How Much Spending Money Do You Need for 2 Weeks in Tokyo?

Imagine this: You’re wandering the neon-lit streets of Shibuya, grabbing sushi at a conveyor belt restaurant, shopping for the latest tech gadgets in Akihabara, and soaking in the tranquility of Meiji Shrine. A dream, right? But here’s the question that hits every traveler: How much spending money do you actually need for two weeks in Tokyo? Spoiler alert: it’s more than you might think, but with the right plan, it doesn’t have to break the bank.

1. The Essentials: Accommodation, Food, and Transportation Costs

Before diving into the heart of Tokyo’s cultural and shopping wonderland, let's handle the basics: where you’ll sleep, what you’ll eat, and how you’ll get around. These are the cornerstones of your budget, and understanding them will set you up for a stress-free trip.

Accommodation: The Price of a Good Night’s Sleep

Tokyo’s accommodation spectrum is vast—from luxury hotels with sweeping city views to cozy capsule hotels. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Luxury Hotels (5-star): Expect to pay around ¥30,000-¥70,000 ($200-$480) per night. If you’re eyeing iconic spots like The Ritz-Carlton or Park Hyatt, brace for a steeper bill.
• Mid-Range Hotels (3-4 star): Typically ¥10,000-¥25,000 ($70-$170) per night, offering comfort without luxury. Brands like APA or Tokyu Stay fit the bill.
• Budget Options (Capsule Hotels, Hostels): For the adventurous or budget-conscious, prices can be as low as ¥3,000-¥6,000 ($20-$40) per night.

Over two weeks, accommodation costs can range from $280 for the most budget-friendly stay to over $6,500 if you opt for high-end luxury.

Food: Savoring Tokyo’s Culinary Wonderland

Tokyo’s food scene is legendary, catering to every taste and budget:

• Street Food and Convenience Stores: Grab quick bites like onigiri, ramen, or tempura for ¥500-¥1,500 ($3-$10) per meal.
• Casual Dining (Izakayas, Chain Restaurants): Meals typically range from ¥1,000-¥3,000 ($7-$20).
• Fine Dining and Sushi Experiences: This can set you back between ¥10,000-¥30,000 ($70-$200+) for a memorable meal at a Michelin-starred spot.

Assuming a mix of casual and occasional splurges, expect to spend around $40-$80 per day on food, totaling approximately $560-$1,120 over two weeks.

Transportation: Navigating Tokyo Efficiently

Tokyo’s public transport system is one of the best in the world. For a two-week stay, a Suica or Pasmo card (prepaid transport cards) is essential:

• Metro and JR Trains: Typically ¥200-¥400 ($1.50-$3) per ride.
• Weekly Transport Cost: Around ¥5,000 ($35) for moderate use, adding up to $70 over two weeks.
• Taxis and Ride-sharing: These can be costly, starting at ¥420 ($3) for the first kilometer.

Total transportation budget: Around $70-$150 depending on your travel frequency and comfort preference.

2. Attractions and Activities: Making the Most of Tokyo

From ancient temples to bustling shopping districts, Tokyo’s attractions will be a major part of your spending:

• Temples and Shrines (Meiji Shrine, Senso-ji): Mostly free, though some may request a small donation.
• Museums and Gardens (Tokyo National Museum, Shinjuku Gyoen): Typically ¥500-¥1,500 ($3-$10) per entry.
• Theme Parks (Tokyo Disneyland, DisneySea): Expect about ¥8,200 ($55) per ticket.
• Unique Experiences (Sumo Wrestling, Tea Ceremonies): Prices vary widely; a sumo ticket might be ¥3,800 ($25), while tea ceremonies start around ¥3,000 ($20).

For two weeks, set aside around $200-$400 for attractions and experiences to fully enjoy what Tokyo has to offer.

3. Shopping: Souvenirs, Fashion, and Gadgets

Tokyo’s shopping scene ranges from high-end fashion in Ginza to quirky finds in Harajuku:

• Fashion (Ginza, Shibuya, Harajuku): Prices vary; a branded T-shirt could be ¥5,000 ($35) while luxury brands could set you back thousands.
• Electronics (Akihabara): Budget at least ¥20,000 ($140) for tech goodies.
• Souvenirs and Snacks: ¥1,000-¥5,000 ($7-$35) depending on how generous you’re feeling.

A reasonable shopping budget is around $300-$500, but this can quickly increase depending on your shopping habits.

4. Nightlife and Entertainment: Exploring Tokyo After Dark

Tokyo’s nightlife is as vibrant as its daytime attractions. From karaoke bars to nightclubs and themed cafes, here’s a quick guide:

• Karaoke: ¥1,000-¥3,000 ($7-$20) per hour.
• Bars and Clubs: Drinks range from ¥500-¥1,500 ($3-$10). Some high-end clubs have entry fees of ¥2,000-¥5,000 ($14-$35).
• Themed Cafes (Robot Restaurant, Maid Cafes): Prices vary, with entry fees starting around ¥2,000 ($14).

A safe estimate for nightlife spending is $200-$400, depending on how often you go out.

5. Total Budget Overview: Two Weeks in Tokyo

Here’s a breakdown of your potential costs:

Category	Low Estimate	High Estimate
Accommodation	$280	$6,500
Food	$560	$1,120
Transportation	$70	$150
Attractions/Activities	$200	$400
Shopping	$300	$500
Nightlife/Entertainment	$200	$400
Total	$1,610	$9,070

Final Thoughts:

Tokyo is as budget-friendly or luxurious as you make it. The key is understanding your travel style—are you there to explore on a shoestring or indulge in every possible experience? With this guide, you can mix and match your spending to fit your own Tokyo adventure.

Pro Tip: Consider using a travel budgeting app to track your expenses in real-time and adjust on the fly. This way, you can enjoy Tokyo without constantly worrying about your wallet.