Food Prices In Japan – What Should My Daily Food Budget Be?

According to the Ministry Of Internal Affairs & Communications of Japan, for the first time since September 1980, food prices in Japan increased 7.3% year over year in January 2023. A sharp drop in the value of the yen might result in rising food costs in Japan.

We have collected the data and given specific analysis on the current situation of food prices in Japan, such as: convenience food prices, average meal costs, sushi or ramen prices, etc…Hope you will find useful information for yourself in this article.

1. The average cost of meals in Japan

Most tourists really would like to know the price of typical meals before they travel to another country. What a pity if you wanted to taste a certain meal but it was too pricey for your budget! Knowing the cost of food before you go on your trip is a smart idea because you can prepare your budget options in advance.

The average price of meals in Japan is around 3,670 Yen ~ $27.49 per day, however meal costs might vary. Most of Japan’s cuisine costs less than 1,000 yen per meal. An average lunch in Japan may cost about 1,450 Yen ~ $10.86 for an individual while eating out, according to the buying habits of past tourists.

Depending on the kind of restaurant or the cuisine itself, meal prices might range considerably. Some dishes might cost up to 20,000 Yen ~ $149.84 or as little as 100 Yen ~ $0.75. When compared to lunch or dinner, breakfast prices are often a little less expensive. In Japan, the expense of dining in a restaurant is frequently more costly than the expense of food on the go.

2. Food Prices In Japan – What Should My Daily Food Budget Be?

2.1. Sushi prices in Japan

Sushi is a must-try item if you’re visiting Japan. Comparable to sushi sold elsewhere, delicious, wonderful sushi is readily available in Japan. You may find the greatest sushi at prices that are just right anywhere, including convenience stores, casual eateries, and luxury restaurants. Traditional sushi restaurants with multi-course dinners and a conveyor system restaurants where you’re able to order out of an electronic tablet are both options for customers.

You will usually pay around 2,000 Yen ~ $14.98 to 10,000 Yen ~ $74.92 for a sushi meal. The exact number depends on the restaurant and when you dine. In US dollars, the average cost of a sushi meal varies around $7 to $180. Interestingly, there are sushi meals for 100,000 Yen ~ $749, which is 1,000 times greater in price than casual sushi! There are cheaper sushi meals that cost as little as 10 Yen ~ $0.07.

Specifically, a set lunch of mixed rolled sushi and sashimi at a sushi bar will typically cost approximately 2,000 Yen ~ $14.98 or 3,000 Yen ~ $22.48. Dinner expenses between 5,000 Yen ~ $37.46 to 10,000 Yen ~ $74.92. The cheapest choice is kaiten sushi, or conveyor belt sushi, which ranges in price from 1,000 Yen ~ $7.49 to 2000 Yen ~ $14.98 per person.

Sushi at convenience stores and supermarkets often costs between 500 Yen ~ $3.75 and 1,000 Yen ~ $7.49 in Japan.

2.2. Ramen prices in Japan

In Japan, there are countless ramen restaurants and shops, including big chain stores such as Ichiran to more upscale eateries, and even small, family-run establishments where customers eat while taking a stand.

One of the main appeals of ramen is how inexpensive it all is. In Japan, ramen is a casual meal that typically ranges from 400 Yen ~ $3 to 1,200 Yen ~ $9 a bowl. Even with additional toppings, a dipping sauce, and a beverage like beer, the price will probably not exceed 2,000 Yen ~ $14.98.

Ramen is priced differently depending on the type, and as was already mentioned, adding toppings like eggs, onions or barbecue pork would make the dish more expensive. Without any alterations, special ramen, such as vegetarian and vegan versions or gluten-free meals, typically costs approximately 1,000 Yen ~ $7.49. A premium bowl that costs roughly 2,500 Yen ~ $22.27 will have a richer soup and fancy toppings to suit a restaurant’s luxurious cuisine.

