Six Tips to Save Big on a Trip to Tokyo
Tokyo isn’t typically a destination for budget travelers, according to Jonathan Alder, a travel agent and Tokyo expert.
Posted — UpdatedTokyo isn’t typically a destination for budget travelers, according to Jonathan Alder, a travel agent and Tokyo expert.
“Hotels, dining out and transportation are all quite expensive in the city, but you don’t need to have deep pockets to have an upscale trip,” he said.
Following are some tips to enjoy a luxury Tokyo getaway for less.
Avoid going in March and April. The spring months are cherry blossom season, and while the blossoms are beautiful and the festivals are equally worthwhile, prices for hotel rooms are at their peak.
Save big on the rest of your dining costs by checking out the city’s many inexpensive fast casual restaurants (for names, ask your hotel’s concierge, TripAdvisor or Time Out Tokyo), where you can experience uniquely Japanese cuisine without emptying your wallet.
Alder’s go-to dining destination in the city is Tokyo Station, which is full of many inexpensive restaurants.
“The food quality is incredible, and you can get a great meal with a beer for under $25 a person,” he said.
In the Minato City area, the Nezu museum is a must for its spectacular Japanese gardens and costs less than $13. The Imperial Palace is free, but travelers need to book their visit in advance, which you can do online on the first day of the month before your trip (for a November visit, for example, you should book on Oct. 1).
“There’s no refund later,” Alder said. “You’re just not charged.”
And stick to buying Japanese brands, which are less expensive than foreign luxury labels.
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