How to cut costs on vacation to Japan?

[Anonymous]

You don't say if you are traveling solo or with family, but I haven't seen any mention of kids. So I think your best bet are business hotels that cater to businessmen. They tend to be like a Comfort Inn or Toyoko Inn or something like that. No fluff, no frills, clean *tiny* room, breakfast included, very affordable. Bonus that they are usually right next to the train stations so you you can drop off luggage easily.

There are also capsule hotels if you are adventurous and not claustrophobic. Back in the day you could stay overnight in a manga cafe (I don't know if they exist anymore). They would have free snacks and drinks and a bathroom (sometimes shower). It was a legit option for businessmen who missed the last train. I don't know how expensive they are anymore, but google "temple stay japan" and there are temples where you can stay overnight. Some have amazing meals included, but over time this became a tourist thing and the price went up.

As other people said, convenience stores are cheap and good. Even McDonalds is an experience (there used to be a Japanese burger chain called MosBurger but I don't know if it's around anymore).

If you want to get off the beaten (and expensive track), head north to Sendai or Aomori or west to Kanazawa or south to Fukuoka. Shinkansen goes to all.

[Anonymous]

By far the biggest expense while travelling to Asia will be the flights.

I am 50 years old now and need a little more legroom so I book premium economy. I wish I could afford business class, things were okay when I was younger but now my old bones need some comfort. Pick comfortable seats, you will need them.