Should I buy a JR Pass?

Yes if taking round-trip shinkansen between major cities. Tokyo-Kyoto round trip alone costs $260, making the 7-day pass ($280) worthwhile. Skip it if staying in one region only.

How much cash should I carry?

Bring $200-300 cash per week. Many places don't accept cards. Use 7-Eleven ATMs to withdraw more—they accept foreign cards and charge minimal fees.

Are tipping and service charges expected?

No tipping anywhere in Japan. Service charges are sometimes added to hotel bills (10-15%) but this is clearly marked. Don't tip taxi drivers, restaurant staff, or hotel workers.

What costs more than expected?

Taxis, alcohol at restaurants (beer $6-8), and theme park food. Fruit is expensive—apples cost $2-3 each. Airport express trains cost $10-15 each way.

How Much to Budget for Travel in Japan

Budget $80-120 per day for mid-range travel in Japan, including accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Tokyo and Kyoto cost 20-30% more than smaller cities. A two-week trip typically costs $1,500-2,200 per person.

Calculate accommodation costs. Budget hotels cost $40-60/night, business hotels $60-90/night, ryokan $100-200/night. Hostels run $25-35/night. Book early for better rates, especially during cherry blossom season (March-May) when prices jump 40-60%.
Plan for food expenses. Expect $30-50/day for food. Convenience store meals cost $3-8, ramen shops $8-12, mid-range restaurants $15-25 per meal. Department store food courts offer quality meals for $10-15. Avoid hotel breakfast unless included—grab convenience store coffee and pastries for $5.
Budget for transportation. Get a 14-day JR Pass for $445 if taking more than one long-distance trip. Local subway day passes cost $8-12 in major cities. Taxis are expensive—expect $15-25 for short rides. Budget $20-30/day for local transport without a JR Pass.
Factor in activity costs. Temple visits cost $3-8, museums $8-15, theme parks $50-80. Many shrines are free. Walking tours run $20-40. Budget $25-40/day for sightseeing and activities.
Add miscellaneous expenses. Souvenirs, snacks, and shopping add $15-30/day. Pocket WiFi costs $8-12/day. Luggage forwarding between cities costs $15-20 per bag. Include 10% buffer for unexpected costs.

Should I buy a JR Pass?: Yes if taking round-trip shinkansen between major cities. Tokyo-Kyoto round trip alone costs $260, making the 7-day pass ($280) worthwhile. Skip it if staying in one region only.
How much cash should I carry?: Bring $200-300 cash per week. Many places don't accept cards. Use 7-Eleven ATMs to withdraw more—they accept foreign cards and charge minimal fees.
Are tipping and service charges expected?: No tipping anywhere in Japan. Service charges are sometimes added to hotel bills (10-15%) but this is clearly marked. Don't tip taxi drivers, restaurant staff, or hotel workers.
What costs more than expected?: Taxis, alcohol at restaurants (beer $6-8), and theme park food. Fruit is expensive—apples cost $2-3 each. Airport express trains cost $10-15 each way.