Under $100: Kyoto

Grab breakfast at Shinshindo, a Kyoto-only chain that serves breakfast offerings and bakery goods starting at a little more than $5.

Nanzen-ji Temple © Cowardlion | Dreamstime

With nearly 2,000 temples in the city, you’ll definitely want to check out at least a few. Admission to most is only a few dollars if anything and many can easily be reached via public transportation or a short walk. The highly acclaimed Ginkaku-ji Temple is often touted as the most beautiful, so it’s often the most popular with tourists as well. Other favorites include Honen-in Temple and Nanzen-ji Zen Temple.

Paper Lanterns of the Kyoto Nishiki Market © Xvaldes | Dreamstime

One of Japan’s most famous and oldest food markets is the Kyoto Nishiki Market, where you can get lunch for less than $10 by browsing through the dozens of shops and stalls selling everything from exotic produce to fresh eel.

If you’re a fan of manga (as so many fans of Japanese culture are), for just a few dollars, you can visit the first manga museum in the country, the Kyoto International Manga Museum. Permanent displays include exhibits on the true definition of manga, Kamishibai and maiko drawings, among others. There are plenty of traveling exhibits and events as well.

Kyoto International Manga Museum © Cowardlion | Dreamstime

Experience a traditional Kyoto tea ceremony at En, where you can participate in a 45-minute group tea ceremony for a little less than $20. The interactive educational experience will leave you with a new appreciation for this dying art.

For dinner, head to Ramen Santoka for ramen on a budget. The menu is simplistic and keeps your options to a minimum, with six different types of ramen to choose from and only a handful of sides.