Tokyo on a Budget: Uncover its Hidden Gems!

Experience the vibrant culture of Tokyo on a shoestring budget.

21 June 2023

Although Tokyo can be expensive, it is still accessible for budget travelers. Staying at hostels or capsule hotels can be a cost-effective accommodation option. There are also plenty of affordable food options, from street food vendors to izakayas serving delicious Japanese cuisine.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Tokyo's Iconic Sights

  • Start the day bright and early at Tsukiji Fish Market, one of the largest fish markets in the world.
  • Visit the Imperial Palace, the residence of Japan's Emperor and a stunning example of traditional architecture.
  • Take a stroll through the famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world.
  • Escape the city chaos and relax in Ueno Park, a large public garden with a zoo and several museums.
  • Fuel up on delicious sushi at Uogashi Nihon-Ichi, a popular and affordable sushi chain.
  • Hotel recommendation: K's House Tokyo Oasis (budget-friendly hostel with private and dormitory rooms)
Day 2

A Taste of Modern Japanese Culture

  • Start your day at the teamLab Borderless exhibition in Odaiba, an immersive digital art installation.
  • Head to Harajuku, the fashion capital of Tokyo, and explore the quirky fashion boutiques and street food vendors.
  • Visit Yoyogi Park and catch a glimpse of the famous rockabilly dancers and street performers.
  • Take a trip to Takeshita Street and try some of the famous Harajuku crepes.
  • End the day with a visit to the Robot Restaurant, a wacky and unique dinner show in Shinjuku.
  • Places to eat: Harajuku Gyoza-Ro (delicious and affordable gyoza) and Ichiran Ramen (famous for their customizable ramen bowls)
Day 3

Discovering Tokyo's Hidden Gems

  • Start the day with a visit to Yanaka Ginza, a charming and traditional shopping street lined with small stores and food stalls.
  • Head to Tokyo's oldest temple, Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, and explore the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street.
  • Visit the teamLab Planets exhibition in Toyosu, another immersive digital art installation.
  • Explore the trendy neighbourhood of Daikanyama and browse the independent boutiques and coffee shops.
  • Satisfy your craving for Japanese comfort food with a bowl of warm and delicious shabu-shabu at Kisoji Daikanyama.
  • Hotel recommendation: Imano Tokyo Hostel (stylish and budget-friendly hostel with a rooftop terrace)
  • Sayonara Tokyo!

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Tokyo, Japan by plane is to fly into Tokyo's Narita International Airport, which is located approximately 60 km east of Tokyo city center. Several airlines operate direct and connecting flights to Narita from major cities around the world, including New York, London, Sydney, and Singapore.

Car

Driving from all around Japan to Tokyo can be an option, however, it is not advisable due to heavy traffic during peak hours, as well as limited parking space in the city center. If driving is still the preferred option, highways such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway take you straight to the main attraction sites.

Train

There are several train options for travelling to Tokyo, but the best way is to take the shinkansen, or bullet train. The shinkansen provides high-speed rail service connecting major cities in Japan, including Tokyo. The train departs from Shin-Osaka Station, which is located in southern Osaka.

Boat

While there is no direct sea route to Tokyo, ferries are available from cities such as Osaka and Kobe to Tokyo's Harumi ferry terminal, located about 2 km southeast of Tokyo Bay. The journey by ferry takes around 17 hours from Osaka and 25 hours from Kobe, but offers beautiful oceanic views.

Bus

The best way to get to Tokyo by bus is to take a long-distance bus from major cities in Japan, such as Osaka, Kyoto or Nagoya. The bus journey from these cities takes around 6-9 hours to reach Tokyo. The buses usually depart from the main bus terminal in each city.

Destination

Tokyo

Welcome to a land where neon lights shine brighter than your future, and the trains run faster than your ability to keep up with them. Get ready to explore Tokyo, where chaos meets tranquility, in a city filled with quirky fashion, scrumptious food, and fascinating culture.

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More travel plans

Tokyo Tales: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget!

A family-friendly trip to Tokyo, Japan offers a perfect blend of traditional culture and modern attractions. Explore historic sites like the beautiful Meiji Shrine and majestic Tokyo Imperial Palace, while also enjoying the lively atmosphere of popular districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku. Treat your family to thrilling rides at Disneyland Tokyo or discover the wonders of technology at the interactive teamLab Borderless museum, making unforgettable memories together in this vibrant city.

4 Days in Tokyo: Explore History & Modernity

Tokyo is an exhilarating city that you won't forget easily, it's an incredible mix of history and modernity. As a tourist, you could start by visiting the iconic Tokyo Tower, wandering the streets of the trendy Shibuya neighborhood, and trying some local cuisine. You could also take a day trip to the nearby city of Kamakura, which is home to spectacular shrines and temples.

Tokyo Thrills: 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Tokyo, Japan offers a family-friendly trip full of exciting adventures and cultural experiences. Families can explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Akihabara and Harajuku, famous for their quirky shops and unique fashion. They can also visit amusement parks like Disneyland Tokyo or enjoy traditional Japanese activities such as visiting temples and shrines, trying delicious street food, and watching captivating performances at Kabuki theaters.

Tokyo Thrills: Budget Guide for 2 Days

Visiting Tokyo on a limited budget is possible but requires careful planning and budgeting. Exploring the city's various attractions such as the Sensoji temple, Akihabara electronics district, and Harajuku fashion district can provide rich cultural experiences for little to no cost. Opting for economical accommodations such as shared hostel dorms, capsule hotels, or Airbnb rentals and relying on public transportation systems can also help minimize expenses.