Travelling to Japan is a dream come true for many people. It is known for its rich culture, history, and delightful cuisine. For the budget-conscious traveller however, exploring Japan can seem like a daunting task, as the country is often perceived as being expensive. However, with proper planning and research, it is possible to explore Japan on a shoestring budget. In this article, we’ll share a 7-day itinerary for budget-conscious travellers who want to explore Japan.
Day 1: Tokyo on a budget
Tokyo is a bustling city known for its fast-paced lifestyle, but this doesn’t mean that exploring it has to be expensive. Start by visiting some of the city’s free attractions like the Meiji Shrine, the Imperial Palace East Gardens or the Senso-ji Temple. To save on transportation costs, consider purchasing a prepaid transportation card like the Pasmo or Suica card, which offer discounts on public transportation.
Day 2: Kyoto on a budget
Kyoto is known for its many temples and shrines, and visiting them can often be expensive. However, you can visit some of the famous temples and shrines like the Fushimi Inari-taisha or the Kinkaku-ji Temple for free. Additionally, you can explore the beautiful streets of Kyoto by renting a bicycle for a reasonable price.
Day 3: Osaka on a budget
Osaka is famous for its culinary scene, but dining out at fancy restaurants can quickly add up. Instead, visit the famous Osaka Castle or the Shitenno-ji Temple, both of which are free to enter. For a more immersive experience, visit the local marketplaces where you can try out local street food like takoyaki or okonomiyaki. These meals are affordable and will give you an authentic taste of the city.
Day 4: Hiroshima on a budget
Hiroshima is famous for its history and the devastating effects of the atomic bomb that dropped on the city during World War II. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which both offer free admission. You can also visit the nearby Miyajima Island, which is famous for its beautiful Itsukushima Shrine, which is free to enter.
Day 5: Himeji on a budget
Himeji is famous for its beautiful Himeji Castle, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Instead of taking a guided tour inside the castle, admire its beauty from the outside and take a stroll through the beautiful castle gardens. Additionally, you can visit the nearby Kokoen Garden for a small fee and enjoy the beautiful traditional Japanese-style gardens.
Day 6: Nara on a budget
Nara is famous for its deer park, where you can interact with the friendly and tame deer. Entry to the park is free, and you can feed the deer for a small fee. Additionally, you can visit the Todaiji Temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has a giant Buddha statue inside. Entry to the temple is free for children and discounted for students.
Day 7: Yokohama on a budget
End your trip in Yokohama, which is famous for its beautiful waterfront area and its Chinatown. Visit the beautiful Sankeien Gardens, which are free to enter on certain days or for a small fee on other days. If you’re a fan of ramen, visit the Ramen Museum in Shin-Yokohama, where you can taste different types of ramen for a reasonable price.
In conclusion, exploring Japan on a shoestring budget is possible by visiting free or low-cost attractions, using prepaid transportation cards, and trying out street food. By following this 7-day itinerary, you can experience some of the best that Japan has to offer while staying within your budget. Happy travels!
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