Accommodation
Japan is known for being an expensive place to visit. Accommodations in Japan are very expensive as well. That is you do not take the time to choose the right place. When taking the time to do your homework ahead of time inexpensive lodgings can be found.
There are many online booking companies that can assist in booking the flight and the hotel all in one shot. This is a fast and covenant way to get the cheap accommodations but it may take some digging to get just what you are looking for. When booking all in one on the internet make sure that you search around do not just choose the first one you see there may be better deals out there.
Japan also has a national tourist organization that can help you with reservations prior to reaching to Japan. The information is on the internet along with a few other sites that can assist in reservations.
Already in Japan and need accommodations? Do not worry here are a few tips. There are different types of accommodations you can choose from. If you are staying for a period of time in Japan you may consider a homestay. This can also be arranged before arriving. For a shorter stay you may want to consider a youth hostel or a minshuku. If you are not already a member of a youth hostel you can sign up on the spot. In a youth hostel they usually sleep 6-10 people in a room. In this accommodation they usually serve a Japanese style breakfast. The downfall to this accommodation is you have to put away your own bedding in the morning and they have a communal bathroom and bath.
The minshuku is a bed and breakfast type of accommodation. You rent a room in someone's home and eat with them what they eat. The rooms are usually done in traditional Japanese style with a floor mat called a tatami and a futon. This is good for the ultimate traditional Japanese experience. The minshuku usually runs about 8000 yen for each person which is about $75 dollars U.S. dollars.
As far as reasonable accommodations go, there are also the Gaijin houses where you will get your own room, the capsule room which is similar to sleeping in a capsule but very private. but woman are usually not allowed due to the fact there is only one shower room. Then there is the Business hotel; this accommodation is not so clean and is like sleeping in a locker.
If you still want the traditional experience of Japan but prefer a more luxury accommodation you can try the Ryokan. In the Ryokan you get your own traditional Japanese style room with the tatami and futon. Meals are usually served in your room and there is at least one hot spring to bath.
Taking a trip or vacation to Japan does not have to break the bank for you to have accommodations and the best traditional experience you have ever had. It just takes some research about the area and accommodation located in the area you plan to stay. When in Japan do as the Japanese do and have fun.