Tired of Europe? Want to venture out and see something really different? Then Tokyo is where you need to be this summer. Make sure you have plenty of spending money though, as Tokyo can be one of the most expensive places you will ever visit. Read through our suggestions on how to keep costs low. The money is worth it however, as Tokyo is filled with sights that you probably have only dreamed about.
Think a flight to Tokyo is going to break the bank? Don't worry, STA Travel is making it cheaper than ever to visit Japan. Depending on your departure city, a direct flight to Tokyo takes between 11-13.5 hours.
| Departure City | Price* |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles | from $883 |
| Seattle | from $895 |
| San Diego | from $714 |
| Dallas | from $1016 |
| Chicago | from $952 |
| New York | from $980 |
| *Prices shown are per person and do not include US- and foreign government-imposed taxes and fees associated with travel, which can be up to an additional $400 per round-trip ticket. Seats are limited and may not be available on all dates and flights. All prices are subject to change without notice. |
Tokyo is one of the most modern cities in the world, but that doesn't mean that you won't be able to see some traditional Japan while you're there. Visit Shitamachi, one of the oldest towns around Tokyo. There, you will get the opportunity to see the Senso-Ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest. Legend dates the Temple back to the year 628. Temples are parks are astounding and best of all, free. Also, remember to pack cool clothes, Tokyo can be hot and muggy during the summertime.
Don't see your departure city on that list? Not to worry! You can search your departure city and individual dates by clicking the orange button below.
Ok, so the flight's covered. Now, we have to think about where you're going to crash. Chances are, after miles of sightseeing and a little too much sake, you're going to be interested in one thing only... a bed. Hostels are perfect for that. Budget ryokan are easy to find, and are often located in the most convenient locations.
Not exactly sure what hostels are? Well, hostels are communal accommodations geared toward those travelers who want to sleep on the cheap. You can get a private room in some hostels, but accommodation is usually dormitory style with several beds to a room, sometimes co-ed. Bathrooms and showers are usually shared among several rooms. Many hostels offer additional amenities such as a communal kitchen, lockers or baggage storage, Internet, TV lounge, or a tour desk.
If you're having bad flashbacks of freshman year in the dorms, then you probably prefer hotels. Hotels vary around the world and it's safe to say that the hotels in Tokyo are much smaller than hotels that you are familiar with in the U.S. If you're looking for something with all the amenities of an American hotel, then you need to choose at least a 3-Globe hotel. You can search STA Travel's wide variety of accommodations by clicking the orange button below. Keep in mind that Tokyo can be very expensive, so hostels are definitely going to be your best bet in terms of bang for your buck.
Obviously, Tokyo is difficult for American travelers to explore and negotiate. Check out one of our solutions to help you see the sights and make your away around beautiful Japan.
| Try This | Price* |
|---|---|
| Japan Rail | from $240 |
Don't forget about tours! Taking a tour that is booked before you leave helps you avoid financial trauma abroad. Tours are guided by experts, and help you experience a little of the road less traveled. If you're feeling confident, and would like to explore on your own, STA Travel offers great discounts on rail. Check out our suggestion here, or search for more tours with the orange button below.
To read up on all the latest Tokyo events, visit our travel guide section, linked just below. There, you will find great up-to-date events to help make Tokyo one of the most memorable trips of your life.
Also, you can check out STA's student travel community, STA Travelers, to see videos, photos and blogs written by fellow students who have been there, done that.