15 Smart Tips to Save Money When Traveling in Japan

These money-saving tips will help you enjoy Japan while keeping your travel budget under control.

1. Get a JR Pass (If Traveling Between Cities)

If you plan to visit multiple cities in a short time, the Japan Rail Pass can save you a lot of money.

The pass allows unlimited travel on most JR trains, including many Shinkansen lines.

For example:

• Travel between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka or even continue to Hiroshima and Fukuoka.

• Travel across the country from Hokkaido in the north all the way to Kyushu in the south.

• The pass also covers ferry rides from Hiroshima to nearby Miyajima Island and Itsukushima Shrine

If you are planning a route across the country, this article explains which destinations are easiest to visit by train: Japan’s Top 20 Most Visited Tourist Destinations Accessible by Train

Since the JR Pass price increased in 2023, it is now best suited for travelers doing long-distance travel within a short timeframe.

2. Use JR Regional Passes Instead of the Nationwide Pass

In many cases, JR regional passes offer much better value than the nationwide pass.

For example:

• The JR Kansai–Hiroshima Area Pass covers travel between Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. >>>Sample Itinerary

• The JR Hokuriku Arch Pass is perfect for visiting Kanazawa. >>> Sample Itinerary

• The JR Hokkaido Regional Pass (5 days or 7 days) allows exploration of Hokkaido. >>> Sample Itinerary

If you want to see how to maximize this pass and check out sample itineraries, visit my article: JR Regional Passes

These passes are usually much cheaper and still cover popular destinations.

3. Travel by Local Trains Instead of Shinkansen Sometimes

The Shinkansen is incredibly convenient, but local and rapid trains can be significantly cheaper.

For example:

• Traveling between Kyoto and Osaka takes about 30 minutes on JR Special Rapid trains and costs much less than the Shinkansen.

• Local JR trains connect Tokyo with nearby destinations like Yokohama and Kamakura.

Unless you're traveling long distances, local trains are often the most budget-friendly option.

4. Use IC Cards Like PASMO or ICOCA

Reloadable IC cards make transportation easy and sometimes help avoid buying expensive tickets.

Popular options include:

• PASMO

• ICOCA

• Suica

These cards work on trains, buses, and even at convenience stores like 7‑Eleven and FamilyMart.

5. Try Night Highway Buses Instead of Shinkansen

Long-distance highway buses are one of the cheapest ways to travel between cities.

Companies like Willer Express and JR Bus offer overnight routes between:

• Tokyo and Osaka

• Tokyo and Kyoto

Not only are these buses cheaper than the Shinkansen, but they also save you one night of hotel accommodation.

6. Try Overnight Ferries for Long Distance Travel

Japan also has excellent ferry services that can be cheaper than flights or trains. This is another way to save you one night of hotel accommodation.

Examples include:

• Sunflower Ferry connecting Osaka and Beppu

• Shin Nihonkai Ferry linking Kyoto with Otaru

Overnight ferries often provide beds, restaurants, and even outside hot baths overlooking the ocean!

7. Stay in Business Hotels or Capsule Hotels

Japan has many affordable accommodations that are clean and comfortable.

Business hotel chains include:

• APA Hotels

• Toyoko Inn

• Super Hotel

Capsule hotels like Nine Hours are another cheap option in major cities.

Find affordable business hotels in Japan on Trip.com

8. Book Accommodation Early With Free Cancellation

Japan hotels often become expensive closer to travel dates, especially during busy seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage.

Many hotels allow free cancellation, so you can lock in a good price while keeping flexibility.

9. Book Hotels With Free Breakfast

Some budget hotels in Japan include surprisingly good breakfast options.

Chains known for free breakfast include:

• Toyoko Inn

• Super Hotel

Breakfast may include rice, miso soup, bread, eggs, and coffee — helping you save money on your first meal of the day.Overnight ferries often provide beds, restaurants, and even hot baths.

Find Great Hotel Deals With Free Breakfast

10. Book Attraction Tickets Online

Booking attraction tickets online can sometimes be cheaper and helps you avoid long lines.

Examples:

• Tokyo Skytree

• teamLab Planets

• Universal Studios Japan

Websites like GetYourGuide or Tqets.com often offer discounts.

11. Try Supermarket Meals at the “Sozai” Section

Japanese supermarkets often have a Sozai (prepared food) section with fresh and affordable meals.

Popular supermarkets include:

• Aeon

• Seiyu

• Life

You can find sushi, bento boxes, fried chicken, and salads at lower prices than convenience stores.

12. Eat at Cheap Food Chains

Japan has many inexpensive restaurant chains where you can enjoy a full meal for under $6.

Some popular chains include:

• Yoshinoya

• CoCo Ichibanya

• Nakau

• Matsuya

These restaurants are found in almost every city.

13. Use 100 Yen Shops

Japan’s 100-yen shops sell a wide variety of travel essentials and souvenirs.

Popular chains include:

• Daiso

• Seria

• Can Do

You can buy snacks, travel containers, chopsticks, and souvenirs for just ¥100.

14. Avoid Exchanging Money at the Airport

Airport currency exchange counters often offer poor exchange rates.

Instead, consider:

• Withdrawing cash at 7‑Eleven ATMs

• Using Japan Post Bank ATMs

These options usually provide better exchange rates and lower fees.

15. Visit Free Attractions and Parks

Many of Japan’s best attractions are completely free.

Examples include:

• Fushimi Inari Taisha

• Meiji Shrine

• Ueno Park

These places offer incredible cultural experiences without any entrance fee.

Conclusion

Traveling in Japan doesn't have to break your budget. By using rail passes wisely, choosing affordable accommodations, and taking advantage of cheap food options, you can explore the country while keeping costs low.

With these 15 tips, you’ll be able to enjoy everything from the busy streets of Tokyo to the historic temples of Kyoto without overspending.