Tokyo’s dazzling lights and vibrant culture might blind you to sneaky expenses.
From hidden hotel charges to pricey taxi fares, your wallet could take unexpected hits.
But don’t worry! I’ve uncovered 10 hidden fees that could catch you off guard.
Read on to learn how to spot these costs and keep your Tokyo adventure budget-friendly. 😊
1. Accommodation Charges
a. Location Matters
When choosing your Tokyo base, location greatly affects price.
If you’ve got some wiggle room in your budget, staying in popular areas like Ginza or Shinjuku can be a great choice.
These spots offer prime access to attractions and nightlife.
On a tighter budget? Consider less central areas like Asakusa. You’ll still enjoy good city access but at a friendlier price.
b. Tokyo’s Accommodation Tax
Since 2002, Tokyo has had a special tax for hotel and ryokan stays. This tax helps make Tokyo even more appealing for tourists. Here’s how it works:
- Rooms under 10,000 yen per night: No tax
- Rooms 10,000 to 14,999 yen per night: 100 yen tax per night
- Rooms 15,000 yen or more per night: 200 yen tax per night
c. Booking Tips
When you book online, the price usually includes this tax. But always double-check to avoid surprises. Remember, these small fees can add up over a longer stay.
Click to read: Only 3 Best Places to Stay in Tokyo
2. ATM Withdrawal Fees
a. Best Place to Withdraw Cash
Your go-to spot for cash in Tokyo? 7-Eleven ATMs. With nearly 2,900 locations across the city, you’re never far from one.
These machines are traveler-friendly, offering English instructions and accepting foreign cards like Visa and Mastercard.
Plus, they’re open 24/7, perfect for those late-night cash needs.
b. 7-Eleven ATM Advantages
7 Bank ATMs in 7-Elevens are a top choice for several reasons:
- No fees for international withdrawals
- Widely available throughout Tokyo
- Support a wide range of cards
- English language option
c. Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
While 7-Eleven ATMs don’t charge fees, your home bank might. Look out for:
- Currency conversion fees (usually 1-2% per transaction)
- International service charges
d. Other ATMs in Japan
Most other ATMs in Tokyo charge for foreign card use:
- About 110 yen during business hours
- Around 220 yen outside business hours
e. Money Exchange Tip
Avoid changing money at airport currency exchange counters. They often have poor rates and higher fees, which can eat into your budget before your trip even starts.
Click to read: 10 Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make When Visiting Tokyo
3. Service Charges at Restaurants
a. The Hidden 10%
While tipping isn’t customary in Japan, many Tokyo restaurants add a 10% service charge to your bill. This fee is not always clearly stated, so it can be an unexpected cost for travelers.
b. How to Avoid Surprises
To steer clear of unexpected costs:
- Ask about service charges before ordering, especially in fancier places
- Look for information about fees on the menu or at the entrance
Remember, this 10% is on top of your meal cost, so factor it into your budget when choosing where to eat.
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask staff about any additional fees before you order.
Click to read: Top 10 Cheap Eats in Tokyo
4. Cover Charges at Bars
When dining out in Tokyo, especially at izakayas (Japanese pubs), you might encounter unexpected charges.
These fees, often not listed on the menu, can surprise unsuspecting visitors. Let me break down the two main types.
a. Otoshi (お通し): The Automatic Appetizer
- What it is: A small appetizer served automatically when you sit down
- Purpose: Covers both the appetizer and table charge
- Cost: Usually around 500 yen per person
b. Sekidai (席代): The Seat Fee
- What it is: A charge for occupying a seat in the restaurant
- Purpose: Accounts for customers who linger after meals to socialize, potentially occupying tables for extended periods.
- Cost: Similar to otoshi, typically 500 yen per person
c. How to Handle These Charges
- Expect them: Budget for these extra costs when planning your night out
- Ask upfront: Use phrases like “Otoshi arimasu ka?” (Is there an otoshi?) or “Sekiryō ikura?” (How much is the seating fee?)
- Don’t be surprised: It’s a standard practice, not a tourist trap
Remember, these charges are part of the Tokyo dining experience. Being aware helps you budget better and avoid unpleasant surprises when the bill arrives.
Click to read: 11 Things You Should Never Do In Japan
5. Taxi Fares
a. Basic Fare Structure
- Starting fare: 500 yen for the first 1.096 kilometers
- Incremental fare: 100 yen every 255 meters after that
- Be aware: These rates can add up quickly, especially in traffic
b. Night-time Surcharge
- Time: Typically from 10 PM to 5 AM
- Extra cost: 20% surcharge on top of the regular fare
- Tip: Plan your late-night travels carefully to avoid this extra expense
c. Traffic Considerations
- Traffic jams: Can significantly increase your fare
- Rush hour: Consider alternatives during peak times to avoid sitting in costly traffic
d. Comparing with Public Transport
Example route: Shinjuku to Shibuya
- Taxi: About 15 minutes, costs around 1800 yen
- Train: About 7 minutes, costs just 170 yen
Tip: Train is often faster and much cheaper
e. Money-Saving Tips
- Use public transport for both short and long journeys when possible
- Tokyo’s train and subway system is efficient, extensive, and cost-effective
- Save taxis for times when public transport isn’t available or convenient
Remember, while taxis offer door-to-door convenience, they can quickly eat into your travel budget.
Balancing their use with Tokyo’s excellent public transportation can help you manage your expenses more effectively.
