Top 10 Budget-Friendly Attractions in Tokyo and Beyond

Tokyo is full of exciting attractions and activities that don't have to cost a fortune. A lot of my friends from the time I spent abroad on a working holiday visa often ask me about cheap places to visit or even free places. I understand that. Tokyo or even Japan in general have a reputation of being a bit pricey and it’s kind of true. But there are ways to go around it and if I can help my friends and other people out there enjoy as much as they can for free, I would do so. From beautiful parks to fascinating museums, here are twelve budget-friendly ways to have fun in Tokyo and the nearby areas.

1. Explore Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

- Overview: Asakusa is a historic area with the famous Senso-ji Temple.

- Cost: Free

- Highlights:

- Wander through Nakamise Shopping Street.

- Enjoy the temple grounds and traditional atmosphere.

- Why It’s Great: Offers a glimpse into traditional Tokyo without spending a dime.

Although quite touristy, I love Senso-ji Temple. The giant gate at the entrance, guarded by the powerful Fujin (the god of wind) and Raijin (the god of thunder), is a striking landmark of Asakusa. The beautiful paper lantern with “Kaminarimon” (The Thunder Gate) written in Kanji adds to the historical ambiance. Standing before the gate, I always feel transported to old Japan. It's powerful, beautiful, and even magical. I can imagine emperors and samurai passing through, and that’s pretty cool, I must say.

As you pass through the gate, Nakamise Street welcomes you with 250 meters of shops selling traditional souvenirs, snacks, and sweets. While some items might be a bit pricey due to the area's touristy nature, it's fun to browse and pick up a cute magnet or try your luck with an “Omikuji” (sacred lot). Each scroll contains a fortune, and if you receive one you don’t like, you can tie it up (you'll see lots of tied papers) to cancel out the fortune.

After this vibrant street, you’ll arrive at the great shrine. The temple and the tranquility surrounding it transport you back hundreds of years, and you can feel a powerful energy within the grounds.

2. Visit Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park

- Overview: A serene Shinto shrine surrounded by a lush forest.

- Cost: Free

- Highlights:

- Stroll through the peaceful forested area.

- Relax in Yoyogi Park, perfect for picnics and people-watching.

- Why It’s Great: Provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

Meiji Shrine must be one of my favorite places to visit in Tokyo. From the loud and bustling streets of Shibuya, you suddenly find yourself surrounded by a tranquil forest, as if entering another dimension. The city sounds fade away, replaced by the rustling leaves and the calls of birds or the buzzing of cicadas in the summer, welcoming you into this sacred path.

At the entrance stands a giant gate, symbolically separating the sacred from the secular, adorned with the crest of the imperial family. You'll see people performing the Temizusha ritual, purifying themselves by washing their hands and mouth before entering the sacred grounds. Regardless of your faith, you're welcome to give it a try. Remember to walk along the sides of the path, as the central path is reserved for the gods.

Meiji Jingu includes the main shrine where the gods reside, beautiful gardens with ponds, a museum, and even a café! While not entirely free, most parts of Meiji Jingu are open to the public, and you can wander around until the afternoon. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the crowds, Meiji Jingu offers a serene retreat.

Adjacent to the shrine is Yoyogi Park, a sprawling 133-acre garden perfect for relaxing in nature with friends. Yoyogi Park is a popular gathering place in Tokyo, where you’ll often find groups of friends and families enjoying picnics on nylon sheets. The park is well-equipped with trash cans, bathrooms, and vending machines, making it very convenient. During cherry blossom season, hundreds gather to admire the beautiful trees together. The park also hosts big festivals and performances from time to time, making it a vibrant and enjoyable spot.

3. Experience the Tsukiji Outer Market

- Overview: The outer market remains a bustling hub of food stalls and shops.

- Cost: Free to explore, low-cost food options

- Highlights:

- Sample fresh seafood and street food.

- Buy unique kitchenware and souvenirs.

- Why It’s Great: A food lover's paradise with affordable prices.

Tsukiji Market, originally established in 1935, was once the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. While the inner wholesale market has moved to Toyosu, the Tsukiji Outer Market remains vibrant and bustling, attracting food enthusiasts from around the globe. This area continues to thrive with its narrow alleys filled with a plethora of stalls offering fresh seafood, delicious street food, and unique kitchenware.

Wandering through Tsukiji's outer market is a sensory delight, with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the lively hustle and bustle of vendors and shoppers. Don't miss the chance to try some freshly made sushi or tamagoyaki (sweet omelette) from one of the many vendors. These traditional foods are made with high-quality ingredients, providing an authentic taste of Japan's culinary heritage.

