Unforgettable 5-Day Budget Trip to Tokyo

Experience Tokyo's vibrant culture on a budget.

21 June 2023

A trip to Tokyo, Japan on a limited budget is possible with careful planning and cost-cutting measures. Choosing budget-friendly accommodations such as hostels or capsule hotels and taking advantage of public transportation can save money. Exploring free attractions like parks, temples, and markets can also provide an authentic cultural experience without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arriving in Tokyo

  • Check into the Khaosan World Asakusa hostel, known for its friendly staff and affordable rates
  • Visit Senso-ji temple, Tokyo's oldest temple and one of its most popular attractions
  • Stroll along Nakamise Dori, a bustling street filled with souvenir shops and food vendors
  • Explore the Ueno Park and zoo, home to must-see attractions like the Panda exhibit and Shinobazu Pond
  • Have dinner at Manten Sushi, a popular sushi spot with delicious and affordable options
Day 2

Shibuya and Harajuku

  • Take a walk through Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo's busiest intersection, and snap some photos
  • Visit Meiji Shrine, a serene and peaceful shrine hidden deep within the bustling city
  • Tuck into some crepes at Marion Crepes, a popular street food vendor in the Harajuku district
  • Check out the kawaii culture of Takeshita Street, a colorful and eclectic shopping street with unique fashion offerings
  • Have dinner at Katsukura, a tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) restaurant known for its crispy cutlets and fragrant rice
Day 3

Exploring Tokyo's parks

  • Visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Tokyo with beautiful views of the palace
  • Walk through the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a stunning park with various gardens and a large greenhouse
  • Grab lunch at Afuri Ramen, a modern ramen restaurant with a light and refreshing broth
  • Visit the Yoyogi Park, a popular spot for picnics and outdoor events
  • Have dinner at Ichiran Ramen, a well-known chain that specializes in individual ramen booths for a truly unique experience
Day 4

The historic side of Tokyo

  • Visit the Edo-Tokyo Museum, a massive museum that delves into the history of Tokyo and its development over the centuries.
  • Explore the Yanaka neighborhood, a charming area with preserved traditional architecture and quaint shops
  • Have lunch at Sometaro, a traditional okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) restaurant that has been around since 1937
  • Walk through the Asakusa neighborhood, which features a lot of traditional Japanese-style shops and vendors
  • Have dinner at Hanamaru Udon, a fast-casual udon chain with tasty and affordable options
Day 5

Tokyo's modern side

  • Visit the Tokyo Skytree, one of Tokyo's most iconic landmarks with stunning views of the city from above
  • Explore the Odaiba district, known for its modern architecture and fun attractions like the Gundam statue
  • Have lunch at Kua Aina, a restaurant chain from Hawaii that offers delicious burgers and sandwiches
  • Visit Akihabara, the center of Tokyo's electronic and otaku culture
  • Have dinner at Gonpachi, a restaurant that served as inspiration for the "Crazy 88" fight scene in the movie Kill Bill.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Experience Tokyo's Best in 4 Days

As a tourist in Tokyo, Japan, you can experience the bustling city atmosphere, indulge in the delicious traditional Japanese cuisine and enjoy the rich cultural and historical landmarks. A visit to Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, and the famous Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa should be on your must-visit list to appreciate the city's history and culture. Enjoy shopping in the trendy Shibuya and Harajuku districts and experience the incredible Japanese hospitality that makes this city popular worldwide.

Weekend Adventure: Tokyo's Best Sights and Bites

A trip to Tokyo, Japan as a tourist promises a vibrant and exciting adventure. Visitors can indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine, explore the bustling city with its futuristic buildings and neon-lit streets, and immerse themselves in the unique culture and traditions of the country. From the serene gardens and temples to the thriving shopping districts, there is something for everyone to experience in this vibrant city.

Tokyo on a Budget: A 2-Day Family Adventure!

A family friendly trip to Tokyo, Japan offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences and entertainment for all ages. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Tower and the Meiji Shrine, and immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of neighborhoods like Shibuya and Harajuku. Explore traditional gardens, indulge in delicious street food, and have a blast at theme parks like Disneyland Tokyo, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for the whole family.

Tokyo Delights: A Family-Friendly Adventure!

Tokyo, Japan offers an extraordinary family-friendly experience with its unique blend of tradition and cutting-edge technology. Explore the city's iconic landmarks such as the historic Meiji Shrine and the vibrant Akihabara district, known for its electronic shops and gaming centers. Families can enjoy thrilling attractions like Tokyo Disneyland or immerse themselves in Japanese culture at themed parks like Sanrio Puroland, making it a memorable trip for everyone.