Travelling to Japan, an expensive destination, is an unforgettable experience. Still, travellers need to plan their budget and itinerary wisely—you can start with these top tips before travelling to Japan to make the most of your trip. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, Japan offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to various budgets, including travel costs and accommodations. Key factors to consider when planning your expenses, including flights, lodging, food, transportation, and sightseeing, are personalised travel budgets and the experiences of budget travellers.
By carefully budgeting for these areas, you can enjoy all that Japan has to offer without overspending. For a typical two-week holiday trip from Australia to Japan, you can expect to spend approximately AUD $4,000 to $6,000 per person on budget accommodation, depending on your holiday budget, travel style, and preferences. For help deciding whether to carry cash, use a travel card, or try other methods, see our travel money options comparison before you go.
Japan is in the Pacific Ocean and is located off the eastern coast of Asia. Its famous destinations include Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Many people also visit Nara, Hakone, and Shinjuku during their trip to Japan on a holiday budget. The city has a rich history and is filled with shrines, temples, museums and garden parks.
Before you visit Japan, do some research and decide what time of year you want to take your trip. There are certain times during the year that offer visitors a unique experience. For instance, some people choose to visit Japan in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Make sure you check out the best exchange rate for AUD to JPY before you head off on your travels.
How Much Should I Budget for a Trip to Japan?
Flights
Flights to Japan can vary greatly in cost depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. A round-trip flight from Australia to Japan typically ranges from AUD $800 to $1,500. Prices are usually higher during peak seasons such as cherry blossom season (March to April) and the New Year holidays. To find affordable flights, consider booking several months in advance, using fare comparison websites, and being flexible with your travel dates. Additionally, flying mid-week often results in lower prices.
Accommodation
Japan offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit any budget. For a two-week stay, you can expect to spend between AUD $600 to $2,000 per person, depending on your choice of accommodation. Budget-friendly hostels and capsule hotels can cost as low as AUD $30 per night, while mid-range hotels might range from AUD $100 to $200 per night. Booking in advance and considering stays outside major tourist areas can help you find cheaper options.
Transportation
Japan’s transportation system is efficient and extensive, making it easy to travel across the country. For a two-week trip, transportation costs can range from AUD $300 to $500 per person. The Japan Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel on JR trains, is a cost-effective option if you’re planning to visit multiple cities. A 14-day JR Pass costs around AUD $500. For local travel, consider using prepaid cards like Suica or Pasmo for convenience and savings on trains and buses.
Budget
Here are some tips from ForeignXchange on travelling to Japan regardless of the amount of money you want to spend:
- Food & Drinks: Street food costs around $5.50 AUD per person, offering steamed pork buns, fish waffles, and sweet potatoes. Ramen from vending machines is about $10 AUD per bowl.
- Getting Around: Public transportation is the most budget-friendly option. Bus fares vary by city and zone, while subways offer convenience and savings, especially with an unlimited day pass.
- Alcohol: A beer in Japan costs about $7.50 AUD, and a cocktail is $10 AUD. For budget options, buy drinks from vending machines or visit an izakaya, where drinks are around $3.36 AUD.
- Going Out: For budget-friendly activities, enjoy free options like beaches, sunsets, and hiking to experience the beauty of the country.
- Tourism: Guided tours and sunrise treks cost $50-$75 AUD per couple, while surfing lessons are $19 AUD each. On average, couples can expect to spend $96-$106 AUD per day, depending on activities and budget.
Mid-range
- A Japan Rail Pass costs about $588 AUD for 14 days, offering travel between cities and saving money for multi-city trips. Each city also has its own rail passes and special tickets. Alternatively, renting a bicycle costs around $19 AUD per day.
- In Japan, drinking is a social ritual, with beer and sake being popular choices. A glass of wine costs about $12.50 AUD, and sake is around $7.50 AUD. Whiskey and other spirits vary in price.
- Japan offers cabaret shows, nightclubs, restaurants, and karaoke bars. Prices vary by location, with cabaret shows starting at $76 AUD and karaoke costing $3.00 AUD to $6.00 AUD per time slot.
- Tour prices vary by destination: a trip to Mt. Fuji is about $198 AUD, a Kyoto rail tour is $413 AUD, and a temple visit costs $126 AUD. Renting a bike daily without a two-week rail pass averages $305 AUD per day.
Splurge
- If budget isn’t a concern, dining at Japan’s most expensive restaurants can exceed $260 AUD for a four-course meal with drinks, with some meals reaching up to $1,660 AUD.
- For high-end dining in Japan, a four-course meal with drinks can cost over $260 AUD, and some restaurants charge up to $1,660 AUD.
- In Japan, you can get around by renting a car, taking a taxi, or using the railway. Car rentals range from $62 AUD per day for a sub-compact to $249 AUD for a van.
