Japan is a beautiful destination for travelers of all stripes. It’s famously clean, efficient, and safe, with a cultural history that goes back centuries. But despite all that, Japan offers surprisingly affordable airfares. As a result, tourists can save big by knowing the cheapest time of year to visit the country.
For the low-cost traveler, Japan has some very affordable flight rates throughout the year. This is especially true during the off-peak months of August, September, October, January, February, and March. These months make up the winter season in Japan, and since the country doesn’t experience winter weather like other locations, there’s no snow or other risk factors that might cause flight cancellations or delays.
These months also tend to be the least crowded for tourists, which is great since it means no long lines or crowds. This also helps keep prices down, as fewer tourists need to be accommodated. The off-season often offers travelers the chance to take advantage of Japan’s great airfares.
Traveling during the week is also a great way to save. Generally speaking, travelers can expect the cheapest prices on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Weekends also tend to be priciest, as that’s when many families and couples choose to travel together.
In addition to the off-season airfares, there are a few other things travelers should know about saving money in Japan. Some airlines offer special fares for certain routes, so it’s always worth checking to see if any discounts apply. Budget airlines, such as Peach, Vanilla, StarFlyer, and Jetstar, also offer competitive rates in Japan.
Finally, flexibility is often key in finding the best deals. Avoiding peak times such as holidays and special events, and being willing to change your destination or travel dates can often yield the biggest savings.
Get The Best Deals On Accommodation
Accommodation can also be expensive in Japan. Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to save money on sleeping arrangements. Hostels and guesthouses are an excellent choice for travelers on a budget. Many are designed specifically for backpackers with smaller prices and a more down-to-earth atmosphere.
Staying in a private home often saves travelers money as well. Platforms like Airbnb and Couchsurfing are great options for travelers who want to stay with locals and get a real sense of Japan. And of course, staying in a dormitory or a shared room is always a great option for budget travelers.
Travelers should also consider booking their accommodation in advance. Many hotels and hostels offer big discounts on off-season stays, and they can be more flexible with prices if they know that you’re booking early.
Finally, for those who don’t mind roughing it a bit, camping can be a great way to save money on accommodation in Japan. There are plenty of designated camping spots around the country, and camping can be an affordable way to get a taste of the great outdoors.
Explore Japan On A Tight Budget
Exploring Japan on a budget doesn’t mean having to miss out on all the fun. Tourists can explore the country on their own terms, without having to break the bank. For instance, many attractions, such as shrines and temples, are free to enter. So are some gardens, parks, and cultural events.
Tours are also a great way to get the most out of your trip without having to worry about the cost. There are a number of tour companies in Japan that offer sightseeing tours at reasonable prices, often with English-speaking guides. This can help you make the most of your time while still saving money.
Exploring Japan’s cities can be done on a budget as well. When it comes to transportation, walking is often the best choice. There’s no better way to take in the sights and sounds of a city than by walking around it. Taxis and trains can be expensive, so try to opt for the bus or subway instead.
Food is another great way to sample the best of Japan’s culture on a budget. Street food, such as takoyaki and ramen, is a great option for budget-minded travelers. Markets are also a great place to find fresh produce and prepared meals. For an affordable way to dine like a local, try one of Japan’s infamous conveyor belt sushi restaurants — a cheap and delicious way to try out some of the country’s best fish dishes.
Be Wise With Exchange Rates
Japan’s currency, the Japanese yen, has remained relatively strong against the US dollar in recent years. As a result, currency conversion can be costly to visitors from outside the country.
To save money on exchanging currency, travelers should do their research being exchanging. Shop around for reputable currency exchange providers and compare rates before settling on one. There are also Bank ATMs around Japan that don’t charge fees for currency conversion.
Travelers should also consider using a credit card in Japan. Credit cards often have competitive exchange rates and can be a good way to avoid carrying too much currency with you. Be sure to check with your bank in advance to make sure your credit card will be accepted.
Finally, travelers should be aware of hidden fees when using their cards abroad. Credit card companies often charge a foreign transaction fee when making purchases outside the US, which can add up quickly. It’s always best to make sure you understand the fees related to your card before using it in Japan.
Lookout for Japan Holiday Specials
Japan’s national holidays are a great time for travelers to enjoy discounted prices on airfare and accommodation. There are numerous memorable Japanese holidays perhaps the most well-known of which is the New Year’s holiday. During this time, Japanese cities and tourist attractions are often bustling, so travelers should be prepared for crowds.
Travelers should also keep in mind that during Japanese holidays, accommodation prices can be higher compared to other times of the year, and popular hotels can book up quickly. To get the best deals, it is recommended to book as far in advance as possible.
Japan also has a few festivals throughout the year. Some of these, such as the cherry blossom festivals, can attract large crowds which can make sightseeing more difficult. However, travel during these festivals can also be rewarding as these events often have a festive atmosphere that visitors can enjoy.
The Golden Week, which is celebrated in late April/early May, is also a great time for travelers to visit Japan. Airfare and accommodation prices tend to be more affordable during this period, and cities are often less crowded as well.Time Your Travels With The Japanese Weather To Make Your Trip Comfortable
Weather can be unpredictable, but in Japan, there are several seasons that can help you plan ahead. Spring is the best time to visit Japan, as it is the most temperate season with warm days and cool nights. The cherry blossoms also of course bring a unique beauty to the country.
Summer can be very hot and humid in Japan, especially in Tokyo, so travelers should be ready to sweat a bit on their journey. But there are also plenty of great activities to enjoy, from beach resorts to outdoor festivals.
Autumn is a great time to visit Japan as well. Mild temperatures and beautiful fall foliage are a great combination for travelers that like to explore outdoors. This is also the peak season for viewing the changing leaves, so don’t miss out!
Finally, winter in Japan can be incredibly cold and dark in some areas, but there is still plenty to enjoy. The Japanese Alps provide great skiing and snowboarding opportunities, and many cities offer festive winter activities, making this a great time to visit the country.
Take Advantage Of Japan’s Free Wifi
Japan is a great destination for the budget traveler, and one of the great advantages is the abundance of free wifi. More and more restaurants, cafes, shops, and hotels are offering free wifi, making it easier for travelers to stay connected and save money.
Free wifi can be found all throughout Japan as well. Major airports, such as Tokyo’s Narita and Haneda, have free wifi, as do many train stations and public spaces. The Japan Rail Network also provides free wifi at many of its locations.
Even better, some of the major mobile networks in Japan offer free roaming, meaning travelers can use the same number overseas without incurring additional charges. This is a great way to save money on your phone bill and stay connected in Japan.
So if you’re looking to save money while traveling in Japan, make sure take advantage of the free wifi and roaming options available. With a little bit of research, it’s possible to stay connected without having to break the bank.
Know The Language To Enjoy Japan Even More
Finally, one of the best ways to save money while traveling in Japan is to know the language. Although English is widely spoken in Japan, speaking the language of the locals is always a great way to get the most out of your trip. It can help travelers navigate ticket machines, make friends, and save money.
Luckily, learning the language is fairly straightforward, as there is a wealth of online courses and books available. Even
