The BOJ cited increased uncertainty in Japan’s economy and prices due to the U.S. administration’s tariff policies as the reason for this decision.
As shown in the graph below, although the yen is displaying signs of strength, its movement is expected to fluctuate depending on the possibility that yen-buying speculators reverse their positions, the BOJ’s monetary policy, and adjustments to the U.S. Federal Reserve’s interest rate policy. Experts estimate a 71% likelihood of a rate hike in Japan by July, and further increases are considered certain by October.
Dollar v.s. Yen, source: Google Finance
Smart Savings in Japan: Your Guide to Budget-Friendly Stays and Experiences
Affordable Accommodations
- Business Hotels:Toyoko Inn, APA Hotel, and Sunroute Hotel
- Capsule Hotels & Guesthouses for solo travelers
- Airbnb and Self-Catering Options with friends or family
Smart Transportation Strategies
- Rail and Metro Passes: JR Pass, Kansai Pass or Tokyo Metro Pass
- Overnight Buses: Willer Express offer comfortable overnight services that save on both transportation and accommodation costs.
Delicious Dining on a Dime
- Beef Bowl Chains: Sukiya, Yoshinoya, and Matsiya serve generous portions for roughly 500 to 700 yen.
- Good Local Ramen: Local ramen spots like Tenkai-pin, Fuji Soba, and Hohoku Ramen offer bowls in the 700 to 900 Yen range.
- Convenience Store Shopping and 100-Yen Rotating Sushi: FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, and Lawson are a treasure trove for budget travelers. You can buy sushi, donburi, and udon at low prices. Additionally, rotating sushi joints such as Sushiro allow you to enjoy delicious sushi for as little as 100 to 150 yen per plate.
Shopping and Payment Perks
Discount Shopping Destinations: Major discount retailers like Don Quijote and Matsumoto Kiyoshi are must-visits for tax-free deals. Moreover, outlet malls like Gotemba Outlet in Tokyo and Rinku Premium Outlet in Osaka provide substantial discounts—up to 70% off on luxury and sports brands.
Cashless Payments and Duty-Free Benefits: With mobile payment options such as PayPay and LINE Pay widely accepted, even foreign visitors can easily tap into this convenient system. Plus, spending over 5,000 yen in a single transaction often qualifies you for duty-free benefits, adding yet another layer of savings
