How Much Should Your Budget Be for a Japan Trip from the Philippines?

If Japan is on your bucket list (and it should be!), you’re probably wondering “how much should I save for a trip to Japan?” If this thought has been taking up precious real estate in your mind, we’ve got you covered! 

In this blog post, we'll break down the costs you can expect for a trip to Japan, from flights and accommodation to food, transportation, and activities. We'll also share some tips to help you save money and make the most of your adventure.

How Much Will It Cost to Travel to Japan from the Philippines?

1. Flights

First things first—let’s talk about getting there! Depending on where you’re flying from, round-trip flights to Japan can range from ¥88,609 to ¥176,539. And with 1 PHP to yen being around 2.635 JPY as of October 15, you can expect to pay between PHP 33,600 to PHP 67,200. Here are some tips to snag the best deals:

• Book Early: The earlier you book, the better the prices!

• Use Flight Comparison Sites: Websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights are fantastic for finding great deals.

2. Accommodation

Where you stay can really shape your experience and your budget. Here’s what you can expect:

• Budget Options: If you’re looking to save, hostels and capsule hotels usually cost between PHP 1,400 and PHP 3,100 per night.

• Mid-Range Hotels: For a comfy stay, plan on spending around PHP 5,600 to PHP 14,000 each night.

• Luxury Stays: If you want to treat yourself, high-end hotels or traditional ryokans can start at around PHP 16,800 per night.

3. Food

Oh, the food! Japan is a foodie paradise with options for every budget. Thanks to the low Japanese exchange rate at the moment, you can feast to your heart’s content without breaking the bank! Here’s roughly how much you’ll spend:

• Budget Meals: You can enjoy delicious meals from convenience stores or casual eateries for about PHP 840 to PHP 1,680 a day.

• Mid-Range Dining: Treat yourself at nice restaurants for around PHP 1,680 to PHP 3,360 daily.

• Fine Dining: If you’re feeling fancy, upscale dining can set you back quite a bit more.

4. Transportation

Getting around Japan is super easy thanks to its efficient public transport system:

• Local Transport: Subway and bus fares usually range from PHP 85 to PHP 280 per trip.

• Rail Passes: If you plan on traveling between cities, consider a Japan Rail Pass; a 7-day pass is about PHP 1,665.

• Taxis and Rideshares: While convenient, you can expect them to be pricier than public transport. Price will depend on the distance and the time of day, but expect to pay PHP 140-270 yen for the first 1-2 kilometers and increase by around PHP 30-35 for every additional 200-400 meters traveled.

5. Activities and Attractions

Japan has so much to see and do! Here’s what you might spend:

• Many temples and parks have free or low entrance fees (around PHP 280 to PHP 840).

• Popular attractions like theme parks or museums may charge between PHP 1,120 and PHP 4,480.

6. Shopping and Souvenirs

Don’t forget about those cute souvenirs! Set aside about PHP 2,800 to PHP 8,400 for your pasalubong from Japan, depending on what catches your eye.

7. Miscellaneous Expenses

Lastly, it’s always good to have a little extra cash for unexpected expenses like:

• Luggage storage fees

• Snacks and drinks

• A little buffer (around PHP 560 daily)

Sample Budget Breakdown

Here’s a fun snapshot of what a week in Japan might cost based on different travel styles:

For a 3-day trip to Japan, here's a breakdown of expected based on various travel styles:

Tips for Saving Money

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some friendly ways you can trim down the cost of your trip:

1. Travel Off-Peak: Prices are usually lower if you avoid peak seasons like cherry blossom time in spring or autumn foliage.

2. Use Public Transportation: It’s not only cheaper but also a fun way to see the city! Look into day passes for unlimited travel.

3. Eat Like a Local: Check out izakayas (Japanese pubs), street food stalls, or grab meals from convenience stores for tasty yet affordable options.

4. Free Activities: Explore parks, shrines, and neighborhoods like Akihabara or Harajuku without spending a yen!

5. Plan Ahead: Research discounts on attractions or consider city passes that bundle entry fees.

Start Saving with RCBC

As you get ready for your thrilling adventure in Japan, think about how much budget you'll need for your trip. Utilizing RCBC's savings accounts and investment products designed for travelers can help you efficiently set aside funds while earning interest. This way, you can make your dream trip a reality without financial stress!

Benefits of Choosing RCBC

1. Diverse Account Options: RCBC offers various savings accounts, such as the Basic Savings Account and the iSave Account, which cater to different needs and budgets.

2. Interest Earnings: With competitive interest rates, your savings can grow while you plan your trip, helping you reach your financial goals faster.

3. Flexibility and Accessibility: Many accounts have no maintaining balance requirements, allowing you to save without pressure.

4. Convenient Banking: RCBC’s digital banking options let you manage your finances anytime, perfect for travelers needing quick access to funds.

5. Budgeting for Your Trip: Set aside funds in these accounts to ensure you have enough for travel expenses like accommodation and activities while benefiting from interest earnings.

If you’re looking for where you can exchange peso to yen, consider using RCBC for your currency exchange needs. Local banks like RCBC offer competitive rates for currency conversion, which can be more favorable than those found at airports, where rates may not be the best.

RCBC publishes its foreign exchange rates daily, allowing you to check the mid-market rate and compare it with other options.

Your Japan Adventure Awaits

With a little planning and saving, a trip to Japan can become a reality. To determine how much budget you'll need for your Japan trip from the Philippines, consider factors like flights, accommodation, food, transportation, activities, and shopping. By carefully estimating these costs, you can create a budget that aligns with your travel style and financial goals. RCBC offers a range of savings accounts and investment products to help you efficiently save for your dream adventure.

Remember, the key to a successful trip is not just the destination but the journey of planning and preparation. So start dreaming, saving, and exploring the exciting world of Japan!