Japan has a reputation for being expensive, but for many travellers it is more affordable than expected.
The real cost depends on accommodation style, transport choices, dining habits, and season. This guide breaks down realistic daily expenses so you can budget accurately for your trip.
Average Daily Budget in Japan
Budget traveller:
¥8,000–12,000 per day
(AUD $80–120)
Mid-range traveller:
¥15,000–25,000 per day
(AUD $150–250)
Higher-end traveller:
¥30,000+ per day
(AUD $300+)
These estimates exclude international flights.
Accommodation Costs
Budget:
Capsule hotels & business hotels
¥6,000–10,000 per night
Mid-range:
3–4 star hotels
¥12,000–25,000 per night
Luxury:
¥35,000+ per night
Accommodation is usually the largest expense.
See our Where to Stay in Japan guide for neighbourhood advice.
Transport Costs
Local transport (IC card):
¥500–1,200 per day
Shinkansen example prices:
Tokyo → Kyoto: ~¥14,000 one way
Kyoto → Hiroshima: ~¥11,000 one way
Use our Shinkansen Guide for details.
Before buying a rail pass, compare options using our Japan Rail Pass Calculator.
Data access (SIM or Pocket WiFi) typically costs ¥2,000–12,000 depending on duration. See our Sim guide
Food Costs
Convenience store meals:
¥500–1,000
Casual restaurants:
¥1,000–2,000
Mid-range dinner:
¥2,500–5,000
Japan offers excellent food at relatively affordable prices compared to many Western countries.
Attraction Costs
Many major attractions are free:
• Meiji Shrine
• Fushimi Inari
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Paid attractions:
¥500–2,000 typically
Theme parks:
¥8,000–9,800 per ticket
Flights to Japan
From Australia:
AUD $700–1,500 depending on season.
Cherry blossom season and school holidays are more expensive.
See our Best Time to Visit Japan guide for seasonal price considerations.
10 Day Japan Trip Cost Example
Mid-range estimate:
Flights: AUD $1,200
Accommodation: AUD $1,800
Transport: AUD $400
Food: AUD $400
Attractions: AUD $200
Estimated total:
AUD $4,000–4,500 per person
Use our 10 Day Japan Itinerary to structure your route efficiently.
Is Japan More Expensive Than Europe?
For many travellers, Japan is:
• Cheaper than Western Europe
• Similar to Italy or France
• More affordable than Scandinavia
Accommodation and transport are the biggest variables.
Final Thoughts
Japan is not a “cheap” destination — but it is far from unaffordable.
With smart route planning and careful transport decisions, it can offer exceptional value for the quality of experience.
For structured planning across multiple trip lengths, explore our Japan Itineraries.