2.3. Wagyu beef and teppanyaki price

Wagyu, which is also known as “Japanese beef” ranks as one of the most famous delicacies among tourists to Japan. Because of its special texture and fatty marbling, Wagyu beef is the most luscious, rich, and tasty meat available. For Japanese beef (Wagyu), grilled dishes like okonomiyaki, or a satisfying meal with beverages, let’s visit a yakiniku or teppanyaki restaurant.

Usually yakiniku restaurants let you choose the meat you want to eat and then grill it directly in front of you. You may pay around 2,000 Yen ~ $14.98 to 4,000 Yen ~ $29.97 for each meal per person, depending on the type of meat and quantity you order. Supper prices between 6,000 Yen ~ $44.95 and 10,000 Yen ~ $74.92, which are slightly higher.

A cast-iron griddle is used to prepare teppanyaki. On their menu, the majority include items like yakisoba, monjayaki (a common food in Tokyo), and okonomiyaki (a savory Kansai pancake). Grilled meat and seafood is sometimes available. You have to pay around 500 Yen ~ $3.75 to 1000 Yen ~ $7.49 per dish when ordering the meal.

2.4. Ramen Price in Japan

Ramen, initially of Chinese origin, has evolved into a beloved culinary delight in Japan. This delectable dish features tender noodles immersed in a flavorful broth crafted from a variety of bases, including meat, fish, or vegetable stock. Typically, this broth is artfully seasoned with soy sauce, miso, or salt, and it’s frequently adorned with delectable toppings such as thinly sliced pork, fresh green onions, and an array of complementary ingredients.

The price of ramen in Japan can vary widely depending on where you eat and the type of ramen you order. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from 600 yen ~ $4.02 to 1,200 yen ~ $8.04 for a bowl of ramen at a typical ramen shop or restaurant. However, prices can be lower at more budget-friendly or local establishments, and higher at upscale or specialty ramen shops.

Keep in mind that there are various types of ramen with different ingredients and preparation methods, which can also affect the price. Some famous regional styles of ramen, like Hakata ramen or Sapporo ramen, may have slightly different price ranges due to their unique characteristics.

Additionally, prices in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka tend to be higher than in smaller towns and rural areas. Street food stalls or food courts might offer more affordable options as well.

2.5. Tempura Price in Japan

Tempura is a culinary delight consisting of seafood or vegetables that have been expertly coated in a delicate mixture of flour and egg before being deep-fried to crispy perfection. This delectable dish can be savored in a variety of dining establishments, ranging from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, where it may either accompany other dishes or take center stage as a delectable main course.

The price of tempura in Japan can vary depending on several factors, including the type of restaurant or eatery, the ingredients used, and the location. Tempura is available at various price points, from affordable street food stalls to high-end restaurants.

At more budget-friendly options like street vendors or small local shops, you may find individual pieces of tempura or small tempura sets priced anywhere from 100 yen ~ $0.67 to 500 yen ~ $3.35 per serving.

In mid-range restaurants, tempura sets typically cost between 1,000 yen ~ $6.70 to 3,000 yen ~ $20.09. These sets often include a variety of tempura items, such as shrimp, vegetables, and seafood, served with rice, soup, and condiments.

At upscale tempura restaurants or specialty tempura establishments, prices can be significantly higher. A multi-course tempura omakase meal at a high-end restaurant can range from 10,000 yen ~ $66.97 to 20,000 yen ~ $133.94 or more, depending on the quality of ingredients and the dining experience.

2.6. Takoyaki Price in Japan

Takoyaki is a beloved Japanese street food characterized by petite batter balls filled with diced octopus, bits of tempura, and finely chopped green onions. These delectable orbs are skillfully prepared on a unique griddle and commonly accompanied by a flavorful sauce and creamy mayonnaise.

