How Expensive is Tokyo?

Everything I spent in Tokyo for 3 days, to show you how expensive it is in Japan, and how much money you need to take for food, drink, trains, tickets and shopping.
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Tips for your trip to Japan, and how expensive restaurants, transport and entry tickets are in Tokyo. If you have any questions put them in the comments!
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[@crazybookworm16]

This was AWESOME, thank you so so much! Big thumbs up from me ^.^ Trains are my main worry for when I go to Japan with my boyfriend, it takes a while to get your head around the prices and routes =S I was wondering if there's anything like a daily or weekly train ticket you can get in Tokyo like there is here in London? Individual prices seem cheap enough, but if we end up using the trains a lot in one day it would be great if there was a daily or weekly ticket option.

[@cakeswithfaces]

princesscrazybookworm Thanks! There are day passes for Tokyo, which can work out cheaper if you're taking a lot of trains. The different lines are operated by several different companies, so make sure you get a pass that's valid for what you need. I've always just used a Suica card because it's valid on everything and it's easier. Taking the metro is a lot like the London Undergound & all the signs are in English too, so it's really not as difficult as you might think! :-)

[@crazybookworm16]

Thank you so much!! Ok, we'll see how often we'll have to travel as we plan =) Yes I saw your video on planning a trip to Japan and that you got a suica (another awesome video!)! It does look like the best one to have, plus it has a cute penguin on it XD The longest route we're going to take is to Maihama station for Disneyland, and I'm just worried about transferring lines at Tokyo...I don't wanna end up on the wrong platform >.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, Suica is great! :-) I lost mine during the trip so I've got the regular one with a penguin on it now! You can get really cute plushie holders for them to attach to your bag.

[@SUPERGENKI]

I think Tokyo is really cheap, EXCEPT parking (which is insane) and if you want to buy a house or apartment. Other than that, very cheap. But I realize it depends on what you're used to from whatever country you come from. Great video, I'm sure it will be helpful to a lot of visitors! ^^ Thomas

[@crazybookworm16]

Omg yes I've seen, I'm planning to get a disney themed one! Thank you so much again for all your help ^.^

[@precure69]

So much cheaper then what I was expecting. This going to help me so much for my trip to Tokyo in march

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ruby Lombax Thanks, glad you found it helpful! Budget a bit more just in case - but food & trains are less than you'd think! Have an amazing time! :-)

[@Azuna-je3eb]

In total (USD) you spent $189.40! That's way less expensive than I thought. Holy molely, I thought the total (in USD) would have been around $500!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Tokyo’s way less expensive than it’s perceived to be! Especially for food. It’s the flights to get here that are expensive! 💴

[@lalilulelo]

I stayed in an apartment (via Airbnb) in Ikebukuro for only $46 per night. It has a TV, refrigerator, washing machine, electric stove, electric kettle, toilet, shower, aircon, closet, 2 beds, and a pocket wifi to bring anywhere you go.

[@cakeswithfaces]

lalilulelo Sounds like excellent value! It’s good they included the pocket WiFi for you! :-)

[@Gosroll]

Thank you for making this Video People who are not Japanese think that things are expensive in Tokyo but it is not true I want foreigners to know that!!!!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! Happy to spread the word! :-) Certainly here in the UK, lots of people think Tokyo is really expensive, but actually London is a more expensive place.

[@imlookiting2184]

I will be traveling to Tokyo this Summer and this is just what I was looking for! Trying to save and work out a budget, so this will really help. Thank you!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yay, glad to hear it! Japan's nowhere near as expensive as it's perceived to be, once you're there.

[@beberubie]

Very informative! Subscribed! I love Japan!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Me too!!

[@kestaah2076]

Thank you for this video!! It's giving me such a good idea about how much we need for our trip!! 😊

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, so glad you found it helpful! Planning to do some more trip planning advice videos on my channel :-)

[@noureddineoubaha9929]

Very informative and awesome video. Thanks a lot :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad you found it helpful! :-D

[@KidsToyShowTV]

Wow very informative video! Thanks

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, I hope you find it useful!

[@bragaep]

Yours tips are so helpful to us! Thank you for sharing. :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! I didn't know what to expect before I went to Japan for the first time so I'm happy to help! :-)

[@deaday]

As a foreigner, you can get a 72-hour ticket for the 2 subway networks (Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway) if you present your passport at a tourist information desk (e.g. at one of the main subway stations) for 1500 Yen. That's 500 Yen a day!

[@cakeswithfaces]

That is good value! (and so much cheaper than 1 day passes in London!).

[@Gantorin]

NICO NICO... SUPER USEFUL! I am planning a trip and this really puts a good perspective on what I might be able to expect. Thank You much!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Timothy Messer Thanks so much, really glad you found it helpful! :-)

[@untitledsixtynine]

Your videos are highly informative! Very excited for my trip in May/June 2020. First time 😱🥳

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks so much! You'll love it! That's my fav time of year to go, so warm and lovely :-)

[@monkeyman12328]

Sammee I was like fucking this I’m to depressed I’m out to visit another country

[@happygoblin101]

I have just discovered your channel and slowly devouring them :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yay, enjoy the videos!

[@markphillips8605]

Incredibly useful video. Thank you so much :)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, so glad it helped! :-)

[@sockhawk4675]

What a great VLOG!...Extremely helpful...clear and easy to understand. I wasn't gping to stop in Tokyo now I'm re-thinking it...and I used to live in Japan for 3 years!

[@cakeswithfaces]

You lived in Japan - how exciting! Glad you found it useful - I'm sure you must be familiar with pricing already! :-)

[@sockhawk4675]

Yes but it was a long time ago...Very pleased prices haven't gone totally nuts...thanks again.

[@FofosWorld]

Thank you so much for this! Really helps out

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, happy to help! Several other trip planning videos on my channel too! :-)

[@abbymckender3321]

Just added up what I spent on food in Tokyo per day. We ate a lot of convenience store food, and once at a sushi train restaurant. Came to about 2300 yen per day per person. Nice video, thank you.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Abby McLaren It's interesting to add it up isn't it? :-) I really thought food would be more expensive but even the cheap food is so good!!

