3-Week Budget-Friendly Japan Itinerary: Snowboarding, Theme Parks & Tokyo Exploration

Day 1: Arrival & Nagano Start

Nagano, Japan on February 20, 2026

9:00am

Arrival in Nagano

Settle into your accommodation. Choose budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses near snow resorts for easy access.
JPY0, 1h

10:30am

Breakfast at local café

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast set at a local café offering affordable prices with fresh ingredients.
JPY800, 1h

12:00pm

Hire Snowboarding Gear

Rent beginner-friendly snowboarding equipment from a budget rental shop near the resort to save costs and get professional advice.
JPY3000, 1h

2:00pm

First Snowboarding Lesson

Join a group beginner snowboarding lesson at a Nagano resort such as Shiga Kogen. Lessons usually run 2-3 hours, perfect for a first experience.
JPY6000, 2h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at local izakaya

Dine at a budget-friendly izakaya offering local specialties like soba noodles and tempura, great for a filling meal.
JPY1500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Snowboarding & Relaxing

Nagano, Japan on February 21, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a simple breakfast included with your lodging to start your day early for snowboarding.
JPY0, 1h

9:30am

Snowboarding Practice

Practice snowboarding on gentle slopes to get comfortable. Free to use slopes after lesson hours.
JPY0, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at mountain lodge

Eat at a mountain lodge offering budget-friendly hot meals like curry rice or ramen to refuel after morning activity.
JPY1000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Zenkoji Temple

Explore Zenkoji, one of Nagano’s most famous temples open until 5pm. Entry is free and it offers cultural insight.
JPY0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at chain ramen shop

Enjoy an affordable and tasty dinner at a local ramen chain, perfect for budget travellers.
JPY900, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Snowboarding & Travel to Tokyo

Nagano to Tokyo, Japan on February 22, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up with a convenient breakfast before a travel day.
JPY0, 1h

8:30am

Final snowboarding session

Enjoy a short morning snowboard session on easy slopes to finish your experience.
JPY0, 2h

11:00am

Check out and Travel to Tokyo

Take the Nagano Shinkansen (approximately 1.5 hours) to Tokyo, securing budget ticket options in advance for savings.
JPY8000, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch near Tokyo Station

Grab affordable lunch like bentos or udon around Tokyo Station to save time and expense.
JPY1000, 1h

2:30pm

Check into budget accommodation in Tokyo

Settle into a budget hotel or capsule hotel in Tokyo’s central areas such as Asakusa or Ueno.
JPY3000, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Asakusa district

Visit Sensoji Temple and Nakamise shopping street, free entry and great local culture experiences, open until evening.
JPY0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at family restaurant

Dine affordably at a family restaurant chain serving a variety of Japanese meals at low prices.
JPY1200, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Tokyo Disneyland

Tokyo, Japan on February 23, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast at your accommodation to prepare for a full-day outing.
JPY0, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Tokyo Disneyland

Take the train to Maihama station, approximately 20-30 minutes from central Tokyo.
JPY500, 30m

9:30am

Tokyo Disneyland visit

Spend a full day enjoying Tokyo Disneyland. Book tickets online in advance for better prices. Open from 9am to 9pm.
JPY8200, 11h

8:30pm

Return to Tokyo city

Take the train back to your hotel, resting after an exciting day.
JPY500, 30m

9:30pm

Light dinner nearby hotel

Grab a quick and light meal or convenience store food near your accommodation to keep budget low.
JPY700, 30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Tokyo City Tour

Tokyo, Japan on February 24, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at local café

Try a budget-friendly Japanese breakfast set or toast with coffee at a local café.
JPY800, 1h

9:00am

Visit Meiji Shrine & Harajuku

Free entry shrine well-known for its natural surroundings, followed by exploring trendy Harajuku shopping area.
JPY0, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at local ramen shop

Eat affordable and delicious ramen near Harajuku station.
JPY900, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Shibuya & Shinjuku

Walk through Shibuya crossing, visit shops, then head to Shinjuku Gyoen Park for a relaxing stroll (entrance fee applies, JPY500).
JPY500, 3h

5:00pm

Dinner at conveyor belt sushi

Enjoy affordable and fun sushi dining at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant in Shinjuku.
JPY1200, 1h

7:00pm

Evening walk

Stroll around Shinjuku’s lively nightlife district or relax at your accommodation.
JPY0, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Travel to Osaka & Explore

Tokyo to Osaka, Japan on February 25, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Quick breakfast before traveling to Osaka via Shinkansen (approx. 2.5-3 hrs).
JPY0, 1h

8:00am

Shinkansen to Osaka

Reserve a budget ticket on the Shinkansen to Osaka for an efficient and comfortable trip.
JPY14000, 3h

11:00am

Check into budget hotel in Osaka

Settle into a hostel or budget hotel close to Namba or Umeda stations.
JPY3500, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Dotonbori

