Dreaming about exploring vibrant cities, serene temples and mouthwatering cuisine of Japan, but worried about the cost? With a little planning and savvy tips, you can enjoy an unforgettable trip to the Land of The Rising Sun on a budget. Not to mention, now is the best time to visit Japan due to the weak yen. Here’s how:

Book flights strategically
- Compare deals: Webjet is your one-stop shop to be able to compare and book the best value flights particularly using the price calendar tool.
- Fly into secondary airports: Consider landing at Osaka’s Kansai Airport instead of Tokyo’s Narita for lower fares and a different starting point.
- Travel in off-peak seasons: Plan your trip during shoulder-seasons like late Autumn (November) or early Spring (February) for cheaper flights and accommodation.
Affordable Transportation
- Try a JR Pass: For intercity travel, a Japan rail pass offers unlimited train rides for a set period. You can even travel to different cities like Osaka to Tokyo, that makes the pass worthwhile.
- Use regional passes: If you are exploring a particular area, a regional train pass is more efficient than multiple uber rides! Examples include the Kansai Thru Pass.
- Rent a bicycle: Many cities in Japan are bike friendly like Kyoto! It is a great way to see the city at an affordable price.


Save on accommodation
- Stay in hostels: Japan’s hostels are clean, safe and often include traditional touches like tatami mats. Pro tip: if travelling solo look into capsule hotels!
- Book your hotels in advance: Webjet features a range of budget-friendly hotels, and booking early can help you save. Check out these options: Sakura Terrace (Kyoto), APA Hotel Namba Shinsaibashi (Osaka), Hotel Mystays Asakusa (Tokyo).
- Webjet’s Bundle & Save: Don’t miss out on unlocking up to 20% off* selected hotels once you book your flight at Webjet.
Eat like a local
- Convenience stores: Lawson, 7-Eleven and FamilyMart offer delicious, affordable food. Grab bento boxes, onigiri or even a hot bowl of noodles for pocket change!
- Markets & street stalls: Enjoy local specialties like Takoyaki and yakitori from market stalls. Some recommended places to find these are Nishiki Market and Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo or Dotonbori Street in Osaka.
- Ramen: Affordable dining doesn’t get much better than a hearty bowl of ramen and yes, we are calling out this dish specifically due to its affordability and 5-star quality in restaurants around Japan.


Save on sight-seeing
- Free attractions: Temples, parks and shrines that don’t cost a yen? Yes, they exist! Check out Fushimi Inari in Kyoto or Meji Shrine in Tokyo.
- City walks: Self-guided explorations are a fantastic way to experience cities like Tokyo, Kyoto or Hiroshima without breaking the bank. You’ll stumble upon incredible spots along the way, like Godzilla Road in Shinjuku, Tokyo.
- Discounted tickets: Save big with passes that cover multiple attractions, like the Hakone Free Pass, which offers great value for exploring the area.
Embrace Japanese culture without splurging
- Public Onsens: A quintessential Japanese experience that can be inexpensive, public onsens can have an admission fee as little as 200 yen (that’s $2 AUD).
- Window Shopping: Japan is famous for its lively streets filled with trendy shops, colourful fashion and unique displays. You can find this energy in places like Harajuku in Tokyo where streetwear and quirky boutiques line the roads, or Dotonbori, with its bright neon lights, giant billboards and buzzing food stalls.
- Festivals: Japan’s festivals are vibrant, free to attend and offer a glimpse into Japanese culture. For instance, experience the grandeur of Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, known for its elaborate floats and traditional performances or marvel at the stunning ice sculptures at the Sapporo Snow Festival. Check out Japan’s event calendar.

Japan doesn’t have to be an expensive destination. With all these tips you can enjoy rich culture, stunning landscapes and delectable food without overspending. Ready to make your dream trip a reality? Start planning your budget friendly holiday at Webjet.