Japan is one of those countries that are on quite a few people's travel bucket lists, mine included. Whether it be the rich, unique culture, the fascinating history or the beautiful landscape, there is something that draws many to this land, known as the Land of the Rising Sun. Kevin Wong is a writer for MSN.com page Family Vacations U.S. and he compiled a list of 21 budget-friendly tips to see Japan and get the most out of your trip
1. Use the JR Pass wisely
-For those planning on traveling throughout Japan, the JR Pass would be an ideal item to have. Prior to purchasing a map, plan out your itinerary to see if it aligns with areas covered by the JR Pass. This pass provides almost unlimited travel on most trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet train), making it the ideal choice for long distance traveling. Keep in mind that not all routes are covered, so double check your itinerary. Consider starting your JR Pass on the day you intend to start most of your traveling, to get the most use out of the pass. This strategic move will save you bundles of money rather than buying individual tickets
2. Stay in capsule hotels
-WARNING: If you are claustrophobic, this is not the best option for you!
-These are a unique budget-friendly option for accommodation. They are often found in major cities and come complete with free Wi-Fi and shared bathrooms. Definitely not ideal for those with claustrophobia, they are perfect for single travelers or those looking for a distinct, unique or even quirky Japanese experience. The communal areas offered at capsule hotels offers options for lounging and dining, a chance to meet other travelers. Choosing a capsule hotel can often cut costs for accommodation in half or more, allowing your budget to be spent on other experiences. Book a room in advance, as they tend to fill up fast
3. Eat at konbini
-Konbini, or convenience stores, are almost literal treasure troves for food and more. They are scattered all throughout Japan and offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable food. Ranging from Japanese bento boxes to fresh sushi, these stores provide meals for all times of day and night. Unlike most convenience stores people are familiar with, where the the food's quality might be questionable at best, Japanese convenience stores pride themselves on offering excellent quality and variety. The food is affordable and friendly for budgets. It's satisfying, meaning you won't have to worry about being hungry almost immediately afterwards. And they make perfect on-the-go meals. These stores also sell travel essentials, like toiletries, snacks and more. These konbini are one stop shops for travelers on the go who are looking to save money
4. Travel during the off season
-It's widely known that Japan can be expensive. Especially during certain times of the year. During the spring, when the cherry blossoms start to bloom, during the fall when autumn foliage starts to change, are two of the busiest times of the time. It's highly recommended to travel during the off-peak seasons, such as autumn or late winter because you will be able to save a lot of money, as most travelers prefer not to travel in winter or autumn. Airfare and accommodations costs will drop in price, popular attractions will have less people and allow for a more relaxed feeling. The cooler weather is also more refreshing, offering a better chance to go exploring without getting overheated by the summer heat and humidity Japan often faces. If you travel to Japan during the off-peak times, you can enjoy all that Japan has to offer without paying high fees. Not only that, but traveling during the off-season means better rates at accommodations, higher availability for tours and other attractions and more flexibility in your travel plans
5. Take advantage of the free attractions
-Japan offers numerous attractions free of charge. Tranquil parks and gardens to the historic temples and shrines to the vibrant, lively markets. While in Tokyo, visit the unique Shibuya Crossing or the lovely Meiji Shrine for free. While in Kyoto, take a walk with nature and see nature at its finest or observe the unique architecture of buildings for free. Research all free offerings in the cities you plan to visit prior to traveling to get the most out of your trip. Utilizing these locations will not only keep you on budget but also give you a deep dive in to the local culture and history. These experiences can be just as good as the attractions you pay for, if not better
6. Purchase a Suica / Pasmo Card
-This is a cost-friendly option for public transportation. These prepaid cards are used for buses, trains and even some taxis. They save money for you rather than buying individual tickets each time. They can be recharged at stations, used in stores and even vending machines. Cardholders will be offered discounts and promotions. Carrying one card and using it for multiple sources slashes the need to carry cash and will streamline your travel, making it far easier. This handy little card will make navigating the Japanese transportation system a breeze
7. Dine at Kaiten Sushi
-Those hungry for a unique, but affordable sushi option need to look into kaiten sushi restaurants. Plates of sushi will glide past your seat, allowing you to choose what looks appealing. Price is determined by plate color, meaning your budget can be adjusted easily. These types of restaurants are very common in cities and provide an interesting chance to sample local, fresh seafood. Watching the chefs lovingly prepare the meals in front of you and having a wealth of options to choose from adds more fun to the experience. It's a casual, easy way to experience Japan's unique cuisine without shelling out major money
8. Use overnight buses
-These overnight buses offer a unique advantage. They save you money on accommodation while taking you to other cities. These buses are state-of-the-art hotels on wheels that come fully equipped with Wi-Fi, reclining seats, blankets. They are far more affordable than train travel, especially if you plan on traveling long-distance. Traveling overnight means you can sleep while the bus is wheeling its way to your destination. You'll wake up refreshed, recharged and ready to explore, making the most of your time in Japan. Book in advance to get the maximum amount of savings. This option is not only budget-friendly and will allow you to stretch your yen, but it will also give you a look into the unique and sometimes quirky but efficient transportation systems of Japan
9. Visit 100 Yen Shops
-These are the Japanese relative to the 99 cent stores that many places in the US have. Here you can find everyday essentials and unique souvenirs for the budget-conscious traveler. Everything comes at an affordable price. Despite the low price, the items available are of the highest quality. You can purchase nearly anything here, from kitchenware to snacks to clothing and more. It's both useful and entertaining to check out these shops, and you might find unique or even quirky items that add to your trip
10. Explore the neighborhood izakayas
