How To Spend a Full Day in Tokyo on a Budget

Planning a day out in Tokyo? A budget of PHP5,000 can go further than you think. With smart choices, you can enjoy food, shopping and famous sights without overspending. Here is a simple guide to spending one full day in Tokyo on a limited budget.

If you are looking for an easy way to convert JPY to PHP, you can visit Smiles’ exchange rate page to check the latest rates and convert currencies anytime, anywhere.

Breakfast: Convenience Store

Start your day at a nearby FamilyMart. Try the popular egg sandwich (tamago sando) and Famichiki fried chicken for a quick and affordable breakfast.

You can take your food to a nearby park and enjoy the view, since many shops open later in the morning.

Photo source: Fun Japan

Budget for breakfast

• Estimate: ¥600-¥800
• In pesos: about PHP200-PHP300

Morning: Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

Head to Asakusa and walk through Kaminarimon Gate to reach Sensoji Temple. After that, explore Nakamise Shopping Street, which is filled with traditional snacks and small souvenirs. Most items here are affordable and perfect for travelers on a budget.

Photo source: Japan 365 days

Budget for souvenirs and snacks: 

• Estimate: ¥1,000-¥1,500
• In pesos: about PHP400-PHP600

Lunch: Gyukatsu in Asakusa

For lunch, try Asakusa Gyukatsu, one of the area’s most popular restaurants. You cook each slice of deep-fried beef on a small hot stone at your table. The set meals are filling and can fit a mid-range budget if you plan ahead.

Photo source: Mini Gurume

Budget for lunch: 

• Estimate: ¥2,000-¥3,000
• In pesos: about PHP700-PHP1,200

Afternoon: Sumida River Walk

After lunch, take a relaxing walk along the Sumida River. You can enjoy fresh air and scenic views of the city. Look out for the Asahi Beer Hall’s golden flame, one of the area’s most unique landmarks. This is a free and peaceful way to rest before your next stop.

Photo source: Guidable

Late afternoon: Tokyo Skytree and Solamachi

Make your way to Tokyo Skytree, one of Tokyo’s most famous towers. At the base of the tower is Tokyo Solamachi, a large shopping complex where you can buy souvenirs and try local snacks.

Tip: Buy your observation deck ticket early, as lines can be long depending on the day and time.

From the observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic views, take photos and relax at the café area.

Photo source: Pinterest

Budget for the tickets: 

• Estimate: ¥2,100-¥3,100
• In pesos: about PHP800-PHP1,200

Budget for souvenirs: 

• Estimate: ¥1,000-¥2,000
• In pesos: about PHP400-PHP800

Dinner: Ichiran Ramen

End your day with a warm bowl of ramen at Ichiran, a popular ramen chain that is open 24 hours. It is a convenient and satisfying way to finish a full day of sightseeing.

Photo source: Guidable

Budget for dinner: 

• Estimate: ¥1,000-¥1,500
• In pesos: about PHP400-PHP600

Total Estimated Budget: 

Category	Yen Estimate	PHP Estimate
Food (breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks)	¥5,000 – ¥7,000	PHP1,875 – 2,625
Skytree ticket	¥2,100 – ¥3,100	PHP788 – 1,163
Shopping and souvenirs	¥1,000 – ¥2,000	PHP375 – 750
Total	¥8,100 – ¥12,100	PHP3,038 – 4,538

Based on the JPY to PHP rate as of November 21, 2025.

With careful planning, you can enjoy a full day in Tokyo without breaking the bank. Whether it’s food, sightseeing, or souvenirs, a PHP5,000 budget can go a long way. And if you need an easy way to convert pesos to yen, manage your money while traveling, or send money back home to your loved ones, Smiles Mobile Remittance makes it simple to check exchange rates and transfer funds anytime, anywhere, so you can focus on enjoying your day while staying connected.