japan solo trip cost

Cost of a Trip to Japan & the Cheapest Time to Visit Japan

The average price of a 7-day trip to Japan is $1,659 for a solo traveler, $2,690 for a couple, and $1,913 for a family of 4 . Japan hotels range from $62 to $304 per night with an average of $105, while most vacation rentals will cost $140 to $520 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Japan (from all airports) are between $948 and $1,696 per person for economy flights and $2,977 to $5,325 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $48 to $99 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Japan

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Japan and stay in a Japan hotel:

• January 8th to March 18th
• August 27th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Japan is usually late September .

Average Japan Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Japan for a week is $1,380-$2,771 ($197-$396 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $48 to $99 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $564 to $1,394 for economy

Lodging : $80 to $114 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $86 to $105 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Japan for a week is $2,279-$4,865 ($326-$695 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $96 to $199 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,127 to $2,788 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Japan for a week is $4,360-$9,723 ($623-$1,389 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $191 to $397 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,255 to $5,576 for economy

Lodging : $161 to $228 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $128 to $157 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Japan

How cheap can you make a vacation to Japan? The cheapest trip to Japan is about $150 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 3% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $16 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $53.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Japan for a week is $1,050-$2,576 ($150-$368 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $24 to $48 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $53 to $62 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $110 to $141 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Japan for a week is $1,781-$4,306 ($254-$615 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $48 to $96 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Japan for a week is $3,557-$8,186 ($508-$1,169 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $96 to $192 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $105 to $124 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $165 to $211 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Japan cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Japan Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Japan.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Japan for a week is $3,040-$10,904 ($434-$1,558 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $96 to $198 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,408 to $3,470 for first class

Lodging : $160 to $304 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $504 to $1,008 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Japan for a week is $5,121-$15,768 ($732-$2,253 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $192 to $397 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,817 to $6,941 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Japan for a week is $10,241-$28,542 ($1,463-$4,077 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $384 to $794 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $5,633 to $13,882 for first class

Lodging : $320 to $609 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $753 to $1,517 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Japan Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Japan is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Japan due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Japan Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Japan hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Japan.

Flight Costs to Japan

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,696 average in early to mid July to a low of $948 in late September. Median flight price is $1,031. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Japan our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Japan, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $748, so you can easily save about 79% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Japan can easily cost $361 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $24 per person. Private tours can cost $722 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Japan Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Nagahama, Japan
• Maibara, Japan
• Tsuruga, Japan
• Echizen, Japan
• Sabae, Japan
• Ogaki, Japan
• Yoro, Japan
• Hikone, Japan
• Fukui, Japan
• Gifu, Japan

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Chicago, IL, US
• Vienna, Austria
• Nairobi, Kenya

Travels with Erica

A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

What I Wish I Knew Before Taking a Solo Trip to Japan

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Japan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Most people dream of going to Japan, but there are a few important things you need to know before planning a solo trip to Japan.

Compared to lots of other Asian countries, Japan is super easy to travel in and great for people who are new to travelling alone .

Don’t get too confident yet though because there are tons and tons and tons of mistakes I made when I was in Japan solo, and I’ve been travelling alone since 2015.

Japan is unique. Things that typically hold true for travel in other parts of the world don’t always hold true in Japan. Even things that work in Japan’s neighbour South Korea don’t necessarily work in Japan.

So, I’m going to share everything I learned on my solo trip to Japan with you to hopefully save you some mistakes.

Actually, at this point, I’ve been to Japan three times and feel like I definitely know what mistakes not to make. I’ve made nearly every mistake you can.

Let’s get into the nitty gritty of solo travel in Japan! Hopefully by the end of this article you’ll feel confident and prepared and be able to travel in Japan solo like a pro.

Table of Contents

Stay Near the Main Train Station

The biggest mistake I made on my first solo trip to Japan was not staying near a major train station.

I know when you travel to most countries around the world, you don’t really have to stay near a major train station. As long as you’re near some sort of public transportation, you’re good to go.

That isn’t the case in Japan.

If there is only one thing you take away from this post, it is that you need to stay near a major train station. Ideally, about a ten minute walk away. That way you’ll be super close to the train station but far enough away that it’s quiet.

Most Japanese cities have one major train station. It’ll typically be the name of the city followed by the word station. Like Osaka Station or Kyoto Station of Fukushima Station. You get the point.

Tokyo is a huge city. Huge doesn’t even describe it. Since it’s so large, there are many major train stations.

The two I recommend staying near are either Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station . They’re pretty central and have access to lots of different metro and JR lines.

Why is it Important to Stay Near a Major Train Station?

There are two main reasons it’s important to stay near a major train station:

• Access to lots of different metro and JR lines so getting around is quick and easy
• Lugging luggage around on Japanese metros is a hassle. Even if you only have a carryon bag, the trains are often crowded and have lots of stairs. Staying near a major train station means you can just leave the train station and easily walk to your hotel or Aibnb and avoid having to transfer to the metro, JR, or bus to get to your hotel.

