Solo Travel in Japan – How Much to Budget and Where to Go

Japan is the ultimate travel to do on any solo travellers list. It is a country that is filled with respect, modernity and fun which makes travelling to Japan alone even more exciting. The prospect of solo travel to Japan in particular provides the opportunity to learn, grow and appreciate the fine culture and ancient history, whilst marvelling at the gaming and anime scene that dominates the country.

So today we discuss the ultimate travel tips when visiting by yourself for the first time as well as insider information such as culture, attitudes and real life experiences coupled with a specially devised list of travel tips Japan.

Is Japan safe to visit solo?

Japan is one of the safest countries in Asia and is the perfect destination to visit for solo travel. For starters the crime rate is the lowest in any Asian country, there are strict rules in place for littering and even to the extent of no noise after 9pm in apartment buildings.

In terms of traveling there are separate carriages for men and women, including separate boarding lines.

Valuables such as bags, phones and even cars are often left around and open in Japan, stealing is not accepted as part of everyday life and the cases of stealing are extremely rare.

Safety procedures in Japan include local police, security guards, tourist police booths and the Japanese people in general are extremely helpful. If you do need advice or are lost and if you greet them respectfully they will often walk you to your destination or buy your ticket. They are extremely helpful if not sometimes shy so don’t feel intimated asking for help.

Moving around the country

The train system in Japan is one of the best in the world as it is convenient, safe, fun and inexpensive. The trains and stations themselves are extremely clean and well maintained with plenty of friendly staff and security guards to help or advise you.

The trains are easy to navigate especially if you do a little research beforehand and know where you are going. For example if you are taking a train from Tokyo to Gifu then you will need to change a train in between. Google is a perfect companion when looking into the times, stations and in some cases the JR line systems. Google is very compatible in Japan so it gives real time results, prices and all the information you need to know.

When you go further out in Japan there can be a limited number of English translated signs within the train stations, however if you know the station number you can find your platform easier. One thing to note is if you do make a mistake and get off at on a wrong platform you just need to wait for the next train to come along, normally they arrive every 5 – 15 minutes and then you be on your way once again.

There are strict rules on the trains. No phone calls should be taken, no music should be played and if you feel like it, there are separate male and female carriages on board in some trains.

The only thing to be aware, is that because Japan is busy there will be many people on the train and often you are crammed up and literally touching other people as it is so crowded. There is no personal space which can sometimes present an opportunity for an inappropriate groping cases, although it is quite rare, there are some reports of this kind of behaviour so always move and report it to the security guard or a member of staff upon arrival.

Solo vs guided travel

There isn’t much of a difference in terms of solo vs guided travel as the cost and overall experience is the same. Pricing of accommodation, day trips and travel expenses like train and flight tickets etc. are more or less the same if you book online or whilst there. It is best to do some research before booking but overall what you see is what you get in Japan.

In terms of a guided tour or holiday you can book reputable Japanese hosts and guides which are often certified, have lived and studied in Japan, speak multiple languages and have a wealth of knowledge and understanding of Japan and tourists.

Accommodation in Japan

One of the downfalls of Japan is the accommodation pricing, it can be very expensive; yet depending on where you will be traveling and for how long the cost can be reduced.

Airbnb is by the far the cheapest option for a stay of two weeks to a month as a discount will be applied. You can rent an entire floor apartment that includes a kitchen, separate bedroom and utensils such as a washing machine etc. for around ¥45,000 to ¥75,000 yen a month. The check in process with Japanese Airbnb hosts are safe and convenient with the host giving you a code and a set of instructions to open the key box upon check in normally within the downstairs lobby. The host will not bother you unless you need help or advice and in general you won’t see the neighbours as everyone keeps themselves to themselves. It is a safe environment overall all as you are the only one who knows the passcode and have your own set of keys.

Hotels are very expensive, especially in Tokyo. The prices range from ¥10,000 to ¥45,000 or more a night, so a hotel is only recommended if you need a stopover and there is no other option.

Hotels within Japan are safe and are highly guarded with a set of security, hotel staff and special key cards that only an actual guest at the hotel will have. You won’t be able to access the lift without a key card so you can rest assured that no one will be able to access any of the hotel floors without one, meaning not even friends can visit you unless you meet them in the lobby.

Depending on what hotel you book you will have some perks like a sauna room or spa, however the Japanese hotels are very minimalistic and the rooms will just contain a bed, television, desk and slippers. In most there aren’t even a space to store your bag or a wardrobe.