[@3DJapan]

Cakes with Faces There was one pizza place near Shibuya crossing that my friends and I walked out of because it was expensive and they wouldn't let us share. The waitress kept saying "one order, one person".

[@cakeswithfaces]

Oh dear, I hope you had better experiences elsewhere!

[@3DJapan]

Yeah we found a better place almost right across the street. lol Every place else was quite reasonable. Though we did go to one really fancy place in Osaka that was over $700 for the 7 of us. But of course that was an exception.

[@RichardsAdventures]

Its good to know about the prices :) prices are very useful

[@cakeswithfaces]

Glad you found it helpful! :-)

[@IsonosDen]

This was extremely helpful. I'm trying to plan a budget for a future Japan trip, so this helps ease some concerns I had. Great video!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad you found it useful! Budget a bit more just in case, then you'll have some extra spending money! :-)

[@redfish337]

It's pretty much going to be 10000 yen/day with a hostel or airbnb + airfare + long-distance travel (eg shinkansen or rail pass). Adjust if your accommodation is different, or if you are a very heavy or light spender. And then add another 10000+10000/week yen as a safety net. But it's safe there (not that you shouldn't take some precautions though)... so more is better than less so you don't have to be worrying about money.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I always make sure I have a credit card that's commission-free abroad as well as cash, just in case. Even though cards aren't accepted everywhere like in the UK or USA, they take them in a lot of places and are a good back-up!

[@gabiberries]

This video was very helpful! I was expecting to spend $100 a day on food, but apparently it's way cheaper :) The price of the train tickets also surprised me, I was hoping for more. But I'm still gonna get the JR Pass because I'm going to Kyoto, Osaka and some other cities in the Kansai region, so I think in the end it will pay off.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! Yes I think a JR Pass will be worth it for you - and you can use it on the JR lines in Tokyo too :-) I'm actually planning a video about trains and on how to get around Tokyo so keep a look out for it!

[@gabiberries]

Cakes with Faces thank you for answering, you're too kind :3 I'll keep my eye open for that video! x

[@reinaxmoonlitrose5623]

This is so useful, thank you ^^

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad you found it helpful!! :-)

[@litawolf1684]

Mmm so I could go 100 dollars a day is more then enough plus a little shopping. Thanks Amy. Loving your book

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thank you!! It's really not as expensive as you might think, especially when Tokyo's perceived to be such an expensive city.

[@soomon3608]

very helpful. thanks. love your hair

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! Enjoy your Japlanning! :-)

[@HenachokoFujoshi]

this was a really good format to give an idea of costs. Good idea as well overall

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! I hope it's helpful to anyone going to Japan for the first time! :-)

[@cindyxue]

Thank you so much! Good and informational :)))

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! Glad you found it useful! :-)

[@BelloBudo007]

A good subject this one. I also was told before visiting Japan that 'it's expensive'. However, just like your good self, It wasn't actually. One thing I found with food & trying to keep with the calories (I was there for training), is that I was constantly chasing food to give me fuel for physical activity. The 7/11 and other convenience stores provide great service & variety.

[@cakeswithfaces]

So good how you can always grab a bite to eat at the convenience store! It's something I really miss in the UK - the only "fast food" you can get is deep-fried and really unhealthy. I miss being able to grab a bowl of noodles or a bento when you're out and don't have much time to eat.

[@listentothevoicesofhumans4638]

Thank you for the vid. It shows that Tokyo isn't really all that expensive. A lot of things looked like they were the same prices here in the US. Soda in Japan $1.25...in the US $1.50.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah that's very similar! I think the common perception is that Tokyo's really expensive but it's really not that bad (once you've paid for the flights, haha!)

[@listentothevoicesofhumans4638]

Cakes with Faces TY, I was never worried about flights. Cause flying has always been expensive. I was more worried about the prices when i got there.

[@thenervousflier]

you should've posted this days ago when i was in tokyo. :) LOL

[@YayAkiba]

At Yobodashi, they wanted 30 bucks for a network tester that cost me $6 at MicroCenter. But then again, a great meal at Yoshinoya was 6 bucks, where USA it would be over double.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I guess for some things you have to know where to shop! The meal would be a lot more in the UK too - we don't really have fast food that isn't chips, burgers or something deep-fried.

[@PaulHennessyShow]

Love your stuff! Does the Japan Rail Pass cover subways and busses in Tokyo?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! The JR Pass doesn't cover the subway in Tokyo I'm afraid! It's only valid on train lines run by Japan Railways (which start with JR in the name). So in Tokyo you can use it on the JR Yamanote line which runs in a loop around the city and the JR Chuo/Sobu line, which goes across the city. For buses, the pass is also only valid on local buses run by Japan Railways (I'm not sure if there are any it's valid for in Tokyo or not as the train/subway network's so good, it covers all destinations you need very quickly and easily). Really the JR Pass isn't that useful when you're in Tokyo - it's for travelling long distance around Japan. For your time in Tokyo I'd recommend a Suica card, or a day pass for the metro (be careful which one you get as they're not all valid for all the lines - that's why I recommend a Suica card as it's just easier!).

[@shanny1318]

AMAZING ✨🌸🙌🏾

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hope you found it useful! :-)

[@paullaup5475]

Thank you 😁

[@nahjayerose]

coming from cali , these prices are so much cheaper than spending a few hours in sf ! excited for my trip!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Make the most of it & have an amazing time!!! (I love SF too!)