Here are some general price ranges you might encounter:

• Street vendors and stalls: Takoyaki is commonly sold at street food stalls and festivals. At these stalls, you can typically find servings of takoyaki priced around 300 yen ~ $2.01  to 600 yen ~ $4.02 for a standard serving, which usually consists of several pieces (usually 6-8) of takoyaki.
• Casual restaurants and food courts: In casual dining establishments, the price for takoyaki can range from 500 yen ~ $3.35 to 1,000 yen ~ $6.70 for a serving, depending on the location and the restaurant’s reputation.
• High-end or specialty restaurants: Some high-end or specialty restaurants may offer more upscale versions of takoyaki, and prices can be higher, ranging from 1,000 yen ~ $6.70 to 3,000 yen ~ $20.09 or more.

2.7. Udon Price in Japan

Udon, a hearty wheat noodle, is a versatile dish enjoyed both hot and cold. Typically, it’s presented in a straightforward broth, complemented by an array of toppings like tempura, vegetables, and egg to enhance its flavors.

The price of udon in Japan can vary widely depending on where you eat and the type of udon dish you order. Udon is a popular and widely available noodle dish in Japan, and prices can range from very affordable to moderately priced, with some high-end variations.

In more casual settings like street vendors or food stalls, a basic bowl of udon can cost as little as 300 yen ~ $2.01  to 600 yen ~ $4.02. These are typically simple preparations with fewer toppings or add-ons.

In casual dining establishments and fast-food chains specializing in udon, you can expect to pay around 600 yen ~ $4.02 to 1,200 yen ~ $8.04 for a regular bowl of udon. The price can vary depending on the location and any additional toppings or ingredients.

In high-end or specialty udon restaurants, prices can be significantly higher. Some upscale udon dishes can cost anywhere from 1,500 yen ~ $10.05 to 5,000 yen ~ $33.48 or more, especially if they feature premium ingredients or unique preparations.

Prices can also vary based on the type of udon dish you order. For example, kitsune udon (udon with sweet fried tofu) or tempura udon (udon with tempura) may have different price points.

2.8. Okonomiyaki Price in Japan

Okonomiyaki is a delectable savory pancake crafted from a batter comprising flour, water, and eggs, generously stuffed with an assortment of ingredients like cabbage, pork, shrimp, or cheese. This flavorful creation is traditionally crowned with a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce, creamy mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of dried bonito flakes for added depth and deliciousness.

In more casual settings like street vendors or small local okonomiyaki shops, you can find basic okonomiyaki dishes for as low as 500 yen ~ $3.35 to 1,000 yen ~ $6.70. These might be simple versions with fewer ingredients.

In casual dining establishments and chain restaurants specializing in okonomiyaki, prices for a standard okonomiyaki dish typically range from 800 yen ~ $5.36 to 2,000 yen ~ $13.39, depending on the size and toppings.

In high-end or specialty okonomiyaki restaurants, prices can be higher. More elaborate okonomiyaki dishes with premium ingredients or unique preparations can cost anywhere from 2,000 ~ $13.39 to 5,000 ~ $33.48 or more.

2.9. Yakitori Price in Japan

Yakitori, a popular street food delicacy in Japan, consists of grilled chicken skewers frequently offered by street vendors and cozy eateries. This tasty treat showcases various chicken parts, including succulent meat, flavorful skin, and even savory innards.

At more casual settings like street vendors or food stalls, you can find individual skewers of yakitori priced at around 100 yen ~ $0.67 to 300 yen ~ $2.01 each.

In casual dining establishments and izakayas (Japanese pubs), you can expect to pay approximately 100 yen ~ $0.67 to 300 yen ~ $2.01 per skewer. Many places offer set menus or combination platters which can offer better value.

You can also like:

• How To Cook Wagyu Steak? Super Easy Cooking Ways
• Why Is Wagyu So Expensive? The Secrets Behind Its Price
• Popular Types Of Sashimi Recommended By Japanese Food Lovers

3. Japanese and Western Fast Food Prices

Another choice for eating out in Japan is fast food. Diners may select from businesses including Matsuya, which serves rice bowls, Mos Burger, which offers Japanese-Western burgers, and worldwide chains like Burger King and McDonald’s. These eateries are affordable, feature menus that appeal to foreign customers, and are casual.