Click to read: 11 Crucial Tips for Visiting Tokyo
6. Luggage Storage and Transportation Costs
a. Train Station Lockers
Costs vary by size:
- Small: 300 yen per day
- Medium: 500 yen per day
- Large: 800 yen per day
Payment: Most accept IC cards like Suica, ICOCA, and Pasmo
User-friendly: Electronic lockers often have English instructions
b. Hotel Storage Options
Money-saving tip: Ask your hotel if they can store your luggage
Benefits:
- Often free for guests
- Saves time and locker fees
- Convenient for check-in/check-out days
c. Luggage Delivery Services
- Cost: Around 7000 yen for 2 items
- Use: Sending bags between hotels or to the airport
- Tip: Plan ahead if you want to ship luggage directly to your hotel
d. Day Trip Strategy
- Pack light to avoid locker fees altogether
- Consider a small backpack or tote for essentials
Remember, managing your luggage smartly can help you avoid unnecessary costs and make your Tokyo trip more enjoyable.
Plan ahead and consider your options to keep these expenses in check.
Click to read: 10 Reasons Tourists Can Be Denied Entry to Japan
7. Food Costs in Tokyo
a. Average Daily Food Costs
- Typical daily spend: About 5,000 yen per person
- Mid-range restaurant meal: Around 2000 yen per person
- Note: Breakfast is usually cheaper than lunch or dinner
b. Meal Cost Breakdown
- Breakfast: Generally the most affordable meal of the day
- Lunch and Dinner: More expensive, especially at sit-down restaurants
- Tip: Fast food and street food options are usually cheaper than restaurants
c. Budget-Friendly Options
1. Local Eateries:
- Ramen bowl: Around 1,000 yen
- Often provide tasty, authentic meals at lower prices
2. Convenience Stores:
- Bento boxes: 500 to 1,000 yen
- Offer a variety of affordable, ready-to-eat meals
3. Street Food:
- Can be a delicious and economical choice
- Great way to try local specialties
Money-Saving Tips
- Mix expensive meals with budget options
- Try convenience store breakfasts to save money for fancier dinners
- Don’t shy away from local, non-touristy spots for authentic and affordable meals
Remember, while Tokyo can be expensive, there are plenty of ways to enjoy its fantastic food scene without breaking the bank.
Balance is key to managing your food budget effectively.
Click to read: 10 Best Ramen Dishes in Tokyo
8. Seasonal Price Hikes
Cherry Blossom Season (Late March)
- Known as one of the busiest and most expensive times to visit Tokyo
- Hotel rates can jump by 20%
- Popular attractions and viewing spots can be extremely crowded
Golden Week (Late April to Early May)
- One of Japan’s busiest travel periods, combining several national holidays
- Massive increase in local tourism
- Expect crowded destinations, fully booked transport, and hotels
- Prices for accommodations and travel can skyrocket
New Year Period (Late December to Early January)
- Another peak travel time in Tokyo
- Many locals take trips to celebrate the New Year
- Higher costs for accommodations and some services
- Popular shrines and temples can be extremely busy
How to Handle Peak Seasons
- Book accommodations well in advance
- Be prepared for higher costs across the board (hotels and activities)
- Consider traveling during shoulder seasons for better deals
- If you must visit during peak times, budget accordingly and plan ahead
Remember, while these seasons offer unique experiences, they come with higher costs and crowds.
Balancing your desire to see Tokyo at its most festive with your budget is key to an enjoyable trip.
Click to read: Don’t Come to Japan these Months
9. Japan Rail Pass Considerations
Understanding the JR Pass
- Seems like a great deal for Japan travel
- 7-day pass costs about 52,000 yen for adults
- Not always cost-effective for Tokyo-only trips
- Significant price hike in October 2023
- Makes careful evaluation even more crucial
When It’s Worth It
- Ideal for travelers visiting multiple cities across Japan
- Can save money if you plan long-distance train trips, but this isn’t always the case due to the significant price hike
- Requires careful calculation to ensure it’s truly cost-effective
Alternatives for Tokyo Travel
- Consider Prepaid IC Cards like Suica and Pasmo
- These cards work on most public transport in Tokyo
- More flexible and potentially cheaper for city-focused trips
Remember, while the Japan Rail Pass can be a money-saver for some trips, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Carefully evaluate your travel plans to make the most cost-effective choice for your Tokyo adventure.
Click to read: 7 Biggest Tourist Scams in Japan and How to Avoid Them
10. Unexpected Health and Travel Insurance Costs
Medical Expenses in Tokyo
- Medical care in Tokyo can be expensive for foreigners
- A simple doctor’s visit could cost 5,000-10,000 yen
- More serious treatments can run into hundreds of thousands of yen
The Importance of Travel Insurance
- Comprehensive travel insurance can protect you from budget-breaking health expenses
- Look for policies that include medical coverage, trip cancellation, and lost luggage protection
- Read your policy carefully to understand what’s covered and what’s not
- Don’t hesitate to ask insurance providers about specific scenarios you’re concerned about
My Advice: Get Insured!
- I strongly recommend buying travel insurance before your trip to Tokyo
- The peace of mind is worth the upfront cost
- Remember, it’s better to have insurance and not need it, than to need it and not have it
By being prepared with the right insurance, you can enjoy your Tokyo adventure without worrying about unexpected medical costs blowing your budget.
Click to read: 10 Must-Know Etiquette Rules Before Visiting Japan