Try budget-friendly street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki in famous Dotonbori area.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Osaka Castle Park

Enjoy the picturesque grounds surrounding Osaka Castle (castle entry JPY600) and free park areas.
JPY600, 2h

4:00pm

Stroll through Shinsaibashi shopping street

Browse shops and experience lively Osaka streets without extra cost.
JPY0, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner near Namba station

Eat at an affordable local diner offering Japanese comfort food.
JPY1200, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Universal Studios Osaka

Osaka, Japan on February 26, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Quick and convenient meal before full-day fun at Universal Studios Japan.
JPY0, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Universal Studios

Short train ride to Universal-City station from central Osaka, purchase tickets online to save money and ensure entry.
JPY8200, 30m

9:00am

Universal Studios Japan

Explore attractions suitable for all, including beginner-friendly rides and shows; park opens at 9am and closes about 7pm.
JPY0, 10h

7:30pm

Return to hotel

Head back to accommodation to relax after a fun day.
JPY500, 30m

8:00pm

Dinner convenience store meal

Save money with a convenient and filling meal from a local convenience store near hotel.
JPY600, 30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Osaka to Tokyo Travel

Osaka to Tokyo, Japan on February 27, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast before the journey back to Tokyo.
JPY0, 1h

9:00am

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Travel by high-speed train back to Tokyo, consider a JR pass if planning more train travel.
JPY14000, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch near Tokyo station

Eat at low-cost eateries offering set meals around Tokyo station to save money.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Check into accommodation in Tokyo

Stay in a budget hotel or capsule hotel in central Tokyo.
JPY3000, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Ueno Park and Museums

Visit Ueno Park for free nature and check out budget-friendly museums such as Tokyo National Museum (JPY620).
JPY620, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at affordable izakaya

Choose an izakaya offering budget dishes within walking distance of hotel.
JPY1300, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Tokyo Offbeat & Budget

Tokyo, Japan on February 28, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast convenience store

Many Japanese convenience stores offer affordable breakfast options like onigiri and coffee.
JPY500, 30m

9:00am

Take day trip to Kamakura

Explore historic temples including the Great Buddha and charming streets; travel via JR train (~1h).
JPY1000, 7h

5:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Travel back to Tokyo and rest at your accommodation.
JPY1000, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at budget-friendly curry

Try Japanese curry at a nationwide chain known for affordable pricing and hearty meals.
JPY800, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Cultural Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 1, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at café

Eat a light breakfast at a cosy local café with affordable drinks and pastries.
JPY700, 1h

9:00am

Visit Edo-Tokyo Museum

Learn about Tokyo’s history and culture in this engaging museum, open 9:30am-5:30pm; entry fee applies.
JPY600, 2h

11:30am

Stroll through Ryogoku district

Explore the sumo culture and local shops, have a light brunch or snack here.
JPY800, 1h30m

1:00pm

Visit Akihabara

Experience Akihabara’s vibrant electronics, anime shops, and arcades at no cost to wander.
JPY0, 3h

4:30pm

Relax at hotel

Rest before evening meal, perfect for planning next days.
JPY0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at cheap yakiniku (Japanese BBQ)

Try a budget yakiniku restaurant serving reasonably priced grilled meats with rice and sides.
JPY1500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Day Trip Mount Fuji Area

Tokyo to Fuji Five Lakes, Japan on March 2, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at convenience store

Grab quick breakfast for energy to spend the day outdoors.
JPY500, 30m

7:30am

Travel to Kawaguchiko

Bus or train (~2h) to Fuji Five Lakes area for views and hiking.
JPY2000, 2h

9:30am

Explore Lake Kawaguchi and surroundings

Enjoy free nature walks, peaceful lake views and budget-friendly attractions such as small museums (optional entrance fees).
JPY0, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at local café

Enjoy a reasonably priced lunch specializing in Fuji region cuisine.
JPY1200, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Optional visit to this beautiful kimono art museum; entrance fee around JPY1500.
JPY1500, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Tokyo

Bus or train trip back to Tokyo.
JPY2000, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner near hotel

Relax and have dinner at a budget chain serving Japanese staples like donburi.
JPY1000, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Free Day & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on March 3, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Light breakfast included with your stay.
JPY0, 1h

9:00am

Explore local markets and budget shopping

Visit flea markets or thrift shops in areas like Koenji or Shimokitazawa known for affordable unique finds.
JPY0, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at café

Affordable café lunch with sandwiches or Japanese style light meals.
JPY900, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at public parks

Enjoy a relaxing stroll or picnic in a nearby park such as Yoyogi Park or Sumida Park.
JPY0, 2h

5:00pm

Casual dinner

Enjoy inexpensive izakaya or noodle shop close to hotel.
JPY1200, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Cultural Day

Tokyo, Japan on March 4, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at café

