After backpacking Japan for an entire month, I have so much to share. Japan is unique and unlike any other country that I have visited. I even remembered this when I learned about the Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions in one of my International Business classes in college; Japan (along with Brazil and Isreal) were the three cultures that didn't fit into certain cultural blocks with other countries. So I knew it would be very unique and an exciting experience.
Usually when people think of Japan, they suspect its an expensive and structured country (two words that backpackers often hate), but it’s actually a fantastic place for backpacking. In 2024, the weak Japanese Yen has made Japan a top destination for Travel Backpackers coming from the UK, the US, Europe, Canada, and Australia. Once you actually get to Japan, it is actually a very affordable country to visit and backpack around.
For a quick reference, I had the freshest, thick-cut sushi for about $9 USD and stayed at the cleanest and most comfortable capsule hotel (luxury hostel) for just under $30 USD per night. If you are really on a tight budget, I have seen tasty sushi boxes in grocery stores for 398 Yen (~$2.60 USD per box) and hostels for even cheaper!
10 pieces of nigiri. All caught near Ine, Japan. Approximately $9 USD.
Japan offers a blend of ancient traditions, stunning landscapes, and futuristic cities making it a dream destination for Travel Backpackers. Let’s break down everything you need to know to plan your adventure.
Can You Backpack Japan?
Absolutely! Japan has an efficient public transport system, budget accommodations, and plenty of affordable, quality food options.
Plus, Japan is incredibly safe, even for solo travelers. It's one of those places where you can feel comfortable exploring day or night, which makes it perfect for backpackers. Whether you’re into history, nature, or technology, Japan has something to offer every type of traveler.
Budget Friendly Tips:
- Stay in capsule hotels: These compact, futuristic rooms are affordable and surprisingly really cozy. They are kind of like a "luxury hostel" but they are all super clean with provided towels and toiletries. In most, you can even find provided slippers and pjs. For a small area, Japan has over 120,000,000 people and therefore is known for being resourceful with their limited space. Hostels and guesthouses are super affordable with high value for the price.
- Eat at convenience stores: There are three big convenience stores in Japan and they are everywhere! They are 7-Eleven, Lawson and FamilyMart. All three offer delicious and cheap meals. I would usually eat there every morning for breakfast to save some money. ALSO, use the ATMs at these convenience stores to take out cash because they offer no international fees.
- Download the Klook app: When arriving at a new Japanese city, browse the Klook app for discount packages. There are so many ways to save money on this app. You just need to have an idea of what you plan on doing and this app has packages to save on attractions, transportation and more for you to choose from.
Exploring Kyoto's less touristy spots.
What To Pack For Japan?
Packing smart is essential for any backpacking trip, and Japan is no different. HOWEVER, there are THREE things I want to highlight that you will definitely need for Japan and ONE thing that you usually pack for backpacking trips that you can probably leave behind.
3 Essentials To Pack For Japan
1. Crossbody Body Bag
You are going to be constantly using your day bag for reasons that are very unique to Japan. Japan is big on having physical tickets for everything and having to show those physical tickets many times. Even if you book tickets online or in advance, you always need to pick up the physical ticket in person.
Japan also has a very cash based economy for such a developed country. You always need coins and cash for everything from the vending machines, street vendors, stores, and baggage lockers (they are everywhere!).
Another thing that surprised me about Japan is that there are no garbage cans! As a backpacker, if you want to try that street food or take a drink, be prepare to have to carry around your trash until you arrive back at your accommodation.
Lastly, by Japanese law, foreigners need to carry around their passports when they are out in public. So a comfortable crossbody bag is ideal. Even a travel document pouch could be helpful.
This is where having a deep-pocketed crossbody bag becomes so handy. A deep pocket crossbody bag gives you easy access to physical tickets, coins and cash, and can carry around your trash handsfree.
2. Collapsible Water Bottle
Japan has no trash cans. The reason behind this is a little dark. In short, there were bombs placed in a trash cans in the 1990s that caused the country to outlaw public trash bins. The good news, it made Japan so clean! You hardly ever walk by any funky smells while walking down the Japanese streets.
