By Lisa Hamilton Entertainment 12.02.2025

Japan Is the Destination on Everyone’s List, Here’s How To Do It on a Budget

You and your wallet can thank us later.

The way we travel has shifted in a post-pandemic world. Given that flights and accommodation have skyrocketed and our disposable cash flow is all but depleted in the current economic climate – it’s safe to say that travel has now become a luxury rather than a necessity of life.

With that in mind, it comes as no surprise that Japan is experiencing somewhat of a tourism boom with the Australian dollar having record highs against the Japanese Yen. The hearty exchange rate means Aussies are taking the opportunity to get more bang for their buck with almost one million people travelling to Japan in 2024.

With that trend continuing in 2025, we chatted to Gemma Clarke, the founder of Astray (an organisation which provides writing workshops and field trips abroad), to get her hot tips on how to experience Japan on a budget all while uncovering the hidden gems of this enchanting country.

Avoid the major cities and find untapped magic

Given the swelling numbers of Aussies travelling to Japan, the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)’s executive director Naoki Kitazawa recently urged visitors to help ease pressure on the major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto by considering lesser-known areas for their itinerary.

Luckily, Japan isn’t short on beautiful towns and cities to explore. And the best part? Visiting these areas will come at a fraction of the cost of staying in the most well-known cities. Some Japanese towns were once seen as sacrosanct from the tourism world but Gemma says a shift in societal behaviours means that locals are now welcoming travellers.

“Many rural areas are experiencing serious depopulation as young people move to big cities like Tokyo, so welcome travellers gladly – hoping to preserve and share things like traditional craft with curious folk from around the world,” says Gemma. “Ishikawa and Toyama are prefectures I'm enjoying exploring at the moment: where you can enjoy fresh seafood, learn ceramics and experience gorgeous nature.”

Forgo the bullet train and travel on the open road

There’s so much hype around the Shinkansen – Japan’s famed bullet train network – you’d be remiss not to experience at least one journey on the lightning-speed transport. However, if you’re looking to travel between multiple cities, the cost of a Shinkansen ticket can start to add up. With ticket prices coming to around 13,000 Yen ($130) one way, you might be wondering if there’s a cheaper alternative to move around the country.

Hai (yes)!

“To get to these places (rural towns and prefectures), instead of the Shinkansen, which is quite pricey, look at highway buses instead,” says Gemma. “They're spotless, stop for snacks along the way, have toilets on board and cost a lot less.”

You can grab a kōsoku bus pass for 15,000 Yen ($160) that will give you unlimited travel for five days and experience the stunning countryside from the comfort of a spacious chair at a fraction of the price of rail travel.

Hit the slopes less skied

One of the most alluring parts of travel to Japan is the prospect of skiing some incredible slopes without having to trek all the way to Europe. Hakuba has long been an Aussie favourite, however the cost of heading here could be a big detractor for those wanting to keep the purse-strings tight.

Gemma says ski-bunnies should consider some lesser-known snow-capped areas which will still get you the fix you’re after without breaking the bank.

“Instead of skiing somewhere like Hakuba,” says Gemma. “Look at a less-touristy mountain town like Sugadaira Kogen, which is closer to Tokyo and much cheaper to stay, rent gear and get lift passes.”

Alternatively you can check out resorts like Club Med Hokkaido which includes all-inclusive costs so you’ve got visibility of spending before you even touch down.

Dine like kings and queens on a dime

Ramen, sushi, onigiri, soba, yakitori. The mouth-watering list of delicacies at your fingertips in Japan goes on and on. But as we know, life on holidays can get pretty expensive when you’re dining out for every meal. Thankfully the great exchange rate and a world of options, means eating in Japan can be incredibly affordable.

If you’ve ever scrolled social media you’ve no doubt watched in awe as locals and travellers alike head to convenience stores to uncover delicious food in the aisles. Dried octopus – yes please! Gemma says you can get this same culinary experience for even less by heading to local supermarkets.

“While the konbini (convenience store) is fun (and the onigiri there is a cheap and delicious snack at any hour), supermarkets sell the same food for even less,” she says. “Ramen is always a fail-safe cheap meal at around 1000 Yen ($10), and many restaurants have a machine you can order on if you're nervous about your lack of Japanese (give the attendant your ticket after you've paid, and they'll serve you up a bowl).”

Accommodation on a shoestring

Outside of flights, accommodation always seems to be the biggest bill when booking a holiday. In Japan the options are endless depending on your budget. On the top end of the scale there are some impressive hotels towering over the bright cityscape of Tokyo and on the more affordable end you can experience staying at a pension.

“They tend to be located in rural areas, cost significantly less and have a cosy feel – and often a night's stay will include home cooked breakfast and/or dinner,” says Gemma. “Staying in a pension is a great way to support small businesses and see a side of Japan that is more local.”

Explore the beautiful natural surroundings

Robots, high-speed trains and futuristic efficiency are all things that make Japan such a fascinating country to explore. But equally as impressive is the country’s stunning natural landscape that is brimming with wonders for travellers to immerse themselves in. While a visit to a Hedgehog cafe might cost you a pretty penny – these natural experiences are largely free!

“In summer, there are gorgeous beaches (Shirahama on the Izu Peninsula is one of my favourites – stay in Shimoda, which is an adorable town where you can find cheap accommodation, and jump on a bus), and some alpine towns lower the ski lifts when it's warm so that when you ascend a mountain to go hiking, your feet will skim through wildflowers on your way up,” says Gemma.

In winter, walking around (and between) sleepy and quaint old towns along the Nakasendo Trail is one of my favourite things to do, and again you can find tatami-style accommodation for cheap. Bathing in a sento (a public bath – different to an onsen) is always affordable and a special cultural experience, and they usually don't care about tattoos. Just make sure you learn the etiquette of how to use these baths before as many people use them for their daily wash and you want to be respectful and clean!”

If you weren’t already thinking about it before – Japan will no doubt be firmly on your travel wish list. You (and your wallet) will thank us later!