[@HeroofSomething]

Try DTLA, I spend about 20-30$ on one meal, let alone snacks and going out lmao

[@JuiceMyRandomness]

this video is exactly what i wanted! do you create video intros int he style you do?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad you found it useful! I created my own intros (for All the Best Stuff is from Japan) - animation isn't my specialty so I only make them for my own videos :-)

[@lennona5105]

I really like your videos on Tokyo and Japan. Please make a video on vegan food in Tokyo

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thank you!! :-) Did you see my video with tips on being vegetarian in Tokyo? Dairy products aren't a major part of Japanese cooking so really you just need to watch out for eggs and bakery items. Here it is (with my list of restaurants with veggie options - many of them will be vegan too) - hope it helps! www.cakeswithfaces.co.uk/japan/vegetarian-restaurants-in-japan/

[@richardsmith8384]

super helpful video, when we went we took a lot more than we needed to, not that it was a bad thing more to spend lol.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Mr Smith Thanks! Yes better than running out of money! And I'm sure you found something to spend it on :-)

[@richardsmith8384]

Cakes with Faces definitely did especially when we got to Akihabara lol.

[@Watfordfc2030]

Very helpful video for our trip , we are not big on meals in very good restaurants simply because my wife does not eat loads and it’s just not worth it so some of the places you show is exactly where we would eat most days of honest , I’m watching you tube all day I think as no football until Monday night and the wife out . We love these food places with a few beers

[@cakeswithfaces]

Japanese portions are smaller so your wife will be fine! Did you see my video on Torikizoku - a great, relaxed place with lots of beers!

[@Watfordfc2030]

Cakes with Faces no but I will try and find it as that would be ideal to watch , inless you don’t Mind posting link , appreciate your advice and certainly don’t want to bother you many thanks

[@cakeswithfaces]

Here you go! kzbin.info/www/bejne/pYKpnKOahsR2ars

[@cookieemunster]

THAT was incredibly informative, thanks! 😊 really isn't as expensive as I thought. London is waaaaaay more expensive. Great vid! 👍 👍 👍

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad it's helpful! You can of course spend more or less depending where you go, so budget more and then you'll have some spare spending money for treats! :-)

[@silentviewer1797]

Great video and this is very informative.I was wondering, how does the ramen in the ramen museum taste like?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! They had ramen from different parts of Japan and it was good to try the various types! I made a separate video about it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXe8gGyKbNaao7c

[@redfish337]

My friend says they are overall of great buy not premier quality. It's convenient because they're all together- a bunch of good shops with different styles. In fact, one of the shops there is more famous for how difficult it is to get to the original shop rather than necessarily how good the ramen actually is (I didn't try it, so maybe it really is great- it just didn't sound particularly amazing). However, even getting mini bowls, you'd probably break the bank and your stomach to try more than 3-4 or so. There are kinda long lines too. So basically, there are better bowls out there. But then you'd be taking a bunch of trains to get to the best of the best. Also, of course, tastes vary.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, everyone's taste is different - we're no ramen connoisseurs but we enjoy ramen and we all loved it there! In photos online it often looks a lot busier, so I think we were lucky with how quiet it was (mid afternoon on a week day) so there weren't many other people there. I could only manage a mini bowl (not very mini) and part of a full serving - the guys managed three mini bowls and part of mine!

[@atelier482]

Thanks for this! Very helpful to make a budget plan for a future trip to Tokyo (hope the situation gets better soon). Just wondering, do you keep plenty of cash around, or use card based transactions instead (with IC or credit cards)?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! I take cash and cards - lots of places do take cards but not everywhere, so you need more cash than you'd usually take. :-) Lots more info in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHacdIylmNKbfdU

[@ohiyaa4812]

You got a Danganronpa figure! And this is very helpful, thank you!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! I saw an amazing Chiaki figure in Akihabara, and got it on Ebay back home :-)

[@user-mi3ec9zp8t]

Hi! Thank you for this video! This is really helpful! Can you give an advice please if our itinerary will be Osaka (2days) - Tokyo (2days)? What's the cheapest transpo option? Jrpass? Suica + shinkansen? Day pass + shinkansen? Thanks!

[@cakeswithfaces]

Doyeon Kim If your trip between Tokyo & Osaka is one way, it’s better to get a single shinkansen ticket rather than a JR pass. If you’ll be going on a lot of trains/metro, a 2 day pass will be cheapest for while you’re in Tokyo. And the same for while you’re in Osaka. However check where you want to go - if it’s walkable you might not need a train pass for one of the days. Hope that helps!

[@user-mi3ec9zp8t]

Cakes with Faces thank you very much! :)

[@lohanette]

Seeing train prices it looks like paying as you travel is cheaper then the JR rail pass for a 7 day trip. I'm hoping to go this year and would be traveling only on yamanote line. Looks like the suica card is best.

[@cakeswithfaces]

If you're staying in Tokyo and just doing a day trip or two outside the city, you don't need a JR Pass. You only need one if you're travelling long distance around the country (in which case it can save you a lot of money, because bullet train tickets are expensive!). I'd recommend a Suica card if you're staying in Tokyo - it's the easiest way because it's valid for everything. :-)

[@lohanette]

@@cakeswithfaces thanks.

[@leytonjay]

To be honest it seems cheaper than London. At first Tokyo underground seemed expensive but I remembered that without a travelcard the tube is quite pricey too. The long distance trains and food seem cheaper.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, it definitely is cheaper than London! It's so expensive in London, for food, transport, everything (╥_╥)

[@redfish337]

Well, they don't really seem to be going for savings here either. The first trip from Higashi-Shinjuku to Kichijoji was 390 yen... but if they had walked the 1.3 km to Okubo Station, it would have just been 216 yen. Is a 15 minute walk worth 174 yen? Well, when you include the amount of walking they have to do to make the transfer to pay their 390 yen anyway... And that's kind of the thing with Tokyo. With 3 major companies and a bunch of small ones... with basically another 150 yen charge every time you switch companies, you can either do some walking or otherwise plan in advance in order to stick to as few train lines as possible, or say screw it, and eat the upcharges. And I think this is true for a lot of other things too. So if you're on your own, you can kind of keep costs down... but then when you go with others, trying to make things run smoothly, you start eating all these additional costs.