A collapsible water bottle that can fit into you day bag that you can reuse and refill as needed is amazing for Japan. No need to buy a bulky water bottle and carry it around.
Try downloading the MyMizu app (mizu means water in Japanese). This app shows you where the closest drinking fountains are for you to fill up your water bottle. There are tons!
3. Coin Pouch
Japan has an economy that is more cash based than you would think for a very developed country. With the smallest paper bill being 1000 Yen, anything smaller will require coins. The coins range from 1 Yen to 500 Yen. As you can see, Japan's largest valued coin, the 500 Yen (valued at about $3.30 USD) has a lot more value than the most valuable coin in America, the quarter valued at 0.25 USD. Hence, you need somewhere simple like a coin pouch, coin purse, or simply a plastic bag to hold all your Japanese Yen coins in one place. You'll need to use your coin pouch so often that it may be cool to just purchase one while you are in Japan that will make for a good memory.
BONUS Essential: you will need a lightweight raincoat and waterproof backpack cover. Thank me later!
What Not To Pack For Japan
You'll be surprised to hear this, but Japan is the ONLY country that I have traveled to for an entire month and never used the soaps I brought in my toiletry bag. Usually, travel backpackers always bring around a bar of soap or travel toiletry pouches of liquid soaps or gels. However, I wouldn't bother bringing any soaps to Japan again. Even the most economical hostel or guesthouse is going to have soaps provided. You'll even see complementary cotton swabs, toothpaste, and disposable razors at many places too.
I prefer my own toothpaste and razor, but honestly, you really don't have to worry much about bringing around many of your own toiletries to Japan.
Check out our FULL travel backpacking packing list here.
This photo just screams Japan; where tradition and modern meet.
Where To Backpack In Japan?
Japan is packed with amazing places to explore! Even after backpacking Japan for an entire month, I feel like I have so much more to see of the country. Here are some top backpacking spots that offer a mix of cultural experiences, nature, and adventure.
Backpack Tokyo:
This bustling metropolis is often the first stop for travelers. It’s the perfect blend of modern and traditional Japan. Explore neon-lit streets, ancient temples, quirky cafés, and beautiful parks.
Shibuya Crossing: Walk across the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing and soak in the chaotic energy of the city. Grab a coffee and watch the organized chaos from a café above.
Senso-ji Temple: Visit Tokyo’s oldest temple in Asakusa and make sure to get a fortune! The atmosphere is peaceful, and you can wander through the nearby Nakamise shopping street for souvenirs and street food.
Harajuku & Takeshita Street: Experience Tokyo’s eccentric fashion scene. Harajuku is known for its quirky shops, colorful outfits, and unique street culture. Don't forget to bring around that crossbody bag or an extra garbage bag with you. You are going to want to try some of the street vendors in this neighborhood.
Shinjuku neighborhood of Tokyo.
Backpack Kyoto:
Kyoto is the heart of Japan’s traditional culture. Walk through bamboo forests, visit breathtaking temples like Fushimi Inari, and experience a traditional tea ceremony.
Fushimi Inari Shrine: Hike through thousands of iconic red torii gates that snake up the mountainside. The higher you go, the fewer crowds, and the more serene the path becomes.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Walk through the famous bamboo forest in Arashiyama. Afterward, explore the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple and its stunning gardens.
Gion District: Wander through this historic geisha district, where you can still catch glimpses of traditional tea houses and maybe spot a geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) or maiko (apprentice geisha).
TIP: Kyoto is often every traveler's favorite destination in Japan. There is so much to see here! Don't stick to just the big tourist destinations. Wonder down unknown streets and visit temples and gardens that aren't spoken about in travel guides. There is so much to see and do here!
Backpack Hiroshima:
Known for its Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima is a city with a deep history. Don't forget to take a day trip to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating Torii gate.
Peace Memorial Park & Museum: Learn about the devastating impact of the atomic bomb and the city’s journey toward peace. The museum is both heartbreaking and hopeful.
Day Trip to Miyajima Island: Take a ferry to see the famous floating Torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. You can also hike Mount Misen for stunning views over the Seto Inland Sea.
