Exploring Japan on a Budget: A 10-Day Travel Itinerary for Thrifty Travellers
Are you planning to visit Japan but are worried about the expenses? Don’t worry, we have got you covered with a 10-day itinerary that will help you explore the land of the rising sun without breaking the bank.
Day 1: Tokyo
Begin your trip in Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. Visit the Yoyogi Park, Imperial Palace, and the Senso-ji Temple, which are all free of cost. To satisfy your food cravings, experience the local street food scene and try the ramen, sushi, and yakitori. You can also grab a pass for the Tokyo Metro and save some money on transportation.
Day 2: Tokyo
Spend the day exploring the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku, where you can witness the Japanese fashion and culture. Visit the Meiji Jingu Shrine, which is located near the Yoyogi Park and is free of cost. Later, head to the Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city, which is relatively cheaper than the famous Tokyo Skytree.
Day 3: Mount Fuji
Take the bus from Tokyo to Mount Fuji, which is the highest mountain in Japan and a world heritage site. Although climbing the mountain can be expensive, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountain from the surrounding areas, which are free of cost.
Day 4: Kyoto
Take the train from Tokyo to Kyoto, which is the cultural hub of Japan. Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari shrine, which is free of cost and is famous for its thousands of torii gates. Walk through the Higashiyama District, which has a traditional Japanese vibe, and try the local food.
Day 5: Kyoto
Spend the day exploring the Arashiyama bamboo forest and the Kinkakuji temple, which are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Japan. You can also experience traditional Japanese tea ceremony, which will give you a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Japan.
Day 6: Osaka
Take the train from Kyoto to Osaka, which is famous for its street food scene. Explore the Dotonbori district, which is known for its flashy neon lights and the iconic Glico running man sign. Visit the Osaka Castle and enjoy the free view of the castle from the outside.
Day 7: Hiroshima
Take the train from Osaka to Hiroshima, which is another cultural city of Japan. Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which displays the horrors of the atomic bomb that destroyed the city during World War II. The park surrounding the museum is free and is a symbol of peace.
Day 8: Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island is a short ferry ride from Hiroshima and is famous for its Itsukushima Shrine, which is a world heritage site. Experience the beauty of the floating torii gate and feed the friendly deer that roam the island.
Day 9: Nara
Take the train from Hiroshima to Nara, which was the first capital of Japan. Visit the Todaiji Temple, which houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha. Walk through the Nara park, which is home to numerous deer and is free of cost.
Day 10: Tokyo
End your trip in Tokyo and spend the day exploring the less touristy neighborhoods, such as Shimokitazawa and Koenji. You can also visit the Ueno Park, which is home to numerous museums and is free of cost.
In conclusion, Japan can be explored on a budget if planned carefully. By following this 10-day itinerary, you can experience the unique culture and beauty of Japan without spending a fortune. Happy traveling!
