Japan Travelling Cost: What You'll Spend on Food, Stays, and Getting Around

Planning a trip to Japan is exciting, but figuring out the cost can be stressful.

You search online and find so many different answers. Some say Japan is cheap. Others say it is one of the most expensive places to visit, regarding transportation and food. 

It can be hard to know what to believe. You just want a clear idea of how much money to prepare.

Is Japan expensive for travelling? How much does food cost? What about a place to stay?

This guide will walk you through the real Japan travelling cost. You will see what people usually spend on food, stays and transport. With that, you can plan your trip with more confidence and fewer surprises.

If you want to travel to Japan on a budget, read this guide first.

Japan Travel Cost Breakdown

With the right personal item, you can offset the baggage fees on many trips.

Below is an illustrative daily budget comparison for a frugal (budget) traveller, a regular (mid-range) traveller, and a luxury traveller in Japan.

All amounts are in Japanese yen and converted to USD and EUR at mid-2025 exchange rates (approx. ¥150 = $1, ¥160 = €1). These ranges include typical spending patterns (hostel vs. midrange hotel vs. upscale lodging, cheap eats vs. restaurants, etc.):

Budgetyourtrip reports budget travellers spending about $59/day (≈¥9,000) on average, mid-range about $150 (≈¥22,650), and luxury around $384 (≈¥57,600). Actual costs will vary by city and season (Tokyo tends to be pricier than rural areas) and by travel style.

• Budget travellers might stay in hostels or capsule hotels (¥3–5K/night), eat mostly convenience-store meals (¥2–3K/day), use local trains/buses (~¥500–1,000/day), visit free or low-cost sights, and buy minimal souvenirs. 

• Mid-range travellers budget more: a modest hotel (business hotel or Airbnb) at ¥8–12K, dining at simple restaurants (¥5–8K for meals), plus transit and entry fees as shown.

• Luxury travellers stay in upscale hotels (¥20K+), enjoy finer dining (¥10–15K/day), take frequent trains or taxis, and shop more. These align with data such as BudgetYourTrip’s breakdown.

More Generally, How Much Does A Trip To Japan Cost?

It varies a lot. In short, per-person daily budgets range broadly, roughly $50–100 (frugal) to $150–250 (mid) to $500+ (luxury) per day.

• As above, budget travellers might manage on roughly ¥8,000–10,000 ($50–$70) per day with hostels and convenience store food.

• A mid-range traveller often plans ¥20,000–30,000 ($130–$200) per day.

• Luxury travel ($300–$500 per day or more) is also common if staying in high-end hotels and dining at fancy restaurants.

So, is $1,000 Enough For A Trip To Japan?

Strictly speaking, $1,000 (about ¥150,000) for a whole week is very tight if you include everything except flights. It’s near the low end of the average one-week cost.

It’s possible to scrape by on $1,000 for 7 days (no luxury, limited travel), but most visitors find that amount only covers basic lodging and meals with few splurges (no dining in Ginza for you). In practice, many seasoned wanderlusts suggest budgeting at least $1,500–2,000 per week for comfort (mid-range hotels, dining out, some train travel).

How Long Is Enough For Japan Travel?

Trip length also affects cost. Is 10 days long enough in Japan? Many travellers answer yes: 10 days lets you hit top sights (e.g. Tokyo, Kyoto, maybe Osaka/Hiroshima or Mt. Fuji) at a comfortable pace. It’s long enough to justify a Japan Rail Pass and see a cross-section of the country. 

Is 14 days too much, then? Two weeks (14–15 days) in Japan is not generally considered “too long” for first-time visitors. It’s actually quite common. With 14 days, you can do a comprehensive loop (Tokyo → Hakone/Nikko → Kyoto → Hiroshima → Osaka/Osaka’s environs, for example). 

From a cost perspective, 14 days would roughly double the 7-day budget. A 15-day trip on modest spending runs about $4,000–$9,000. Money aside, 14 days gives you breathing room to travel at a relaxed pace and see additional places. 

In short, 10–14 days is a sweet spot for many; 14 days is not too much if your schedule allows, it just means your total trip cost (accommodations + expenses) goes up accordingly (about twice the weekly budget).

Japan Travel Cost: What You Need To Spend In Japan

Japan is an amazing place to explore, but the costs can add up quickly. This guide helps you understand where your money goes and how to plan smart.

Accommodation

It’s affordable to stay in Japanese hostels. Photo by Sanga on stock.adobe.com

If you're on a tight budget, hostels and capsule hotels are smart choices. A bed in a shared dorm usually costs around ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 per night (that's like $14–35 or €12–31). 

For that price, the quality is amazing. Most places are super clean and have everything you need (Wi-Fi, hot showers, even laundry). Capsules are a bit more private and cost around ¥2,500 to ¥4,000 ($17-28 or €15-25) . You can stay one in central areas like Osaka, that had Netflix in every pod and a public bath downstairs.

