Is it really that expensive?

Tokyo has a reputation for being pricey, but the abundance of cheap, high-quality convenience store food and inexpensive public transit makes it one of the most affordable 'big' cities to visit if you avoid high-end dining.

Should I get a JR Pass?

No. For a week in Tokyo alone, the JR Pass is a waste of money. Stick to individual train tickets or the 72-hour subway pass.

How to Spend a Week in Tokyo on a Budget

To do Tokyo on a budget, prioritize free observation decks, utilize the extensive train network, and eat at casual local eateries or convenience stores. Plan to spend around $80–$100 per day including lodging if you choose hostels or capsule hotels.

Get an IC Card immediately. Purchase a Welcome Suica or Pasmo Passport at the airport upon arrival. These cards save you from buying individual tickets for every train ride and work seamlessly across all Tokyo transit lines.
Use free observation decks. Skip the expensive Tokyo Skytree or Shibuya Sky. Go to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku for a free panoramic view of the city.
Eat 'Salaryman' style. Avoid sit-down restaurants with menus in English out front. Look for ticket-machine shops where you buy a voucher for ramen, soba, or beef bowls (Gyudon) for $5–$8.
Utilize the 72-hour Tokyo Subway Ticket. If you plan on moving around the city heavily, buy the 72-hour unlimited subway pass available to tourists; it costs 1,500 yen ($10) and pays for itself in three rides.

Is it really that expensive?: Tokyo has a reputation for being pricey, but the abundance of cheap, high-quality convenience store food and inexpensive public transit makes it one of the most affordable 'big' cities to visit if you avoid high-end dining.
Should I get a JR Pass?: No. For a week in Tokyo alone, the JR Pass is a waste of money. Stick to individual train tickets or the 72-hour subway pass.