[@cakeswithfaces]

redfish337 in this video I wasn't particularly trying to save money. By planning train journeys better it would certainly be possible to spend less. When you're a tourist and not as familiar with the train system or geographical locations of the stations and which are walkable, you probably do take some unnecessary journeys and miss out on tricks!

[@timothysmith759]

Excellent video. Thanks for making. One question for you. I know much of Japan is still cash based, so how much of this was paid via credit card vs. cash? I have an idea of how much my wife and I are bringing for our trip next month. But our rule of thumb will be use a card whenever possible and use cash if it is not.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Timothy Smith More places take cards than I expected; you will need cash for trains (topping up your Suica card), kiosks (snacks e.g. taiyaki) and maybe smaller restaurants. The majority of shops and restaurants did take cards, but smaller independent places don't, and kiosks/stalls are cash only. You'll also need cash for arcades & vending machines (some take Suica card).

[@timothysmith759]

Cakes with Faces Awesome. That's what we were hoping for. We knew the food streets, gatcha, and smaller places would most likely be cash, just didn't know if credit card was catching on more places. Glad to hear it is! Thanks for the fast response and keep up the good work on these videos.

[@wagtailpottery5159]

inbound travellers can really take a full benefit from japanese deflation of almost 30 years right now.

[@Gazereths1234]

Great video :) This helps me out a lot thanks so much :) I've budgeted ¥10,000 per day for food/travel/entry fees, seems like it should be adequate, hopefully with a bit left over on the last few days for a big blowout shop in Akihabara and Shibuya and maybe a top notch meal somewhere......Always got the plastic handy anyway :P TBH it seems a little cheaper than here in the UK, especially trains. Is it best to have cash? I heard not all that many places take cards in Tokyo.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks, glad you found it helpful! :-) Always best to budget more than you need, just in case, and the credit card's a good back-up (make sure it's commission-free abroad). Yes - it is a little cheaper than the UK - makes you realise how expensive London is! And even the cheaper food is good quality (in my experience!). Cards aren't as widespread as the UK - I found that most places do take them, but smaller places don't, like kiosks, food stalls and some smaller independent shops - and most importantly you need cash for arcades! So you're plan sounds good - take mostly cash with card as a back-up.

[@redfish337]

My expenses over a fairly long period of time: Housing: 3200 yen /day (hostel/airbnb) Food: 1800 yen / day Intracity Travel: 650 yen / day Wi-fi: 350 yen / day (I've gotten a lot cheaper before... but this time I needed more reliable coverage since I was also going to the countryside) These are the basic necessities... and it's 6000 yen per day, including my lodging. Entry fees are typically fairly minimal in Japan, but anything big ticket like Disneyland, while significantly cheaper than it is in the US, should still be considered as a one-time purchase rather than tossed in the per day budget. Large chain shops like department stores take cards.. Don't expect to use it many other places. You can get by with just a card... but it'll probably cost you more money, because the expensive shop will take cards, and the cheap shop won't. If you're going ritzy ritzy the whole time you can probably almooost go cashless. But... it's easier to go cardless... and I recommend taking enough cash for the whole trip (or otherwise having ready access to it via ATM), and bringing 2 cards, which you can start to use when available if you start realizing you're burning through your cash faster than you thought.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks for sharing! That's what I do with cash/cards too - I have a credit card that's commission free abroad, and a debit card that's free to use in cash machines abroad (although I've never had to withdraw cash, it's good to know you can if you need to!) :-)

[@ladyhaltom]

What is the preferred payment type in Tokyo, does most of the establishments accept any forms of credit/debit cards, or do tourist needs to exchange them for Japanese YEN? I have no idea here, thank you.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Most places take cards, but not everywhere, so it's recommended to take more cash with you than usual when travelling abroad. Yes, it's Japanese Yen - you can get them from a bureau de change, or from an ATM when you arrive in Japan. Personally, I prefer to get them before I travel, just in case my cards decide to not work abroad (which has happened once, when I went to the USA). Make sure your cards are commission-free to use abroad, so you don't get extra charges from your bank. Lots more tips & info in this video - even though it's a few years old, it's still all the same now: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHacdIylmNKbfdU

[@thenervousflier]

i miss tokyo :( left tokyo 2hrs ago. still on the plane.. colorful video and again, very infornative and yummy. will share this to my friends who are going to Japan.

[@cakeswithfaces]

HIRO MIZUHASHI Aw you miss it after only 2 hours! 😂 Me too! Thank you, and have a good trip!

[@nitinrawat6668]

Well i wouldn't say its expensive but from india where the cost of living is so cheap, it might be really expensive. eg the fanta costs here is around 50 yen. and traveling by metro wont cost more than 70 yen from start point to end point in delhi.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Wow, prices are so different for different countries! Here in the UK, in my local shop soft drinks are 2 for £2, which is 140 yen each. A one day pass for the London Underground is £12.30 = about 1700 yen!

[@nitinrawat6668]

this is why its so cheap for you. lol i compared cost of living of Tokyo and india, and its so expensive i have to earn 4 times more salary to be equivalent to their cost of living. :( but im gonna go there for sure. thanx for ur video

[@hiroueda2227]

hmm thats pretty good but for three days staying within the kanto region, the three day JR rail pass would have saved you some more money on the trains. the food could have gone another 30% more expensive of cheaper depending on ones taste and appetite. typically, when i go back to visit i budget about 80-120 dollars a day for food and transportation for myself and GF in tokyo/osaka. but when out of those world cities, i only budget about half of that. typically, i do budget 200.00 for accommodations but since the advent of airbnb its usually much less so what i budgeted goes back into "play" money.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks - useful info! The reason we used Suica was so we could use all lines on the Tokyo metro (all companies), and because our plans weren't fixed - if you know you're going on train journeys covered by the pass that would definitely be a good option. I agree, it's always a good idea to over-budget and then you have more spending money! :-)

[@dan2393]

I just got an ad for your channel before watching this video 😳

[@cakeswithfaces]

I've been advertising my Kickstarter to try and help people find it :-)

[@GirlinTokyo]

You know what the Emperor said to the foreign viceroy: "Expensive. Not Expensive." :-D

[@TheXnyu]

did you use the suica card for the trip to yokohama? do you pay when you get in or out of the train station or how exactly does that work?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, I used the Suica card for that trip. You scan the card when you go through the ticket gates, then scan again when you exit the ticket gates at your destination. It's very easy! :-) When you run out of credit you top it up at a ticket machine (cash only, and you can change the screen to English).

