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How much do independent travel expenses in Japan typically range? What do they include? If you're itching to explore the Land of the Rising Sun but have questions about expenses, forecasting your spending helps you plan more effectively. It also allows you to optimize your finances. To gain a deeper understanding, dive into the detailed article below!
Japan Travel Expenses - Visa
Visa is one of the first and most crucial requirements for traveling to Japan. It's a fixed cost in your Japan travel budget. To apply for a visa, you need to prepare all the necessary documents and submit them to the Embassy. Applying for a visa independently costs around $30 (equivalent to 740,000 VND). However, the chances of approval are not high. If rejected, it takes up to 6 months before you can reapply.
If it's your first time applying for a visa and you lack experience, you can seek assistance from a third party. Some travel agencies now offer visa application services for tourists. However, this service comes at a higher cost, ranging from $160 to $200 (equivalent to 4,000,000 - 5,000,000 VND).
When planning a trip to Japan, a visa is indispensable (Image Source: Collection)
Although the cost of using a service may be higher, the likelihood of approval is greater. Additionally, the waiting time is shorter compared to applying independently. However, regardless of the option chosen, it's advisable to start the process early. Avoid waiting until the last minute to apply for a visa, as the waiting time for results can be quite long. Depending on your choice, you can estimate the cost of traveling to Japan.
Japan Travel Expenses - Transportation
The next self-guided Japan travel expense to consider is transportation. This expense includes airfare to Japan and getting around within Japan. Whether it's high or low, expensive or affordable, you can manage it.
1. Flight tickets to Japan
Air travel is the fastest and most popular way to explore Japan. The cost of your Japan travel expenses depends on the airline and flight times. There are plenty of airlines in our country operating flights to Japan for you to choose from. Most flights depart from major cities in our country and may have direct flights or layovers in a third country.
During the ticket purchasing process, you can compare prices between different airlines. Many airlines often offer promotional programs. A flight to Japan typically costs around 7,000,000 VND or more. If you know how to find deals, you can purchase tickets at a lower price.
Knowing some tricks for booking flight tickets can help you save on your Japan travel expenses (Source: Collection)
One money-saving tip for traveling to Japan is to buy your tickets early. It's best to purchase them 2 to 3 months before your planned departure date. The closer it gets to your travel date, the higher the airfare tends to be. Alternatively, you can book flights during off-peak hours like early morning or late night. So, consider your timing wisely!
2. Transportation in Japan
Japan has one of the most advanced transportation systems in the world. Therefore, you'll have plenty of options for getting around. You can choose public transportation to save on your Japan travel expenses. And train stations and bus stops are practically everywhere in Japan.
Japan boasts an incredibly developed and modern transportation system (Source: Collection)
For short distances, you can take the bus, while for longer distances, the subway is a convenient option. For intercity travel, you can opt for high-speed trains. Taxis in Japan are quite expensive, so unless necessary, it's best to avoid using them. Especially at night, Japanese taxi fares are among the highest in the world.
Below are the ticket prices for various modes of transportation. You can refer to them to estimate your Japan travel expenses.
Subway
Subway is used for commuting between adjacent cities. The cost of subway rides ranges from 400 to 1,000 yen (approximately 80,000 to 200,000 VND).
Bus
Bus fares range from 30,000 to 50,000 for a single trip. For long-distance bus travel, such as from Tokyo to Osaka, the fare is around 400,000 to 1,000,000 VND.
High-speed train
Shinkansen high-speed trains are used for inter-provincial travel. Due to their high speed, travel time is significantly reduced. However, Shinkansen tickets are usually quite expensive. The fare from Tokyo to Osaka starts at around 13,000 yen (approximately 2,500,000 VND per trip).
Taxi
Taxi fares start from the moment you open the car door. Prices range from 120,000 to 140,000 VND for the first 2 kilometers. Each subsequent kilometer costs 60,000 to 80,000 VND.