Shukkeien Garden: Relax in these beautifully landscaped gardens, which offer picturesque bridges, ponds, and tea houses. It’s a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
Backpack Mount Fuji & The Japanese Alps:
For a nature escape, head to the Japanese Alps. You can hike the famous Kamikochi Trail or enjoy the scenic views from mountain villages like Takayama and Matsumoto. Mount Fuji is technically not in the Japanese Alps, but it is in the same central region of Japan between Tokyo, Nagoya, and Kanazawa and can be a day trip from the Japanese Alps.
Hike the Kamikochi Valley: Famous for its stunning natural beauty, Kamikochi is perfect for a day hike with views of snow-capped mountains and clear rivers.
Explore Takayama: Wander through this beautifully preserved town known for its Edo-period streets, traditional merchant houses, and sake breweries.
Relax in an Onsen (Hot Spring): Visit an onsen in places like Hakuba or Norikura and soak in the mineral-rich waters with a backdrop of mountain views. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking. Just be aware, Japanese onsens separate men and women as you will have to bathe naked. Also, the majority of onsens throughout Japan do not allow people with tattoos to enter.
Backpack Okinawa:
If you’re craving beaches, then Okinawa is for you! This tropical paradise offers beautiful beaches, snorkeling, and diving.
Snorkel or Dive at Blue Cave: This famous snorkeling and diving spot offers crystal-clear water, vibrant marine life, and the magical blue glow of the cave.
Relax on Emerald Beach: Enjoy the soft white sand and calm waters of this gorgeous beach, located near Okinawa’s famous Churaumi Aquarium.
Visit Shuri Castle: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about Okinawa’s unique Ryukyu Kingdom history.
The major cities of Japan are fantastic but don't forget to explore the smaller towns too. This is Amihashitate.
How To Backpack Japan?
Backpacking Japan might seem intimidating at first, but it’s easier than you think! Here's how to make the most of your trip.
Transportation In Japan:
- Trains: Japan's train system is one of the best in the world. The JR Pass COULD help save you money if you're traveling long distances. BUT double check that it is worthwhile with your itinerary before purchasing it. They really only are worth it if you are doing a lot of train travel. ALSO, don't lug your bags around, each train station has coin lockers for you to store your bags for the day.
- Buses: For budget travelers, long-distance buses are a cheaper alternative to trains. Look for companies like Willer Express.
- Subways and Local Trains: Cities like Tokyo and Osaka have extensive subway systems that are easy to navigate. Grab an IC card (like a Suica or Pasmo) for easy travel. If you have an iphone, you can have a digital IC card like Suica on your phone that you can easily add funds to.
Accommodation In Japan:
- Hostels and Guesthouses: There are plenty of affordable hostels across Japan, especially in major cities. Many offer both dorms and private rooms.
- Capsule Hotels: These are a unique and affordable way to stay in the city. They offer small but comfortable sleeping pods.
- Ryokans: For a more traditional experience, try staying in a ryokan, a Japanese-style inn. They can be pricier, but it’s worth it for the cultural experience. At ryokans, you'll be staying on futon mattresses placed on tatami mats on the floor. They are definitely an awesome experience even though I haven't stayed at one where the pillows weren't like bricks! I honestly used one of my compression packing cubes as a pillow every time I stayed at a ryokan!
Food In Japan:
- Street Food: Try delicious street snacks like takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) for a cheap and tasty meal.
- Ramen Shops: These are budget-friendly and found everywhere. Perfect for a quick, filling meal.
- Convenience Stores: As mentioned earlier, places like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and Family Mart have everything from rice balls to fresh salads at great prices. Every morning I would get a coffee there for about 100 Yen ($0.66 USD) and they were quite tasty!
Japanese zen garden in Koyosan.
Lastly, enjoy Japan! There is nowhere like it in the world. The people are hospitable and friendly and the food is amazing. The country is not as expensive as everybody believes; it would be similar to maybe backpacking in Portugal. If I can give one last piece of advice, its not to wait until the last minute to book tickets to something you really want to do. I've met so many people that wanted to go to Universal Studios, Shibuya Sky, or the Nitendo Museum and they couldn't get tickets for the date they wanted. If it is something you really want to do, book it as soon as possible.
WRITTEN BY
MARK CIPOLLINA
