Japan Travel Guide

💲 Japan travel costs

Hotel prices

Accommodation prices in Japan can vary significantly based on location, type, and quality. Major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto have higher prices than smaller towns and rural areas. Still, options are available to suit a range of budgets and preferences.

Luxury hotels in prime city locations can easily cost around $270 USD per night, while mid-range hotels and business hotels typically offer rooms from $54 to $135 USD per night. These prices may fluctuate depending on the season, with peak travel periods like cherry blossom season and Golden Week often resulting in higher rates.

Budget-conscious travelers can find more affordable options in capsule hotels and hostels, where prices can start as low as $18 USD per night. These accommodations usually offer shared facilities and more basic amenities but can provide a comfortable and cost-effective stay.

Another unique accommodation option in Japan is traditional ryokans, which offer an authentic Japanese experience with tatami mat rooms, futons, and often hot spring baths (onsen). Prices for ryokans vary widely, from around $90 USD for simpler establishments to $360 USD per night for high-end establishments, often including meals prepared with local, seasonal ingredients.

Food prices

The cost of dining in Japan can vary greatly depending on the type of establishment and location, with options ranging from affordable street food to exclusive fine dining experiences.

For budget-conscious travelers, street food and casual eateries, such as ramen shops, conveyor belt sushi restaurants, and izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), offer tasty and affordable meals. Prices for street food, like takoyaki or yakitori, can start as low as 100 yen ($0.90) per piece, while a bowl of ramen or a plate of sushi may cost around 800 to 1,500 yen ($7 to $14). Convenience stores, known as “konbini,” also offer a wide variety of inexpensive yet satisfying snacks and meals, including onigiri, bento boxes, and sandwiches.

Mid-range restaurants, which often serve more elaborate or specialized cuisine, such as tempura, tonkatsu, or shabu-shabu, typically charge between 2,000 and 5,000 yen ($18 to $45) per person for a meal. These establishments often provide a pleasant dining atmosphere and attentive service.

Fine dining in Japan, particularly at establishments serving traditional kaiseki cuisine or sushi, can be a more expensive experience, with prices starting at around 10,000 yen ($90) per person and potentially exceeding 30,000 yen ($270) or more for exclusive or Michelin-starred restaurants. These high-end establishments often feature exquisite dishes crafted from premium ingredients, providing a memorable and luxurious dining experience.

With a wide range of dining options available, travelers in Japan can enjoy a diverse array of culinary experiences, catering to various tastes and budgets.

Attraction and tour costs

The cost of touring Japan’s attractions can vary greatly depending on the location, type of attraction, and individual preferences. Japan is generally known for having higher prices than other Asian countries, but budget-conscious travelers can still find affordable options.

Entry fees for temples, shrines, and historical sites typically range from $3-$14 USD, with some popular attractions like Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Nara’s Todai-ji Temple charging around $4.50 USD. Museums and art galleries may charge similar fees, with some institutions offering discounted or free admission on certain days or for specific groups, such as students or seniors.

Theme parks, like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, are more expensive, with one-day tickets costing adults around $74 USD. Smaller attractions, like gardens, observation decks, and cultural experiences, can have varying prices, from a few hundred yen to a few thousand yen.

When touring Japan, it’s essential to consider transportation costs. While intercity travel can be pricey, options like the Japan Rail Pass can provide significant savings for tourists planning to visit multiple cities. Public transportation is relatively affordable in cities, and day passes for buses or subways can offer additional savings.

Transportation cost

Transportation costs in Japan can vary widely depending on factors such as the mode of transport, distance, and the region in which one is traveling. Generally, Japan is known for its efficient and extensive public transportation system, which includes trains, buses, and domestic flights. While the cost of transportation in Japan can be relatively high compared to some other countries, the quality, punctuality, and convenience of the services often justify the expense.

Trains are Japan’s most popular and widely used mode of transportationh the extensive railway network connecting cities, towns, and even remote rural areas. The cost of train travel can range from affordable local trains to more expensive high-speed options, such as the famous Shinkansen or bullet trains. Long-distance train travel can be quite costly, especially when using the Shinkansen, with a one-way ticket between Tokyo and Osaka, for example, costing around $125 USD. However, for tourists, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) provides a cost-effective solution, allowing unlimited travel on most JR trains for a specific period, including the Shinkansen, and can lead to significant savings if used strategically.

Buses are another viable option for intercity travel, often more affordable than trains. Long-distance highway buses connect major cities and offer a budget-friendly alternative for travelers willing to sacrifice speed and comfort for lower costs. Overnight buses are particularly popular, as they allow passengers to save on accommodation costs while traveling between cities.

Domestic flights can sometimes be convenient and cost-competitive, especially for longer distances or when traveling to more remote regions. Low-cost carriers such as Peach Aviation and Jetstar Japan have made air travel more accessible and affordable, with ticket prices occasionally rivaling those of trains and buses. It’s important to consider that the time and cost of getting to and from airports can offset the initial savings of flying.

When navigating cities, local public transportation such as subways, trams, and buses provide an affordable and efficient way to get around. A single ride on a city subway typically ranges between $1.75 to 4.50 USD depending on the distance. For those planning to use public transportation extensively, day passes or IC cards, such as Suica and Pasmo, can offer added convenience and sometimes additional savings.

Currency Exchange

Exchanging money upon arrival in Japan is an essential step for travelers, as Japan remains a predominantly cash-based society, especially outside of major cities. While credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, cash remains king, making it important to have a sufficient amount of Japanese yen (JPY) on hand for day-to-day transactions.

When arriving in Japan, you will find several options for currency exchange. At international airports, such as Tokyo’s Narita or Haneda and Osaka’s Kansai, currency exchange counters and ATMs are conveniently located within the terminals. While airport exchange counters often offer slightly less favorable rates compared to other options, they provide the advantage of accessibility and extended operating hours. For smaller amounts of cash needed immediately upon arrival, exchanging money at the airport can be a convenient choice.

A more cost-effective alternative to airport exchange counters is to withdraw Japanese yen directly from ATMs using your debit or credit card. Many ATMs in Japan, particularly those located within 7-Eleven and FamilyMart convenience stores or at post offices, accept international cards and offer competitive exchange rates. Be aware, though, that your home bank may charge foreign transaction or withdrawal fees, so it is advisable to check these in advance.

Another option for exchanging money is visiting specialized currency exchange houses or banks in city centers. In major cities like Tokyo and Osaka, you can find exchange houses such as Sakura Exchange, Nihonex, and Travelex, which usually offer better exchange rates than airports or hotels. Additionally, major banks such as Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho provide currency exchange services at their branches. Keep in mind that opening hours may be limited, and some smaller branches may not offer currency exchange services.

Regarding exchange rates, it is important to understand that they fluctuate regularly based on global economic conditions. To ensure you are receiving a fair rate, you can consult websites or apps like XE Currency or OANDA, which provide up-to-date information on exchange rates. Aim to find an exchange service with rates close to the current market rate and pay attention to any additional fees or charges associated with the transaction.

ATM withdrawals

ATM withdrawals in Japan are a convenient way for travelers to access Japanese yen (JPY) using their foreign debit cards. As Japan remains largely cash-based, having a sufficient amount of local currency on hand is essential for a smooth travel experience. Fortunately, Japan offers numerous ATMs that accept international cards, often providing competitive exchange rates and allowing you to withdraw cash as needed.

When looking for ATMs compatible with foreign debit cards, it is important to know where to find them. The most reliable and widely available ATMs for international withdrawals are found in 7-Eleven convenience stores, which are ubiquitous throughout the country. These ATMs are branded as “Seven Bank” and accept cards with Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, UnionPay, and other major networks.

Another reliable option is the Japan Post Bank ATMs, located in post offices across Japan. These ATMs also accept a wide range of international cards and are often available in smaller towns and rural areas where 7-Eleven stores may be less common. Additionally, ATMs operated by major Japanese banks such as Mitsubishi UFJ, Sumitomo Mitsui, and Mizuho may accept international cards, but compatibility can vary depending on the specific branch and ATM.

It is essential to be aware of the withdrawal rates and fees associated with using your foreign debit card in Japan. The fees charged can vary depending on your home bank and the specific ATM used. Typically, Japanese ATMs charge a local fee ranging from 100 to 220 yen (approximately 0.90 to 2 USD) per transaction, while your home bank may charge a foreign transaction fee, which can be a flat fee or a percentage of the withdrawn amount.

Moreover, your home bank may also charge a currency conversion fee, which is typically a percentage of the transaction value. To minimize these costs, it is advisable to withdraw larger amounts less frequently, as this can help reduce the overall number of fees incurred during your trip. Keep in mind, however, that both your home bank and the local ATM may impose daily withdrawal limits, so it is essential to plan accordingly and be aware of these restrictions.

Before departing for Japan, it is a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid potential issues with your card being flagged for suspicious activity. Also, take note of your card’s personal identification number (PIN), as it may be required for ATM withdrawals in Japan.

Credit cards

Credit card usage in Japan has been steadily increasing, particularly in urban areas and tourist hotspots. However, it is important to remember that Japan still maintains a strong cash-based culture, especially in rural areas and smaller businesses. As a result, it is always advisable to carry some cash alongside your credit cards for seamless transactions during your stay.

The most widely accepted credit cards in Japan are Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, with other cards like JCB, Diners Club, and Discover also being accepted at certain establishments. Major department stores, hotels, and chain restaurants typically accept credit cards, while smaller shops, local restaurants, and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) may require cash payments. It is always a good idea to look for credit card acceptance signs near the entrance of an establishment or ask the staff before making a purchase.

Using credit cards in Japan is generally safe, thanks to the country’s low crime rates and stringent security measures in place for electronic transactions. Chip-and-PIN technology is the standard, providing an additional layer of security to protect your card information. However, it is essential to practice basic safety precautions, such as regularly monitoring your transaction history, keeping your card in sight during transactions, and immediately reporting any suspicious charges to your bank.

When using a credit card in Japan, it is also essential to be aware of any foreign transaction fees charged by your bank. These fees, typically a percentage of each purchase, can add up quickly during your trip. To minimize these costs, consider using a credit card that offers no foreign transaction fees or a travel-specific card that provides additional benefits and rewards for international spending.

Tipping

Tipping culture in Japan is quite different from that in many Western countries. In general, tipping is not customary in Japan, and attempting to tip can sometimes be seen as inappropriate or even offensive. Japanese people take pride in providing excellent service as part of their job, and tipping can be perceived as questioning the value of the service or implying that the worker needs extra financial motivation.

As a traveler in Japan, you are not expected to tip in most situations, including restaurants, bars, hotels, taxis, and guided tours. The prices you pay for goods and services already include the cost of excellent service, and additional tips are not necessary. If you receive exceptional service or wish to express your gratitude, a polite “thank you” (arigatou gozaimasu) is usually more than enough.

In some rare cases, such as high-end ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) or when taking part in private or customized guided tours, tipping may be considered acceptable. In these instances, it is crucial to follow the appropriate etiquette. Rather than handing cash directly to the service provider, place the money in an envelope (preferably a small, decorative one) and present it discreetly, emphasizing that it is a token of your appreciation.

Another exception to the no-tipping rule is when engaging the services of a personal guide or assistant, particularly if they have gone above and beyond in helping you during your trip. In this case, offering a small gift from your home country or something that reflects their interests would be more appropriate and appreciated than a cash tip.

In summary, tipping is not customary in Japan, and travelers should generally avoid offering tips during their stay. Instead, expressing your gratitude verbally or, in exceptional situations, presenting a small gift or a cash-filled envelope is more in line with Japanese customs and etiquette. By adhering to local tipping practices, you can help maintain the harmonious and respectful atmosphere that characterizes Japan.