Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, can definitely be an expensive place to visit, but with a bit of planning, you can experience its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and iconic attractions without breaking the bank. We spent 4 days in Tokyo in February, and it was literally my favorite city I’ve ever been to!
Overall, Tokyo is surprisingly affordable compared to many destinations in Europe and even America. Budget-friendly accommodations, such as capsule hotels and hostels, offer comfort without breaking the bank, while reasonably priced guesthouses provide a homier feel. Tokyo’s dining scene is equally wallet-friendly, with countless conveyor-belt sushi spots, ramen shops, and convenience store meals that are both delicious and inexpensive. For activities, visitors can explore serene shrines, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods like Asakusa and Harajuku for free or at a low cost. Keep reading for lots of specific recommendations on enjoying Tokyo on a budget, including money-saving tips on food, transportation, and activities!
Affordable Transportation in Tokyo
1. Use Public Transportation Wisely
The Tokyo Metro and JR train lines are the most efficient ways to get around the city. Consider purchasing a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card for seamless travel across trains, buses, and even some vending machines. For tourists, the Tokyo Subway Ticket also offers unlimited rides on the metro for 24, 48, or 72 hours at a fraction of the cost of individual tickets.
General Tips for Using the Metro:
- We found the metros to be super clean and safe at any time of day. There is even a women only car for certain times of day when metros are more crowded.
- There are English signs everywhere, so it’s easy to figure out which train to get on even if you can’t read Japanese.
- I recommend ensuring that the hotel you book is conveniently located near a metro stop. Trust me, you will be walking plenty throughout the day, you won’t want to walk an extra 500 meters to and from your hotel every day.
2. Walk When Possible
Many neighborhoods in Tokyo are pedestrian-friendly. Use the Metro to get close to the neighborhood you want to visit, and then walk from there! Explore areas like Asakusa, Harajuku, and Shibuya on foot to save money and fully immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Doing this allowed us to really get a feel for the difference between each neighborhood and what each had to offer.
3. Stay in Convenient Locations
If you’re relying on public transportation, choose accommodations in neighborhoods like Shinjuku or Asakusa, which are well-connected to major attractions. Staying close to a train station can save you both time and money. We personally stayed in Asakusa, and could get pretty much anywhere in Tokyo in 30 minutes or less. It was a very quiet neighborhood, and also had great restaurants and there was a lot to do in the area.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Tokyo excels at creating ultra-efficient tiny hotel rooms, which offers significant savings for budget travelers. These compact spaces are designed to maximize functionality, often featuring foldable furniture, under-bed storage, and cleverly integrated amenities like built-in shelves and charging ports. While there’s barely enough room for your luggage, the focus is on comfort and convenience rather than luxury. My mindset was simple: we didn’t travel all the way to Japan to lounge in a hotel room! All we needed was a hot shower to unwind after a long day of exploring, and a cozy bed to recharge for the next adventure packed day. If this sounds like your travel style, keep reading for specific recommendations on where to stay in each neighborhood in Tokyo!
Where to Stay in Each Tokyo Neighborhood on a Budget
Click each hotel’s name to be redirected to that hotel on Expedia!
1. Shinjuku
About: A bustling hub known for its neon lights, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Shinjuku is home to one of the busiest train stations in the world and offers a mix of skyscrapers and traditional streets.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Omoide Yokocho: Iconic narrow alleys with tiny restaurants.
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A peaceful escape from the urban rush.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Free observation decks with views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.
Where to Stay:
Hotel & Co Sagami – Affordable and unique capsule accommodations in the heart of Shinjuku.
Sotetsu Fresa Inn – If you’re looking for a slightly nicer option with your own bathroom, this little inn would be perfect for you!
2. Shibuya
About: Famous for the bustling Shibuya Crossing, this youthful neighborhood is a hotspot for shopping, trendy dining, and nightlife.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Shibuya Crossing: One of the world’s busiest pedestrian intersections.
- Hachiko Statue: Iconic meeting spot and homage to the loyal Akita dog.
- Shibuya Sky: A stunning rooftop observation deck.
Where to Stay:
- Wise Owl Hostels Shibuya – Social and budget-friendly, close to major attractions.
- Almond Hostel + Cafe – A super cute little boutique hostel that also has a cafe.
3. Ginza
About: Tokyo’s upscale shopping and dining district, known for luxury boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and chic cafes.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Kabuki-za Theatre: Traditional kabuki performances.
- Nihonbashi: Historical district with quaint streets and traditional shops.
- Tsukiji Outer Market: A haven for fresh seafood and street food.
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Gracery Ginza – Affordable rooms in the heart of Ginza.
4. Asakusa
About: A quiet, historic area offering a glimpse into traditional Tokyo, centered around the famous Senso-ji Temple. This is where we stayed when we visited Tokyo, and we loved it! It was well located, lots of history around, and affordable!
Proximity to Attractions:
- Senso-ji Temple: Tokyo’s oldest temple.
- Nakamise Street: Bustling with souvenir shops and traditional snacks.
- Sumida River: Perfect for boat cruises with views of the Tokyo Skytree.
Where to Stay:
- Agora Place Tokyo Asakusa – Where we stayed! Small rooms, but a comfortable bed and bathroom with a view of Tokyo Skytree from our window!
5. Akihabara
About: Known as “Electric Town,” Akihabara is the go-to spot for electronics, anime, and gaming culture enthusiasts.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Maid Cafes: Unique themed dining experiences.
- Akihabara’s Arcade Stores: Explore famous spots like SEGA Akihabara and Taito Station.
