Costly Mistakes To Avoid On Your Japan Trip
Sharing our biggest Japan mistakes that cost us time and money so you don't do the same!
Tamra Bow
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mt Fuji, Shirakawago, Japan
We’re not ashamed of our mistakes!
Which is why we’re happily sharing ours with you… and a few others we’ve heard along the way.
🚊 Buying the JR Pass Without Research
We ALMOST fell for this one. It’s not always the cheapest option for short trips or single-region travel. Check our top post "How To Travel Japan Without Wasting Money On a JR Pass". We bought individual tickets on Klook and save almost $500 as a family. Use our Klook code for all Japan experienced and save 10%: KLOOKGABTK
🎋Skipping Free Experiences
Japan has so many free things to do:
-Tokyo: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building for free city views, Senso-ji Temple, Shibuya Crossing, Omoide Yokocho Alleyways
-Kyoto: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Gion, Golden Pavillion, Higashiyama Streets
-Osaka: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, Shinsekai District
🧳 Overpacking
Japan trains are compact and you may have to pay an extra fee for oversized luggage. Try @yamato_transport luggage delivery service for between hotels and convenience stores (for airbnb stays)
🪪 Overlooking Local Transport Passes
- Osaka Metro Pass for unlimited bus and train rides
- Tokyo Subway Pass for metro and subway lines
🍱 Snubbing Convenience Stores
We often get crucified for this, but 711 and Lawsons are the unsung heros of Japan. They have fresh snacks and meals you can heat up in the 711 microwave
🚂 Forgetting IC Cards for public transport
Download Suica or Pasmo passes onto your Apple wallet for iPhones
📱International Phone Plans VS SIM
Renting a pocket Wi-Fi or buying a local SIM is often cheaper and more reliable. Our top tip? Purchase an eSim before you leave home. We use Airalo and love being connected the moment we land. Use our discount code for 10-15% off: TAMRA10/TAMRA15
🏨 Skipping Budget-Friendly Accommodations
If a pricier hotel is not within your budget, check out capsule hotels (starting at $20/night) or Minshuku ($50/night) or a business hotel ($60)
🛍️Forgetting Tax-Free Shopping
A lot of shops offer tourists tax refunds on certain purchases. Take your passport and save 8–10%
Check out our other travel tips for more ways to streamline your Japan trip!
Want to see more?
I have created curated maps, itineraries and more for travellers that want to travel like me.
Looking for things to do?
Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.