Japan isn’t typically viewed as a budget destination for British tourists.
However, Brits who book a trip imminently could make the most of current exchange rates.
It comes as the pound is the strongest it has been against the Japanese yen in almost 20 years, according to eurochange.
At the moment, Brits can get just over 201 Japanese yen for each British pound – a particularly strong rate.
With flights to Tokyo and Osaka for less than £400 in May 2026, a trip to Japan could be cheaper than ever before for Brits.
Here’s a look at how to explore the country in a budget-savvy manner.
Cherry blossoms in Japan are on many travel bucket lists – and now’s a great time to go
How can you travel for less?
Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at eurochange, said: ‘There is a common misconception that Japan is a particularly expensive country to visit for British tourists.
‘However, with the pound being as strong as it currently is against the Japanese yen, and return flights for less than £400 in May, there hasn’t been a better time for Brits to visit Japan in a long while.
‘It is worth noting that as of 1 March, Kyoto has introduced a tourist tax of around £50 per person, per night, in a bid to manage overtourism in the city.
‘With that in mind, now could be the perfect time to visit some of the country’s lesser-known, but just as beautiful destinations and still make the most of the weaker Japanese yen.’
Transport
Laura’s top tip for travellers looking to maximise value is to get a JR Pass.
She explains: ‘The JR Pass is the single best investment for exploring Japan. It opens up the entire country and makes multi-destination trips much more affordable.
‘A seven-day pass starts at around £260, but it covers unlimited travel on most Japan Railway routes, Shinkansen (bullet trains) and most buses and ferries.’
Fly via Amsterdam Schiphol before your onward flight to Japan – the savings on flight costs can be substantial.
Also, don’t overlook domestic Japanese flights, which are surprisingly affordable.
There are ways to visit Japan’s cities without spending an absolute fortune
Accommodation
You should also book last-minute accommodation.
Laura adds: ‘Book accommodation on the fly once you’re in Japan. Last-minute deals can be significantly cheaper than advance bookings from overseas.’
Laura also advises you explore on foot.
She says: ‘The best way to experience Japan’s charm is to walk on foot as much as you can. You’ll stumble upon temples, shrines, and authentic local experiences that tour buses completely miss.’
Where to go
The latest data shows that Kyoto saw 10.88 million tourists visit in 2024, a 53 per cent increase on the previous year.
As the city introduces new approaches to tackle overtourism, Laura shared her top alternatives to Kyoto – where Brits can still make the most of the weaker Japanese yen.
These include Nara, which offers a similar temple experience with the added charm of more than 1,000 free-roaming sacred deer in Nara Park.
Hiroshima and Miyajima are also great spots.
Laura says: ‘You can actually visit both of these iconic destinations in a single trip. Use a JR pass to travel down to Hiroshima, and then again to cross onto the island of Miyajima.
‘Explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial and then venture to Miyajima’s floating torii gate. Here you will find sacred deer and stunning temples. Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites for the price of one journey, what’s not to love?’
Hakone’s hot springs, as well as Okinawa, ‘Japan’s best-kept secret for history buffs who also want a beach paradise’, are perfect, according to Laura.
You’ll also want to explore Nagasaki and Osaka, the street food capital and entertainment hub.
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