Tokyo is one of those cities that can either be a playground for the rich or a budget traveler's dream—depending on how you approach it. Let's explore what you'll actually be spending your yen on while enjoying one of the most vibrant cities on the planet!
- Tokyo offers a dynamic mix of high-end and budget-friendly options, making it accessible to every type of traveler.
- Whether you're staying in a luxury hotel, cozy Airbnb, or quirky capsule, accommodation ranges from $23 to $233 per night.
- Transportation is equally flexible, with subway passes starting at $6 and bike rentals for just $1.
- Food choices cater to every budget, from $5 ramen bowls at local joints to world-class dining experiences exceeding $100.
- With attractions ranging from $5 shrine visits to $135 for a Mario Kart ride through the city, there's something for everyone.
- Balancing splurges with savvy savings allows you to fully immerse yourself in Tokyo's vibrant energy without overspending.
Accommodation: Where Will You Crash?
Estimated Expense: $23 – $233 per night
Hostels: For those who love the hustle and bustle of meeting fellow travelers, hostels are the way to go. Imagine sipping sake with new friends on a rooftop terrace in the heart of Tokyo, all for around $23 to $37 a night. Check out Quality Hostel K's House Tokyo Oasis for its unbeatable vibe, or try CITAN Hostel, which is so close to the action you'll never be late for anything.
Airbnbs: If you need a break from the hostel life or just want some peace and quiet, Airbnb is your new best friend. Picture yourself in a chic, minimalist apartment with a tatami mat floor, all to yourself for as little as $42 a night. Perfect for whipping up some homemade ramen in your own little kitchen!
Hotels: Feeling fancy? Tokyo's hotels are ready to spoil you. Think fluffy beds, endless hot showers, and breakfast spreads that will fuel your day of adventure. You can splurge on a place like Hotel K5, where $233 a night gets you a studio with every comfort imaginable. Or, if you're after something more budget-friendly, Keisei Richmond Hotel Tokyo Monzennakacho offers a cozy single room for $79—and it comes with free WiFi!
Unique Stays: Looking for something a bit more quirky? Tokyo's got you covered. Ever wanted to stay in a capsule hotel? You can do it here for around $50 a night. Or how about a traditional Japanese inn, known as a ryokan? You can sleep on a futon, soak in a hot bath, and dine on local delicacies, all for as little as $45 a night. And for the true budget traveler, why not crash at a manga café for $11 a night? It's an experience you'll definitely want to brag about.
Check out our guide on where to stay in Tokyo for more info!
Getting Around: Navigating the City
Estimated Expense: $6 – $30 per day
Trains: The Tokyo Subway is your best friend here. With a 24-hour ticket for just $6, you can zip around the city like a local. Want more time? Grab a 48-hour pass for $9, or go all in with a 72-hour pass for $11. It's a steal when you consider how massive Tokyo is!
Buses: The buses are a slower but charming way to see the city. For about $1.50, you can hop on and take in the sights. Plus, the buses will take you to those hidden gems that the trains might miss.
Bikes and Scooters: If you're up for some exercise (and let's be honest, you might need it after all that sushi), consider renting a bike or scooter. Companies like Docomo Bike and Hello Cycling offer rentals starting at $1 for 30 minutes. And if you're feeling super eco-friendly, Luup has electric bikes and scooters that are just as affordable.
Check out our guide on public transportation in Tokyo for more info!
Food: Time to Eat Your Heart Out
Estimated Expense: $15 – $85 per day
Cheap Eats: You don't need to drop big bucks to eat like a king in Tokyo. Hit up a ramen bar where $5 gets you a bowl of noodles so good you'll dream about it for weeks. Or swing by a konbini like 7/11, Lawson, or FamilyMart for bento boxes, onigiri, or a quick noodle fix for under $10. Trust us, it's some of the best fast food you'll ever have.
Mid-Range Dining: If you want to step it up a notch, try some authentic sushi or tempura at a mid-range restaurant for about $20 to $40. Lunch specials are where it's at—you'll get great food at a fraction of the dinner price.
Splurge-Worthy Meals: Feeling fancy? Tokyo is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. For $100 or more, you can indulge in an unforgettable meal—think wagyu beef, delicate sashimi, and meticulously crafted kaiseki dinners.
Check out our must-eat spots in Tokyo for more info!
Attractions: What to See and Do
Estimated Expense: $5 – $135 per day
Affordable Fun: Tokyo's temples, shrines, and gardens are incredibly affordable to visit. For just a couple of dollars, you can explore places like the Meiji Shrine or the tranquil grounds of Senso-ji in Asakusa.
Unique Experiences: But if you're looking to do something totally Tokyo, you might want to try racing through the streets in a Mario Kart for $135 or taking a guided ramen tour for around $125. And if you're a fan of sumo wrestling, you can watch the Giants of Japan battle it out for under $100. It's an experience you won't forget.
Check out our guide to Tokyo’s landmarks and must-see spots for more info!
Whether you're living large or balling on a budget, Tokyo delivers an unforgettable adventure, no matter your spending style. The key to making the most of your time (and yen) in this vibrant metropolis is knowing how to balance your splurges with smart savings. And with so many customizable options for accommodation, transportation, dining, and entertainment, your trip can be tailored to your preferences without breaking the bank.
All of this information is great to have, but if you're looking for an immersive experience, our Kickstart Tokyo experience is the best way to learn on the go. And the best part? You'll have a local by your side showing you the way. It's a great way to get the best savings!
Hello, curious traveler!
Embark on a unique experience with
Hello, curious traveler!
Embark on a unique experience with
City Unscripted Tokyo.
Our personalized, private tours, led by local hosts, make you feel like
you’re exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend.
We’ll take you to well-known sights and reveal Tokyo’s hidden gems, unveiling stories typically
missed by traditional tours. So unscript your journey, and see Tokyo through the eyes of our local hosts!
Top private experiences in Tokyo
We’ll pair you with the perfect host
There is no better way to see a city than with a friend who lives there. This is why we carefully match guests with their perfect host based on interested, personality and type of experience so they can discover a city beyond the tourist trail.