If either of those options doesn’t fit then Japan does offer male and female only accommodation. These range from sorority type houses, hostels, hotel pods to sleep over night buses and trains. For a solo traveller these types of accommodation may be the best option allowing to save some yen in your pocket but be ready to sacrifice some of your privacy though.

So where are the best places to visit as a solo traveller in Japan?

Tokyo

Tokyo is the hub for the ultimate culture shock. The city is filled with stunning buildings, neon lights, clubs, shopping malls, food places, spas, hotels, gaming arcades, photography shops and the infamous Tokyo Tower. On a solo trip to Japan Tokyo will keep you entertained. In particular do not miss the following attractions and sights: Shibuya crossing, Tokyo Skytree, Sensō-ji, Meiji Shrine and Harajuku.

Nara is a destination surrounded by beauty and awe. It is most famous for it’s “Nara Deer Park” where there are hundreds if not thousands of wild deer that walk around welcoming visitors by bowing their heads in return for a treat. It is truly an amazing experience, it restores your faith in nature and is perfect for a solo trip.

Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the friendliest places to visit as a solo traveller as people are opener there to communicating and living together. There are plenty of guesthouses and hotels where you can meet other travellers. Japanese people often speak more English and guided tours are amazing in Kyoto. If you do fancy some time alone there are plenty of places to visit such as temples, Kyoto Botanical Gardens, Kyoto Gyoen (Imperial Palace Park) and Kamo-gawa Riverside.

Osaka

Osaka is like Tokyo’s little brother and is a small city filled with gaming, big chain restaurants such as McDonalds and is a step away from the JR line that can take you straight into Tokyo or to other parts of Japan. The nightlife in particular is vibrant and loud and there are some great things to do while there including visiting Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha, Temmangu and Tennōji Zoo.

Nagoya

In Nagoya the pace of life is slower but there are still plenty of things to do within the area. There is quite a special art scene in Nagoya with many young artists and the older generation working together to create the pieces. The ultimate places to visit whilst there include Nagoya Castle, Tokugawa Art Museum, Nagoya TV Tower, Atsuta Shrine, Meijo Park and the Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Practical Advice

• Do not litter, always keep any rubbish in your bag and dispose of it when you return home.
• There aren’t many toilets around.
• Sim cards are limited to just data packs. Pocket wifi is often used.
• Shopping goods especially electronics are tax free when your passport is shown.
• Upon entry you will need an outbound ticket. Your fingerprints will be taken before entry to the country.
• Staff at the airport are strict with luggage contents and weight.
• Visa rules are strict so always ensure you have options to leave the country if you get refused entry.
• You won’t be able to get a visa to a different country from Japan. You need to be a Japanese citizen in order to apply for a visa to visit another country.

Conclusion

The number one benefit in Japan is the ease of travel to any location you want to in Japan.

There are so many options for a solo traveller and a day trip can lead you to discovering a new shrine, temple or meeting a family that will welcome you in as one of their own.

As solo travel in Japan is popular you are guaranteed to meet fellow travellers who are all looking to experience the same things as you, providing the perfect opportunity to not only travel together but to make new friends.

Japan as a whole is a friendly country that won’t allow any harm to happen to you let alone to them, you are completely safe yet as with anything in life still keep your wits about you. Most often than not it tends to be the actual foreigners who cause trouble in Japan what is the ultimate disrespect, so always be the best person you can be in Japan. Always bow, try to learn the language, and as with any country you visit try to see things with fresh eyes and adapt to the locals’ way of thinking and living.

Whatever route or timeframe you decide to stay in Japan, embrace the culture, be open to new ways of living and always take care.

Nok Air Confirms Domestic Flights Operate As Usual

Nok Air confirms the airline continues operating their domestic flights as usual though the flight schedule can be changed according to the situation.

AirAsia Allows Passengers to Change Tickets for Select Flights Free of Charge

AirAsia’s customers who booked flights to/from select destinations, including China, Hong Kong, Macau, Japan, Korea and Taiwan now can apply for credit for their international flight bookings until 30 April after the airline extended the period for obtaining credit.

International Tourist Arrivals Fall in Indian Airports

International tourist arrivals at Indian airports are reduced significantly in the wake of the Coronavirus outbreak and they are expected to fall even further after the recent tightening of travel restriction by the Indian government.