As an American tourist in Japan, I am in awe of everything that gives this country its charm. The culture, food, heritage, and even the convenience of public transport has definitely made it clear why Japan was chosen as the “most attractive country in the world” for two years straight.

While the main reason I am here is for the Harbingers’ Hiroshima and Nagasaki newsroom, I would be lying if I wasn’t excited about the prospects of some good shopping. I came ready with a curated list of uniquely Japanese items with attractive price tags to take back home to America with me.

And I am not the only one. For many around the world, the weakening value of the yen, since 2021, made Japan the new budget friendly travel hotspot.

But there’s a catch: tourists like me, from countries with strong currencies, come prepared to spend their big dollars like they do back home without understanding its effect on the local economy. The lack of awareness enables Japanese businesses to set their prices according to what tourists are willing to spend instead of reasonable rates that locals can afford to pay.

Japanese locals are left paying foreign prices without having the same foreign salaries at their disposal to pay for the inflated goods.

Tourism boom

Since the 1990s, prices in Japan have remained relatively stagnant, resistant to inflation, however, ever since the solidification of the tourism boom in 2023, the controlled prices began to hike up noticeably. If tourists are not careful with where and how they spend their money, no one, locals or tourists, will be able to enjoy Japan as it is — rich in culture, impressive in its beauty and economically accessible.

According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), there was a 21% increase in visitor arrivals in the first six months of 2025 compared to the same time period of 2024, breaking new records of tourism for Japan.

While tourist spending may seem like a trivial issue on the surface, with international tourists spending 8 trillion yen ($53 billion) in 2024 alone, there are real consequences that need to be addressed.

Cost of living

According to Romancing Japan, on average, Japan’s cost of living is about 55% lower than that of the United States. Specifically, rent is 56% lower, dining out costs on average are 60% lower, and healthcare is significantly more affordable for all. Simply put, everything costs less.

Finding a balance

Japan does need tourism. The industry propels investment in infrastructure, creates jobs and stimulates the economy — all key to growing Japan’s mostly stagnant economy.

Visitors must remember that while they are entitled to a quality experience, they still have a responsibility to respect the country they are visiting, including the economy. Japan is not a theme park.

So where do we find a balance? Conscience spending is the answer.

First, start with research. This doesn’t just apply to Japan, but when travelling to any country. In addition to understanding the local customs and culture, dig deeper into what would be considered reasonable spending so you are in a position to make more economical decisions.

Beyond just food, the best experiences are going to come from where you least expect it. Don’t chase after the overexposed social media hotspots and try straying off the path every once in a while in favour of local business, traditional experiences, or choosing locally owned accommodations.

I understand that the weaker yen can help save money, but seriously think about what you are buying. Your actions alone may not seem significant, but by following the trends you are part of the problem. Be considerate and spend consciously.