Traveling to Tokyo on a budget can be an exciting and unforgettable experience! From exploring the city’s rich culture to enjoying delicious food, Tokyo has so much to offer without breaking the bank. In this guide, I’ll share some of the things to do, affordable accommodations, and tips for making the most of your trip to Tokyo while keeping costs low. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly options to make your Tokyo adventure amazing.
Budget Backpacking: Tokyo and Beyond
Tokyo was my first stop on my solo backpacking adventure across Asia. Over the next 58 days, I’ll be traveling to five different countries, starting with Japan, then South Korea, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. After Tokyo, I’ll be exploring Fujikawaguchiko, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Osaka before heading to Jeju, Korea.
I’m super excited about traveling through Tokyo, Japan. I was in Japan March of this year for an incredible pilgrimage journey through Shikoku as Ohenro! My friends and I walked over 750 miles, visiting 88 temples. It was an unforgettable experience. If you’re interested in doing the pilgrimage, check out the post on my pilgrimage journey and how to prepare for it.
While I loved the pilgrimage, I didn’t get to see much of the rest of Japan, so I decided to return and explore more of this amazing country. I’m doing this 58-day trip with a budget of $5000, and I’ll share where I stayed and how I found ways to enjoy the trip while traveling on a budget.
Where I Stayed in Tokyo
During my 5-night stay while traveling to Tokyo, I stayed at two different hostels. My top choice was Wise Owl Hostel. It had a great location, just a short walk from the Sky Tree and shopping areas. The staff was friendly and welcoming, which made me feel right at home. The beds were also really comfortable, which was perfect after a long day of exploring. I paid $25 a night, which was a great deal for everything it offered.
I also stayed at Citan, another popular hostel, but it wasn’t my favorite. It had a bar downstairs, so it was pretty noisy, making it hard to sleep. The facilities didn’t feel as nice compared to Wise Owl Hostel, and I didn’t enjoy my stay as much. Citan cost me $51 a night, which was much higher, but I didn’t feel it was worth the extra cost given the noise and the overall experience.
Top Things to Do in Tokyo
Tokyo SkyTree: As the tallest building in Japan, the Tokyo SkyTree offers breathtaking views of the city from its observatory. At night, the SkyTree lights up in beautiful colors, making for a stunning sight. While it’s definitely worth visiting once, I found it to be a bit touristy. You can also explore the shops and restaurants inside the building without needing to go up to the observatory. Admission is about $15.
Tokyo Tower: Another iconic landmark in Tokyo, the Tokyo Tower offers great views of the city. Though it’s very similar to the SkyTree, it has its own charm. It’s a bit more affordable, with admission costing around $9.
Tsukiji Fish Market: If you’re a seafood lover, Tsukiji Fish Market is a must-visit! Known for its fresh seafood, it can be a bit pricey, but it’s totally worth it for the quality. While you’re there, don’t forget to try the famous strawberry mochi, a delicious treat you won’t want to miss.
Shibuya Crossing: This busy, bustling intersection is one of the most iconic sights in Tokyo. It’s reminiscent of New York City or San Francisco, with people crossing from all directions. If you love city life and energy, this is a spot you’ll want to check out while traveling to Tokyo.
teamLab Planet: If you’re into unique art experiences, teamLab Planet is a must-visit. This interactive art exhibit is unlike anything else and offers an immersive experience that’s truly unforgettable. It’s well worth the $30 admission.
These spots are just a few of the highlights in Tokyo, and there’s so much more to see and do in this amazing city!
Budget-Friendly Dining Spots in Tokyo
Here are some great budget-friendly dining options in Tokyo:
Life Supermarket: If you’re traveling on a budget, Life Supermarket is a fantastic choice. It’s a large chain grocery store with a wide range of items, from prepared sushi meals to fresh salads. You’ll find plenty of options, making it easy to enjoy delicious meals without spending too much.
Asakusa Monja Kanoya Hanare: For a unique dining experience, head to Asakusa Monja Kanoya Hanare. This spot is known for its Monjayaki, a savory dish similar to okonomiyaki. It’s a fun and tasty way to try traditional Japanese food.
Ichigoro: If you love gyozas, Ichigoro is the place to be. Known for their mouthwatering dumplings, this restaurant offers them at reasonable prices, making it a perfect spot for a satisfying meal.
Sushi Tsune: For sushi lovers, Sushi Tsune is a must-visit. This popular restaurant serves up fresh and flavorful sushi that will leave you craving more. It’s a great place to indulge in authentic Japanese sushi.
Tips for Traveling in Tokyo
1. Get a Suica Card
The first thing you should do when traveling to Tokyo is grab a Suica card. It’s super convenient for visitors. You can use it on subways, local trains, buses, and even for some shopping. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t work for bullet trains or express buses.
You can easily buy one at machines in the airport, or if you prefer, add it to your phone wallet. Just download the Suica app under “transit card,” and load it before you arrive. The card starts at 1,000 yen, and you can quickly refill it whenever your balance gets low.
2. Have a Data Plan
Having a data plan for access to Google Maps is essential. While many public places offer free Wi-Fi, it can be unreliable. Therefore, be sure to set up your data plan before traveling to Tokyo to stay connected.
I got my eSIM card online through Airalo, which provided 5 GB of data for 30 days at $20, but there are many options available to choose from.
3. Cash vs. Credit Cards
When it comes to cash, I recommend bringing some US dollars, as many places still prefer cash. You’ll find currency exchange services throughout the city with decent exchange rates. However, most places accept credit cards, but if you need cash, you can easily withdraw yen at ATM machines, even in convenience stores.
If you’re traveling to Tokyo and prefer not to carry too much cash, using ATMs is a convenient option. Just be sure to check with your bank to avoid any extra fees. Some banks like Charles Schwab do not charge ATM fees, making them great choices to consider during your trip.
Traveling to Tokyo on a Budget
Tokyo is often known for being expensive, but thanks to the great exchange rate, I found it surprisingly affordable. One of the best ways to save money was by cooking my own meals in hostel kitchens. While bullet train tickets and express buses can be pricey, sticking to local trains, subways, and walking helped me explore the city without overspending.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for another adventure, Tokyo will leave you with unforgettable memories. The city is incredibly safe and clean, making it a great place to explore and enjoy while traveling.
