Top international destinations from Japan on a budget

With everyday costs here in Japan constantly creeping up, it's no surprise that even when it comes to overseas trips, people are looking for nearby destinations that won't break the bank. A recent survey by Hankyu Travel International looked at the top places people in Japan dream of visiting on a budget, and if you're also thinking about cost-effective getaways then these are some of their findings!

Taiwan and Korea top the wish list

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Taiwan and South Korea took the top two spots. Both are close enough for quick getaways (just 2 to 4 hours away by plane), making them not only budget-friendly for airfares but also less time-consuming...a great thing when you're trying to minimize time off work!

Survey respondents appreciated things like Taiwan's vibrant night markets and cultural sights, and Korea's shopping, food, and well-developed public transport. Additionally, cheap flights and lower local prices help keep trips manageable.

One of my first-ever international trips while living here in Japan was a cruise to Taiwan and South Korea -- two of the top spots on Hankyu Travel's list!

Distant favorites like Hawaii and Italy stay on the radar

Despite the not-so-great yen and long flights, places like Hawaii and Italy still appear high on people's wish lists. It seems that if you're willing to get creative (e.g. flying off-season, staying in guesthouses, or cooking meals yourself) you can still make these bucket-list trips fit a reasonable budget.

Where do people save?

The survey found most people are looking to cut transportation and accommodation costs first, followed by limiting souvenirs, shortening trips, and spending less on food. Some of the tips mentioned were things I've also done on a budget, such as keeping an eye out for low cost carrier deals, using public transport over taxis, and skipping pricey tourist menus.

Being based in Japan has its perks

One big takeaway is that living here in Japan puts us in an ideal spot to explore Asia affordably. It's easy to hop over to places like Taiwan, Korea, Thailand, or even my home country of Australia with budget carriers. When every yen counts, it's nice to have so many nearby options that don’t require you to miss out on the fun of travel.

Have you had any successful budget travel adventures abroad whilst living here in Japan? Any favorites to share?