Tsukiji Outer Market is also a great place to find unique kitchenware and culinary tools, perfect for those who love cooking. Whether you're a foodie looking to indulge in Japan's famous seafood or just curious to explore a historic market, Tsukiji offers a fantastic culinary experience without breaking the bank..

4. Visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens

- Overview: Beautiful gardens open to the public.

- Cost: Free

- Highlights:

- Explore the historic ruins and beautiful landscaping.

- Enjoy a peaceful stroll in the heart of Tokyo.

- Why It’s Great: A tranquil and scenic spot in the city center.

The Imperial Palace East Gardens provide a serene escape in the middle of Tokyo. As you walk through the beautifully maintained gardens, you'll come across historic ruins and stunning landscapes that offer a glimpse into Japan's imperial past. It's a peaceful place to relax and take in the natural beauty, with seasonal flowers adding a splash of color throughout the year. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll or sitting by the pond, the East Gardens offer a tranquil respite from the city's hustle and bustle.

Although the main grounds of the Imperial Palace are not open to the public, except on special occasions such as the Emperor's Birthday (February 23) and New Year's Greeting (January 2), the East Gardens provide ample opportunity to appreciate the historical and cultural significance of the area.

Additionally, the Imperial Palace grounds are surrounded by a scenic moat, where you can rent duck boats and enjoy a leisurely ride. I have fond memories of riding a duck boat with a friend during sakura season. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, creating a picturesque setting as we paddled around the moat. It's a delightful way to see the palace grounds from a different perspective and enjoy a bit of fun on the water. The combination of historical ambiance and natural beauty makes the Imperial Palace East Gardens a must-visit spot in Tokyo.

5. Wander Through Harajuku and Takeshita Street

- Overview: A vibrant area known for its quirky fashion and youth culture.

- Cost: Free to explore, affordable shopping and snacks

- Highlights:

- People-watch and enjoy the unique atmosphere.

- Try affordable street food like crepes and takoyaki.

- Why It’s Great: A fun and lively area perfect for budget travelers.

Harajuku is the epicenter of Tokyo's youth culture and quirky fashion. Takeshita Street is lined with funky shops, trendy boutiques, and plenty of street food vendors. It's the perfect place to people-watch and immerse yourself in the eclectic atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to try the famous Harajuku crepes or some delicious takoyaki. The vibrant energy and unique style of Harajuku make it a fun and affordable place to explore. Although and bit crowded and overwhelming at times, I always have so much fun when I visit.

6. Explore Akihabara Electric Town

- Overview: The go-to place for electronics, anime, and manga.

- Cost: Free to explore, low-cost entertainment

- Highlights:

- Visit anime and manga stores.

- Check out arcades and themed cafes.

- Why It’s Great: A paradise for tech and anime enthusiasts.

Akihabara, or "Electric Town," is a paradise for tech lovers and anime enthusiasts. The area is packed with stores selling the latest electronics, anime merchandise, and manga. Spend hours browsing through multi-story stores dedicated to your favorite series, or challenge yourself in one of the many arcades. Don't forget to visit a themed café for a unique dining experience. Whether you're a hardcore fan or just curious, Akihabara offers a fun and affordable adventure. I don’t visit Akihabara too often, but when I do, I can’t help but buy too many One Piece goodies.

7. Take in the Views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

- Overview: Observation decks offering panoramic views of the city.

- Cost: Free

- Highlights:

- See iconic landmarks from above.

- Visit during sunset for a spectacular view.

- Why It’s Great: Provides incredible views without the high price tag of other observation decks.

For breathtaking views of Tokyo, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. The observation decks offer panoramic vistas of the city, and on a clear day, you might even see Mount Fuji. Best of all, it's completely free! Visit during sunset to watch the city lights come alive. It's a fantastic way to experience Tokyo from above without spending a yen. And may I say, perfect for a date night. Combine this, with a wonderful dinner or a drink in one of the local restaurants and Izakayas around it and you got yourself the perfect date night.

8. Explore Kamakura's Temples and Shrines alongside with Enoshima island

- Overview: A historic city known for its numerous temples and shrines.

- Cost: Many free or low-cost entry fees

- Highlights:

- Visit the Great Buddha of Kamakura (¥200 entry).

- Explore Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and its beautiful surroundings.

- Why It’s Great: Offers a rich cultural experience just a short train ride from Tokyo.

Kamakura is a treasure trove of history and culture, just a short train ride from Tokyo. Start your visit with the iconic Great Buddha of Kamakura, a magnificent bronze statue that stands over 13 meters tall. Explore the serene Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine and wander through its picturesque grounds. With many temples and shrines to discover, Kamakura offers a rich cultural experience without costing much. It's the perfect day trip for history buffs and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

Discover Enoshima Island

- Overview: A small island known for its natural beauty and stunning views.