[@TheXnyu]

@@cakeswithfaces your guides are great, thanks alot!

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@TheXnyu Thanks, so glad they've helped! :-)

[@samojede6776]

Is there a possibility to wash your laundry in the hotels or so?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, I think many have a laundry service, although I haven't tried it out. (A bag's provided and then they wash clothes for you). I think you'd be able to check when you book to make sure they offer it eg on Expedia.

[@StitchLipped]

I know this is 3 years later but I'm going next year for about 3 weeks how much do you think it'll be for 3 weeks?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Actually that's the exact subject of my video this week! Look out for it on Thursday :-)

[@Gazereths1234]

Hey thanks again for this video it's really helpful :) I recently was given about 3000 yen in coins (mostly 100 & 50 yen coins) do you think it's worth taking it with me to Japan? Or will I be swimming in change soon enough anyway? Was thinking it would be good for arcades and vending machines.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thanks! You'll be able to spend it in vending machines, and the 100 yen coins are great for arcades and gachapon. :-) I always end up with so many 1 yen coins - you can't do much with them!

[@redfish337]

Oh, you're a collector huh? I knew someone like that.... ended up with a jar of yennies. But most places list the prices with tax so I think it's pretty easy to dump them... I never have more than 10... as soon as you have that many, you could have dumped them somewhere.

[@light8174]

I feel like the things that scare me about Japan are the trains. And it's not about the price, but how well I'm going to be able to handle it. I'm going to basically be the leader of my family by making sure we get off at the right exit and not get lost. It's kinda horrifying especially since I'm a very introverted person lol

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah, don't worry, you'll be ok! The stations are certainly big, but just follow the signs (almost all in english as well as Japanese) and you'll be fine! :-) If you get lost it's all part of the fun and you'll have a story to tell!

[@3DJapan]

I just got back from Japan and these are about the same prices I saw. I brought about $1500 for my 12 day trip but came home with a lot of it still in the bank even though we went to a few really pricey places for dinner. My breakfasts usually consisted of a pastry and coffee from Family Mart. I recommend Airbnb over hotels because it's cheaper and you have nicer accommodations. If you're really on a budget you could do Couchsurfing.com and stay with nice people for free while having a bonus cultural experience.

[@cakeswithfaces]

It's always sensible to over-budget just in case! Plus then you have more spending money for souvenirs :-) I actually love the convenience store food - better variety and quality than in the UK.

[@northbauer5033]

Hi, I’m from New Zealand, and I’m planning to go for a month with a friend in January in 2020. I know Japan is expensive, so I want heaps of time to save, so I have found out that my flights will cost $1,500 NZD including return. But I want to know if 5k is enough (including flight money) for spending, accommodation, transport as me and my friend will be splitting the transport and accommodation cost together as well, or should I save more? As we both agreed to save a total of 5k each for the whole trip

[@cakeswithfaces]

I don't think Japan's really all that expensive (compared to London). The flights and accommodation are the expensive part, then once you're there, trains and food are relatively cheap. You can check hotel prices on Expedia - for me it was around £60-£90 a night ($115-$173 NZD) but there are cheaper options eg AirBnB, hostels and capsule hotels! For trains, if you're travelling around Japan you might need a Japan Rail Pass, which is another cost to add in - but if you're staying in the Tokyo area you don't need one, and costs will be similar to in the video. Then you'll need your spending money too if you want to go shopping. Hope that helps!

[@zipitshhhh2267]

I live in America and I thought Tokyo, Japan was expensive but I was wrong. The USA is more expensive especially if you enjoy watching sports like basketball their beer are pricey $7.41 for 16 oz including food hot dogs $4 and parking about $15 and just an average seat alone is about $200 you looking at about $300/$350 if you constantly buy beer like me. But that's not what im trying to say it really depends on the City you live in also. At least I know what to expect when I do plan a trip to Tokyo Japan it looks like fun.

[@cakeswithfaces]

It's the same here in England - Tokyo's perceived as an expensive place but actually London's much more expensive, especially for food and drinks. 💷💷💷

[@ashleymurray6419]

Do you think it’s cheaper to buy a pass instead of paying for trains separately each day?

[@cakeswithfaces]

If you're taking a lot of trains that day it might be cheaper to get a one day pass. The reason I always use my Suica card is because it's easier and quicker, and I don't always have set plans for each day. Trains in Tokyo are run by several different companies, and Suica is valid on all of them so you don't have to worry if your ticket is valid; if you get a one day pass, there are several available (not all are valid for all the companies) so make sure you get the right one! Suica (or Passmo - basically the same thing) saves time because you don't have to buy a ticket each day, you just load it up with credit then scan in and out as you go.

[@Mandarina..]

Would you recommend getting a Japanese SIM card or a portable wifi?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Personally I prefer a portable wifi, because you can share one between your group and connect as many devices as you like (multiple phones, and if you take an ipad you can also connect that). I looked at an e-sim this time for my next trip as they're slightly cheaper, but was concerned about it using up more battery life when sharing the wifi hotspot between phones for two people. So I'm sticking with the portable wifi as I know that works well!

