But just because certain cities charge more for a cup of coffee doesn't mean you can't be frugal when traveling there. Despite its high prices, Tokyo has so much to offer and surprisingly, you can do most of it for free.
One of the best services I can recommend is Tokyo Free Guide, which is exactly as the name indicates. A tour guide will meet you at an attraction of your choice for free. You only pay for their cost of transportation and any entrance fees. Fair warning: book well in advance.
If you're going to be in Tokyo on a Sunday, be sure to check out Yoyogi Park. Located near Shinjuku, it is an absolute (free) must-see. Every Sunday, weather permitting, men and women come out and the park turns into, what I can best describe as, a scene from the movie "Crybaby." You have the greasers and the squares, dressed up and hair done, smoking cigarettes, drinking beer, dancing and singing for hours at a time. It was truly entertaining to watch the scene and quite enjoyable, since everyone genuinely enjoys doing this.
If you'd like to go, you can head there by taking the JR Yamanote line to Harajuku station, Omotesando exit (the park is located a few steps from here) or the Chiyoda line to Yoyogi-Koen, exit 4.
Since you're in the area, you can also walk around Harajuku for the chance to see some of the elaborate costumes, make-up and hair. I've heard that it's best to do this on Sunday, as well, since everyone is out of school. Make sure you walk down Takeshita Street, where all the girls go shopping. It's crowded and overwhelming, but worthwhile.
The Meiji Shrine, also located steps from Yoyogi Park, provides a serene (free of charge) getaway from the concrete jungle you might find yourself caught in.
If you're an early bird, take time to visit the Tsukiji Fish Market, located on the Hibiya line, Tsukiji exit 1. I don't know much about the market, but I have heard stories of the insane atmosphere during the buying and selling that happens daily. There is a visitors passage that tourists must stay in and the auction is finished by 6:30 am. It's best to arrive around 4:00 am to watch the organized chaos. And if you're jetlagged, what better way to spend your restless morning?
If you're into gadgets and gizmos, make sure to visit the Sony Showroom. Open every day from 11-7 pm, it's a free tour of the latest technology available on the market today. The easiest way to get here is to arrive on the Ginza line, exit B9, where you can access the store straight from underground. Browse 3D cameras, entertainment systems and computers that cost more than my apartment.
If you want to explore shops and markets, I recommend Asakusa. We were fortunate enough to stay in this wonderful neighborhood and explore its charming alleys almost every night. It is said that this part of Tokyo is less modern and more traditional. It is located near the river, a beautiful temple, the unfinished Sky Tree and the ridiculous "Golden Turd." It's certainly worth your trip there.
For a free view of the incredible Tokyo skyline, head to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office buildings. Open from 9:30 - 5:30 and located on the Oedo line, Roppongi station, you really can't beat an opportunity to see this marvel from above and at no cost.
If you're looking to see Tokyo in all of her chaotic glory, go to Shibuya on the JR Yamanote line, Hachiko exit. Here, you will find the infamous Shibuya Crossing, a 5-point intersection that swells with people every time the light changes color. For a free overhead view of it all, go to Starbucks (but keep your camera out of sight!)
You can also go to Shinjuku station, the busiest station in the world, around rush hour. I would avoid taking the subway at this time, but it was certainly interesting to see the white-shirts-black-pants combination that flood the street at this time.
For a modern tour of Tokyo, ride along the Yurikomome Line, a brand new transit line that is a bit more expensive than the rest. However, this takes you along the delightful Rainbow Bridge and onto (I believe) one of the manmade islands. I enjoyed walking around this area and admiring the modern, new-age buildings. Stay until nightfall for a beautiful view of the skyline against the bay.
Some of my favorite moments in Tokyo came from simply walking around different neighborhoods, people watching and making friends with strangers. Despite the cost of getting there, it costs you nothing to get lost, which often makes for the best stories and memories. Some of my favorite destinations within Tokyo included Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku, Hibiya, Roppongi and Asakusa.
There are other ways to save money besides visiting free attractions. Stay in budget hostels, share meals if you're traveling with a partner and always avoid taking taxis. The subway in Tokyo is very efficient and will take you to virtually any point within the city. Although somewhat overwhelming and complicated to understand at first, it gets easier with time. Study the map and have a good idea where you're going. If you're confused, there is always someone working that will be able to assist you.
Tokyo is a truly delightful city. Although I understand how someone could easily spend thousands in only a few days, this destination can certainly be explored on a backpacker's budget.
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