Planning a trip to Japan? You have probably already started thinking about the types of things you will do once you arrive. You no doubt also have an approximate idea of how long you will stay in Japan, as well as whether you will return straight home afterward or travel through to another destination first. At this point, you have probably started thinking about travel costs in Japan, as well.

It is very important to properly estimate the costs of your trip to Japan before you embark. It is no secret that travel to and within Japan is not cheap. However, you can manage making a Japan trip on a shoestring budget - if needed - and still have an excellent time. Whether your travel budget is fairly generous or a bit constrained, smart cost planning will greatly increase your chances of having an amazing trip. Doing so will also help you avoid surprises.

If you are curious about travel costs for Japan, here are some rough estimates for 7 types of Japan travel costs (all estimates are provided in U.S. dollars):

1. Airfare prices:
This is going to be the largest - and also most variable - of your Japan trip costs. The factors that influence how much or little you end up paying for your flight to and from Japan include the time of year you plan to travel, your choice of air carrier, and of course your departure city. If you live near a major city, you should be able to find a direct flight to Japan without having to transfer plans en route.

In terms of costs, they really vary. For example, you should expect to pay as little as $350 (if traveling from Korea or parts of China) to $1,000 to $2,000 or more if traveling from Europe, Australia or the Americas. If your travel dates are flexible, be sure to plug in different dates into an online travel planner to see how the rates vary by travel date.

2. Transportation from the airport to your place of lodging:
If you will be landing in Osaka or Tokyo (most people do), you will need to arrange ground transportation from the airport to your place of lodging. From both Narita International Airport and Kansai International Airport, you can find train service into the city for about $25. Also, a popular choice for travelers flying into Narita is to take an express bus into Tokyo for around $40. The bus will take you directly to a major train station in the heart of Tokyo.

3. Hotel, inn, and bed & breakfast rates:
Rates for a 3- or 4-star Western style hotel in a big city will usually start at around $150 or $200 per night. If your budget is more limited and/or if you want to have a more authentic Japan travel experience, trying staying in a ryokan (inn) or minshuku (bed and breakfast) for around $40-$60 per night. Hostels will cost even less.

4. Eating out:
High-end meals in Tokyo can run $100/plate or higher, but there are food options to match just about any budget. At the low end of things, you can find convenience stores on just about every major street corner that offer healthy snacks and meals for under $5.

5. Snacks:
Again, convenience stores are a great way to keep yourself fed if you are traveling in Japan on a budget. $5 per meal is a reasonable budget when you go this route. You can find tuna sandwiches, pre-made salads, onigiri (rice balls with meat or vegetable filling), chips, and even hot soup (o-den) during the winter months.

6. Sightseeing and special attractions:
Japan offers a huge range of sightseeing options and special attractions. For example, entrance to Tokyo Disneyland will cost you under $70 per person, while entrance fees into Yokohama's Hakkejima Sea Paradise and other aquariums usually run around $30-$50.

7. Souvenirs:
Want to travel home with a bagful of souvenirs for friends and family? Be sure to plan to spend $10 - $50/person to bring something special home for everyone on your list.

Of course, prices are always changing. But, you can use the prices listed above as rough guidelines as you plan your Japanese dream vacation. Then, be sure to go through a travel agent or visit the various attractions' or hotels' websites in order to get more exact pricing as your trip draws near.

Traveling to Japan for pleasure or business? Make the most of your trip with tips and recommendations from: Learn About Japan http://www.learnaboutjapan.com/best-times-to-visit-japan.php.