[@aarizmushtaq4301]

Hmm I wonder what the prices are gonna be like in nowadays. Do you reckon it will be more expensive then it was back when this video was filmed?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Prices have gone up slightly, but personally I don't feel things are that much more expensive now. Coming from the UK, where going out (and pretty much everything!) has got a lot more expensive since the pandemic, I didn't feel Japan had got that much more expensive, and things still seemed like excellent value. And it's a LOT cheaper than California where I went recently! I filmed an updated version of this video - not edited it yet, so look out for that coming up!

[@aarizmushtaq4301]

Can you recommend any good mid range hotels in Kyoto and Tokyo?@@cakeswithfaces

[@u.s8377]

We shall be starting our holidays from Osaka then to Kyoto then to hokane and ghen to Tokyo...so should I buy Jr pass or which one, pls advise. Thanks

[@cakeswithfaces]

You'd need the JR Pass for the whole of Japan for that trip - there are 7 and 14 day versions. Generally speaking, it costs about the same as a return trip from Tokyo to Kyoto, so it depends if you're flying directly into Osaka, or if you're getting the bullet train from Tokyo to Osaka when you arrive. You can check the individual train prices on Hyperdia, to work out if it'll save you money: www.hyperdia.com/en/ If you plan on doing day trips in these locations, it may well turn out to be worth it. Sounds like a great trip! :-)

[@u.s8377]

Cakes with Faces Our flight lands on 8th June at Osaka Intl airport, we stay 2 days n then move to kyoto for 2 days. Later we go to Hokane for 1 day n then v go to tokyo for 3 days. So how can I travel from osaka to kyoto is it by bullet train or??? N then from kyoto to Hokane to tokyo...so do I buy JR pass ...is it worth....your suggestions are welcome. N if any tour places you recommend. Tks.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Osaka & Kyoto are very close together. You can take a bullet train (if you have a JR Pass, otherwise it's expensive). Otherwise you can take the JR Kyoto line train. From Kyoto to Hakone you can take the bullet train to Odawara, then local trains. From Hakone to Tokyo you can get the bullet train from Odawara (if you have a JR Pass) or regular trains (slower but cheaper). Japan Guide is a really great website for checking how to get to places - it usually has Access details at the bottom of the page: www.japan-guide.com/ You can check routes, times and prices on Hyperdia - it's just like the Trainline and it's in English: www.hyperdia.com/en/ A JR Pass might not be worth it for this trip, as you're not doing a return trip between Osaka/Kyoto and Tokyo, but you can check the prices of the individual tickets on Hyperdia and see if it will save you money. Lots of ideas for things to do in Kyoto and Tokyo in my videos! My fav in Kyoto is Fushimi Inari shrine. Just been to Osaka and I loved it!! :-)

[@konodioda162]

Omg, at 6:46 I saw risette from p4g.

[@cakeswithfaces]

I love P4G! :-) Got a couple of her figures at home!

[@konodioda162]

@@cakeswithfaces thank you so much I'm watching your videos and it's a big help, I'll fly to Japan on Saturday (first time) and your videos are really a good help, I know I will spend ages in Akihabara xD

[@konodioda162]

@@cakeswithfaces p4g is one of my fav games ever.

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@konodioda162 How exciting! Hope you find some good figures! Go to Nakano Broadway as well if you have time! :-)

[@MitchMoe2]

Is it possible to make a video on how to get train tickets and how it all works?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I actually filmed how to use a train ticket machine and never did anything with it, so - yes! It's on my list, thanks for the request! :-)

[@3DJapan]

MitchMoe2 The machine isn't too complicated, they all have an English option. There's a map above the ticket machines that shows what station you want to go to with the prices next to each station. So in the machine you just put your money in, pick how many tickets you want, and push the button for the price you saw on the map.

[@lalilulelo]

Better get a Suica or Pasmo card

[@TheVeggiePassport]

Hi! Was the katsu sandwich vegetarian?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Katsu sandwiches in convenience stores aren’t vegetarian. But you can get a vegan katsu sandwich at T’s TanTan in Ueno Station (very unusual as most are meat!)

[@RT-ey4wy]

Is it worth going to Japan for gaming paraphernalia especially Nintendo stuff? Obviously it's worth going to regardless but you know what I mean.

[@cakeswithfaces]

There's a lot more merch than you'd find elsewhere, so it's definitely worth it! For actual games/hardware, go hunting at Book Off (lots of branches everywhere) - they're cheaper than other game stores like Super Potato etc (although if you're a collector, Super Potato has the best condition items). Remember to check regions to make sure you can play them, and obviously they will be in Japanese! :-)

[@aaroncheung7203]

How much money should spend for a hotel in Tokyo Akihabara Figures Food and Drink and also Manga in Japan

[@cakeswithfaces]

Hotels in Tokyo: £60-£90 a night (budget options are available too eg hostels, capsule hotels) Food and drink - not as expensive as you'd think! For examples of food and transport prices, have a look at my How Expensive is Tokyo video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZpzOeaWKhticapY Figures and manga - as much as you can save up!! Figures in Japan are much cheaper than in the UK, about a third the price. Remember the manga will be in Japanese on the whole.

[@loverofthelightx3528]

What were the hotel prices like ?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Loverofthelight X Hotels are quite pricey - about £70 - £90 per night. There are some that are cheaper, and hostels, but that's the range of the hotels I've stayed in.

[@kilo7208]

How much do you recommend putting on your card traveling the Tokyo?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I depends how long you're going for, and how much you're travelling, but 5000 yen for a week is a reasonable amount to start off with. I just made a video about travelling around Tokyo that might help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKfUmqeoqdKtn7s

[@pizzagaming550]

how much cost to rent apartment in tokyo one month or longer?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'm not sure but Texan in Tokyo made this video about the cost of living in Japan! :-) kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJ26k3pnmal1d9E

[@pammathieu1916]

I think now there having a special pass for foreigners on the train tickets since the Olympics well be held there. question what hotel did you guys stay at? and the cost I'm saving up and id want a rough estimate. thank you

[@yorokopi1]

Don't forget you can do hostel and minpaku as well. Minpaku are services like Air BNB which are allowed in cities like Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka but aren't allowed in smaller areas, check the laws in case. Sakura hotels within Tokyo have hostel areas as well if you wanted to do that.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Pam Mathieu I'm not sure about an Olympic train pass, but the Japan Rail Pass is for foreigners only. It's great for long distance travel & costs about the same as a return trip to Kyoto. I stayed in the Shinjuku Granbell Hotel, and have also stayed in the Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku & the E-Hotel Higashi Shinjuku. Price depend on the time of year; about £70-90 per night.

