If you are planning a trip during cherry blossom season in Japan, then you might be wondering where to start. There is a lot to think about: budgeting, the itinerary, and the accommodation. With all this in mind, it is easy to become overwhelmed.
Once you get to grips with planning your vacation, then you will find that there are many options. Whether that is choosing the right hotel for you, or where to see the cherry blossom.
If you are budgeting for cherry blossom season in Japan, then look no further. We have all the information you need in this step-by-step guide.
Why Is It Best To Budget When Visiting Japan For Cherry Blossom Season?
Japan can be an expensive country to visit. Add cherry blossom season on top of that, and you may find that prices rise. This is especially true when it comes to hotels.
This is because many local and foreign people travel to the best locations to see cherry blossoms in full bloom. The hotel owners know this, so they make the most of it by upping their room prices.
However, while you may need to set aside a good chunk of money for your trip, this kind of vacation is most definitely worth it. While you can visit Japan on a budget, you may want to spend around $3,000 on each person for a trip that lasts 14 days.
This does include hotel, flights, and anything else you might need such as spending money. This cost will go up if you plan to stay in a luxury hotel, or want to also add in something like Disneyland while you are there. So keep this in mind.
Step-By-Step Guide: How To Budget For Cherry Blossom Season In Japan?
Here are a few things to think about when planning for your trip to Japan during cherry blossom season:
Booking Flights
Before you book anything else, you will want to find out the cost of your flight. This can change depending on the time of year, whether you travel directly, and which country you are flying from.
The price can also be different depending on which airport and airline you are flying with too. Because of this, spend time looking at lots of different flights available. Do expect to pay a few hundred dollars.
For example, in United Economy from the West Coast you might need to pay up to $1900 or more. So, do keep this in mind. This is also likely to be the biggest cost, along with the hotel too.
Once they are out of the way, you will be able to figure out what money you have left in your budget.
Booking Accommodation
One disadvantage of traveling during cherry blossom season is the price of accommodation. While there are many places to stay, prices often shoot up at this time of year. It isn’t just that though.
Prices also change depending on what type of accommodation you are looking at. You can easily stay in a midrange Airbnb or hotel for under $150 a night. Things will get pricier if you want to stay at a luxury hotel where prices may start at around $150 a night.
There are things to be aware of however. Cheaper accommodation may appear to be nice in the pictures. However, it isn’t unheard of that the rooms are actually very small and cramped.
Always make sure you read reliable reviews, and take a look at every picture possible. Also remember to read descriptions fully, including the room size.
Japan Rail Pass And Travel
When you get to Japan, it is likely that you will need to use their fantastic rail system. Because of this, you will also need to factor in a budget for travel. You can pre-book a Japan Rail Pass for 14 days at a cost of $356. You can then collect it at a Japan Rail office.
This pass allows you to travel on some of the intra- and inter-city routes without having to pay anything extra. They are not valid on private rail networks though. You can also buy subway tickets at stations if you need to, which will only cost a few dollars each time.
However, this will mount up. Other options are something like the Pasmo card (non-JR) or Suica card (JR East) which you top up with money and use. Or you can even take the bus, though this will add on extra travel time.
Food Costs And Extras
A really important thing to remember is to budget for food costs. If you plan to eat meals out every day, then budget $100 for it. Add on extra for alcohol too.
Otherwise, $50 a day should be enough. This will cover basic food items – though you will notice how fruit costs a lot more in Japan.
You may want to also factor in spending money too. This could be in the form of souvenirs and fun snacks. There are so many cool items to buy, even if it is just candy from Family Mart. You may also want to pick up sakura themed food and drink items too.
Fortunately, where you go to see the cherry blossoms should be free. If not, check first to find out the price and add it to your budget. However, it is always best to make sure you do not need to pay anything to enjoy the sakura.
Final Thoughts
Japan is an expensive place to visit. Add cherry blossom season to the mix and it becomes even pricier. The reason for this is because cherry blossom season is a special time.
It only lasts around two weeks, and it is something a lot of people travel to see – even those native to the country. With this in mind, sometimes hotels raise their prices.
Of course this cannot be helped, and something you may have to endure if you want to visit Japan during this time. However, if you budget well and understand where the money is going, you can have a great time in Japan.
It doesn’t have to mean spending thousands of dollars to enjoy a two week trip. Hopefully this guide will help you with budgeting for your trip to Japan during cherry blossom season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Cherry Blossom Season In Japan?
Cherry blossom season in Japan is when all of the cherry trees bloom in a pink and white hue. It is such a special time because it only lasts around two weeks. Many tourists flock to see cherry blossoms and take pictures. It is also the time when hanami is celebrated.
Are Sakura And Cherry Blossoms The Same Thing?
Yes, sakura and cherry blossoms are the same thing. The former is the Japanese way of saying cherry blossom. For this reason you may hear or see cherry blossoms being referred to as sakura.
When Is Cherry Blossom Season In Japan?
Cherry blossom season only lasts for around two weeks. Usually it is around late March and early Spring. However, you will want to keep an eye on the cherry blossom forecasts online just in case it is early or late.
Hi, I’m Jason Patrick, and for as long as I have been alive, I have been obsessed with Japanese culture. From the sights and sounds of Japan’s many cities to its culinary delights that have become famous worldwide, I simply cannot get enough of this wonderful nation!
I hope that, by exploring this website, you all will develop a much deeper appreciation for Japan, and that it may even influence you to pay it a visit yourself eventually! It is definitely a trip of a lifetime, and whether you experience it firsthand, or through my own website, I’m sure you will become just as passionate as I always have been!