Trust me. It’s 100% worth it to stay near a major train station even if it means you have to pay a little bit more for your accommodation.

It is the one tip I give everybody when they’re planning a trip to Japan. Whether it’s a solo trip to Japan or a group trip to Japan.

My Favourite Hotels Near Train Stations

• Tokyo Station: Via Inn Prime Nihonbashi Ningyocho
• Shinjuku Station : Hotel Sunroute Plaza Shinjuku
• Kyoto Station : Hotel Kanra Kyoto (definitely a splurge but worth it!)
• Osaka Station : Hotel Monterey Le Frere Osaka
• Kanazawa Station : Hotel Resol Trinity Kanazawa

Get Outside Tokyo and Kyoto

On my first solo trip to Japan, I only went to Tokyo , and that was a big mistake. Tokyo is nothing like anywhere else in Japan. It’s extremely busy, hectic, and overwhelming.

Kyoto is the next most popular city in Japan for tourists, and I honestly found it a big overrated. Please don’t crucify me for that!

I think that one of the best things you can do when in Japan solo is get outside these two major tourists hubs and see a little bit more of what Japan has to offer.

Osaka is super close to Kyoto, and it has a totally different vibe to Tokyo and Kyoto. It is way more relaxed and laid back and has a lot of interesting tourist attractions. Including Universal Studios Japan !

The food in Osaka is also top notch, and it’s known as the foodie capital of Japan.

If you visiting Kyoto is your dream because it looks beautiful and full of ancient temples and things to do, I recommend visiting Kanazawa.

It’s everything I thought Kyoto would be and more. Kanazawa is my favourite city in Japan and one I wish more tourists visited. Plus it’s way more affordable than Kyoto, which is a huge plus for solo travellers on a budget.

I don’t really care where you go, but I do highly encourage you to get outside of Tokyo and Kyoto and see a little bit more of Japan.

You won’t regret it. There are so many interesting things to do in Japan that most tourists don’t know about because most people only go to Tokyo.

And trust me when I say that I don’t know a single traveller who says Tokyo is their favourite city in Japan.

Install an Esim on Your Phone

Having access to the internet with data on your phone is an essential part of your solo trip to Japan. It’ll make your life so much easier.

To easily travel around Japan, you need access to the internet. To get around, to figure out what train to take, find tourist attractions, and make sure you pick the perfect place to eat.

Luckily, there is an easy solution on how you can have data on your phone everywhere in Japan.

That’s by installing an esim on your phone. An esim allows you to purchase local data for whatever country you’re visiting. In this case, Japan. You buy an esim, and you can use your phone’s data just like you do at home but without any high roaming fees.

All you have to do is purchase an esim either online or through the app , install it on your phone, and make your esim your main source of data. The entire process takes less than five minutes and is very intuitive and easy. You can even install an esim on your phone before you arrive in Japan, and it’ll automatically activate when you turn on your data in Japan, and you phone connects to a Japanese network.

I like to purchase my esim online because it gives you a QR code. You just scan the QR code on your phone, and your esim is set up in a few easy clicks.

Esims allow you easy access to phone data without having to rent a wifi egg , purchase a local sim card, or incur high roaming fees with your local carrier.

I recommend esims to all my friends and family when they travel, and they all love it as much as I do.

Install an esim on your phone to make getting around Japan easier and stress free.

My Favourite Esim

Since esims are a relatively new technology, there aren’t a lot of reliable companies offering them yet. And you do not want to purchase an esim from an unreliable company and be stuck stranded without phone data.

I love Airalo . It’s my go-to esim provider, and I purchase all my esims through them.

They have the most esims available for the most countries compared to competitors. They also offer incredibly good prices and always have reliable data. You purchase a certain amount of data up front. If you’re close to running out of data, you can purchase more data to be added to your esim with one quick click in the app.

Another option you can look into is Drimsim . Unlike Airalo, Drimsim charges you per MB used rather than charging you for a certain amount of data up front.

If you don’t plan on using much data, Drimsim may be the better option. I highly recommend if you choose Drimsim to turn off your data whenever you’re not using it. This will prevent data accidentally being used in the background and running up your bill.

I tend to use a fair amount of data when I travel between Google Maps, texting, and scrolling social media while eating alone, so Airalo is my esim of choice.

I’m normally in a country for three to four weeks at a time and purchase the 5GB plan. I’ve never gone over before, but there have been a few times when I’ve been close. If you’re only in Japan for a week or two, you should be fine purchasing a 1GB or 3GB plan.

The 3GB plan is probably your best choice. It’s only a dollar or two more than the 1GB plan and gives you the peace of mind that you won’t accidentally run out of data while out and about exploring one day.