[@3DJapan]

Pam Mathieu If you are taking the Shinkansen a couple of times or more it will be worth it to get a JR Pass, which is only for foreigners and can't be bought in Japan. Mine was $250 for 7 days, regular class. Which is about the same price as the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka and back. Plus you can use it on a lot of local trains too.

[@pammathieu1916]

If you don't mind me asking where did you buy yours? and that's actually a good deal

[@3DJapan]

From www.japan-rail-pass.com/jr-pass The prices fluctuate slightly from day to day, right now it says $258 for me.

[@nickjones7026]

I hate trains so I’m planning on getting taxis everywhere, is this doable in Tokyo ?

[@cakeswithfaces]

As you'd expect, taxis would cost more than public transport, maybe unless it's for a group of several people. I actually haven't taken any taxis in Japan, because the trains are so good. Even the metro is clean, on time and safe, and the network's so comprehensive you can go everywhere you need to very easily.

[@pizzagaming550]

damn cheap in japan...want to live there some day.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Ah I hope you can one day! :-)

[@licidly]

Me too!! ^^ Hope you can make it there one day!

[@yasserahmmad5018]

How do you see prices with Korea in comparison?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I haven't been to Korea so I couldn't say! I'd love to visit there too one day though :-)

[@PocketMonsterNOT]

since you're a weeb you earn my sub 👍

[@cakeswithfaces]

... I'll take that as a compliment..! Enjoy the videos!! :-)

[@jjl6438]

Thank you for this! I'm from London and I know how easy costs can total up without even trying in a city!! Can I just ask if April 11th to April 25th is a good period budget wise in japan? Did you stay in Airbnb? Flight is currently £455 with 1 stop. Should I book now for April next year?

[@cakeswithfaces]

At that time of year the important point is to avoid Golden Week, when there are several bank holidays and lots of people take the whole week off, so it gets very crowded in touristy areas. In 2018, Golden Week starts on Saturday 28th April to your dates are good! I went the week before Golden Week once and it wasn't crowded, it was a really good time to visit. I've always stayed in hotels, because of how the law has wavered about Airbnb in Japan - at times they wanted to ban them and I didn't want my reservation to be cancelled if the situation changed. But that's just me - lots of people do stay in Airbnb and it can be a budget-friendly option. There was a new law last month making it legal to rent out a room on Airbnb for 180 nights per year.

[@jjl6438]

Cakes with Faces Airbnb is what I have primarily looked up for accommodation as it's most affordable. I never knew they wanted to ban it! Slightly worried now because it's 9 months ahead. Is it true that the 7/11 sushi and bento foods are nearly as good as restaurant ones and better than UK boxes?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Lots of people do stay in Airbnbs because they're a good value option. I think it was because residents didn't want noisy/disrespectful tourists (generalisation!) staying in quiet residential areas, so they've limited it to 180 days a year for each property. On the whole, all food is very good quality, even cheap food. Convenience store food is much better quality and healthier than in the UK, and a good option for lunch because it's cheap and there's a great variety. Way better than UK lunchbox sushi and (in my opinion!) better than Yo Sushi. The onigiri are less than £1 and perfect for lunch - I miss them! Convenience stores are literally everywhere as well.

[@redfish337]

Hi, start looking for airfare now as they tend to sell about a year ahead. IMHO, hold out for a good non-stop deal. Just check sites like kayak a few times a week. Accommodation... unless you want something in particular, that can wait. You can start looking in January or so. A lot of hostels and airbnb don't book super far ahead, and as much as I think airbnb is overall the best option, I don't really think you should look at that too much until a few months ahead of your trip. IMHO.... convenience store is only good by comparison to other countries. You pay for convenience. Grocery stores and actual bento shops have better and/or cheaper food... but they're harder to find and have shorter hours. Or just go to a fast food shop like sukiya and eat there in a few minutes or get it to go. The rice in particular tastes way better that way than a convini bento. As much as people talk up convini... I hardly ever use them... I did, but I've moved on to better things.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haha, yes, convenience store food isn't a replacement for food from dedicated shops and restaurants. But compared to sushi in even some restaurants in the UK it's good quality. Lunchbox sushi from shops here is so horrible and dry! I'm so impressed by the quality of food overall in Japan, even at cheap places.

[@alice.L.]

3000 euros for hotel,food,stuff,entertainment and 1000 eur for transport for a month.That is how my friend said and he will be back soon from Japan.

[@TonyD-UK]

Can you tell me do children get a cheaper fare on the tube , i know trains consider over 12 as an adult but do the tube do that as well ? i want to take my kids in a few years and they will be 14 and 17

[@TonyD-UK]

@@cakeswithfaces ok cool thanks for the info id better bring more money then !! lol

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@TonyD-UK You'll have no problem spending it!!

[@TonyD-UK]

@@cakeswithfaces with the way my kids spent money in South Korea April just gone i have noooo doubt hahah

[@cakeswithfaces]

@@TonyD-UK Ah I'd love to visit South Korea! Just getting into Korean food - addicted to gochujang!

