NavanTravel

Japan on a Shoestring – Part 1

Perhaps everyone would agree that Japan is not exactly a cheap backpacker destination. Although located in Asia, pricewise it’s nowhere near to other budget-friendly countries like Thailand, Cambodia or Vietnam. When I was planning my 10-day holiday in June, I realized that Japan would be a challenge. Taking some advice into account, I didn’t want to rush things and planned a reasonable itinerary Tokyo-Osaka-Kyoto. I wanted to get the most out of my trip as I always do, yet my half-empty purse did not seem to be on board. Just looking for decent accommodation in Tokyo turned out to be quite tricky, and while checking the prices of food and transportation, my forehead started to bead with sweat. How do I see all the things I want to see without spending my entire savings? Let’s take a look at some of my favourite tips!

 

From the airport to the city centre

If you are flying to the Narita Airport, it takes about one hour to get to the Tokyo station. There are several ways but the cheapest is going by bus – The Access Narita – which stops directly outside the Arrival hall. Single adult ticket will cost you ¥‎1000 (€9).

 

Getting around Tokyo

Once in Tokyo, you will discover that the city is huge. I mean HUGE! Normally, I am a person who loves to explore cities on foot but there was no way I could do it this time. There is an elaborated system of trains and undergrounds in Tokyo, however, the problem is that they are owned by several companies so you cannot buy one combo ticket valid for all. I used the underground now and then but it is quite pricey so you better plan ahead on which routes are the most reasonable. Based on my experience, the cheapest way to get around is hiring a bike. Sure, you have to have some level of physical condition as the city is vast but on the other hand, it is mainly flat, roads are nice and clean, drivers are considerate and it is perfectly fine to ride on the pavement too. Many Japanese realize that cycling to work is not only eco-friendly but can save a great deal of time compared to congested roads so you will meet a lot of fellow cyclists. I rented my bike from Taito-ku Rent-a-Cycle for ¥‎200 (€2)/day and I just loved the freedom it gave to me!

 

 

 

Free or almost free things to do in Tokyo!

Tokyo is a modern metropolis which offers countless things to do. I spent four busy days there and yet had a feeling there was so much more to see! When I travel, I like to combine diverse activities (ideally free or for a small charge) together to get a complex picture of the place. I started in Shinjuku, the major commercial district with fancy shopping malls and bustling nightlife. Soak up the crazy atmosphere and then head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office which offers a great view of the city from above. The entrance is free (unlike Skytree) and it is open until 11 pm. Trust me, Tokyo by night is something you don’t want to miss out! 

Another must-see place is the busiest road crossing at Shibuya station. I could not believe my eyes how many people were at one spot at one time! Don’t forget to take a picture of the famous Hachiko statue and taste some delicacies at the Tokyo Food Show under the Shibuya station.  

 

 

 

The next place on my list was the Imperial Palace which turned out to be a little disappointing. Crowds of tourists and ‘no entry’ signs everywhere were not exactly to my taste but I did enjoy a walk in the gardens.  If you are looking for some tranquillity in busy Tokyo, you will love it. Similarly, you can take a relaxing walk in the park around Meiji Temple.   

 

 

 

Although Tokyo is more about modernity than tradition, there are some beautiful temples you can visit free of charge – my favourite were Sensoji Temple and Kanda Myojin Shrine. Technology geeks, on the other hand, will appreciate the district of Akihabara.

 

 

One day I woke up early in the morning and made my way to Arashio Stable where you can see sumo wrestlers training. Visitors are allowed to watch only from outside but it was a great experience anyway! If you are a Pokemon fan and don’t feel like paying big money for the Pokemon museum, I recommend visiting the Pokemon store under Tokyo Station.

 

 

Last but not least, architecture lovers should put Tokyo International Forum on their list – this building with an unconventional design hosts various events and exhibitions and it is certainly worth visiting.

 

Off to Osaka

Osaka is located about 500 km from Tokyo and there are multiple ways how to get there – by plane, train or bus. As much as I would love to try the legendary Shinkansen, its price was way out of my budget (around ¥‎14,000 ~ €123), and I opted for the bus. I travelled with an overnight Willer Exress bus and it was just fine – for ¥‎3,620 (€32) definitely a great option if you are on a shoestring! The bus was nice and comfortable, the journey took about 9 hours and you save on one nights accommodation which is a pleasant bonus.

 

For budget tips for Osaka and Kyoto check out my next blog post!