- Kanda Myojin Shrine: Popular among tech workers and anime fans.
Where to Stay:
- Via Inn Akihabara – A very nice hotel with helpful staff and clean rooms.
6. Roppongi
About: A vibrant nightlife hub with upscale dining, bars, and cultural landmarks. Popular with expats and locals alike.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Roppongi Hills: Home to Mori Art Museum and an observation deck.
- Tokyo Tower: A short walk away.
- National Art Center Tokyo: Unique exhibits in a stunning modern building.
Where to Stay:
- Budget: APA Hotel Roppongi Six – Affordable, clean, and centrally located.
7. Harajuku
About: Tokyo’s fashion-forward district, famous for its youthful energy and quirky street style.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Takeshita Street: A hub of trendy shops and colorful snacks.
- Meiji Shrine: A serene Shinto shrine surrounded by lush greenery.
- Omotesando: Tokyo’s “Champs-Élysées,” with upscale shopping and architecture.
Where to Stay:
- Tokyo Hotels Nippon Seinenkan Hotel – Harajuku is a more expensive neighborhood, so this is a budget option for within Harajuku, but not Tokyo in general.
8. Ueno
About: A cultural haven with museums, parks, and historical charm.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Ueno Park: Beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and home to Ueno Zoo.
- Tokyo National Museum: A must-visit for Japanese art and history.
- Ameya-Yokocho Market: Vibrant street market with food stalls and bargains.
Where to Stay:
– Affordable and conveniently located.9. Odaiba
About: A futuristic man-made island with entertainment, shopping, and waterfront attractions.
Proximity to Attractions:
- TeamLab Borderless Museum: Immersive digital art experience.
- DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: Featuring the life-size Gundam statue.
- Odaiba Beach: Relax with views of Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline.
Where to Stay:
- Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel – Affordable and near Odaiba’s main attractions.
10. Ikebukuro
About: A lively neighborhood for shopping, entertainment, and food, often overlooked by tourists.
Proximity to Attractions:
- Sunshine City: A massive shopping and entertainment complex.
- Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre: Perfect for catching live performances.
- Animate Ikebukuro: A must-visit for anime and manga enthusiasts.
Where to Stay:
- Sakura Hotel Ikebukuro – Simple, affordable, and great for international travelers.
If you’re having trouble deciding which neighborhood to stay in, don’t worry, we were, too. After visiting Tokyo ourselves, we realized there is not a bad neighborhood to stay in. The entire country of Japan is so safe, and you really can’t go wrong.
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Saving Money on Food
1. Try Konbini Meals
Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are havens for budget travelers. From fresh sushi and bento boxes to onigiri (rice balls) and make it yourself smoothies, you can enjoy delicious meals for just a few hundred yen. We ate at Konbini every single day of our trip and never got tired of it! To save money, we would often grab a few onigiri or sandwiches for lunch on the go.
2. Visit Affordable Restaurants
Tokyo is famous for its ramen, and it’s typically a pretty budget-friendly option. We loved the chain Ichiran Ramen, where you have your own little booth and order at the kiosk. If you like dumplings, Harajuku Gyozaro won’t disappoint. Kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants like Uobei Sushi in Shibuya offer fresh sushi at reasonable prices. The quality of fish in Japan is absolutely superior, so even at a more budget sushi place, you’ll be having the best sushi of your life!
3. Explore Local Markets
Visit markets like Tsukiji Outer Market for affordable street food and fresh produce. Sample delicacies like tamagoyaki (sweet omelet) and grilled seafood while sticking to your budget. We even sampled some sake (Japanese rice wine) for 100 yen and it was amazing.
Free and Low-Cost Activities
1. Enjoy Tokyo’s Parks and Gardens
Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a small entry fee or explore free parks like Yoyogi Park and Ueno Park. In spring, these spots are perfect for cherry blossom viewing.
2. Discover Temples and Shrines
Tokyo’s historic sites, like Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and Meiji Shrine near Harajuku, are free to enter and offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich culture.
3. Experience Stunning Views
Skip the pricey observation decks and head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku for free panoramic views of the city.
4. Wander Iconic Neighborhoods
Strolling through neighborhoods like Akihabara, famous for its electronics and arcades, or Takeshita Street in Harajuku, known for quirky fashion and crepes, is entirely free and endlessly entertaining.
Smart Shopping Tips
1. Visit 100-Yen Shops
Stores like Daiso and Can Do offer everything from souvenirs to snacks at just 100 yen each, making them perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Explore Discount Stores
Check out Don Quijote for affordable gifts, beauty products, and unique finds. We had so much fun exploring all the different levels of the Mega store in Shibuya, it was packed full of locals and tourist alike. We got an assortment of Japanese candies and treats to try which was budget friendly and super fun.
Additional Money-Saving Tips
- Travel Off-Peak: Visit Tokyo in late winter or early spring (before the cherry blossom season peaks) for lower accommodation prices.
- Plan Ahead: Book activities, tickets, and accommodations in advance to secure the best deals.
- Bring Cash: While many places accept credit cards, smaller shops and restaurants often prefer cash, helping you avoid foreign transaction fees.
Tokyo doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning you can enjoy the best of Japan’s capital while saving money. Whether you’re savoring konbini meals, exploring free attractions, or taking advantage of public transportation, Tokyo offers endless experiences for every traveler. Ready to plan your budget Tokyo adventure?
4 Days in Tokyo Full Itinerary
Planning your adventure to Tokyo? Check out our full itinerary with specific details on where to eat, things to do, and can’t miss spots!
Thanks so much for reading!
Megan
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