Is Tokyo Expensive?

Tokyo Budget Guide: What to Expect and How to Save Money

Tokyo, Japan’s sprawling capital city is regarded as the largest city on Earth by population. It is home to world-famous attractions and landmarks like Sensō-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo National Museum. Although Tokyo has an international reputation as being a tourist hotspot, compared to other megacities like New York or London, Tokyo is cited as being very affordable to travellers.

Tokyo also has one of the most efficient subway/metro systems in the world, meaning attractions and activities are extremely accessible. We’re here to help you find the best deals and cheapest areas of Tokyo– you’re guaranteed to find accommodation, living and dining costs to suit all kinds of budgets. Here’s a general guide to costs in Tokyo, and how you can visit without spending a fortune.

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Tokyo

How Much Do Things Cost in Tokyo

*The currency for Japan is Yen (¥). £10 is equal to around ¥1,800.

Where to Stay in Tokyo on a Budget

You’re guaranteed to find cheap accommodation in certain neighbourhoods and areas of Tokyo. Tokyo is split into ‘wards’ – similar to London or New York boroughs– some of the cheapest of which include Asakusa, Shibuya, Adachi and Kita-Ku. You’ll find affordable, mid-range and luxury hotels in each district/ward of Tokyo. Some options for hotels with varying prices in Tokyo include SuperHotel Premier Ginza, Agora Tokyo Ginza and Tokyo Edition Ginza. If you want to stay in Tokyo and are on a strict budget, follow our helpful tips and tricks on what type of hotel to book, and which areas of Tokyo to stay:

Ryokans: A ryokan is a traditional Japanese accommodation. They are usually stripped-back and minimalistic. The main features are communal baths, traditional breakfasts and dinners included in the price, and tatami-matted rooms. Traditionally, guests will receive a nemaki (similar to a bathrobe) and slippers for

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Tokyo

While many Tokyo wards and districts are affordable, if you intend to stay long-term in Tokyo or want to stay in the cheapest areas, try to stick to the outer suburbs and away from the centre of the city. Some of the most affordable wards in Tokyo include:

Adachi: Known for its old architecture, markets and art scene, Adachi is a perfect place to stay to experience a taste of Japanese culture while keeping costs low.

Shibuya: A major hub of Tokyo, and popular with tourists and particularly students, Shibuya will offer you everything you need to have a comfortable and worthwhile stay in Tokyo. Shibuya is also home to several billboards that are reminiscent of New York Times Square, giving an urban and expensive feel to the area– on the contrary, Shibuya is considered to be one of the most affordable districts of Tokyo.

Choose outer suburbs: If you’re working in Tokyo, you may face a longer commute time if you choose to stay in the outskirts. However, with metro and train ticket prices low, you can still keep costs down. Each ward and district also has its own story to tell, with different cultural attractions and ways of life.

Book budget hotels: If you have an unlimited budget, you may want to stay in a more upscale hotel. However, given Tokyo’s large array of attractions, you may want to consider staying in a budget hotel so you can save as many Yen as you can. Opt for hotels like ibis budget or independent hotels for more affordable rates.

What to Expect from Staying in Tokyo and How to Book a Cheap Room

To ensure you always keep costs low no matter the type of hotel you book, there is a knack for finding great deals on hotels and accommodation in Tokyo. If you’ve never been to Tokyo and are unfamiliar with the area, you may not have a clue on where to start with booking your accommodation, or where to stay. We’re here to help you find the best and most affordable hotel to suit all of your requirements and preferences. Here are our helpful tips and tricks on finding cheap accommodation in Tokyo:

Book in advance: Probably the golden rule of the hotel and accommodation selection process is booking in advance. If you want to keep costs lower and avoid large crowds of tourists, who may make hotel prices increase or hotels sell out, book your hotel months in advance of your travel dates. This may be a given, but with everything else you need to think about ahead of your trip away, it may be forgotten about. The closer it gets to your trip dates, the more expensive accommodation tends to be, so act fast and remain organised.

How to Get Around Tokyo Easily and Cheaply

Tokyo’s transport system is very efficient and modern, with some of the world’s busiest train stations and metro systems. If you are working in Tokyo and plan to commute, using public transport is a quick and cheap way to get around. Here are some tips on how to keep transport costs low:

• Use the metro: Tokyo’s metro didn’t gain its reputation and popularity for nothing– it remains one of the cheapest and most efficient ways to get around the city. What’s more, tickets are very cheap for both adults and children.
• Walk: Tokyo, although extremely large, has many compact downtown areas and pedestrianised streets, making it very easy to walk around. Not only is walking free, but it’s also environmentally friendly. This way, you can give yourself a walking tour of the city according to your own timings.

If you plan to stay in Tokyo and want an efficient way of getting around, why not consider hiring a car? Some popular places for car hire in Tokyo include Haneda and Narita Airport.

How to Eat Well in Tokyo Without Spending a Fortune

Tokyo is known for its cheap dining costs, however, you may fall into tourist traps if you don’t know what to look out for, e.g. more expensive restaurants. Staying away from big-chain restaurants or lively downtown areas can help you avoid overspending on food. Here are some suggestions on how to keep costs of food low in Tokyo:

Stick to markets: Local markets can sell all your favourite Japanese food, like sushi and ramen, for a cheaper price than sit-down restaurants or food joints. Luckily, there are markets everywhere in Tokyo, so you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Choose set menus: When dining at a restaurant, a set menu may actually work out cheaper than several separate meals. Set menus are common in most upscale restaurants across Tokyo, so next time you’re wondering where to get a bite to eat, consider a restaurant that is offering a set-course menu.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Tokyo

Tokyo has many free and affordable attractions– let’s check some out here:

Hibiya Park: If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown districts of Tokyo, this park will provide the peace and tranquillity you’re looking for. What’s more, the park is free to enter.

Tokyo National Museum: If you’re interested in Japanese culture and art, this is the place to go. Entry is free, so you don’t have to spend any money if you’re on a tight budget!

The Best Places to Find Live Music, Shows and Events in Tokyo

Tokyo Dome: With a capacity of 55,000, this indoor arena is perfect for large-scale events like concerts, exhibitions or sporting events, which are commonly held at the arena.

Ryōgoku Kokugikan: Home to Japan’s national sport of Sumo Wrestling, and the best place to see traditional sumo wrestling matches in the city and country.

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