Eating in Japan Expensive???

Rumor has it that traveling in Japan can be expensive.

The rumor is true. However, travel in Japan can be costly if you plan it that way.
Like any metropolis, the lives of tourist are very much different from the lives of the residents.

Yes, a can of soda is more expensive in Japan than it is in the U.S.. And a steak may be the same price but is served as half sized portion.

Check out these site for an idea of how much things cost.
http://www.pricechecktokyo.com/


If you consider yourself a meat and potatoes guy or if you just do not trust eating at an establishment without english menus, then your trip is going to be expensive.


Those that are not adventurous or are just plain lazy will be relegated to the expensive dining options of the hotels. However, a quick trip to a side alley a walk in the business district reveals a much different set of dining options. These are places where the working class and residents dine. Gone are the matching set of forks and knives and you will not be able to find a pepper shaker. You will find a cup filled with wooden chopsticks and a bottle of shoyu. These establishments range from the mom and pop teishokuya which serves complete meals including miso soup, rice and a main dish for under 700 yen. You often get very good and filling meals of tonkatsu or broiled fish. Yes, the plate lunch does exist in some form in Japan.

Lunch is the battleground for customers in the business districts. Eateries compete with lunch specials starting at 500 yen which often are donburis or even teishoku. On a weekend it common to find lines out the door for people looking to get the "deal of the day".

The bento option is alive and well. One marvels at the selection of bento at the convenience store (conbini). Follow this link to see the option of bentos and musubis. Conbini serves really great bentos that are accenutated by the just in time inventory system which assures freshness. The Combini has also ventured into the world of heat and eat meals. A lot better than the burger option.

Seven Eleven
http://www.sej.co.jp/shohin/index.html

Lawson
http://www.lawson.co.jp



If you absolutely have to have a burger, then the value meal costs about a $1.00 more but the sodas are kiddie size.....