- Cost: Free to explore, low-cost attractions

- Highlights:

- Walk across the Enoshima Bentenbashi Bridge and explore the island.

- Visit Enoshima Shrine and the Iwaya Caves (¥500 entry).

- Why It’s Great: Provides a perfect day trip with scenic views and interesting attractions.

Just a short distance from Kamakura, Enoshima Island is a delightful place to explore. Cross the Enoshima Bentenbashi Bridge and wander through the island's scenic pathways, discovering charming attractions along the way. Enoshima Shrine, dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of music and entertainment, is a significant spiritual site where visitors can offer prayers and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

The island is also home to the Iwaya Caves, which have held fascinating legends and spiritual significance for centuries. These caves offer a mysterious and intriguing experience, with various statues and carvings adding to the allure.

Enoshima is famous for its stunning views, especially from the Enoshima Sea Candle, an observation tower providing panoramic vistas of the coastline and Mount Fuji on clear days. The Samuel Cocking Garden, located nearby, offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful seasonal flowers.

Interestingly, Enoshima is also renowned as a romantic destination for couples. The island features the "Lover's Hill" and the "Bell of Enmusubi," where couples can ring the bell together and write their names on padlocks, leaving them on the fence as a symbol of their everlasting love. The romantic ambiance, combined with the scenic beauty, makes Enoshima a popular spot for couples to visit.

9. Yokohama

- Overview: A vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions and historical sites.

- Cost: Many free or low-cost activities

- Highlights:

- Stroll along the waterfront at Minato Mirai 21.

- Visit the Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse.

- Explore Chinatown, the largest in Japan.

- Why It’s Great: Offers a diverse range of attractions just a short train ride from Tokyo.

Yokohama, located just south of Tokyo, is a vibrant city offering a mix of modern and historical attractions. Start your visit at Minato Mirai 21, a waterfront area with beautiful views, shopping, and dining. The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse is a cultural and shopping complex housed in historic buildings, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Don't miss Yokohama's Chinatown, the largest in Japan, where you can enjoy delicious food and unique shops. With many free or low-cost activities, Yokohama is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travelers.

10. Free Festivals and Events

- Overview: Tokyo hosts numerous free festivals and events throughout the year.

- Cost: Free

- Highlights:

- Enjoy cultural festivals, parades, and seasonal events.

- Participate in free workshops and activities.

- Why It’s Great: Offers cultural experiences and entertainment at no cost.

Tokyo is a city that loves to celebrate, and there are numerous free festivals and events held throughout the year. From traditional matsuri (festivals) with lively parades and music to seasonal celebrations like cherry blossom viewing parties, there's always something happening. These events offer a fantastic way to experience Japanese culture and community spirit without spending any money. Keep an eye on local event calendars to make the most of your visit.

In conclusion!

Tokyo and its surroundings offer a wealth of budget-friendly attractions and activities that allow you to experience the culture, history, and beauty of Japan without spending a lot of money. From serene shrines and bustling markets to vibrant parks and scenic islands, there are plenty of affordable options to explore. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these attractions will help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best time to visit Senso-ji Temple to avoid crowds?

Early morning or late evening is ideal to experience Senso-ji Temple with fewer crowds. You’ll also catch the beautiful lighting at dawn or dusk, which adds to the atmosphere. However, be aware that Senso-ji Temple closes its inner hall around 5:00 PM, so if you’re planning to enter, make sure to visit before then.

What’s the best time to visit Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh food?

The best time to visit is in the early morning, between 7 and 9 AM, when the market is most lively, and you can catch the freshest seafood. A must-try dish here is the fresh tuna sashimi or uni (sea urchin). These delicacies give you a taste of Tokyo’s finest seafood, often served directly from the stalls in small, affordable portions.

Are the Imperial Palace East Gardens open year-round?

Yes, the gardens are open throughout the year, but they may close on Mondays, Fridays, and during some holidays. It’s always best to check the official website before visiting. If you’re looking for a unique experience, you can pay to rent a boat and enjoy a scenic ride on the nearby moat surrounding the palace. The boat rentals are available near the Chidorigafuchi Park area and are especially popular during cherry blossom season.

What are the must-try street foods on Takeshita Street?

Harajuku crepes, rainbow cotton candy, and Zaku Zaku cream puff sticks are some of the most popular snacks, all under ¥500, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

What’s the best way to get to Kamakura and Enoshima from Tokyo?

The JR Yokosuka Line connects Tokyo to Kamakura in about an hour, and from there, you can take the Enoden Line to reach Enoshima. Both are cost-effective options for a day trip.