Is Japan Expensive to Visit? How Much Does it Cost to Visit Japan?

You may have heard that traveling to Japan is expensive. But don't be disappointed. As a very established travel destination, Japan has a wide variety of budget accommodation options, transportation cards, and sightseeing discounts to choose from. With some planning, even the most budget-conscious travelers can afford a trip to Japan.

Here, we will give you a breakdown of the cost of a typical Japan tour and practical information on how to save money.

Cost of Flights to Japan

Almost all overseas tourists choose to reach the island nation of Japan by air. The price of international flights to Japan varies depending on the distance.

One of the best ways to save travel expenses is to get cheap airfare. Here are some tips for booking budget airfare:

Early Booking of Flight Tickets

Most local airlines offer seat sale promos at least 6 months to a year in advance so better plan your trip ahead of time so you can get budget-friendly airfare.

Booking your flight ticket in advance helps you get budget-friendly airfare.

Be Flexible with the Travel Dates

Most of the time, weekdays are a lot cheaper. You may check the prices for the entire month to get a clear picture of which date offers the lowest fare. Off-peak season is also the best option.

Make Comparisons

Whether it's different booking platforms or different airlines, direct flights or connections, you can easily get prices by searching the web. By taking a little time to compare, you can find the right flight at the right price.

Cost of Accommodation in Japan

On any travel, finding accommodation is a challenge. Japan offers a wide range of accommodations in both Japanese and Western styles, plus unique set-ups like capsule hotels and temple lodgings. Prices also vary depending on which city and its strategic location.

Hotels in central Tokyo for example are always tight, if you want to stay in this area because of its accessibility, you better book at least two months prior. If you are unable to book online due to tight hotel occupancy, the best option is to contact the hotel directly via phone call.

Here is a list of Japan’s accommodation styles and price range:

Japanese Style

RYOKAN - 6,000 to 40,000 yen per person

Is a traditional Japanese inn type that features tatami-matted rooms, communal baths, and other public areas where visitors may wear yukata and talk with the owner. Usually includes breakfast and dinner.

Minshuku - 4,000 to 10,000 yen per person

Are Japanese-style bed and breakfast lodgings. The difference between a Minshuku and a Ryokan is Ryokan can be in modern or old buildings whereas Minshuku tends to be in older buildings. Minshuku tends to be slightly smaller and run by a local family. The rooms in a Minshuku are slightly more basic and the service is less formal. Often include one or two meals in the price.

If you travel to Japan, staying in a Japanese style inn would be a great travel experience.

Western Style

Western-Style Hotel - 8,000 to 50,000 yen per room

In most large cities in Japan, there are various Western-style hotel chains for you to choose from.

Business Hotel 5,000 to 12,000 yen per room

Compared with the general western-style hotels, the Business hotels in japan offer small, simple Western-style rooms with snacks and drinks provided by vending machines. Business hotels are always fullly booked due to the better value for money, so it is recommended to book in advance.

Hostels and Dormitories - 1,500 to 4,000 yen per person

There are more than 300 hostels across Japan offering a great variety of options for budget tourists and backpackers at relatively affordable prices.

Unique Lodgings

Capsule Hotels - 3,000 to 4,000 yen per person

Capsule hotels in Tokyo are very popular among backpackers. Although space is limited, they are all equipped with a television, a shared bathroom, and coin lockers.

There are many capsule hotels in Japan that can meet travelers need.

Temple Lodgings - 5,000 to 15,000 yen per person

It is a special experience to stay overnight in a Buddhist temple in Japan. You will experience tranquility and the beautiful scenery of Japan, as well as abundant spiritual cultures such as harmony and zen, lie within. A stay often includes two vegetarian meals and the opportunity to join the morning prayers.

Cost of Food in Japan

Wherever you travel, restaurants in popular tourist areas will always cost more. Don’t starve yourself to save money when traveling in Japan, you will find a wide selection of cheap, quality meals throughout the country. The extremely budget-conscious could thrive on as little as 1000 to 2000 yen per day on food without sacrificing much variety or their health. You can also find some great food for under ¥1,000 (~$10) at convenience stores in Japan.

Of course, there are also many expensive and exquisite gourmet foods in Japan. Most fine restaurants require reservations in advance. If you need this, you can tell us in advance or make a reservation on the restaurant website yourself.

Cost of Transportation in Japan

Getting around Japan is easy because of its efficient public transport systems. In Japan, most travel between major cities is by train or shinkansen. You can choose the right discount ticket according to your itinerary.

Transportation	Price
7-day Japan Rail Pass (Ordinary)	29,650 yen
Tokyo Metro 24-hour Ticket	600 yen
Common 1-day ticket for Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway	900 yen
Toei 1-day Pass	700 yen
Bus ride (Base Fare)	from 210 yen
Taxi ride (Base Fare)	from 420 yen

Entrance Fees and Tickets in Japan

Japanese shrines usually do not require an entrance ticket to enter, but some temples will require one. Most tickets will need to be purchased on site with cash.

Entrance to temples, museums, and other historical places visited by tourists are ¥200 - ¥600 ($1,5 - $4.5). Sometimes there are combined tickets for you to choose from.
Tickets to Disney land for 1 day: ¥6,200 ($46.5) per adult; ¥4,100 - ¥5,300 ($30.7 - $39.7)
per Child Ticket to Tokyo Tower: ¥ 1,420 ($10.6)
Museum admission fees: ¥400 - ¥600 ($3 -$ 4.5)
Golden Pavilion Admission: ¥400($3) for adults and ¥300($2.25) for children
Kenrokuen garden in Kanazawa: ¥310($3)

Other Expenses in Japan

You also need to pay Japanese Visa fees and medical travel insurance. Basic policies for around $20 to $60 you can expect medical, personal liability, and unexpected travel expenses. Mid-level policies for around $30 to $80 you can get a decent cover which includes benefits like medical, cancellation, and personal liability as well as some cancellation and luggage cover.

Of course, you also have to set aside a portion of your expenses to keep for your daily expenses and to buy souvenirs for your relatives and friends.