How to Travel to Tokyo on a Budget

No one in search of a budget city vacation is likely to place Tokyo at the top of their list; this incredible city comes with some pretty high prices. However, there are ways to make your yen stretch further without compromising on quality, and iBestTravel has all the insider tips and tricks to help you save.

With options like Michelin-star cuisine available for less than $10 per meal, nomihoudai (all-you-can-drink) and tabehoudai (all-you-can-eat) at izakaya (gastropubs), and affordable accommodations like capsule hotels, you can experience the best of Tokyo without emptying your wallet.

Daily Costs in Tokyo

Bunk in a capsule hotel: ¥6600/¥8000
Basic hotel room for two: ¥22,600
One-day public transport ticket: ¥600 (not all trains included)
Coffee: ¥400
Ramen: ¥1200
Conveyor-belt sushi: from ¥100 per plate
Pint at a bar: ¥600
All-you-can-drink menus: ¥2000
All-you-can-eat menus: ¥1800
Mid-range dinner for two (with drinks): ¥3600
Average daily cost: ¥23,000

Flying During Low Season

To save on airfares, consider flying to Tokyo during its low tourist seasons, such as winter or the mid-June to mid-July rainy season. During these times, flight fares tend to drop in line with reduced demand, making travel much more affordable.

Benefits of Low-Season Travel

Accommodations typically become much cheaper during the off-peak seasons, allowing travelers to enjoy significant savings. However, it’s important to note that Tokyo can feel quite empty during the New Year holiday (Shogatsu) as many businesses close.

Two young people sitting in adjacent pods at a capsule hotel in Tokyo — You can make big savings by opting for a capsule hotel © electravk / Getty Images

Choosing Smaller Accommodations

In Japan, living spaces are generally compact compared to Western standards. By choosing smaller accommodations such as capsule hotels, travelers can save money while still enjoying a unique experience. Capsule hotels feature multi-leveled bunk spaces, communal bathrooms, and lockers for larger luggage, making them a practical choice starting from ¥6600 per night.

Public Transportation Tips

Using prepaid rechargeable IC cards, such as Suica or Pasmo, can significantly enhance your travel experience in Tokyo. These cards work across all city trains, subways, and buses and can be purchased from machines at any station, requiring only a ¥500 deposit that is refundable upon return.

Woman with a yellow jacket walking in the electronic town district of Akihabara, Tokyo, Japan — Walking can be a cheap delight in Tokyo © Marco Bottigelli / Getty Images

Exploring on Foot

While Tokyo boasts an efficient rail network, walking is an excellent way to explore the city. Taking strolls through beautiful parks or historic neighborhoods allows you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the sights without spending a yen.

Late-Night Travel Considerations

Be cautious as Tokyo trains stop running around midnight. Taxis can be expensive due to base fares and late-night surcharges, making it advisable to catch your last train home whenever possible. If you do miss it, consider waiting for the morning train at a 24-hour restaurant.

Group of Friends Eating Take Away Food on the Street in Tokyo Japan — Tokyo has loads of amazing places to eat and many of them are cheap as well © Davidf / Getty Images

Dining on a Budget

Tokyo is home to more than 150,000 restaurants, many of which offer budget-friendly options. For instance, izakaya chains provide nomihoudai deals, and conveyor-belt sushi restaurants offer cheaper alternatives to traditional sushi dining.

Michelin-Starred Ramen for Less

In 2023, Tokyo boasted numerous Michelin-starred restaurants with some offering gourmet ramen at a fraction of the price. Excellent choices include Nakiryu and Konjiki Hototogisu, where signature dishes are available for under ¥1400 each.

Convenient Convenience Stores

Tokyo’s convenience stores, known as konbini, offer quick and affordable meals like onigiri (rice balls) and hot items from in-store counters, making them ideal for a late-night snack or picnic essentials.

Small eatery in Golden Gai district of Tokyo in the early evening — If exploring the Golden Gai district, check that the bars don’t have a cover charge © Jonathan Stokes / iBestTravel

Cover Charges in Nightlife Areas

In areas like Golden Gai, cover charges can add up. If bar-hopping, it’s wise to look for places that advertise “No Cover Charge” to preserve your budget throughout the evening.

Enjoy Picnicking in Parks

Tokyo features beautiful parks perfect for picnicking. While many gardens charge entrance fees, free parks like Yoyogi-koen allow visitors to enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring without spending money.

Thrift Shopping in Tokyo

If you’re looking for retro goods, Tokyo is a haven for thrifty shoppers. Stores like Hard Off and Super Potato offer excellent bargains, while Shimokita is famous for hip vintage clothing shops.

In conclusion, exploring Tokyo on a budget is not only feasible but can also be a rewarding experience. By following these practical tips from iBestTravel, you can enjoy Japan’s vibrant capital without overspending.