Tokyo Cheapo

Tokyo is often seen as a highly expensive city, but since 2012, we've been dedicated to changing that perception! Our platform attracts 350,000 visitors each month, making it one of the top English-language resources for everything related to Tokyo. We’re also excited to announce our presence on YouTube! Join our channel for valuable tips, tricks, and regular updates on how to enjoy Tokyo without breaking the bank. We cover a wide range of topics, from essentials like transportation, lodging, dining, and activities, to more specialized subjects such as culture, art, and subcultures. We also explore less-traveled paths and share the quirky and amazing experiences that make this vast Far Eastern city unique.

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What Is the New 9000-Yen Rail Pass in Japan?

6 days ago | tokyocheapo.com | Carey Finn

Railway operator JR East has starting selling a new rail pass that allows unlimited rides on local and rapid trains across the JR East network for three consecutive days. The pass is available to both tourists and residents of Japan until December. Priced at ¥9,000, the “Higashi Nihon Nonbiri Tabi Pass”, or 東日本のんびり旅パス, which loosely translates to East Japan Leisurely Pass, is being sold through JR East’s online booking platform, Ekinet (in Japanese).
Michael Holmes on Working as a Creative in Japan — Interview | Tokyo Cheapo

1 week ago | tokyocheapo.com | Patrick Balfe

Michael Holmes is an American photographer and business owner who’s been living in Tokyo for over 20 years. In his time here, he’s expanded his career from independently shooting events to establishing the photo-booth company Blue Lion and production company Ten Colors. Holmes is also one of the founders of Millennials of Tokyo, an interview and photography series that centers on Tokyo-based artists and creatives.
Tokyo Events July 2025: 8 Top Picks

1 week ago | tokyocheapo.com | Alexandra Ziminski

July marks the start of the summer festival season in Japan, and that means fireworks, traditional matsuri (festivals), and plenty of delicious yakisoba. Yoyogi Park is busy with large-scale events every weekend, and the Tanabata holiday paints the town of Asakusa in technicolor. Don’t miss out on the dancing, merriment, and summer atmosphere taking center stage this month. For the top events in Tokyo throughout the year, check out our complete guide — organized by month.
Tokyo Events This Week: Candle Night, Taiwan Festival, and LGBTQ+ Films

2 weeks ago | tokyocheapo.com | Alexandra Ziminski

Dates:Jun 20, 2025Entry:FreeYu-Asobi Exhibition: Opening NightThis unique open-air gallery exhibition will take the yu-asobi (playing in hot water) concept to Tokyo’s streets. The opening event happens on June 21 and the exhibition will run from June 20 till July 18. Dates:Jun 21–Jun 22, 2025Entry:FreeTaiwan Festival in Ueno ParkThis is a Taiwan food festival in the heart of Ueno Park. Many visitors will head straight for the food stalls.
Tokyo Events This Week: Lion Dance Festival, Drag, and More Hydrangeas

3 weeks ago | tokyocheapo.com | Alexandra Ziminski

Dates:Jun 10–Jun 15, 2025Entry:FreeHakone Hydrangea TrainTake a trip into the mountains by moonlight and see Hakone’s famed hydrangeas in full bloom. During the peak, you can hop on the Night Hydrangea Train — a special evening ride aboard the Allegra car with reserved seats and no stops along the way. There are photo stops at Miyanoshita and Tonosawa stations, and each passenger receives a limited-edition hydrangea fan as a keepsake.
6 Best Summer Music Festivals in Japan

3 weeks ago | tokyocheapo.com | Patrick Balfe

Japan loves a seasonal excuse to party, but for the music lovers, summer is where it’s at. As the mercury rises, so do the opportunities to catch a music festival — here’s a list of the best events showcasing acts from Japan and abroad. On top of big-name events like Fuji Rock and Summer Sonic, there are plenty of other opportunities to catch your favorite rock, pop, and anime music artists this summer. Here are our top festivals happening in Japan over the next few months.
9 Best Hydrangea Experiences Near Tokyo

3 weeks ago | tokyocheapo.com | Carey Finn

June is the best time to see hydrangeas in Japan. You’ll see bursts of blue and pink ajisai all around the country, including the capital. Here are some of our favorite spots to see this underrated summer flower around Tokyo. Did you know? The color of a hydrangea is largely determined by the pH of the soil. A more acidic pH results in blue blooms, while more alkalinity fetches pink flowers. 1.
Tokyo Events This Week: Tokyo Pride, Torigoe Festival, and Hydrangeas

4 weeks ago | tokyocheapo.com | Alexandra Ziminski

Tokyo events for Monday, June 2 to Sunday, June 8, 2025. Festivals begin to celebrate the purple petals perfect for rain — hydrangeas. In Shibuya, Pride is painting the town in rainbow colors and one of the biggest portable shrines in Tokyo makes its way through the streets south of Asakusa. Never miss a freebie! Sign up for our events newsletter.
teamLab Kyoto To Open Fall 2025

1 month ago | tokyocheapo.com | Carey Finn

The rumors are true — Kyoto is getting a teamLab museum of its own. Set to open this autumn, teamLab Biovortex Kyoto will be located in Minami Ward — as part of the Kyoto Station Southeast Area urban development project. The exact opening date and address have yet to be announced, but the organizers have released information about some of the artworks that you can look forward to.
Tokyo Events This Week: Adachi Fireworks Festival, Fireflies, and Yokohama Celebrations

1 month ago | tokyocheapo.com | Alexandra Ziminski

Tokyo events for Monday, May 26 to Sunday, June 1, 2025. Evenings are warming up, signaling the time for glittery glowing objects to light up the night sky — fireworks and fireflies. The list of things to do this week is almost endless. Choose from a bevy of big international festivals, local markets, film premieres, and pop-culture exhibitions. Never miss a freebie! Sign up for our events newsletter.