[@TonyD-UK]

@@cakeswithfaces if you like Gochujang then your goning to love pretty much all korean food haha i look forward to you Videos in a future time then lol or you could do a MukBang ! that would be a great video :)

[@neatkitten]

You’re a vegetarian? Would you please recommend good places to eat in Tokyo ? Much appreciated:)

[@cakeswithfaces]

Here's a list I made! I travel with meat eaters so these are regular restaurants that have a vegetarian option (which is pretty rare). Hope it helps! www.cakeswithfaces.co.uk/blog-2/vegetarian-restaurants-in-japan/

[@neatkitten]

Cakes with Faces thank you so much 😍😍😍😍😍

[@thirsanijweningphotography7960]

It is really not that expensive at all. Get a Pasmo pass for the train travel, that really helps out a lot. In terms of food: As expensive as you want it. You can already have a proper meal for around 490Y.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes, Tokyo's perceived as an expensive city but it's really not that bad, especially compared to somewhere like London, which is a lot more expensive.

[@thirsanijweningphotography7960]

Yep, I'm from Holland and I was really surprised by all the stories how expensive Japan is while in Amsterdam it is a loooot more expensive. I did save up quite an amount of money for my trip back in October tho, just don't want to have a care for money while being there haha.

[@cakeswithfaces]

Haha, I always over-budget too! But then there are so many cute things to buy so it's worth it! :-)

[@emilybets418]

Omg. .. I love u hair 💖🌞😎🌼🌹💖💖💖

[@cakeswithfaces]

Thank yous! (⌒▽⌒)☆

[@kingpromeith1006]

Will 5000$ be good?

[@cakeswithfaces]

Depends how long for!

[@KieraRadio]

But how do you get Japanese money that's what I want to know

[@cakeswithfaces]

All about that here (more than I can type in the comments!) --> kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHacdIylmNKbfdU

[@helloimuzumakikira1]

can u not have day tickets for trains

[@cakeswithfaces]

Uzumaki Kira Yes, there are passes for the trains, which can be a better option if you know you're going to be travelling a lot in one day. I just found it easier to use my Suica card as we didn't always have definite plans :-)

[@craigcmurphy]

I just returned from a trip to Japan. In Tokyo, Kyoto and elsewhere, you can buy an unlimited 24-hour subway pass for 600 Yen (less than $6.00 USD) It’s great because you don’t have to worry about the varying fares and a savings if you’re zig-zagging across town. You purchase from the touch screen machine in each station. Even in English, the option is kind of hidden. If you can’t find, ask the stationmaster for help.

[@sanadasanada2643]

I'm apply for asylim can I rent a room?

[@cakeswithfaces]

I'm afraid I don't know anything about the rules for asylum in Japan, so I can't advise on that, sorry!

[@Zoiggelz]

I mean...that actually isn't too bad. It's just the flights that cost hundreds of dollars >_> Well...I hope that I'll have enough money to visit there someday. It's just that I'm only a highschooler right now (16,5 yo) and my family isn't rich at all and I won't be getting a proper job in years... :/

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes the flights and hotel are the expensive part, after that you're ok. Hope you can make it there one day!

[@cjmakedo9201]

This is ok for a really cheap trip, but to be fair to do Japan properly you are spending way more then this even for one person. It's a long way to come so best not to sort change it!

[@cakeswithfaces]

It's certainly possible to spend more or less, and you can save or splash out as you choose to. This is just based on my own experiences for 3 days. As I mentioned in the video, usually dinner would cost a little more - I tried for 3 days to capture a typical day but they all turned out different; I guess when you're away there is no typical day! :-)

[@bjni]

i'll just get a bike and shop in my neighbourhood, should save way more money.

[@MengLeeLim]

what is your exchange rate based on? USD$1=?YEN

[@cakeswithfaces]

I converted the prices on xe.com at the time I made the video (April 2017), so it may be a little different now.

[@MengLeeLim]

II meant to ask what was the rate at that time?

[@cakeswithfaces]

$1 = 108 yen, very similar to today's rate $1 = 110 yen. The figures are rounded slightly to simplify it, so it would actually be very similar today.

[@MengLeeLim]

thank you

[@shayson1357]

tokyo is very very cheap if you try going to norway first :3

[@cakeswithfaces]

Really? I'd like to go there one day, it looks beautiful! :-)

[@JohnHernandez-kh1vt]

Okay please help. I'm moving to Japan Tokyo. Okay I'm gonna work at Disney Tokyo I'm going to get a lot money there. I'm going to save money to buy house there. Can I do it??

[@cakeswithfaces]

Absolutely! Other people have done that so you can to! Good luck!! It'll be amazing!

[@JohnHernandez-kh1vt]

@@cakeswithfaces I will love to meet you in person. Really fun time

[@hudsonball4702]

I'd just get a hotel in Akihabara and stay there for an entire week before heading home. I wouldn't have to visit other places. Now.... how to afford the $1,500 tickets to Tokyo, the $500 for a week's stay at a cheap hotel, and the $1,500 I plan on spending in Akihabara. T_T

[@aprillebaybayan4404]

Whenever someone mentions Japan is expensive, I’m like, nah, I’ll know when I get there

[@cakeswithfaces]

Lots of people think it's really expensive, but it's really not that bad! :-)

[@aprillebaybayan4404]

Cakes with Faces thanks for the heads up

[@gamerbush7117]

If you want to use the train a lot buy a 3 day pass for 13 dollars

[@cakeswithfaces]

Yes - that can work out cheaper. Be careful about which pass you get as the lines are run by different companies and not all of them cover all the trains.

[@gamerbush7117]

@@cakeswithfaces thanks

[@towada1066]

um,... ahem,... hahaha! if you want you don't need to try too hard to make things expensive (^_^) I would probably stay in Tokyo ' high-town ' places like Akasaka and shop at Wako department store in Ginza.

[@cakeswithfaces]

If only I had the budget to do a "Most Expensive Day in Tokyo" video...! :-)

[@towada1066]

@@cakeswithfaces hahaha! most likely it will involve dinner at Sukiyabashi Jiro Honten (I heard that his son also opened a restaurant so probably easier to get reservations there), shopping at Mitsukoshi and travel by taxi (^_^),... to be fair, I buy my work clothes at Motoki Ginza; the quality is really good so in the long run they're actually pretty inexpensive.