Japan just has it all. Imagine a place where well- preserved traditions blend seamlessly with advanced modern innovation. It’s one of the most unique countries I’ve been to so far. If Japan has been your dream destination, but you are unsure if it’s the best place to take a solo trip, this article is for you.
It’s very safe
One of the biggest concerns for any solo traveler is safety. Luckily, Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, ranked “high” for safety on the Global Peace Index. As long as you exercise any safety precautions you would normally take at home, you’ll be just fine in Japan.
The country’s respect for personal space and privacy ensures that you can travel at your own pace, without the pressure of unsolicited interactions. Crime rates are low and locals are honest and respectful. I actually met a girl while I was traveling here who lost her wallet in Kanazawa. She received her wallet and passport back, still containing all her belongings! Another girl I met left her phone in the taxi on the way to the airport. She used the “find my iPhone” feature to see that the driver had dropped it off at a police station.
Trains have designated cars for women only to protect them from assault during rush hour. You can identify these cars by pink signs on the subway platforms, which indicate where to wait. Even if you do not opt to use them, the subway stations and platforms are very clean, organized, and safe. Picture… the complete opposite of the MTA.
These are just a few of the things that make a solo trip to Japan safe. It’s an excellent option for those concerned for safety!
It’s impeccably clean
For me, one of the most striking characteristics of Japan was cleanliness. The country meticulously maintain public spaces, transportation, and even public restrooms. There’s shockingly little trash in the streets, despite the fact that trash cans are few and far between (more on that later).
Cleanliness is habitual in Japan. Many places do not allow wearing shoes indoors. You must take your shoes off and wear the slippers they provide. Locals make sure to mask in public if they don’t feel well– something they did well before Covid. It’s a sign of respect, which is also a huge aspect of Japanese culture.
I felt the need to mention cleanliness, because a small amount of comfort can go a long way in having a positive experience while traveling. In Japan, you can feel comfortable in most public spaces, knowing that they are clean and well- maintained.
Immersive Cultural Experiences
Japan boasts rich cultural heritage and incredibly diverse landscapes. There are scenes for every style of traveler. Because public transport is so good, you can literally start your day with a tranquil visit to Mt. Fuji and end it strolling the lively streets of Tokyo.
That being said, you best experience the culture of Japan by immersing yourself in it. Many of the experiences that the country has to offer are interactive, from participating in a traditional tea ceremony, to visiting a local onsen. Doing these things solo allows for deeper cultural immersion and appreciation of your surroundings.
Locals are friendly and respectful
I know I’ve mentioned this a few times already, but if there’s one thing Japanese people are known for, it’s respect. Everyone I met in Japan was very kind and respectful. Although many people did not speak English, I still felt very welcome everywhere I went.
On my first night, I was lost trying to find my capsule hotel. I was frustrated because Google maps was showing that I was basically on top of my location, but I couldn’t see it at all. I ended up stopping a man for help, which I usually avoid doing if I can help it. Although he did not speak any English, he was able to read the address off my phone, and actually walked me up the block to show me how to get into the hotel! The entrance was actually on the 3rd floor of a multi- story building, so I would never have found it without the help of a local.
So, if you ever hear about the willingness of Japanese locals to help and how polite they are, just know it’s not a myth! You don’t need to worry about feeling lost on a solo trip to Japan.
Public transportation is extensive and reliable
Japan has an extensive network of buses and trains that makes it really easy to travel in and between cities—and fast! The world- famous Shinkansen (bullet trains) can get you from Tokyo to Kyoto in just 2 hours, making it possible to do a (long) day trip if you’re really short on time. The Japan Rail Pass allows you to travel across the entire country on the Shinkansen trains.
Public transport is also really well- integrated with Google maps, so it’s easy to see when your next bus/ train is coming. For the most part, trains are always on time. I traveled around Japan primarily using buses and trains for two weeks, and only experienced one train delay—which was only a few minutes long!!!
Tip: If you primarily plan on taking the train around Japan, make sure your bag is a standard carry-on size. Bags need to be placed in the designated areas during train rides, or fit in the overhead bin above you. I saw people with oversized bags who were forced to pay an oversized baggage fee.
I actually wrote an entire post on the Japan Rail Pass, which you can read here.
Technological Convenience
It’s pretty easy to get around Japan because it’s so technologically accessible. There’s wi-fi practically everywhere. Uber is available (although not many people use it since public transport is so accessible). Most places have cashless payment options, which makes paying for things very easy. It’s definitely possible to get around Tokyo without exchanging any money! If you stay in less touristy cities, there are still some cashless options, but you will need to exchange money to yen for shopping, dining, etc.
One really cool thing Japan has to offer are its vending machines. I am convinced you can get anything out of a vending machine in Japan. They’re really convenient, especially at the train stations when you’re running late, but still want to grab a coffee for your commute. They also have a number of “unmanned’’ restaurants, which essentially means a robot will be brining you your food.
There’s a wide- range of accommodations
Japan offers a wide range of lodging options that cater to solo travelers and fit all budgets. Hotels can be pretty pricey for a single person, but capsule hotels and hostels provide comfortable and affordable stays.
I primarily stayed in shared hostels and capsule hotels during my stay. The hostels were the cleanest I’ve ever stayed at. But my favorite experience was definitely staying in a capsule hotel. I know that’s probably not for everyone, but I do recommend trying it for at least one night, if just for the experience (but maybe not if you’re claustrophobic).
I also stayed one night in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), which was a great, unique experience. Booking a ryokan with an onsen (Japanese hot spring) is one of the most traditional Japanese experiences you can have, and I highly recommend doing it!
Food is an experience
A solo trip to Japan allows for some of the best dining experiences. Japan had some of the BEST food I’ve ever had in my life, and I have an entire post dedicated to it here. The food really invites you to pay attention to the unique flavors and the experience of eating it. Many restaurants, particularly in cities like Tokyo and Osaka, offer counter seating, making it easy and comfortable to dine alone.. This means you’ll still have a memorable dining experience, even if you’re eating alone.
Just to name a few food experiences you can try:
- Conveyor belt sushi restaurants
- Ramen vending machines
- Ramen isolation booths
- 7-11 (Japanese 7-11 is actually my heaven on earth)
- Omakase experiences
- Fugu (Pufferfish) if you’re brave!
For solo travelers, Japan is not just another destination— when done right, it’s a transformative experience that will leave you with a lifetime of memories and a renewed sense of adventure. So hopefully I’ve convinced you that a solo trip to Japan is a great idea! If so, let me know in the comments below!
