We’ve recently covered some of Tokyo’s cheapest supermarkets but we have some more gems to share with you still. Don Quijote or Donki (as it is known colloquially) is more than just a supermarket, rather a super cheapo version of […]
As Tokyo shifts into early summer and rainy season mode, there’s an explosion of events. The next two months offer a chance to see two famous and historical festivals – so get your camera ready. This is the second instalment […]
So you’ve finally summoned up all your courage and asked out that cute coworker, you know, the shy one that is always smiling. And for some reason, they actually said “yes!” Now what? It’s time to plan your first date(s) together. […]
Think of Japan and games and you think of Akihabara. Otaku center of the world and birthplace of AKB48, maid cafes, and unreachable dreams. It attracts tourists expecting a uniquely Japanese experience, and it delivers. But while “Akiba” might seem […]
With the dollar stronger than ever (at time of writing, 90 USD will buy you 10,700 yen), now is a great time to visit Japan and get a big bang for your buck. We’ve done three days in Tokyo on […]
Tokyo may seem shiny-shiny and new – and parts of it are. It can feel like everyone has new stuff all the time and you certainly wouldn’t be the first one to look, agape, at what people are putting on […]
Download Podcast In this podcast episode your intrepid Cheapos venture into the deepest darkest depths of Akihabara. With their guide Aaron Baggett, Cheapo extraordinaire and author of our book “A Cheapo’s Guide To Akihabara“, hear them dodge maids, escape the […]
Akihabara is largely known for two things: electronics and being an otaku haven, though nowadays, the electronics seem to have become overshadowed by the geeky stuff. The closest English translation for otaku would be geek, although otaku carries a stronger […]
The dog days of summer are upon us, and what better way to escape the heat than in a cool, dark, air-conditioned theater with a frosty drink in hand and some boom bang on the big screen? But movie ticket […]
See our guide to Tokyo Halloween celebrations 2016. Gather round, cheapo ghoulies and ghosties; the haunting season has arrived! Rehearse your most blood-curdling screams, pick up your cape from the dry cleaner, unearth your robes from the mothballs—it’s time to […]
After being in Japan for a couple years I realized there is such a thing as too much Tokyo. Shinjuku simply becomes too loud, Akihabara game centers all start to look alike, and Shibuya just becomes a mass of people and buildings. Sometimes you […]
Ever wanted to try cosplaying, but didn’t know how to start? No worries, let Studio Crown help you out!
New to Tokyo Cheapo? Read this. We’ve put together a Tokyo for Beginners introductory guide that will help you use our (invaluable) resources to get the most out of Tokyo on a budget. From reasonable ramen to inexpensive ways of […]
An alley of artisan shops and one-of-a-kind craftsmen discretely tucked away under the Yamanote tracks near Okachimachi Station.
Everything you need to know about manga cafes in Tokyo, with a list of central locations at the end of the article.
Established in 2002, Second Harvest is Japan’s very first nationwide food bank. A non-profit organization dedicated to improving food security, reducing food waste and helping those living below the poverty line, Second Harvest is on the front line against unnecessary […]
Coal? Sweet Potato? Cherry Blossom? Try these odd flavors (and your fav traditional flavors too!) at these ice cream shops in Tokyo.
When it comes to the consumption of raw fish in Tokyo, you’re spoiled for choice. There are plenty of cheap places where you can get your sushi fix. We’re guessing you’re after the “real” experience—sushi that comes rolling by on […]
Learn about cheese tarts—the food craze that's swept Japan in the last few years— and where to get the gooiest, butteriest, tastiest bites!
Japan's favorite noodle dish goes far and beyond the regular flavors.
Drink with demons, munch with Moomin or climb into a coffin for your own funeral service—all in the name of culinary fun at these Tokyo themed restaurants!
Kimono never go out of style—read our insider tips and tricks to buying one of the most sought-after Japanese souvenirs.