As was already said, there are numerous fast food restaurants in Japan that provide western cuisine. For burgers, the most popular options are McDonald’s, Mos Burger, Lotteria and Burger King. KFC is another well-known establishment. While prices differ amongst restaurants, McDonald’s is often the least expensive choice.

A common fast food meal in Japan is 200 Yen ~ $1.5 for a burger and 700 Yen ~ $5.24 for a McMeal at BurgerKing or McDonald’s (or a comparable combo meal). Meanwhile, a Lotteria set meal costs from 600 Yen ~ $4.5 to 1000 Yen ~ $7.49 and KFC is a bit cheaper with 500 Yen ~ $3.75 for a set.

In addition to Western fast food, Gyudon (beef bowl) is regarded as one of the most well-known fast foods in Japan. You can taste it at any of the nationwide Matsuya, Sukiya or Yoshinoya eateries. The salty flavor of beef slices piled on top of hot rice and the sweet flavor of soy sauce combine to create the unique flavor of Gyudon.

Depending on the restaurant and region, prices might vary, but a regular bowl costs about 400 Yen ~ $3. You may choose the serving size as well; a little bowl typically costs 300 Yen ~ $2.25, while a larger one costs approximately 500 Yen ~ $3.75. If you want more side dishes or miso soup, you have to pay an additional 100 Yen ~ $0.75.

Teishoku is also another casual choice. Teishoku are pre-prepared dinners that include a main dish (often fish or pork), miso soup, rice, and extra side cuisine just like salad. It is somewhat more pricey than the Gyudon, which normally costs from 800 Yen ~ $5.99 to 1,000 Yen ~ $7.49.

4. Convenience Store Meal Prices

While there are plenty of establishments in Japan, the convenience stores, also called “Conbini” are arguably more vital to the everyday life of the Japanese people. Lawson, Family Mart, and Seven Eleven are the three most popular chains. As the majority are open around-the-clock, you may drop by anytime you are hungry.

There are several meals, snacks, and drinks available at convenience stores. There are several meals, snacks, and drinks available at convenience stores. There are many options for snacks and sweets, as well as onigiri (rice balls), sandwiches, pastries, bento, Japanese noodles and udon. Moreover, hot food including steamed buns, karaage (Japanese fried chicken),… are also served at convenience stores.

For example, onigiri ranges from 100 Yen ~ $0.75 to 200 Yen ~ $1.5, sandwiches and sides cost approximately 200 Yen ~ $1.5, noodles have prices of 300 Yen ~ $2.25 to 500 Yen ~ $3.75, hot foods from 100 Yen ~ $0.75 to 300 Yen ~ $2.25, and beverages cost less than 200 Yen ~ $1.5.

Convenience store meals would cost between 400 Yen ~ $3 and 600 Yen ~ $4.5 in total. Even if you buy many things or go on a trip with a friend, the total figure will be close to 1,000 Yen ~ $7.49. Convenience shops are excellent for every meal since they provide a wide range of selections. Let’s visit one for a quick meal there.

5. Family meal prices

When coming to Japan, what will be the most reasonable dining option for the family? As we have suggested above, you have a lot of options from luxurious restaurants to casual ones. But we recommend you visit family restaurants which are wonderful places for families to dine.

Several relatively inexpensive eateries in Japan are referred to as “family restaurants”. This phrase is utilized since these restaurants give a cozy space that makes it simple for families with kids to visit regularly. Joyfull, Saizeriya, Denny’s, and Gusto are a few popular family restaurants in Japan. Each guest will spend about 1,000 Yen ~ $7.49 on their meal at any of these establishments.

Most foods ordered à la carte are priced around 600 Yen ~ $4.5 and 800 Yen ~ $5.99. The total amount should be approximately 1,000 Yen ~ $7.49 if you add pasta, bread, or soup.

