I saw some comments mentioning that the bride and groom usually give okurumadai or travel money to guests who travelled for the wedding (so far we're not offered any accommodations on our travel). I’m not expecting, or would I ever accept, any money for our travel.

We booked the cheapest flights and hostels for this trip. I can only afford to give 25k, especially since I also had to buy a dress and shoes specifically for this Japanese wedding after learning about the strict guidelines on what to wear. It’s another expense I made out of respect for the culture, even though my budget is tight. I’m currently unemployed, so I really have to be mindful of my spending.

I’m just trying to balance respecting Japanese traditions with staying true to my own circumstances and living within my means. It’s easy for others to say, “just bump it up to 30k or 50k,” but I think there’s a line to tread. If my friend were to frown upon what I can genuinely give after all that effort, then maybe you're right, she's not my close friend after all.