Save Money at Cafes! How to Work Long Hours While Keeping Drink Costs Down

For people who study or work at cafes, daily drink expenses add up fast. Here are techniques for keeping cafe costs low while staying comfortable.

■ Cost-Effective Cafe Chains (as of 2025)
1. McDonald's — Coffee S 140 yen. Wi-Fi and power outlets available. Turnover is fast, so be mindful during busy times. (Source: McDonald's official, February 2026 price revision)
2. Saizeriya — Set Drink Bar 200 yen. Food is also cheap. (Source: Uramenu.com, February 2025 update)
3. Komeda Coffee — Coffee 460-700 yen (varies by location), but the morning service (until 11 AM) includes bread and egg. (Source: Komeda Coffee official website)

■ Money-Saving Techniques
1. Some shops offer a discount if you bring your own tumbler
2. Go early in the morning — fewer crowds make it easier to stay long, and morning services are a good deal
3. Combine with the library — use the library for focused work and the cafe for a change of pace

■ Free Alternatives
- Public libraries (Wi-Fi available, completely free)
- University open spaces
- Shopping mall food courts
- Park benches (fair-weather only)

Cutting even a little off your daily cafe spending adds up to thousands of yen saved per month.

* Listed prices are as of 2025. Prices may vary by location and season. Please check the latest prices at each restaurant.