6. Drink prices in Japan

Although food prices are on the rise, drink prices in Japan are relatively cheap, especially alcohol. In Japan, a person will typically spend 1,870 Yen ~ $14 a day on alcoholic beverages. Convenience stores and supermarkets also sell alcohol inexpensively.

Prices for 350 ml bottles start at just 120 Yen ~ $0.9, and 500 ml bottles cost 150 Yen ~ $1.12, which is incredibly low. Some people find drinking in Japan to be interesting because it’s legal to buy and drink booze 24 hours a day and even on public streets.

In Japan, consumers pay an average amount of 542 Yen ~ $4 each day on bottled water. Japan’s tap water is recognized as being safe to drink. Coke or Pepsi is also a popular choice at around 150 Yen ~ $1.12 for a 0.33 liter bottle.

Most cities also have both big chains and artisanal cafes. Prices in coffee shops are generally approximately 300 Yen ~ $2.25 for a cup of coffee, whereas they are often a bit higher at premium cafes. For example, a cup of cappuccino can cost 439 Yen ~ $3.29 while a short espresso costs 307 Yen ~ $2.3.

7. Food prices in summary:

Food	Average Price
Sushi	1000 Yen to 10,000 Yen ~ $7.49 to $74.9
Ramen	400 Yen to 1200 Yen ~ $3 to $9
Wagyu	2000 Yen to 4000 Yen ~ $14.9 to $29
Gyudon	around 400 Yen ~ $3
Teishoku	800 Yen to 1000 Yen ~ $6 to $7.49
Western fast food	500 Yen to 800 Yen ~ $3.75 to $6
Convenience store meals	around 100 Yen to 600 Yen ~ $0.75 to $4.5
Alcohol	120 Yen to 150 Yen ~ $0.9 to $1.12
Bottled water	150 Yen ~ $1.12
Cappuccino	439 Yen ~ $3.29
Espresso	307 Yen ~ $2.3

8. FAQs

8.1. Is Japan expensive for food?

Japanese food is renowned throughout the world for its variety and wonderful flavors. Even the pickiest eaters might discover a cuisine they adore.

Thus, compared to many other Asian countries, food in Japan is a bit more expensive. The meal cost in Japan is frequently slightly higher than that of Thai, Chinese, Vietnam and other Asian foods. Furthermore, with the recent sharp decline in the Japanese yen, food prices could be increasing.

Nevertheless, the cost of food in Japan is actually not too expensive in comparison to several European nations, The United States, and other significant tourist countries. You can definitely eat reasonably priced meals that are tasty if you know how to budget your money and carefully consider your dining options.

8.2. How much does food cost in Japan per month?

According to the most recent statistics available on food expenditures from the Japanese Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, families in Japan spent over 10,000 Yen ~ $74.92 Japanese yen per month on prepared food goods in 2022, making this category the one with the highest food expenditures. Also that year, Japanese households spent a total of more than 63,000 Yen ~ $471 for meals per month.

For a single living person, the food price can differ greatly based on their lifestyle, with individuals who cook at home usually more likely to spend less than those who eat out. When compared to the cost of dining out each day, food for a few days purchased at the grocery store may be just around 2000 yen ~ $15,09.

Besides, because there are so many convenience stores and casual restaurants available everywhere, those who do not have enough time to prepare meals will still be successful in finding cuisine that meets their financial needs in Japan. Your expected expenditures might range from 30,000 Yen ~ $224 to 50,000 Yen ~ $374 per month or more, according to your eating habits.

8.3. How much money do you need per day in Japan?

2023 estimates the daily spending needed for visitors, students, and workers to Japan at between 7000 Yen ~ $52 and 18,000 yen ~ $135 per day. Considering the costs of other tourists, you should budget around 15,174 yen ~ $113 per day for your trip to Japan. These expenditures are mainly on those for meals, sightseeing and transportation. On average, previous tourists have paid 2,285 yen ~ $17 for public transportation and 3,672 yen ~ $27 for food for one day.

