With the strength of yen getting weaker, here are 5 tips for budget traveler deciding to visit the Land of the Rising Sun.

Japan has long been known as a popular travel destination, although one that is often marked as an expensive tourist destination. In reality, like many other countries, Japan is friendly to any type of budget as long as you plan for it. Knowing your limits and planning around it will help you stay on course.

With Covid restrictions lifting, the country has opened its borders and with the Japanese yen recently weak against the US dollar, perhaps this is your next travel destination of choice?

Here are 5 tips to save on money while you travel across Japan.

#1. Avoid Capsule Hotels, Go for Hostels Instead

Capsule hotels are quite unique to Japan, and most charge in between RM90 to RM200 per night, depending on the type of accommodation and service provided. They offer quick, frictionless transaction from the moment you step into the hotel, and sometimes, you might never even encounter a service staff throughout your entire stay.

Due to the “open” nature of capsule hotels, each room is essentially a tiny pod with no standing room and the only thing separating the occupant to the outside is a thin blind that acts as the door to your cubby.

Privacy is not a thing in most capsule hotels, as you will be sharing space with other occupants. Noise and chatter will be inevitable as the occupant next to you is just a thin wall away.

Most capsule hotels only accommodate one person per capsule, so if you are travelling in groups, you may be forced to stay in your own capsule possibly far away from your travel partners, or worse, on separate floors for those hotels practicing gender segregation.

Hostels, however, can be a great way to experience the country’s unique culture and make new friends from around the world. One of the biggest advantages of staying in a hostel in Japan is the opportunity to meet people from different countries and cultures. Hostels are social environments where travelers can easily connect and share their experiences. This is especially beneficial for solo travelers who may be looking for companionship and support during their trip.

Hostels in Japan are also known for their cleanliness and safety. The country has a reputation for being incredibly clean and organized, and this is reflected in its hostels. Most hostels in Japan have strict rules and regulations to ensure that they are kept clean and safe for all guests.

#2. Avoid Restaurants, Go for Convenience Stores Instead

Eating in convenience stores, or “conbini” as they are called in Japan, is popular among both locals and tourists alike. While it may not be the traditional way to dine in Japan, there are several advantages to eating at a convenience store instead of a restaurant.

One of the biggest advantages of eating at a convenience store in Japan is the price. Convenience stores are known for their affordable prices, making them a good option for travelers on a budget. The food available at convenience stores is typically less expensive than what you would find at a restaurant, and you can save even more money by purchasing items on sale or using coupons.

As in its name, convenience stores are ubiquitous in Japan and can be found on almost every street corner. This makes it easy to grab a quick meal or snack while on the go, without having to search for a restaurant or worry about making reservations.

The variety of food available at convenience stores in Japan is also impressive. In addition to the usual convenience store fare of snacks and drinks, many convenience stores also offer a wide variety of hot and cold meals, including bento boxes, sushi, sandwiches, and more. This means that you can enjoy a diverse range of Japanese food without needing to step into a restaurant.

Generally, the quality of the food at convenience stores in Japan is quite good. Convenience stores in Japan often source their ingredients from local farmers and producers, ensuring that the food is fresh and of high quality. They also have high standards for food safety and hygiene, making them a safe and reliable option for meals.

#3. Use the Japan Rail Pass

Traveling by train is one of the best ways to see Japan, and using a rail pass is a great budgeting decision for those looking to save money on transportation.  The Japan Rail Pass, is a discount ticket that allows travelers to use Japan’s extensive network of trains, including the high-speed Shinkansen bullet trains, at a discounted rate.

One of the biggest advantages of using a rail pass in Japan is the savings it offers. A rail pass allows travelers to ride the trains as much as they want, and the cost of a rail pass is often less than what you would pay for individual train tickets. This means that travelers can save money on transportation costs, allowing them to allocate more of their budget to other expenses such as accommodation, food, and activities.

With a rail pass, travelers don’t have to worry about buying individual tickets each time they want to ride a train. This eliminates the need to wait in line at train stations, making it easy to hop on and off trains as you please.

This allows travelers to explore the country at their own pace. Japan’s train network is incredibly efficient and reliable, making it easy to travel long distances quickly and comfortably. Travelers can visit multiple destinations in a short amount of time, allowing them to see more of the country and have a more diverse and rewarding travel experience.

Travelers can avoid the stress and hassle of driving. Japan’s roads can be crowded and confusing, especially for those who are not familiar with the country. By using a rail pass, travelers can avoid the stress and hassle of driving, allowing them to sit back and relax as they travel from place to place.

#4. Another Alternative to Trains are Buses

Traveling in Japan by night bus is a budget-friendly alternative to using the rail pass for trains. Night buses in Japan are a convenient and affordable way to travel long distances, and they can be a great option for travelers looking to save money on transportation.

Night buses are typically much cheaper than trains, making them a good option for travelers on a tight budget. The cost of a night bus ticket is often less than half the cost of a train ticket, and this savings can add up over the course of a trip.

These buses travel by night, saving travelers time and money so that they don’t have to pay for a night’s accommodation. This is especially beneficial for travelers who are trying to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.

Additionally, night buses in Japan are generally comfortable and safe. Most night buses are equipped with reclining seats, blankets, and pillows, making it easy to sleep during the journey. Night buses in Japan have strict safety regulations, and they are typically very reliable, so travelers can feel safe and secure while on board.

5#. Travel During Off Peak Seasons

Deciding which month to travel in Japan can be a difficult decision for budget-conscious travelers. The cost of travel in Japan varies depending on the time of year, with prices typically being higher during peak tourist seasons and lower during off-peak times.

One factor to consider when deciding which month to travel in Japan is the weather. Japan has a diverse range of climates, with different regions experiencing different weather patterns. In general, the best time for tourists to visit Japan is from late March to early April, when the cherry blossoms bloom.

You may want to avoid that and opt to instead travel during the off peak seasons, starting from May until September. And if you are not visiting ski resorts, winter is also a good time to visit the Japan, from December until February.

Consider the crowds when deciding which month to travel in Japan. Japan is a popular tourist destination, and during peak seasons, it can be very crowded, making it difficult to enjoy sights and activities. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to travel during off-peak seasons when there are fewer tourists.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Japan is a budget-friendly destination for travelers. With its affordable hostels, convenient and affordable food options, and discount rail passes, Japan offers a range of options for travelers looking to save money on their trip. Additionally, the country’s efficient and reliable transportation network makes it easy to travel long distances without breaking the bank. By taking advantage of these budget-friendly options, travelers can enjoy all that Japan has to offer without breaking the bank.

 

Know of any other useful tips for the traveler on a tight budget in Japan? Let us know in the comments down below.