Japan on the Cheap? A must-see place that shouldn’t cost the earth to enjoy!

Japan is a dream destination for many around the world, but the long-haul flights and worries about a reasonable spending budget make many people think twice about going.

Despite this, it’s truly very possible to visit japan and experience amazing sights, cuisine and experiences on a reasonable budget!

Japanese supermarkets generally, are of a high quality and thus, the tastiest dishes (many ready made) range from the traditional all the way to foreign styles and fusion. Don’t be surprised when Japanese stores attempt their own versions of foreign culinary ideas! The sliced fruit and cream on a sandwich was a shocker for me (but I ate it!).

Every supermarket prides itself on immaculate packaging and clearly marking discounts on Bento boxes(lunch boxes), especially from mid-afternoon to early evening (when they close).

Traveling around Tokyo is incredibly convenient(trains arrive every 5-10 minutes apart!), but the locals don’t really use discount transportation tickets/passes as their employers have deals in place with the “JR” (Japan Rail) train company.

After using the trains extensively, you’ll realize that you can find and see more beyond the hubs of life around the major stations. It’s possible to find tiny streets with food vendors selling “Takoyaki” (fried dough-balls with pieces of Octopus inside) and of course beers are reasonably priced compared to eating at a restaurant or buying at the supermarket.

An even bigger draw to finding street vendors is a chance to meet the locals, practice your Japanese and watch Tokyo pass by, as you drink beer and eat Octopus balls!

Natural hot springs are a huge part of Japanese culture(and relaxation) and tourists shouldn’t miss out. In almost every JR (Japan Rail) station, there’s a small travel agent area, filled with many brochures offering great deals. JR has various lengths of trips and deals that won’t break the bank. The packages comprise of a round-trip train ticket, hotel (including dinner and breakfast) and access at any time during your stay to the hot springs!

You can take a special train from Tokyo to an ocean-side “Onsen” (hot springs) hotel, wear a “Yukata” (comfortable cotton robe) and have an incredible meal comprised of locally caught fish/seafood. After dinner, you go into the natural hot springs the hotel is built around, which will likely have an indoor and outdoor area with various pools of piping hot water.

For many Japanese the train ride, the immersion in nature plus great food and a super relaxing soak in a rock pool overlooking the sea or mountains is an incredible way to experience Japanese culture without going over budget!