-Izakayas, or Japanese bars, are a good choice for dining because not only is the food good, it's reasonably priced. They offer small dishes perfect for sharing, along with drinks. Travelers can dive headlong into local culture while eating at a reasonable cost. The casual atmosphere allows for interactions with locals, who can provide more insight into local sights and sounds than a travel guide would. These izakayas will often feature local cuisine native to that area, making each one distinct
11. Rent a bicycle
-You can explore the cities and countryside at a slow pace by renting a bicycle. Many of the cities in Japan offer a bicycle service with very reasonable daily rates. Choosing to rent a bicycle allows for flexibility in travel, meaning you can leave the beaten path made by other travelers and discover hidden gems not visible to those in the know. Riding through the neighborhoods provides a peek into daily Japanese life. Not only that, but it's a healthy option and eco-friendly. Just learn the local bike routes and etiquette
12. Attend a free festival
-Throughout the year, Japan hosts plenty of festivals, some of which are free and some of which are not. These festivals offer an education into the local culture and heritage. They feature stalls selling food, live performances, parades that are an overload of the senses. You can take part in these festivals and it will provide a unique one on one experience with the locals and witness traditions first hand. Research the schedules ahead of time to see if any line up with your travel itinerary
13. Utilize any discount passes
-There are discount passes that can be used to slash the price in half or more for attractions. These passes can cover multiple things in a city or region and save a lot of money rather than buying individual tickets. These discounts can often include public transportation discounts. There are options like the Tokyo Grutto Pass, Osaka Amazing Pass that provide access to museum, various landmarks and more items than you can imagine. If you plan your activities around these types of passes or discounts, you'll save the maximum amount of money while also getting the maximum amount of experience in your trip. Check local tourism websites or visitor centers to see if they offer discount passes
14. Stay in a ryokan / minshuku
-For a deep dive into local Japanese culture, stay in a ryokan or minshuku. These are traditionally Japanese accommodations that offer tatami mat rooms, futon beds and local food. Some can be pricey, but there are budget-conscious options available as well. A stay at a ryokan or minshuku will include meals, heightening the experience. The serene atmosphere and service that feels personalized will make for good memories. Book during the off-season or share a room with people to further slash costs
15. Shop at local markets
-Local markets are nothing short of absolute nirvana for discovering fresh produce and specialties native to that region. The Tsukiji Market in Tokyo or Nishiki Market in Kyoto allow travelers to taste the local foods at a reasonable price. They offer everything, ranging from street food to freshly caught seafood. Talking with vendors provides a unique look into the local cuisine scene. Trying these different foods allows you to get a unique look into the local culinary scene without overstuffing yourself with a meal. It's a cost-friendly way to explore the uniquely culinary world of Japan
16. Use technology to score deals
-Technology can be a good thing in terms of travel. Using technology in your travel plans can slash costs by half or more. There are numerous apps and websites offering deals on accommodations, dining and attractions, along with special offers. Using translation apps can help close the language gap, leading to better offers and deals while also interacting with the locals. When you stay connected via technology, it keeps you informed about sales that pop up and last minute perks. By utilizing technology, you add to your travel experience and make it far more affordable while also enjoying all that Japan has to offer
17. Enjoy walks along nature trails
-Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. The nature there is not found elsewhere. As such, there are tons of nature paths for people to hike along and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are spiritual paths such as Kumano Kodo to natural parks like Nikko National Park. Hiking trails offer beautiful scenery, are free of cost and offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. These paths offer a chance to witness the vast diversity of Japan's ecosystems. Pack a picnic for a grand day out, free from the price of dining
18. Take part in a cultural workshop
-These hands-on experiences only heighten your trip to Japan. They add a rich, unique understanding of Japanese culture. Experiences such as tea ceremonies, calligraphy or cooking classes are often very reasonably priced and they provide a good look at the culture. These workshops are available in many cities and can also be found in the local cultural centers and even online. Taking part in these cultural workshops allows you the chance to engage with the artisans and instructors, getting an education and valuable new skills. It's a unique, memorable way to learn about the culture in addition to sightseeing. Not only that, but now you have a unique handmade souvenir or new skill, only adding to your travel memories
19. Go for street food
-Street food is the best option for budget friendly travelers. Not only is it budget friendly, but it is also delicious. Cities like Osaka and Fukuoka are world renowned for their street food. These street food stalls are the perfect chance to sample local cuisine on the go. These street food vendors are almost always located near popular attractions, making it fast and easy to grab a quick meal. Eating at these food carts or street stalls provides a chance to eat while sampling local cuisine
20. Use any free Wi-Fi spots
-Free Wi-Fi is a major thing in Japan. It's common to find Free Wi-Fi signs in urban areas and tourist attractions. Many of the convenience stores, cafes and public transportation spots will have a Free Wi-Fi sign, stating they offer free wi-fi. Utilize these hotspots to stay connected digitally without running up international roaming charges. Having access to wi-fi allows you to plan your day's itinerary, research nearby attractions and keep in touch with loved ones back home. Carry a portable charger with you to guarantee you stay charged up on your devices. If you can stay connected digitally, you'll slash costs in half or more while also navigating throughout Japan
21. Take part in a silent zen tea ceremony
-While in Kyoto, you can take part in a silent zen tea ceremony. Nothing is more peaceful and tranquil than a tea ceremony. This centuries old tradition invites you to learn how to not only prepare tea, but to connect with the surroundings and even yourself. It's a combination of tea ceremony and meditation. This ceremony puts emphasis on mindfulness and appreciation for the simple moments. It offers you a break from the stress of travel. It doesn't matter whether you're a seasoned professional traveler or new to Japan, this activity will provide you the chance to reflect deeply while also relaxing and ridding yourself of worry. This is a budget friendly way to connect you right to Japan's cultural heart
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