Skiing and snowboarding tend to be more expensive than ordinary travel. In addition to transportation, meals, and accommodation, travelers must also pay for ski or snowboard rentals and lift passes. Meanwhile, Japan is currently experiencing rising prices—a burden for locals, but a major opportunity for foreign visitors.
As of November 2025, the exchange rate is around 1 USD = 155 JPY, meaning that the Japanese yen is significantly weaker compared with recent years. In other words, from the perspective of foreign currencies such as the U.S. dollar, euro, or Australian dollar, the yen is cheaper—effectively making Japan more affordable. By taking advantage of this exchange rate, travelers can enjoy savings on flights, lodging, meals, transportation, and activities. This article explains why now is the best time to visit Japan, how much you can actually save, and key points to keep in mind.
1. Why the Weak Yen Means More Value for Foreign Travelers
Let’s start with the basics. A “weak yen” means that the value of the yen is relatively low compared to other currencies. For example, when 1 USD = 110 JPY in the past, the same dollar now exchanges for about 155 yen. This means that your foreign currency buys more yen—so you can spend more in Japan without increasing your actual cost in dollars or euros.
Because most travel-related payments—such as hotels, restaurants, and transport—are made in yen, booking when the exchange rate is favorable allows travelers to pay effectively less. For instance, if a trip costs ¥100,000, that was about USD 909 when the rate was ¥110 to the dollar. At today’s rate of ¥155, the same USD 909 buys ¥140,000 or more. In other words, your travel budget stretches much further.
2. Real Example: How Much Can You Save?
Let’s look at a practical example. Suppose you travel from Tokyo to a ski resort such as Gala Yuzawa or Hakuba for a one-week stay:
- Transportation (round trip): ¥30,000
- Accommodation: ¥10,000 × 7 nights = ¥70,000
- Lift tickets & ski rental: ¥10,000 × 5 days = ¥50,000
The total comes to ¥150,000.
Now let’s compare how this looks in USD:
- At ¥110 per dollar: ¥150,000 ÷ 110 ≈ USD 1,364
- At ¥155 per dollar: ¥150,000 ÷ 155 ≈ USD 968
That’s roughly USD 400 cheaper for the exact same trip—purely due to exchange rates.
You could use the savings to:
- Upgrade to a ryokan with a private onsen (hot spring)
- Join a professional ski school to improve your skills
- Indulge in regional gourmet cuisine or sake tasting
- Travel in style with a Green Car (first-class) Shinkansen seat
The longer your stay, the greater the benefit. If you combine your ski trip with sightseeing in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, your overall savings will grow even more. In short, now is the time to enjoy a richer Japan travel experience with the same foreign-currency budget.
3. How to Maximize the Exchange Rate Advantage by Travel Category
3.1 Flights and Package Tours
Because most airfares and package tours are calculated in yen, booking early while the yen is weak locks in a better deal. With the possibility of further yen depreciation, it’s wise to confirm reservations while rates remain favorable.
3.2 Hotels and Ryokan
Japanese accommodation fees and cancellation policies are typically denominated in yen. Booking early ensures you pay in a weaker yen, minimizing your actual cost in dollars or euros.
3.3 Dining, Experiences, and Shopping
Since these expenses are also yen-based, a weak yen increases your purchasing power. That means you can afford luxury kaiseki dining, cultural workshops, or premium souvenirs that might have been out of reach before.
3.4 Domestic Travel and Activities
For trips involving domestic transport—such as exploring Hokkaido, Tohoku, or ski resorts—your yen savings apply to car rentals, train tickets, and guided tours. This is an excellent time to invest in “quality travel experiences” that enrich your visit.
4. Future Outlook
In the short term, many analysts expect the USD/JPY rate to stay between 155 and 160. In October, Japan saw a political shift as Prime Minister Takai took office, promoting growth and fiscal expansion policies. Since her administration is expected to prioritize stimulus over interest rate hikes, the weak yen may persist throughout this winter season. Therefore, visitors can expect favorable rates for the remainder of the 2025–2026 travel season.
5. Important Notes
While a weak yen makes Japan more affordable, it’s not advisable to exchange or hold excessive yen beyond your travel needs. Currency markets can shift, and the yen could strengthen later. Additionally, if you carry over ¥1 million (or equivalent) in cash out of Japan, you must declare it at customs upon departure.
6. Conclusion
Now is the perfect time for foreign travelers to visit Japan. The weak yen means your foreign currency goes further, making your trip more rewarding for the same budget. By taking advantage of this opportunity, you can experience Japan’s culture, nature, cuisine, and hospitality more fully. Turn the exchange rate in your favor and make this winter’s Japan trip truly unforgettable.
