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Budgeting & Costs

Budgeting & Costs

Kyushu, Japan

Currency & Payments

Japan's official currency the Japanese Yen (JPY, ¥).

Cash remains widely used, especially at smaller shops, local restaurants, and for public transport fares. However, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club) increasingly accepted at larger hotels, department stores, and major attractions.

ATMs & Exchange

  • ATMs that accept international cards widely available at post offices, 7-Eleven, and major bank branches.
  • Always carry some cash for small purchases or areas where card payments may not be an option.
  • Currency exchange services available at airports and major banks.
  • Tipping is not customary in Japan; it can even be considered rude.

Typical Price Ranges JPY

These estimates a general guide for daily expenses in Nagasaki, excluding international airfare.

Category Item/Type Typical Price Range (JPY)
Accommodations (per night) Hostel Dorm Bed ¥2,500 - ¥4,000
Business Hotel (single) ¥6,000 - ¥10,000
Mid-range Hotel (double) ¥10,000 - ¥20,000
Luxury Hotel/Ryokan ¥20,000 - ¥50,000+
Meals (per person) Convenience Store Meal (onigiri, bento) ¥300 - ¥800
Street Food/Casual Eatery (ramen, udon) ¥700 - ¥1,500
Mid-range Restaurant ¥1,500 - ¥3,000
Fine Dining ¥5,000 - ¥15,000+
Transportation (Nagasaki City) Tram Fare (per ride) ¥140
Tram Day Pass ¥600
Nagasaki Bus Fare ¥150-¥400 (by distance)
Taxi (starting fare) ~¥600-¥700
Attractions (entry fee) Atomic Bomb Museum ¥200
Glover Garden ¥620
Oura Church ¥1,000
Dejima ¥520
Mt. Inasa Ropeway (round trip) ¥1,250

Money-Saving Strategies

Cost-Effective Travel

Utilize the Tram System: Nagasaki's tram network inexpensive and reaches most major attractions. Purchase a Nagasaki Tram One-Day Pass for unlimited rides; this a good value after five rides. Eat Local: Opt for local eateries, ramen shops, udon shops, and convenience stores (konbini) for budget-friendly and authentic meals. Supermarkets also good for groceries, prepared meals, and snacks.

Smart Travel Choices

  • Walk:

    Many attractions in the city center are within walking distance of each other. Enjoy walking through the historic districts and along the waterfront.

  • Utilize Free Attractions:

    Many parks, temples, and shrines offer free entry. The Peace Park and Spectacles Bridge are prime examples of significant sites you can visit without cost.

  • Consider a Nagasaki Pass:

    Before your trip, check the Nagasaki Tourism website for any regional discount passes that might cover multiple attractions or transportation.

  • Affiliate Deals:

    Look into flight compensation services like AirHelp or travel insurance from SafetyWing.

  • Pre-Trip Planning:

    Booking flights and accommodation in advance can secure better rates.

Visa Resources

  • Check visa requirements for your nationality via IVisa (consumer service) or VisaHQ (direct service).
  • Always verify the most current information with the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or your local embassy.
  • Do not rely solely on third-party information; official government sources are most accurate.

Budgeting Summary

Plan your expenses carefully to maximize your Nagasaki experience without overspending.