3-Week Japan Travel Budget Guide: How Much You’ll Spend (and Save)

Planning a 3-week trip to Japan? Here’s a full breakdown of what you might spend based on your travel style, plus how to save without missing out on the best experiences.

1. Accommodation: The Biggest Part of Your Budget

Accommodation prices vary depending on how you like to travel:

• Budget: Hostels and capsule hotels range from $30 to $50 per night.

• Mid-range: Business hotels or compact Airbnbs cost between $70 and $120 per night.

• Luxury: Ryokans and upscale hotels usually start at $200 per night and go much higher.

Estimated total for 21 nights:

• Budget: $630–$1,050

• Mid-range: $1,470–$2,520

• Luxury: $4,200+

Tips to save:

• Choose capsule hotels or hostels for city stays.

• Book Airbnbs with kitchens to cook some meals and reduce dining costs.

2. Transportation: Efficient but Can Add Up

Japan has one of the best public transportation systems in the world, but long-distance travel adds up quickly.

• Japan Rail Pass (21 days): Around $540

• City transport (metro, buses): $5 to $10 per day

• Regional trains and day trips: $20 to $50 per trip

Estimated total for 3 weeks: $700–$800

Tips to save:

• Use a JR Pass only if you’re visiting multiple cities.

• For regional travel, use local passes like the Kansai Thru Pass.

• Walk or rent bikes in compact cities like Kyoto.

3. Food: Japan is Delicious at Any Budget

Whether you love sushi or convenience store snacks, there’s something for every wallet.

• Budget: $10 to $20 per day (ramen, 7-Eleven, conveyor belt sushi)

• Mid-range: $25 to $50 per day (casual restaurants, izakayas)

• Luxury: $100+ per meal (kaiseki, omakase sushi)

Estimated total for 3 weeks:

• Budget: $210–$420

• Mid-range: $525–$1,050

• Luxury: $2,100+

Tips to save:

• Grab bento boxes from train stations and department stores.

• Try izakayas for cheap drinks and small dishes.

4. Activities and Sightseeing

Most temples and museums are very affordable, but guided tours and cultural experiences can be pricey.

• Basic attractions: $5 to $10 per entry

• Cultural experiences: $30 to $100

• Private guides or day tours: $100 to $200

Estimated total:

• Budget: $150–$300

• Mid-range: $400–$600

• Luxury: $1,000+

Tips to save:

• Use discount passes like the Tokyo Grutto Pass or Osaka Amazing Pass.

• Many shrines and parks are free to visit.

5. Other Expenses to Plan For

• Souvenirs: $50 to $150

• Snacks and extras: Around $5 to $10 per day

Estimated total:

• Budget: $150–$300

• Mid-range: $300–$500

Sample Budgets for 3 Weeks in Japan

Budget traveler

• Accommodation: $1,000

• Transport: $750

• Food: $300

• Activities: $200

• Extras: $200
  Total: ~$2,450

Mid-range traveler

• Accommodation: $2,000

• Transport: $750

• Food: $800

• Activities: $500

• Extras: $400
  Total: ~$4,450

Luxury traveler

• Accommodation: $5,000

• Transport: $800

• Food: $2,000

• Activities: $1,500

• Extras: $500
  Total: ~$9,800

How to Save on a 3-Week Trip

• Use local or regional passes if you're staying in one area.

• Travel in low season (May, September, or early December).

• Balance splurges with free attractions or cheap meals.

• Prioritize what matters to you: comfort, food, or experiences.