Reader’s Question:

Can I go to Tokyo for 2 nights and 3 days for 100,000 yen, including hotel costs but excluding transportation expenses?

Exploring Tokyo: Can You Do It in 2 Nights and 3 Days for 100,000 Yen?

So, you’re
thinking about a whirlwind trip to Tokyo? You’ve got two nights, three days, and a budget of 100,000 yen. First off, let me just say—YES, you can absolutely do this! But, like a ramen shop during rush hour, it will take some clever maneuvering and a bit of planning. I’ve been to Tokyo more times than I can count, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you can have a fantastic experience even on a budget. So grab your favorite beverage (I’m sipping on some matcha latte right now), and let’s dive into how you can make this trip unforgettable without breaking the bank.

First Things First: Accommodation

Alright, let’s talk about where you’re going to lay your head at night. Tokyo has accommodation options that range from super luxurious to wonderfully cheap, which is great news for us budget travelers. For a stay of two nights, you’ll want to keep your hotel costs around 30,000 to 40,000 yen if you can swing it. If you’re cool with a capsule hotel (which, by the way, is an experience in itself), you can find these starting around 4,000 yen per night. I stayed in one in Shinjuku that was clean, quirky, and honestly kind of cozy! Just imagine—your own little pod, tucked away from the city noise. But if you’re traveling with a buddy or a partner, a budget-friendly hotel or an Airbnb could be a better fit. For example, I once snagged a cute little Airbnb in the heart of Asakusa for about 10,000 yen a night. It was just steps away from Senso-ji Temple, which made for the perfect location to kick off my Tokyo adventures.

Food: Fueling Your Adventure

Now that you’ve sorted out where to stay, let’s talk about the most important part of any trip—food! In Tokyo, you can eat well without emptying your wallet. You can budget about 1,500 to 3,000 yen per meal if you’re smart about it. For breakfast, I highly recommend grabbing a quick bite at a konbini (convenience store). A rice ball (onigiri) and a green tea will set you back about 300 yen, and it’s a surprisingly satisfying meal. Plus, konbini food is surprisingly delicious—trust me on this one! When lunchtime rolls around, make your way to a kaiten sushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurant. These are everywhere and offer plates of sushi starting from as low as 100 yen each. My mouth waters just thinking about it! I’ll never forget the time I plopped down at one in Shibuya and devoured plate after plate (okay, maybe I lost count). And let’s not forget dinner! If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some izakaya (Japanese pub) fare? They’re casual, vibrant, and usually come with a range of options. You can fill up on various small plates without breaking into a sweat. Just keep in mind that if you want to try some sake, that might bump up your budget a bit. Let’s add that all up—breakfast, lunch, and dinner could run you around 5,000 yen a day, which is quite manageable if you’re sticking to budget-friendly spots.

Free and Low-Cost Activities

Now that your stomach is happy, let’s move on to what to do in Tokyo—because you definitely want to get out and explore! The beauty of Tokyo is that there are countless activities that won’t cost you a yen. Start your trip with a visit to the iconic Shibuya Crossing. It’s a must-see, and the energy there is simply electric. I stood there, coffee in hand, watching the sea of people move like a well-choreographed dance. There’s nothing quite like it. If you’re into culture, the Meiji Shrine is also free to enter. It’s this serene escape right in the middle of the bustling city. The walk through the forested path leading up to the shrine is calming, and you can even partake in some traditional Shinto rituals. Just be respectful—this is a sacred space! Asakusa is another area teeming with free activities. The Senso-ji Temple is one of Tokyo’s most famous landmarks and it’s completely free to explore. I loved wandering around the streets nearby, checking out the traditional shops and snacking on sweet treats like ningyo-yaki (tiny cakes filled with red bean paste). And hey, if you’re feeling a little adventurous, consider walking across the Rainbow Bridge. The views of Tokyo Bay are stunning, especially at sunset. Just be sure to wear comfy shoes because it’s quite a trek! If you’re really into nature, Ueno Park is a nice place to relax, people-watch, or even enjoy some cherry blossoms in spring. It’s a lovely spot and also home to several museums if you ever feel like spending a little more on a cultural experience.

Transportation: Getting Around Without Breaking the Bank

Now, I know we’re excluding transportation costs, but it’s worth mentioning that the train system in Tokyo is incredibly efficient and not as pricey as you might think. I usually budget around 2,000 yen to 3,000 yen for transportation over a couple of days. Grab a prepaid Suica or Pasmo card, and you can easily hop on and off the trains without worrying about exact change. I always get lost on the first day, but that’s part of the adventure! Just remember to download Google Maps or the Japan Travel app, and you’ll be navigating like a pro in no time.

Shopping: A Little Bit of Souvenir Hunting

Okay, so maybe you’re thinking about bringing back a little something-something for friends or family (or yourself, no judgment here!). If you’re looking to pick up some quirky souvenirs, places like Harajuku’s Takeshita Street or the shops in Akihabara are fantastic. Don’t forget to budget around 10,000 yen for shopping. You can get everything from cute stationery to the latest anime memorabilia without going overboard. Just keep an eye on your spending—it’s easy to get carried away among all those adorable things!

Wrapping It All Up: The Total Cost

Let’s break it down, shall we? – Accommodation: 30,000 yen (for two nights) – Food: 15,000 yen (5,000 yen x 3 days) – Activities: Free/low-cost (let’s say 5,000 yen if you do a couple of paid attractions) – Transportation: 3,000 yen (for getting around the city) – Shopping: 10,000 yen Total: 63,000 yen This budget gives you a nice buffer, and even leaves room for a couple of splurges if you’re feeling fancy. Whether that’s a unique dinner experience or a souvenir that truly speaks to you, you’re in good shape!

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Experience

The biggest takeaway I want to share is this: Tokyo is what you make of it. Sure, you can stick to the budget and have an incredible time, but it’s essential to remain flexible. Sometimes the best experiences come from throwing caution to the wind—whether that means trying a dive bar you stumbled upon or indulging in an unexpected culinary delight. So, go ahead and embrace your Tokyo adventure! You’ve got two nights and three days ahead of you, and a world of excitement to discover. Whether you’re wandering through neon-lit streets or sipping tea in a quiet garden, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Happy travels!