The first signs of Spring can already be seen in the longer days, the blossoming trees and the warmer weather. Inevitably, this inspires people to start spending more time outside. Or even make some exciting travel plans.
As Japan is very well-known for its beautiful cherry blossoms, driving tourists from all over the world to visit the country each Spring, experts at Japan Rail Pass have provided some useful tips on planning a budget-friendly Japan visit.
Five top tips for planning a budget-friendly trip to Japan
1. Do your research before booking accommodation
One of the very first things to do when planning your Japan trip is to thoroughly research places you can stay. To ensure you don’t pay a huge sum of money, searching for accommodation on Airbnb is a good place to start. Japan’s unique capsule hotels are actually one of the cheapest places to stay. However, keep in mind that the rooms in those hotels are the size of a bed, lack storage space and don’t really allow for much privacy. Whatever your choice, make sure to book well in advance to avoid steep prices.
2. Plan out visits to free attractions
A brilliant thing about Japan is that the country’s attractions are either absolutely free to visit, or their admission fees are very cheap. It’s worth planning out the spots you want to visit and checking their admission. Popular destinations like Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine and Tokyo’s Sensoji Temple are free to enter. There are also numerous interesting parks and markets throughout the country that are well worth a visit, and will often cost nothing.
3. Make use of Japan’s train network
The country has a very well established train network that allows for easy travel between different cities. If you’re planning on visiting various cities throughout your stay, the 7, 14 or 21-day Japan Rail Pass is one of the best ways to ensure you’re not spending too much money. For those looking to spend their trip in a single region, a regional pass might be a better fit. Don’t forget to also consider travelling by bus as an even cheaper option.
4. Cook some of your meals
Food is one of the main expenses you should consider when planning your Japan trip. While eating out is part of experiencing the country’s culture, if you have the opportunity, it’s a good idea to cook some of your meals, in order to save some money. The country’s supermarkets are great for buying any fresh food you might need to make a meal at home at a good price. Another great way to eat on a budget is by visiting local street food markets.
5. Avoid shopping at tourist locations
In order to be able to do some budget-friendly shopping, make sure to plan in advance. Traditional items and souvenirs can be found at cheaper prices outside any popular tourist locations. Shopping online is also another option to save money, as you may stumble upon some great discounts. And if you’re looking for something unique to buy, flea markets offer the opportunity to do so, while still sticking to your budget.
Haroun Khan at Japan Rail Pass provides insight on planning a trip to Japan: “Whatever your budget, you’ll certainly experience an unforgettable trip when visiting Japan as long as you plan ahead. Early Spring is one of the most popular times of the year, as tourists flock to see the cherry blossoms – but keep in mind that it will be more expensive if you travel during peak seasons. The preparation for your visit should be thorough, from choosing plane tickets to places where you’d like to eat. There are many discounts available throughout the year, especially if you book ahead of time. Always shop around before making a booking to ensure that you’re saving as much money as possible.”