Cost of Accommodation in Japan
Accommodation is one of the fixed expenses that must be considered when calculating the cost of traveling to Japan independently. In Japan, there are many types of rooms with various price ranges for you to choose from. Especially if you travel with a group, you can share the cost with each other.
1. Typical Price Range
Being a developed country, hotel prices here are quite high. Room rates vary depending on the location. For example, if you choose to stay near the city center, room rates can go up to $700. However, if you stay farther from the center, prices will be more reasonable, around $200 per night.
A hotel room in Japan with a traditional touch of the Land of the Rising Sun (Source: Collection)
Traveling to Japan independently usually takes up about half of your daily expenses. However, this is quite reasonable because the quality of service here is entirely commensurate with the money you spend. From the rooms, amenities, heating systems...
- For capsule hotels, the rental price is relatively cheap, ranging from about $20 to $25.
- Meanwhile, 2 to 3-star hotels are slightly higher-priced, ranging from $30 to $65.
These costs of traveling to Japan are considered quite reasonable. Depending on your travel needs, you can choose the appropriate type. If you are traveling for relaxation purposes, it is advisable to choose high-quality rooms. But if you spend all day exploring and only use the room at night, you can opt for cheaper accommodations.
2. Some Points to Note
Taking note of the following tips will help you save on your independent trip to Japan, allowing you to have more fun. Let's go through them with Mytour!
The cost of traveling to Japan, whether high or low, depends on your hotel room rates (Source: Collected)
- Book your room about 2 to 3 months before your departure date, especially during special occasions like cherry blossom season or autumn foliage. This will ensure you get a good room without being overcharged.
- Search for rooms on reputable booking websites and apps. Alternatively, you can wait for promotional offers to book your room and enjoy discounts.
- When booking a room, consider the feedback from previous guests.
- Avoid choosing unexpectedly cheap hotels as they may be scams or offer poor service quality.
- Opt for places with communal kitchens for guests to use. This is because restaurants in Japan typically close by 9 or 10 pm. Cooking your own meals will also help you save a considerable amount on traveling expenses in Japan.
Traveling Expenses in Japan - Dining
Dining is one of the expenses that travelers to Japan often pay close attention to when traveling independently. Japan is famous for its unique and delicious cuisine, including sushi, sashimi, tempura, and Takoyaki octopus balls.
Visiting Japan without experiencing its cuisine would be a huge missed opportunity! (Source: Collected)
You can choose to dine in restaurants or enjoy street food. There are various price ranges for you to consider. Generally, prices in restaurants are slightly higher than those outside. Alternatively, you can consider the following suggestions!
- Dine at 100-yen shops. You can ask the front desk for the nearest shops. These shops offer a wide range of food, toiletries, groceries, household items, etc., all priced at 100 yen.
- Dine at convenience stores. Convenience stores in Japan are similar to those in our country. They offer pre-prepared dishes priced between 20,000 and 55,000 VND.
- Avoid buying fresh fruits to save on expenses in Japan. In the island nation, fresh fruits and vegetables are quite expensive. So unless necessary, you should refrain from purchasing them.
Cost of Traveling in Japan - Tourist Attractions
Japan is home to numerous fascinating tourist attractions. An ideal trip to Japan cannot be complete without visiting these attractions. Some attractions may have admission fees, while others are completely free. You can explore these free attractions to save on your travel expenses in Japan.
Below, Mytour will suggest some free tourist spots in Japan for you to consider and include in your itinerary. These include Naritasan Park, Japanese temples, Mount Fuji, Suntory Kyoto Brewery, and more.
Additionally, some other tourist attractions in Japan require admission fees. You can plan your itinerary in advance to arrange your visits accordingly. Knowing where you will go in advance will make it easier to calculate your travel expenses in Japan.
1. Tokyo Tower
When visiting Tokyo Tower, the admission fee is 150,000 VNĐ per person. This fee is considered very reasonable in the context of travel expenses in Japan for independent travelers. Tokyo Tower is a functioning television broadcasting tower and a famous Tokyo landmark offering spectacular views of the city.
