How to Find Cheap Hotels In Japan

This island nation, in many ways, is still caught between two worlds. Certainly Japan is a modern economic powerhouse, but old traditions continue to persist in society, often making for a unique blend of old and new. Japan is easily one of the most surprising destinations in the world.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer with Internet access for booking accommodations online
• A valid passport from your nation of origin
• A temporary 90-day visa, issued to most European and North American nations. Specific visa information may be different for other countries so be sure to get the latest information from the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Know Your Destination

1. Know that Japan is an island nation located in the Western Pacific Ocean, a few hundred miles from Mainland China and the rest of Asia.

2. Take a tour of Tokyo's famous Shibuya district, a section of the city full of shopping and nightlife. Shibuya is very popular with the younger generation, so this is a great place for students and other youthful travelers to spend an afternoon or two.

Plan Your Transportation

3. Arrive in Japan at Narita International Airport just outside Tokyo. It is the airport with the most international service, as well as the most frequent flights to other destinations throughout Japan.

4. Ride on an international ferry to enjoy a trip to Japan by boat. Service connects Mainland China and other points throughout the region, including Taipei.

5. Take the train in Japan to enjoy some of the fastest, most reliable service in the world. Many people rely on the bullet-train service in Japan to travel between important cities like Yokohama, Kyoto and Nagoya. Fares are relatively cheap, too, compared to flying on domestic carriers.

Find Cheap Hotels and Accommodations in Japan

6. To book accommodations, contact Japan National Tourist Organization at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources below).

7. Find mid-range hotels in Japan that are further from centers of major cities like Tokyo or Yokohama. Prices for lodging are not often cheaper closer to major financial or tourist districts.

8. Get your accommodations during the wintertime and early spring when the prices are slightly lower. Spring is cherry blossom season in Japan; festivals that celebrate the arrival of the blossoms take place throughout the country.

9. Consider staying in a hostel for really cheap accommodations. Many youth hostels are located throughout the country, with a night's stay going for around 25 to 30 percent of what it would cost you to spend the night at a mid-city hotel.

Tips & Warnings

• Driving in Japan is similar to driving in England, with traffic passing on the left. Be warned if you normally drive in a country like the United States.
• Be aware that penalties for infractions of Japan's drug laws can be severe.