8.4. How much does street food cost in Japan?

A massive rise in the consumption tax in Japan from 8% to 10% has made dining out more expensive. But don’t worry, Japan offers many delicious street food options to assist you in remaining within budget while still savoring the cuisine.

For less than 200 Yen ~ $1.5, you can absolutely find a lot of attractive and delicious food on the streets of Japan.

Featuring taiyaki, the well-known Japanese fish ice cream. This interesting waffle pancake in the shape of a fish is a typical street food dish that you can get all across Japan. They’re ideally served warm and generally have a tasty red bean flavor. You just have to pay about 150 Yen ~ $1.12 for a taiyaki. Another popular choice is takoyaki. This famous Japanese delicacy is sold on the streets all around the world. The process of making takoyaki, which is created with a piece of octopus enclosed in a batter composed of wheat flour and vegetables, is also fascinating. Takoyaki costs around 400 Yen ~ $3 to 600 Yen ~ $4.5 for a box of 8 pieces. Smaller box with 4 pieces is only about 200 Yen ~ $1.5.

The full and tasty dish known as Ikayaki, or grilled squid, is available at most, if not every, street food stands. Some people might not find it to be the most favorable, but the soy sauce covering and straightforward cooking method make for an interestingly flavorful experience. The cost of an Ikayaki meal ranges from 170 Yen ~ $1.2 to 200 Yen ~ $1.5.

There are also many other special street foods such as: Senbei (rice cracker) costs around 150 Yen ~ $1.12; Yakitori (Japan grilled chicken skewers) with 100 Yen ~ $0.75 to 200 Yen ~ $1.5 per item; Okonomiyaki ranges in price from 600 Yen ~ $4.5 to 800 Yen ~ $5.99 a dish;….

If you’re a sweet tooth, Dango 100 – 200 Yen ~ $0.75 – $1.5; Daifuku about 200 Yen ~ $1.5; chocolate banana 200 yen ~ $1.5;… are the perfect choices for you.

8.5. How much is a cheap meal in Japan?

Everyone has various purposes when they travel; some would like to eat at the top restaurants and taste the best cuisines of the nation, whereas others prefer to enjoy as much of the local street food as possible.

Also, the more money you save on your vacation to Japan, the more travel you may do! Trying numerous different, less expensive meals during your trip instead of just trying to visit all of Japan’s top-rated eateries is a good idea.

If you’re finding cheap meal options in Japan, plan on spending around 300 to 500 Yen ~ $2,26 to $3.77 for breakfast and about 700 Yen ~ $5.2 to 1000 Yen ~ $7.49 each for lunch and dinner. You can also find simple and affordable meals sold at supermarkets, convenience stores and shopping streets.

Some recommended dishes are: bento 300 – 700 Yen ~ $2.25 – $5.2, ramen 400 – 1200 Yen ~ $3 – $8.9, gyudon 300 – 500 Yen ~ $2.25 – $3.75, conveyor belt sushi about 100 – 500 yen ~ $0.75 – $3.75,….

8.6. How much is a single meal in Japan?

As mentioned above, an average meal in Japan can range from 100 to 2000 Yen ~ $0.75 to $14.9 depending on the dish and the restaurant where you dine. Below, I will analyze in detail how much you should pay for each meal including: breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Breakfast starts with a casual coffee and snacks bought from the convenience shop or a nearby bakery. You just pay less than 667 Yen ~ $5 per meal. Hotel buffet prices typically vary from 1134 Yen ~ $10 to 4000 Yen ~ $30. Remember that in Japan, coffee shops and bakeries frequently open late in the morning.

Next, we have lunch that should be simple to keep around 1000 Yen ~$7.49.

And after a long day, a luxury dinner may be a great choice. For those on a tighter budget, 2000 Yen ~ $14.9 should be enough to enjoy premium meals.

9. Conclusion

Along with the prices of transportation and fuel, accommodation cost, food prices in Japan are also constantly fluctuating. Whether you are a resident of Japan or a tourist who is considering traveling there, keep updating the price situation every day to make the most beneficial buying decisions for you and your family.