Tokyo Tower is an iconic landmark of Japan, inspired by the design of the Eiffel Tower. Almost every visitor to Japan makes a stop at Tokyo Tower, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views. Completed in 1958, the tower stands at a height of 333 meters.
When exploring Japan, don't forget to check-in at Tokyo Tower! (Image Source: Collection)
At the base of the tower lies a shopping complex called Foot Town, bustling with numerous shops and restaurants. Additionally, there is an observation deck for tourists. From this vantage point, you'll have the opportunity to admire the vibrant and modern cityscape of Tokyo.
You can visit here during the day or at night. During the day, the tower stands tall against the sky, its striking red color catching the eye. At night, the tower shines brightly with LED lights, illuminating the night sky. Regardless of the time, the scenery here always exudes its unique charm.
2. Osaka Castle
You can opt to include Osaka Castle in your itinerary. You can book a Japan tour to Osaka if you're not traveling independently. The admission fee to this attraction is around 100,000 VNĐ per person. With its ancient structure and unique architecture, this price is very reasonable in terms of travel expenses in Japan.
Osaka Castle was constructed in 1583 by Lord Toyotomi Hideyoshi and was considered the largest castle at that time. Every year, this site attracts many tourists for its historical significance and picturesque surroundings.
Osaka Castle impresses visitors with its majestic and sturdy appearance (Source: Collection)
In spring, the castle is adorned with pink cherry blossoms, while in autumn, it is covered in the golden and red hues of maple leaves. Visiting this place, you'll have the chance to breathe in the fresh, cool air of nature. It's a wonderful experience to stroll together with loved ones amidst such romantic scenery.
The castle consists of 7 floors, each with different spaces and arrangements. It houses artifacts such as helmets, armor, and weapons used in ancient battles. Alongside are eye-catching models depicting historical battles. Afterward, you can also go up to the 8th floor for panoramic views.
3. Kaiyukan Osaka Aquarium
Are you someone who is fascinated by the vast and mysterious world of the ocean? If so, you must visit the Kaiyukan Osaka Aquarium. The admission price per person is approximately 400,000 VNĐ. This price is entirely worth it for the experiences that Mytour is about to introduce below.
At the aquarium, you'll have the chance to marvel at life beneath the sea in the Pacific Rim area. The tanks here are very large, about 34 meters long and 9 meters deep. There are 15 enormous fish tanks that will provide you with fascinating experiences. Over 30,000 different species of marine life are kept here, with the most special being the giant whale sharks, the largest fish in the world.
The unique architecture of the aquarium is one of the things that has attracted tourists (Source: Collection)
You'll feel like you're lost in a mysterious ocean. Around you, there will be schools of fish swimming playfully. Your check-in photos here will surely amaze many! If you've decided to come here, don't forget to consider the ticket price in your Japan travel expenses!
4. Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle is the most important castle in Aichi Prefecture. The admission fee is only about 90,000 VNĐ per person, so you won't have to worry about your Japan travel expenses. The castle has been reconstructed from its original state due to war damage. However, the architecture and appearance remain almost the same as before.
Today, the castle operates as a museum to serve tourists. Here, there are ancient artifacts from the Edo period. For example, painted walls resembling underwater paintings, sliding doors, helmets, swords... The most distinctive feature of the castle is the pair of golden dolphins and tiger heads on the roof called kinshachi on the roof.
An enormously significant historical structure in Aichi (Source: Collection)
Almost every traveler visiting Aichi makes a stop here. Exploring the castle, tourists will have the opportunity to learn about the ancient Japanese cultural and historical beauty. Along with that is enjoying the refreshing and scenic natural landscapes.
The article has surely provided you with the necessary information. From there, you can plan your Japan travel expenses. If you lack experience in independent travel, you can opt for a tour. If you're interested in booking a tour, contact Mytour via hotline Mytour!
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