since 2018
After several trips, almost 1 year living in Japan and working for incoming tourism agencies, I have accumulated summarized my main recommendations in this post. If you want to know more about Tokyo, continue reading here.
Japan on a budget
Two things which often scare people away from visiting Japan are the language and the higher cost of living – especially for asian standards. While I am far from an expert in the Japanese language, I do have some tips on how to travel the country on a budget.
Transportation
Travelling by Shinkansen is definitely a special experience and should not be missed.
However, it’s not the cheapest mode of transport. Read more about highway buses etc. in the low-budget post.
If you are considering a rental car, keep in mind that you need an international license or a translation into Japanese. Click here for the ultimate roadtrip tips. PS: traffic runs on the left side here.
Eating & Drinking
I LOVE the Japanese cuisine! It’s incredibly versatile and there is so much more to it than Sushi. My number one tip for amazing culinary experiences when travelling in Japan: eat where the locals eat! They love their food too and oftentimes, one of the first things you as a tourist will be asked is: “Have you tried (insert regional specialty)?”
More tips in this comprehensive guide, incl. my favourite restaurants.
Onsen
In my opinion, a must during every trip to Japan. Read more about my first ever visit to a hot spring here.
There are many Hot Spring Towns where you can find instructions in English and Tattoo-friendly bath houses. A personal favourite is Kusatsu Onsen.
If your budget allows, you can also stay at a ryokan with private onsen (eg. in Yamanaka Onsen or Kawaguchiko).
Accommodation
In cities, business hotels are often cheapest and located conveniently.
In more remote places, I’d definitely recommend spending a night at a traditional Ryokan.
Minshuku, the smaller version of the Japanese inns, are still quite common in Kyoto. You get your very own Tatami room and share a common bathroom with other guests. A great opportunity to interact with the locals over tea!
Language
Download the Google Translate and make Japanese available offline. You can also use the camera function to scan Kanji 😉
Generally, people will be more willing to speak English if you approach them in Japanese (even if it’s only Konnichiwa & Arigatou)!
My favourites:
- Hiroshima (Peace Memorial Museum, Miyajima)
- Takamatsu for Udon & Garden, surrounding islands
- Kagoshima incl. Sakurajima
- Yamaguchi for rural areas (difficult with public transportation)
- Kyotango for real off the beaten track
- Kusatsu Onsen
- Kawaguchiko for Fuji
- Hokkaido in winter for Ski & Snow Festival
- Kanazawa + Ishikawa for typical experiences with fewer tourists
Places I’d like to go:
- Ise Shrine + Toba Pearl Museum
- Nachisan in Wakayama
- Tottori dunes
- more of Shikoku: Kochi, Matsuyama
- Miyazaki for beach
- Akita in winter
- Sado-shima
- Aomori for summer festivals
- Yakushima
thattravelstory 