Exploring Tokyo doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, in fact, you can totally soak up Japan’s capital city without spending a cent!
1. Walk Along The Sumida River
There’s nothing like a blissful riverside walk that allows one to capture the essence of a particular destination, and what better way to see Tokyo than strolling along Asakusa‘s Sumida River. As one of Tokyo’s most iconic cities, you can enjoy spectacular views of Tokyo Skytree and the Sumida Bridge while unwinding at the sight of the calm river that stretches all along this beautiful traditional-modern town.
2. Visit Sensoji Temple
Another Asakusa classic is the famous Sensoji Temple which is the most iconic and popular Buddhist temple in Asakusa city. As Tokyo’s oldest temple which was founded in the 7th Century, it was built to honor the goddess of mercy and compassion, Kannon, and has become a popular destination for visitors around the world. Totally free to enter and perform prayers, you can enjoy the full atmosphere of Sensoji Temple without spending a nickel!
3. Chill Out At Yoyogi Park
This impressive blue paradise may look like a glamorous event that needs a costly entry ticket, but it is in fact 100% free to enter at Tokyo’s Yoyogi Park. An annual event known as the Shibuya Blue Cave Illumination takes place every year around the Christmas season from early to late December. Absolutely enchanting in its visual atmosphere, you can enjoy live performances for free and food stalls (which aren’t so free) at this memorable event. Talk about ballin’ on a budget!
4. See The Shibuya Crossing
The amazing thing about Tokyo is just how walkable all these destinations are, so you can really capitalize on not spending a dime and balling on a budget. For instance, you can easily walk from Yoyogi Park to the spectacular Shibuya Crossing in about a half hour or so, going from serene nature to bustling city vibes in the blink of an eye. This iconic crossing sees millions of people crossing the road from multiple angles every single day, and you can get lost in awe just witnessing this feat from the sidelines or taking part in the grand parade-like crossing yourself!
5. Immerse Yourself in Akihabara’s Geek Culture
Despite its reputation as a hyper-commercialized city of otaku or “geek” culture, you can actually have an awesome time in Akihabara without spending a single yen! As an anime fan, you’ll love walking from store to store and appreciating the endless exhibits and merchandise from all your favorite Japanese pop-culture media. As a Dragon Ball fan, I adored this statue of Super Saiyan Blue Goku in one of the anime figurine stores. I may not have purchased anything here, but taking cool photos like this made for just another memorable and totally free activity in Tokyo!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!