Originally Posted by
agp423
Awesome, I want to avoid expensive places too. I'm hoping to score some good pub food when I'm there. Worse comes to worst I'll just point at what others' are having and say "that".
Just go for a walk on any side street and you will find places to eat with food displays or pictures and often an English menu that will be filled with "creative spelling." Be sure to try a nice big bowl of ramen at least once.
If all else fails, there are lots of places in or near the stations. Also, don't be afraid of the various convenience stores (7-11, Lawson's, Family Mart, others) for a quick, light meal. Unlike such places here, the "konbinis" in Japan feature fresh, surprisingly tasty meal items and snacks at reasonable prices. Sandwiches, prepared meals and such can be heated at the counter and carried back to your hotel or elsewhere. I wouldn't make a habit of konbini food but it is quick and readily available. I have to confess to an occasional, unhealthy craving for the unlikely looking yakisoba sandwich and my favorite katsu-sando (cutlet sandwich.) Things we can't get at the local 7-11 in the states.
It would be well nigh impossible to go hungry in Japan.