Start with fresh coffee and pastries at a local café.
JPY700, 1h

9:30am

Visit National Museum of Modern Art

Explore Japanese modern art collection, open 10:00am-5:00pm. Entry about JPY500.
JPY500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at soba restaurant

Enjoy a budget soba set meal with fresh noodles and side dishes.
JPY900, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Nezu Shrine

Free entry shrine with beautiful grounds, ideal for photos and a peaceful walk.
JPY0, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore nearby Yanaka Ginza

Walk this old shopping street offering affordable snacks and unique shops.
JPY0, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at local diner

Choose a casual diner serving Japanese comfort food at reasonable prices.
JPY1200, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Day Trip Nikko

Tokyo to Nikko, Japan on March 5, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast convenience store

Quick breakfast to start your day early.
JPY500, 30m

8:00am

Train to Nikko

Travel approximately 2 hours to Nikko by Tobu Railway, famous for UNESCO shrines and natural beauty.
JPY2600, 2h

10:00am

Visit Toshogu Shrine

Explore elaborate shrine complex; entry fee about JPY1300, opens from 8:00am to 5:00pm in winter.
JPY1300, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at local soba restaurant

Try handmade soba noodles, a local specialty at budget price.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Walk nature trails nearby

Enjoy free hiking trails around Nikko’s scenic areas and waterfalls.
JPY0, 3h

4:30pm

Return to Tokyo

Train back to Tokyo after a full day of culture and nature.
JPY2600, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner near hotel

Light and affordable dinner at eateries near your accommodation.
JPY1000, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Leisure & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on March 6, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Hearty breakfast included or easy café nearby.
JPY0, 1h

9:00am

Visit Tsukiji Outer Market

Explore food stalls and try samples or inexpensive seafood snacks, open from early morning till afternoon.
JPY0, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at outer market

Enjoy fresh sushi or tempura at affordable market stalls.
JPY1000, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping in Ginza (window shopping)

Explore Ginza district’s high-end stores; enjoy window shopping and free exhibitions in some shops.
JPY0, 3h

5:00pm

Return to hotel, rest

Relax and prepare for next day.
JPY0, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at chain izakaya

Try a family-friendly izakaya offering various Japanese dishes at reasonable prices.
JPY1300, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 16: Theme Park or Leisure Choice

Tokyo area, Japan on March 7, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at convenience store

Affordable and quick.
JPY500, 30m

9:00am

Optional visit Tokyo DisneySea or Leisure Day

Choose to spend another day at DisneySea (tickets JPY8200), or explore budget-friendly neighborhoods like Kichijoji, including parks and small museums at low cost.
JPY0-8200, All day

7:00pm

Dinner nearby hotel

Relaxing dinner from local eateries or convenience stores.
JPY1000, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 17: Explore More Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on March 8, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at café

Start with coffee and pastry at affordable café.
JPY700, 1h

9:00am

Visit teamLab Planets or Borderless

Experience contemporary digital art museums; book tickets in advance (JPY3200).
JPY3200, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at local café

Light meal to refuel after museum visit.
JPY900, 1h

12:30pm

Explore Odaiba area

Spend afternoon walking seaside parks and visiting free sights like the large Gundam statue.
JPY0, 4h

6:30pm

Dinner at food court

Affordable dinner options with variety at shopping mall food courts.
JPY1000, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 18: Cultural & Garden Visit

Tokyo, Japan on March 9, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Fuel up for a scenic day.
JPY0, 1h

9:00am

Visit Kiyosumi Teien Garden

Peaceful Japanese garden with low entrance fee (JPY150), perfect for photography and relaxing walk.
JPY150, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit Fukagawa Edo Museum

Experience Edo-period life with open-air exhibits; entry JPY400.
JPY400, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at local café

Enjoy affordable lunch featuring local seasonal dishes.
JPY900, 1h

2:00pm

Explore nearby Fukagawa area

Walk through a traditional district with less tourist crowds, free to roam and enjoy.
JPY0, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at local ramen shop

Warm up with a budget ramen dinner near hotel.
JPY900, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 19: Relax & Final Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on March 10, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at café

Casual breakfast with fresh juice and toast.
JPY700, 1h

9:00am

Visit Ikebukuro shopping district

Budget shopping and visit free observation spaces like Sunshine City’s rooftop garden.
JPY0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at food court

Affordable meals with lots of choice to satisfy all tastes.
JPY900, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at hotel or nearby park

Rest and pack leisurely before departure.
JPY0, 3h

5:30pm

Final dinner at budget-friendly izakaya

Celebrate the end of your trip with tasty yet affordable izakaya dining.
JPY1500, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 20: Departure

Tokyo, Japan on March 11, 2026

7:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Quick breakfast before checking out.
JPY0, 30m

8:00am

Travel to airport

Take efficient and budget-friendly transport (Narita Express or Limousine Bus) to airport for flight departure.
JPY3000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability