Short answer: Even first-time visitors to Japan can enjoy the country wisely and without overspending. Just knowing a few tips and tricks will help you save money while having a satisfying trip.
Many first-time visitors worry about:
・“I don’t want to overspend.”
・“How can I enjoy Japan without wasting money?”
・“Can I enjoy everything I want within my budget?
Don’t worry. As a Japanese local, We’ll show you how to enjoy Japan smartly and stress-free.
1. Typical Prices in Japan (for travelers)
・Lunch set (tourist areas): ¥1,000–1,500
・Dinner (restaurant): ¥2,000–4,000
・Entrance fees for attractions: ¥500–2,000
・Business hotel: ¥7,000–12,000 per night
・Shinkansen (Tokyo ⇄ Osaka, ordinary reserved seat): ~¥14,000 one-way
Example for one day in Tokyo:
・Meals: ¥4,000
・Transportation: ¥1,000
・Sightseeing: ¥2,000
→ Total: ~¥7,000 + accommodation
2. Save on Currency Exchange in Japan
Currency Exchange in Japan
・At the airport, exchange only a small amount for transportation and snacks. After that, withdrawing cash from an ATM usually gives a better rate and is more efficient. For most travelers, this is enough.
・If you need to exchange a larger amount, city-based currency exchange shops are recommended. They usually charge lower fees than banks and can save you a little money.
City Currency Exchange Shops (e.g., Daikokuya, Dollar Ranger, Travelex)
・Often offer better rates and lower fees than banks.
・Recommended for exchanging large amounts.
・Limited opening hours.
・Specific locations by airport and city can be found here →
ATM Cash Withdrawals (Overseas Cashing)
・Common ATMs: Seven Bank, Lawson Bank, Japan Post Bank, AEON Bank, etc.
・Cards with VISA, Mastercard, JCB, or UnionPay logos are accepted.
・ATM fees (about ¥110–220 per transaction) plus your card issuer’s overseas transaction fee (1.5%–3.0%) apply.
・Usually, there is a withdrawal limit per transaction (around ¥50,000).
・Seven Bank ATMs are widely available at major airports and convenience stores, support 12 languages, and are open 24/7, making them highly recommended.
3. Avoid Peak Seasons
Peak Tourist Seasons
・March 25 – April 5 (Cherry blossom season & Western spring holidays)
・October 25 – November 10 (Autumn foliage & comfortable weather)
Features:
・Hotel prices are high even with early bookings.
・Popular cities (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka) are usually expensive months in advance ⚠️ Prices can increase further if booked last minute.
・Weekends and holidays are especially costly, sometimes 1.5–2 times higher than weekdays.
Japanese National Holidays
・December 29 – January 3 (New Year)
・April 29 – May 6 (Golden Week)
Features:
・Many Japanese travel or visit relatives, so hotels, Shinkansen tickets, tourist attractions, and theme parks are in high demand.
・Prices often rise significantly, and popular locations get crowded.
⭐Periods When Hotel Prices Are Lower
・January 8 – January 21 (After New Year’s peak)
・April 13 – April 28 (After cherry blossom season, before Golden Week)
・June 1 – June 30 (⚠️Rainy season; higher humidity)
Features:
・Hotels, transportation, and attractions are relatively cheaper.
・Crowds are smaller, making travel more comfortable.
💡By understanding these, you can travel smoothly and comfortably without stress.
4. Tips for saving money while staying comfortable
・Book hotels 2–3 months in advance
・Choose hotels 1–2 stations away from city center
・Compare and use transportation passes or the JR Pass
5. Cash vs. Cashless
・Credit cards: can be used at major stores, restaurants, and hotels (most places accept credit cards)
・Cash: needed at local shops and local restaurants
・Recommended: carry ¥5,000–10,000 per day
・Use IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) for convenient transport and convenience store payments
6. Where to spend and where to save
Spending less but still getting value
・Luxury hotels (+¥10,000 often small difference in experience)
・Green car on trains (+~¥5,000)
・Restaurants at tourist attractions
Spending more for extra experience
・Onsen ryokan stay (¥15,000–25,000)
・Cultural experiences (¥3,000–8,000)
・Regional gourmet meals (¥2,000–5,000)
💡 Total estimate for 1 week (excluding flights)
・Budget: ¥80,000–100,000
・Standard: ¥120,000–150,000
・A bit luxurious: ¥200,000+
💡Key Point
・With planning and these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and highly satisfying trip.