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How to explore Tokyo on tight budget
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The Akihabara district in Tokyo feels like a pilgrimage for many gamers. (Shutterstock/File)
O
ne of Japan's most popular tourist destinations, Tokyo is home to amazing food, luxurious hotels and the country's unique pop culture.
It is also considered very expensive for tourists, which may scare off travelers seeking to explore the capital city on a budget.
But worry not. Below are six ways to enjoy a luxurious Tokyo vacation with a limited budget, according to travel expert Jonathan Alder.
Plan a winter holiday
Visiting Tokyo is best during the colder months, especially from the months of November to February. While the air could be cold and chilly, the season promises lower hotel rates.
Avoid the summer season, as hotel prices will skyrocket with the increase in demand. Apart from that, the summer air in Tokyo is hot and humid.
Going in the months of March or April is definitely not advised, as the cherry blossom season peaks hotel prices and causes a lot of crowds and congestion, as people fight to take pictures with the beautiful pink flowers.
Read also: New Godzilla statue monsters revamped Tokyo shopping mall
Stay close to the city center
Picking a hotel that is closer to the city center is worth it, because you don’t have to pay excessive transportation fees.
Getting a room at a hotel near a station or the Tokyo Imperial Palace also increases your access to other parts of the city.
Buy food carefully
There are so many expensive restaurants in Tokyo, and you should at least visit one of them during your visit. There are many places to choose from, and do choose carefully.
The best restaurants can be found near the Imperial Palace, like the Sushi Bar Yasuda for teppanyaki. But that does not mean you end up in a luxurious restaurant every day of your visit—it’s not worth it if you’re traveling on a budget.
Visit the city’s inexpensive fast casual restaurants as well; there are many cheap local bakeries, ramen shops and bars where you can still enjoy high quality food. The local restaurants are generally located at the Tokyo Station, with amazing food quality.
Read also: Work 50 minutes for meal at Tokyo eatery
Hop on the train
Don’t take a cab. The subway is Tokyo’s best means of transportation. It is fast and inexpensive, with prices of about US$1.50.
The trains are also very clean, always on time and with intervals of just minutes.
Opt for free sightseeing
Tokyo has a lot of free and inexpensive tourist attractions to visit. These include the Imperial Palace (which has to be booked), the Ueno Park and the National Museum, most of which cost less than $10.
Shop tax-free
Bring your passport with you everywhere you go, so you can purchase Japanese goods tax-free at most of the Japanese stores.
Japanese brands are also cheaper than many imported goods of foreign brands. (ely/kes)
