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Perhaps some people can give suggestions on what to do on a budget in Japan? Right now the exchange rate is ridiculous ... something like 88 yen to the dollar. Last time I went it 110! And the time before that 120! So basically I've lost 1/4 my purchasing power. And since I'm not independently wealthy, I'm curious about what some people would suggest we do on a budget, say $600 for a week? We found reasonable airfare (amazingly) now just time to figure out what to do. We won't need a hotel, we will stay at her parents' place, and we plan on using public transport.
We will be in western Japan, probably visiting Osaka and the kansai region. We like traveling the countryside, visiting little dives, mingling with the locals, and learning the history and culture of the region.
We spent 2 weeks in Japan a few years ago. Some splurges, but mostly just sightseeing and moderately priced food and lodging. I highly recommend the National Parks, they are beautiful. Take advantage of street food, it is everywhere. Also, a few blocks from the tourist thoroughfares you will find mom and pop noodle shops-great food CHEAP! Their ramen noodles put ours to shame. Visit shrines and temples, very inexpensive and some have their own unique "theme". My favorite town was Himeji-a very awesome castle, plus an interesting outdoor but covered shopping area. Also, do some online research and see if there will be any religious festivals while you are there. We attended 2 and got to see parades with portable shrines, dragon costumes, and shows. Free! We visited a kimono making shop to see the whole dying and painting process, in Kyoto I think. There is also a place in Kyoto where you hike up a mountain which is home to wild monkeys-they are everywhere around you! Both towns are not far from Osaka and easy to take a train to. Japan can be a great place to see on a budget. http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3500.html http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html
Last edited by firebll31; 10-18-2009 at 11:29 AM..
I hear you about the exchange rate, however I found that the prices of airfare and hotels have come down quite a bit so it's a wash I guess.
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