Now, if you're not into sharing a room with strangers, business hotels are a solid step up. Think Toyoko Inn or APA - small but super convenient. You’ll pay around ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 a night ($35–70 or €31–62), and you get a private bathroom, a comfy bed and usually free breakfast. 

For a more local vibe, check out minshuku (basically Japanese B&Bs). They cost a bit more, around ¥5,000 to ¥12,000 per person ($35–83 or €31–70), but you often get a home-cooked meal and a chance to chat with the hosts. If you're in a rural town, this is honestly the best way to experience Japan. Options in Takayama are notable examples to choose from.

And then there’s the ryokan - the classic tatami room, yukata, onsen, full-course dinner kind of experience. These are special, and yeah, they’re pricier. A mid-range one will run you about ¥10,000–15,000 per person (around $69-104 or €60-90), while the fancy ones easily hit ¥30,000 or more (more than $208 or €182). But here’s a tip: travel off-season and those prices drop a lot. 

Location matters too. Tokyo is expensive. Even budget spots fill up quickly and aren’t cheap during peak times. Kyoto is the same, especially during cherry blossom season.

In comparison, Osaka is much more budget-friendly. And if you're heading to places like Hiroshima or Sapporo, you'll get even better deals. You can find a cosy private room in Hiroshima for ¥4,500 ($31 or €27) a night. 

Seasons change everything. If you’re travelling during peak times like hanami or Golden Week, prices can double. But go in February or late November, and you’ll find way more options at better rates. Oh, and try to avoid weekends. Prices always creep up on Fridays and Saturdays. 

Transportation

Transportation in Japan is reliable, fast and incredibly well-organised. Photo by vichie81 on stock.adobe.com

If you're planning to visit multiple cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, the Shinkansen (bullet train) is the most convenient way to travel. A one-way ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto costs around ¥14,000 (about $100 or €90). That adds up quickly, especially on round trips or multi-stop journeys. This is where the JR Pass becomes useful.

A 7-day pass costs around ¥50,000 ($345 or €303), but if you’re moving between cities several times, it often pays for itself. Travellers recommend buying it before arriving in Japan to get a better rate and wider coverage options.

Inside cities, trains and subways are the main way to get around. A typical metro ride costs between ¥180–¥250 ($1.3–1.8 or €1-1.5), and using an IC card like Suica or Pasmo makes things easier. These cards work across most cities, and you can recharge them at convenience stores or machines in stations. 

For full days of sightseeing, daily passes can help save money. For example, Kyoto has a one-day pass covering buses and subways for around ¥1,100 ($7.6 or €6.6), while Tokyo offers similar options starting from ¥600 ($4 or €3.6).

Long-distance buses are another good alternative for travellers on a budget. Companies like Willer Express offer comfortable overnight or highway buses between major cities. 

Food And Drinks

Japanese cuisine is famous for its delicate appeal and scrumptious taste. Photo by Serhii on stock.adobe.com

Food is one of the best parts of travelling in Japan. You can enjoy amazing meals without spending too much, and there are great options for every kind of traveller.

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson are everywhere. You can grab a hot bento, onigiri, or fresh sandwich for around ¥400 ($2.7 or €2.4), which is about three to four dollars. Many travellers end up relying on these spots for quick breakfasts or late-night meals. The food is fresh, affordable, and always there when you need it.

Local restaurants also offer plenty of good choices at reasonable prices. A bowl of ramen, a plate of curry rice, or a beef bowl usually costs between ¥700 and ¥1,200. These meals are filling and easy to find, especially at chains like Matsuya or Sukiya. They are perfect for lunch or a casual dinner after a long day of exploring.

If you want to enjoy a bit more variety, mid-range places like sushi trains, izakayas, or small cafes usually charge around ¥1,500 to ¥3,000 per person. You can try grilled chicken skewers, fresh sashimi, or seasonal set meals that come with rice, soup, and side dishes. Drinks like beer or sake usually cost an extra ¥500 to ¥800, depending on the place.

Japan is also known for its matcha culture. In places like Kyoto, matcha drinks and desserts are everywhere. You can try a creamy matcha latte, soft-serve ice cream, or a rich matcha parfait for around ¥400 to ¥800. These treats are not only tasty but also part of the cultural experience. You should make it a goal to try at least one matcha item during your trip.

For those looking to treat themselves, Japan has many fine dining options. An omakase sushi dinner or a full-course kaiseki meal often costs between ¥10,000 and ¥30,000. These experiences are more expensive but often become one of the most memorable parts of the trip.

