This article details my personal experience living in Tokyo for a month on a budget. I share tips and tricks for keeping costs down while still enjoying the city.
It’s no secret that Tokyo is a pricey city, but with a little planning and resourcefulness, it’s possible to experience the magic of Tokyo without breaking the bank. This past March, I spent a month in the city, embracing the life of a digital nomad. I prioritized writing and working on my blog, so sightseeing took a backseat. This meant finding a comfortable and affordable place to stay that offered easy access to both daily necessities and popular tourist attractions.
Finding the Perfect Home Base
My quest for the ideal accommodation focused on affordability, convenience, and a touch of homeliness. After securing a cheap flight from Los Angeles to Narita, I set my sights on Tokyo for my first “digital nomad” stop. I knew that booking a single place for a longer stay would save money, especially since monthly discounts often kick in after 28 days.
Based on my previous visit, I desired an apartment in a more residential area, close to a train station, and equipped with a kitchen and washing machine. Remembering my fondness for Asakusa, I concentrated my search on apartments near that charming district.
As a budget traveler, I knew a tiny studio apartment was likely, given the typical size of apartments in Japan, especially in Tokyo. Luckily, I discovered a perfect studio apartment just outside Asakusa, within a 15-minute walk of a train station, and equipped with all the amenities I desired.
Budget-Friendly Living
I managed to keep my monthly expenses under $1,400 USD, even while living in Tokyo, a feat I attribute to careful planning and a few key strategies. My apartment, located near grocery stores and convenience stores, provided a haven for home-cooked meals, keeping food costs low.
I embraced the convenience of nearby Lawson stores, where I sampled their ready-cooked meals regularly. Their variety and affordability were a godsend, offering a tasty and budget-friendly alternative to dining out.
While not a “foodie” in the traditional sense, I still enjoyed trying new foods, especially the local ramen and beef bowl chains like Ichiran and Sukiya. However, prioritizing home-cooked meals allowed me to save money for other experiences.
Shopping Spree
Tokyo is a shopper’s paradise, but I managed to keep my spending in check by focusing on art supplies and small souvenirs. Instead of buying tons of souvenirs like I did during my last visit, I limited myself to art supplies, such as Posca pens and washi tape, which would be useful for my paper travel journal.
The occasional souvenir coin from Tokyo Disney Resort and the lure of unique capsule toys rounded out my purchases.
Exploring Tokyo and Beyond
I explored Tokyo’s diverse neighborhoods, enjoying leisurely walks along the Meguro and Sumida rivers. While the cherry blossoms were out of season, the city’s beauty still captivated me. However, the high cost of entry fees for smaller museums deterred me from visiting them this time around.
At the end of my month in Tokyo, I ventured to Hakone, a picturesque mountain resort town known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Transportation and Insurance
Tokyo’s efficient public transportation system was a breeze to navigate, thanks to my digital Suica card. This contactless payment system made traveling on trains, subways, and buses a seamless and affordable experience.
For my Hakone trip, I opted for a transit pass, ensuring cost-effective travel throughout the region. My monthly SafetyWing insurance policy, while not used, offered peace of mind throughout my journey.
Digital Nomad Essentials
A reliable internet connection is crucial for digital nomads, and I found Airalo’s eSIM to be the perfect solution. It provided seamless connectivity throughout my month-long stay in Tokyo. For anyone planning a trip to Japan, I highly recommend checking out Airalo’s Moshi Moshi eSIM.
Living in Tokyo on a budget is achievable with a bit of planning and resourcefulness. By choosing affordable accommodation, prioritizing home-cooked meals, and embracing the convenience of Tokyo’s public transportation system, you can experience this vibrant city without breaking the bank.
