways to travel cheap in Japan! Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook for even more travel inspiration. Happy journeys, mate!
- To immerse yourself in Japan's unique cultural aspects, consider exploring attractions like the sumo stadium, traditional restaurants serving ramen and sushi, and museums showcasing the nation's history and art during your off-season travels.
- Budget-friendly accommodations can be found in business hotels, hostels, or through Airbnb, providing a more affordable alternative to traditional hotels.
- When it comes to dining, opt for fast food chains serving affordable rice bowls, take-out meals at grocery stores or convenience stores, or kaiten zushi (conveyor belt sushi) for a fun and cost-effective sushi experience.
- To save on transportation, invest in a JR Pass for long-distance rail trips, choose buses for long-distance travel or city exploration, or purchase transit passes like the Tokyo Free Pass for easy access to Tokyo's public transportation system.
- Touring Japan's attractions doesn't have to break the bank. The Grutt Pass offers significant discounts on museums and art galleries in the Tokyo region, while low-cost tours cater to travelers on a budget.
- Shopping on a budget is possible in Japan, with stores offering tax-exemptions for overseas visitors and 100 yen shops like Daiso, Can Do, and Seria selling an extensive array of goods for just 100 yen.
- Japanese lifestyle extends beyond the big cities. Experience traditional countryside living by booking rural homestays and engaging in nature-based tours, such as hiking in the mountains or biking through scenic villages.
- Embrace Japan's culture and lifestyle by participating in local festivals, trying traditional sports like sumo and kendo, or taking a martial arts class to learn a new skill during your journey.