When it comes to Japan travelling cost, food is something you can plan around quite easily. You might spend less than ¥2,000 ($13.8 or €12.1)  on some days or choose to enjoy something more special when the mood strikes. The variety, quality, and price options make eating in Japan both enjoyable and flexible for any budget.

Attractions And Activities

A serene view of Todaiji Temple. Photo by sompao on stock.adobe.com

When thinking about Japan travelling cost, attractions and activities are one of the easiest parts to manage. Many of Japan’s most iconic places to visit are either free or cost very little. 

Temples and shrines like Senso-ji in Tokyo or Fushimi Inari in Kyoto don’t charge an entrance fee, or they ask for a small donation. Other sites like Kinkaku-ji or Nijo Castle usually cost around ¥300 to ¥600, which is only a few dollars for a full cultural experience.

Museums, gardens, and castles are also reasonably priced. Expect to pay around ¥500 to ¥1,200 for most tickets. For example, Tokyo National Museum or Osaka Castle both fall in this range. Many museums also offer student or combo discounts, so it’s worth checking in advance.

If you're into theme parks or more modern attractions, costs will be higher. A one-day ticket to Tokyo Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan is about ¥8,400 to ¥9,800 (around $60-60, €58-59). While it’s a bigger expense, many travellers see it as a must-do, especially for families or first-time visitors.

Cultural experiences like tea ceremonies, kimono rentals, or sumo match tickets vary widely in price. A simple tea experience might cost ¥1,000 ($6.9 or €6), while a full kimono dress-up and photo shoot could go up to ¥5,000 or more. Sumo tickets start at around ¥3,000, though front-row seats can be much more. These are the kinds of things that make a trip feel special and don’t need to be done every day.

Outdoor lovers can enjoy nature with little to no cost. Hiking trails, city parks, and viewpoints are free and often just a train ride away. Mount Takao near Tokyo or the bamboo forest in Arashiyama are great examples. In these cases, your only cost is transportation and maybe a snack along the way.

However, do your research as certain trails may have an admission fee. For example, the fee for hiking Mount Fuji has recently climbed from ¥1,000 to ¥4,000 per person. 

Shopping And Souvenirs

It’s easy to get overboard and bring home a suitcase full of cute collectables. Photo by Samuel Ponce on stock.adobe.com

For simple souvenirs, there’s no need to spend a lot. Things like chopsticks, lucky charms, keychains, and hand towels usually cost between ¥300 and ¥1,500. These are easy to pack and perfect for friends and family back home. Many shops near temples or popular landmarks sell small items with a local touch, often handmade or region-specific.

If you're into snacks, you’ll quickly notice how beautifully wrapped everything is. Regional KitKat flavours, mochi, matcha sweets, and rice crackers are fun to explore and typically priced between ¥500 and ¥1,200 per box. Don’t be surprised if you end up filling half your suitcase with food souvenirs from train stations or airports.

Of course, if fashion or beauty is more your thing, areas like Shibuya, Harajuku, and Umeda are packed with options. Clothing from local brands can range from ¥2,000 to ¥8,000, while Japanese skincare and cosmetics start around ¥1,000. It’s easy to spend a little more here, especially with tax-free shopping available for tourists at many stores.

SIM Card or Pocket WiFi

Getting online while travelling in Japan can make a big difference in how easy and enjoyable your trip feels. Instead of guessing which train to take or where to eat, you’ll have instant access to directions, translations, and local tips right when you need them.

Trust us, you’ll need Google Maps and Translation to navigate the train station. Getting lost in a subway in Japan for hours the first time you’re thre is a shared experience (but hey, it’s what travel is about, right?).

Many travellers choose to invest in a prepaid SIM card or a pocket WiFi device. A travel SIM card usually costs between ¥2,500 and ¥4,000 for a week, depending on the data plan. You can grab one at the airport or have it delivered to your hotel. Just make sure your phone is unlocked so it works properly.

For those travelling in pairs or groups, pocket WiFi is often the better choice. It lets multiple devices connect at once and offers fast, stable internet throughout the day. Rental prices range from ¥500 to ¥1,000 per day, and the longer you rent, the better the deal.

It’s All About What You’re Comfortable With

In summary, a 7-day Japan trip can cost roughly ¥150,000–450,000 ($1,000–3,000) per person for basic expenses (excluding international flights). $1,000 is only just enough for very tight, budget travel on that timeline. For a more comfortable week, you’d likely spend $1,500–$3,000 more.

A 10-day stay typically costs about 1.5× a week (¥225,000-675,000/$1,500-4,500), and is plenty to see the main attractions. $5,000 per week will cover nearly any standard vacation you plan in Japan. 

This guide was written to give you a clear and useful Japan travelling cost, based on real travel styles and prices. If you found it useful, leave a comment or share it with someone who’s planning their own trip. Your story or tips might help the next traveller plan better, too.

Ha Ngan