- Alcohol Japan has a plethora of bars with price ranges and cocktails to fit every budget. However, the price can vary depending on where you go to drink.
- Nightlife in Japan can be expensive, with restaurant meals in the red-light district costing $69-$75 AUD, drinks around $13 AUD, and nightclub entry fees from $20 AUD to $44 AUD.
- Tourism options include three-day Hiroshima tours for $554 AUD and private Nagano tours for $1,321 AUD, including pick-up and a guide. For a luxury experience, costs exceed $2,000 AUD for upscale dining, five-star stays, and nightly outings.
Order Your Currency Online Today
Getting your hands on your travel money has never been easier. With ForeignXchange.com.au we can deliver your currency directly to your doorstep. Whether you need currency exchanged in Sydney or Shepparton, we’ve got you covered. Simple, convenient and secure. Order online today, sit back and wait for your travel money to arrive at your door safely and securely.
Before jetting off to Japan, it’s smart to sort your yen early and secure the best exchange rate in Sydney. Locking in your rate ahead of time helps you avoid inflated airport prices and gives you more spending power when you land.
Food & Drink
Food in Japan can be surprisingly affordable, with options ranging from street food and casual eateries to high-end restaurants. For a two-week trip, budget around AUD $400 to $800 per person for meals. Budget-friendly meals can be found at convenience stores, ramen shops, and conveyor belt sushi restaurants, with meals ranging from AUD $10 to $20. To save money, consider trying local markets and opting for set meals (teishoku), which often include multiple dishes at a reasonable price.
Sightseeing & Activities
Japan is home to a mix of free and paid attractions. For a two-week trip, budget around AUD $200 to $500 per person for sightseeing and activities. While some temples, museums, and parks may have an entry fee, there are plenty of low-cost or free activities to enjoy. Look out for city passes that offer discounted entry to multiple attractions, which can be a great way to save on sightseeing.
Shopping
Shopping in Japan is an experience in itself, with everything from high-end fashion to unique souvenirs available. For a two-week trip, budget around AUD $200 to $500 per person for shopping. For those looking for bargains, consider visiting 100 yen shops or local markets for affordable souvenirs. Tax-free shopping is also available for tourists at many stores, providing additional savings.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a crucial part of any trip, ensuring that you’re covered in case of unexpected events like medical emergencies or trip cancellations. For a two-week trip to Japan, travel insurance can cost between AUD $100 to $200 per person. Investing in comprehensive coverage can provide peace of mind throughout your journey.
Miscellaneous Costs
In addition to the main budget areas, it’s important to consider miscellaneous expenses such as SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi for staying connected, as well as any unexpected costs like emergency purchases. For a two-week trip, budget around AUD $100 to $200 per person for these additional expenses.
Why Choose ForeignXchange
When it comes to managing your travel budget, choosing ForeignXchange for your currency exchange needs offers several advantages. With competitive rates, convenient online ordering, and secure transactions, ForeignXchange ensures you get the best value for your money. Our customer-focused approach means you can trust us to handle your currency exchange needs, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip to Japan. Plan your budget with ForeignXchange and experience a hassle-free journey. For more information, contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 2-week Japan trip cost from Australia?
Expect to spend around AUD $4,000 to $6,000 for two weeks. This covers flights, accommodation, meals, transport, entrance fees, and daily expenses. If you stick to budget travel, you can do it for around $4,000.
How do I save money on transport in Japan?
Get a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) if you plan to travel across major cities. For budget travelers staying local, prepaid IC cards or long-distance buses may be better. Avoid taxis. They’re pricey, especially in Tokyo.
Is a Japan Rail Pass worth it for 2 weeks?
Yes, if you’re visiting multiple cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. The JR Pass covers most bullet trains and saves you hundreds in train travel. But if you’re staying in just one region, it may not be necessary.
What’s a realistic daily budget in Japan?
A daily budget of AUD $100 can cover a capsule hotel, meals at convenience stores, and public transport. Stretch that to AUD $150, and you can add a few museum entrance fees, a nice dinner, and a regional train ride.
What free things are there to do in Japan?
You can visit temples and shrines with no entrance fees in Japan. Explore parks, street markets, and public gardens, all perfect for travelers on a tight budget. You can visit Senso-ji in Asakusa and Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, explore parks like Ueno Park and Yoyogi Park, and experience iconic landmarks like Shibuya Crossing and Odaiba.
Want to lock in great rates before you fly? Use Foreign Xchange to convert AUD to JPY and sort your currency exchange ahead of time. No queues. No airport markup. Just the best rates, delivered to your door. So when you land in Japan, you’re ready to go without scrambling for yen.