For years, Japan seemed like an impossible dream, a destination reserved for those with overflowing wallets. The whispers of exorbitant train fares and sky-high hotel prices always led me to book flights to Southeast Asia instead. But after countless recommendations from fellow travel bloggers, I decided to take the plunge, fully expecting my bank account to take a serious hit.
Imagine my surprise when I discovered that Japan isn’t nearly as expensive as its reputation suggests.
In fact, I found it comparable to Western Europe or North America, and even cheaper than Australia. My daily expenses were significantly lower than in places like Namibia or the Democratic Republic of Congo. So, how much does it really cost to travel Japan? Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Costs: What This Guide Covers
A vibrant display of Japanese cuisine, showcasing the variety and affordability of food options available to travelers.
This budget breakdown details my actual spending on accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and miscellaneous expenses during a 16-day trip to Japan. Note that this excludes flights to and from Japan, as those vary greatly depending on your origin.
Here’s a quick look at my itinerary:
- Tokyo: 4 nights
- Hakone: 1 night
- Yudanaka: 1 night
- Kanazawa: 2 nights
- Takayama: 1 night
- Kyoto: 3 nights
- Hiroshima: 1 night
- Osaka: 3 nights
All costs are initially listed in Japanese Yen and then converted to U.S. Dollars, Euros, and British Pounds.
Accommodation Costs in Japan: From Capsule Hotels to Ryokans
A minimalist tatami mat room, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese lodging experiences that can be both comfortable and budget-friendly.
During my trip, I explored a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly capsule hotels (around $40 a night) to luxurious ryokans (up to $155 a night) with onsen.
Let’s start with the free options:
- Couchsurfing: While not as popular as it once was, Couchsurfing still exists in Japan. You can stay with locals for free, usually on their sofa, and experience the local culture.
- Housesitting: This involves taking care of someone’s house while they’re away, often looking after their pets. Trusted Housesitters is a great resource for finding housesitting opportunities in Japan. This is more suited for long-term travelers with flexible dates.
- WorldPackers: Volunteer for locals in exchange for food and board. WorldPackers in Japan offers a variety of unique experiences.
For budget-conscious travelers seeking comfort, here are some options:
- Hostels: A popular option in Japan, with dorm beds averaging around $25 a night. Private rooms in hostels can be found for around $50 a night.
- Hotels: My personal stays ranged in price. Here’s a breakdown:
- Tokyo: $155 a night at this onsen-ryokan in Shinjuku
- Hakone: $82 a night at this guesthouse
- Yudanaka: $89 per night at this ryokan
- Kanazawa: $76 per night at this modern hotel
- Takayama: $86 per night at this guesthouse
- Kyoto: $116 a night at this hotel
- Hiroshima: $43 per bed at this capsule-style hostel
- Osaka: $153 a night at this four-star hotel
Overall, my partner and I spent an average of $112 per day on accommodation.
Navigating Japan: Transportation Costs
A visual representation of Japan’s efficient rail system, highlighting the importance and cost considerations of train travel within the country.
Transportation is a significant expense in Japan. The Japan Rail Pass, once a staple for tourists, increased in price by 70% in October 2023.
While it offers convenience, it’s no longer the most cost-effective option for many travelers. If you’re not confident booking individual tickets, the pass may still be worthwhile. However, for most, purchasing individual tickets is the way to go.
Consider booking single train tickets online via the JR West website.
Here are some approximate costs for train journeys based on my itinerary:
- Tokyo – Hakone: $17
- Hakone – Tokyo: $17
- Tokyo – Nagano: $50
- Nagano – Kanazawa: $57
- Kanazawa – Takayama: $33
- Takayama – Kyoto: $60
- Kyoto – Nara: $5
- Nara – Kyoto: $5
- Kyoto – Hiroshima: $70
- Hiroshima – Osaka: $67
Following my route would cost approximately $381 on rail tickets, which is about $24 per day.
For budget travelers, buses are a cheaper alternative. Willer Express and Japan Bus Online are good resources for booking long-distance buses. However, bus routes may not be available for all destinations.
Bus travel costs for my route would be approximately $212 in total.
Within cities, public transportation is relatively affordable. I spent $6 on the metro in Tokyo, $7 in Osaka, and $2 in Kyoto.
The Hakone Free Pass costs $33 and provides unlimited transport around Hakone, along with discounted entrance to attractions.
Savoring Japan: Food Costs
A mouthwatering collage of Japanese cuisine, emphasizing the delicious and budget-friendly food options available to travelers.
Eating out in Japan is surprisingly affordable. Most of my meals cost less than $7.
Sushi and sashimi are a must-try. A bowl filled with sashimi at Tsukiji Outer Market in Tokyo or Omicho Market in Kanazawa costs between $12-$25.
A bowl of ramen typically costs around $7.
Okonomiyaki, a savory pancake dish, is another delicious and inexpensive option, costing between $7-$10.
Japanese curry can be found for around $7 a plate.
Street snacks like takoyaki cost around $4.50.
My most expensive meal was a kaiseki experience at my guesthouse in Yudanaka, costing $36.
Overall, my average daily food cost in Japan was $23.20.
Activities and Entrance Fees
A traveler enjoys a close encounter with snow monkeys, highlighting one of Japan’s popular and affordable tourist activities.
Activities and entrance fees are reasonably priced, with most costing around $5. Many attractions are free, including:
- Tokyo: Shibuya Crossing, Imperial Palace, Sensō-ji Temple, Ueno Park
- Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Taisha, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Nara: Nara Park
- Hiroshima: Atomic Bomb Dome
Attractions with entrance fees include:
- Hedgehog cafe in Tokyo: $13
- Snow Monkey Park: $7
- Kenroku-en gardens in Kanazawa: $3
- Golden Pavilion in Kyoto: $3
- Ryoan-ji zen garden in Kyoto: $5
- Hiroshima Peace Memorial: $2
My average daily cost for activities in Japan was $2.
Miscellaneous Expenses
A nighttime scene of Memory Lane in Shinjuku, Tokyo, depicting the unique and memorable experiences available to travelers in Japan.
- Local SIM card: $14 (AloSIM offers eSIMs for travelers)
- Guidebook: $20
- Luggage storage: $4.50
- Travel insurance for 16 days: $60
The Final Tally: How Much Does it Cost to Travel Japan?
A picturesque winter scene in Takayama, Japan, representing the unique experiences and overall affordability of traveling in Japan.
Here’s a summary of my average daily expenses:
- Accommodation: $56
- Transportation: $27
- Food: $23
- Activities/Entrance Fees: $2
- Miscellaneous: $2
My average daily spending in Japan was $110.
For couples, aim to spend around $220 per day.
Despite its expensive reputation, Japan can be surprisingly affordable.
