Travelling Tokyo on a budget

by Brett Gevers February 28, 2023, 2:09 pm 1.6k Views 78 Comments

white and red buss on the middle of crossing street photo

What to See and Do in Tokyo on a Tight Budget

Tokyo, Japan is one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities. Despite its reputation as an expensive city, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on a budget. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Take a free tour: Free walking tours of Tokyo’s famous sights and neighborhoods are available, such as the Tokyo Free Guide, which provides free tours of the city’s best attractions.
Visit the Tokyo National Museum: This is a great spot to learn about the history and culture of Japan. Admission is relatively inexpensive, costing just 600 yen for adults.
Explore Tokyo’s neighborhoods: From the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku to the traditional wooden homes of Asakusa, Tokyo’s neighborhoods are a great way to explore the city without spending much money.
Explore Ueno Park: This is one of the city’s largest parks, with plenty of gardens and shrines to explore for free.
Shop in the Nakamise Shopping Street: This street is filled with shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and other items at reasonable prices.
Take a boat ride on the Sumida River: A boat ride on the river is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Boats run regularly and fares are very affordable.
Visit the Imperial Palace: This is a great spot to explore the grounds of the palace and learn about its history. Admission is free, though you must make reservations in advance.
Go to a “free museum day”: Several museums in Tokyo offer free admission on certain days of the month. Check ahead to see which museums will be free on the day you plan to visit.
Visit a temple or shrine: Tokyo is home to several temples and shrines, many of which are free to visit.
Take advantage of the city’s festivals: Tokyo hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, many of which are free to attend.

With these tips in mind, it’s easy to enjoy Tokyo without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the city has plenty of affordable activities to enjoy.

Finding Cheap Accommodation Options in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and the city boasts a wide range of accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay or something more luxurious, there are plenty of ways to find cheap accommodation in Tokyo.

One of the best ways to save money on accommodation in Tokyo is to book a room in a capsule hotel. These hotels are designed to provide basic overnight accommodation at an affordable price. Rooms are typically small and contain only the essentials, such as a bed, toilet, and shower. Capsule hotels are a great option for solo travelers who just need a place to sleep for the night.

Another option for budget travelers is to stay in a hostel. Tokyo has plenty of hostels to choose from, and they typically offer shared dorm rooms with bunk beds. Hostels are a great way to meet other travelers and save money on accommodation.

If you’re looking for a more private room, there are plenty of budget hotels in Tokyo. These hotels typically offer basic amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a TV. They may also have a restaurant onsite, which can be convenient.

Finally, there are many Airbnb properties in Tokyo. These are often cheaper than hotels, and they offer travelers the chance to stay in a private apartment or house. Airbnb can be a great way to find a home away from home in Tokyo.

Overall, there are plenty of ways to find cheap accommodation in Tokyo. Whether you’re looking for a capsule hotel, hostel, budget hotel, or Airbnb, there are plenty of options for travelers of all budgets.

Uncovering Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions in Tokyo That Won’t Break the Bank

Tokyo is a bustling, vibrant city full of exciting attractions that can be overwhelming for travelers on a budget. But fear not, there are a wealth of off-the-beaten-path attractions in Tokyo that won’t break the bank.

One hidden gem is Yanesen – the traditional neighborhoods of Yanaka, Nezu, and Sendagi. The area is home to traditional shops, restaurants, and temples. A visit here is a great way to get a glimpse of Tokyo’s past and a taste of its culture. There are also several free activities such as visiting the impressive Yanaka Cemetery or the nearby Tokyo University of the Arts.

For those looking for a unique shopping experience, the Ameya-Yokochō area is a great option. It’s a bustling street market with an old-school vibe that sells everything from clothing to toys to food. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.

Another great spot for budget travelers is the Tokyo National Museum. It’s Japan’s oldest and largest museum and houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from Japan’s past. Admission is just 420 yen (about $3.50 USD) and there are several free activities such as guided tours and special events.

Finally, those looking for a unique night out should head to Robot Restaurant. Located in the heart of Shinjuku, Robot Restaurant is a wild, laser-filled show featuring robots and dancers. The show is both entertaining and affordable, with tickets costing just 5,000 yen (about $45 USD).

These are just some of the many off-the-beaten-path attractions in Tokyo that won’t break the bank. With a little digging, travelers can find even more hidden gems that will make their stay in Tokyo unique and memorable.