Tokyo is a city with a cuisine as strange and wonderful as any in the world. The unfortunate side, especially for budget travelers, is that Tokyo is also one of the most expensive cities on earth. Is it possible to experience this vibrant cuisine on a shoestring?

The answer can be found at the bottom of a bowl of noodles. Literally.

The cheapest, and often some of the best, eats in Japan can be found at any friendly neighborhood noodle shop. For a few dollars (no more than 10 usually), you can experience this Japanese staple without breaking your travel budget.

Are we talking noodles stir-fried with fish eyeballs or something funky like that? Probably not, though if you really want that and are willing to look hard enough…

The good thing about eating in Japan is that many restaurants have menus with pictures or even plastic models of the specialties. So, even with a very limited Japanese, you can have at least a general idea of what you’re ordering. Many shops actually have an automated payment system that takes your Yen much like a vending machine and spits out a ticket. This ticket goes to the counter attendant who passes it on to the cook. No Japanese language skills necessary.

Many times, the choice will be between thin noodles (soba) or wider, flatter noodles (udon). Additions can include fish, meat, veggies, and tofu. Whatever the ingredients, a bowl at a noodle shop is likely hearty enough to leave you satisfied and still in possession of most of your wealth.