The amount of money you should bring to Japan depends on your travel style, duration of stay, and planned activities. To determine an appropriate budget, consider the following factors:
1. Accommodation
- Budget: Hostels and guesthouses can cost around ¥2,000-¥5,000 per night.
- Mid-range: Hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) can range from ¥5,000-¥15,000 per night.
- Luxury: High-end hotels and resorts can cost upwards of ¥20,000 per night.
2. Transportation
- Public transportation: Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation network. A 1-day pass for Tokyo's subway system costs around ¥800.
- Shinkansen (bullet train): Traveling by Shinkansen can be expensive, with fares ranging from ¥5,000 to ¥20,000 or more depending on the distance.
- Domestic flights: For longer distances, domestic flights are a viable option. Prices vary but can start from around ¥10,000.
3. Food
- Street food: Expect to pay ¥500-¥1,000 for a meal at a street food stall.
- Casual dining: Restaurants offer a wide range of prices, with meals typically costing ¥1,000-¥3,000.
- Fine dining: High-end restaurants can be expensive, with meals costing upwards of ¥5,000.
4. Activities
- Attractions: Entrance fees for popular attractions such as museums and temples can range from ¥500 to ¥2,000.
- Theme parks: Theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan have entrance fees starting from ¥7,000.
- Shopping: Japan is known for its unique and high-quality products. Prices vary widely depending on the type of item and brand.
5. Miscellaneous Expenses
- Sim card: A prepaid SIM card for internet access can cost around ¥2,000-¥3,000.
- Souvenirs: Budget around ¥1,000-¥5,000 for souvenirs depending on your purchases.
- Emergencies: It's always a good idea to have some extra cash for unexpected expenses.
Example Budget:
For a 7-day trip to Tokyo, a budget of ¥100,000-¥150,000 per person should be sufficient for a comfortable experience, including accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and miscellaneous expenses.
Tips:
- Use a travel credit card: Many credit cards offer travel rewards and benefits, such as travel insurance and airport lounge access.
- Exchange currency in advance: Exchange some Japanese yen (JPY) before you travel to avoid high exchange rates at airports.
- Utilize Japan Rail Pass: If you plan to travel extensively by Shinkansen, the Japan Rail Pass can save you money.
- Take advantage of free activities: Japan offers many free attractions, such as parks, gardens, and temples.
Remember: These are just estimates, and your actual expenses may vary depending on your individual preferences and travel style.