Plus it’s likely more expensive to purchase a 1GB top up if you run out of your pre-purchased 1GB data than it is to purchase a 3GB plan.

Anyways, whatever amount of data you choose to purchase is up to you. The important thing is that you install an esim on your phone, so you can easily access the internet when out exploring. This is especially important as a solo traveller !

Google Maps is Your Best Friend

You’re probably already acquainted with Google Maps, but it’s going to become your best friend when you’re travelling Japan solo.

Google Maps in Japan has some of the most comprehensive information of any country I’ve visited.

Especially when it comes to public transportation, which some people find overwhelming and confusing the first time they come to Japan.

Here is some of the information Google Maps tells you when riding the metro in Japan:

• What entrance to take to get to the metro
• What exit to take when leaving the metro. This is very important information. Please don’t ignore it!
• The exact train car number you should get on for the quickest transfer or exit
• What platform your train is departing from. This is very helpful in major train stations where there can be over 20 platforms
• How busy the train is, is the train has AC or not, and whether or not there are delays on the route

Google Maps can also navigate indoors in Japan. This is super useful when trying to find a store in a massive shopping mall. It’ll guide you to the nearest escalator to the store you’re looking for and take you right to the entrance.

It’s fabulous. Google Maps may be your most used app while on your solo trip to Japan!

Major Train Stations are Difficult to Manage

Major train stations are extremely difficult to manage. You 100% need to use Google Maps if you’re trying to find what exit to use or something inside a train station.

Before you start thinking I’m dramatic and how hard could a train station possibly be, Shinjuku Station has 200 different exits.

So, yeah, complicated. You can easily get lost and spend an hour or two wandering around trying to find what you’re looking for.

Trust me. I once spent half an hour looking for a tempura restaurant in Tokyo Station and ended up giving up and leaving.

Whenever you have to exit a major train station, be sure you know what exit you want and watch the signs carefully.

Some major train stations like Kyoto Station and Kanazawa Station are easier to manage. Some like Tokyo Station and Osaka Station are more complicated.

Be prepared. Be patient. And if all else fails, find your way to an information booth, and someone will be happy to help you find what you’re looking for.

Be Prepared to Queue

I hate waiting in lines and avoid waiting in them at all costs. The Japanese don’t seem to have the same aversion to lines that I do. There are lines everywhere, and people don’t mind waiting for them.

There are lines for food (these are often the longest lines at popular restaurants). Lines for tourist attractions. Lines for no apparent reason.

It’s just something that comes with a solo trip to Japan.

Hopefully you don’t have to wait in too many lines but bring your patience just in case. If you know you’ll be waiting in a line on a particular day, consider bringing a book (or audiobook) or something to entertain yourself with.

Avoid Golden Week at All Costs

Golden Week is a national holiday in Japan where people get an entire week off of work. Japanese people use this as an opportunity to travel, and a lot of people travel within Japan rather than going abroad.

This means three things:

• The most popular cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are very, very, very busy
• If you’re visiting a less popular tourist destination, things like restaurants may be closed
• It will be difficult to find an affordable hotel even if you’re booking months in advance. I wanted to go be in Sendai durning Golden Week and couldn’t find an affordable hotel even though I was looking 5 months in advance.

I was in Japan during Golden Week in 2023 and experienced both those things. I spent the majority of Golden Week in Fukushima. Not the most popular tourist destination. A lot and I mean a lot of the restaurants were closed. Some were open until 2pm, but many were closed all day. Not great.

Then I was in Tokyo for the last two days of Golden Week. It was madness. I’ve never seen a city so busy in my entire life. I cannot imagine how busy it was during the height of Golden Week because I assume some people already went home to get ready for work in a couple of days.

Moral of the story is to avoid Japan during Golden Week at all costs. Don’t think to yourself that it won’t be too bad because it will be. Trust me.

On the flip side, going to Japan right after Golden Week is probably the best time of the entire year to be in Japan. I was at Tokyo Disney Resort the four days following the end of Golden Week, and I’ve never seen it so quiet before. It was magical.

Golden Week changes dates every year and is sometime in either April or May. Just do a quick Google search before planning your solo trip to Japan and make sure you aren’t planning it during Golden Week.

Avoid Golden Week at all costs. Ideally visit Japan right after Golden Week for the lowest crowds.

The JR Pass Probably Isn’t Worth it

You’ve probably heard a lot about the JR Pass and how it is essential when travelling in Japan. How you’ll save so much money with the JR Pass.

But, honestly, that isn’t the case for most people.

If you’re only travelling between Tokyo and Kyoto, you likely won’t get your money’s worth out of the JR Pass.

If you’re in Japan for two or three weeks and spending more than a day or two in each city, you probably won’t get much value out of the JR Pass.

You need to be using the JR a lot in a short period of time to get value out of the JR Pass. Especially now that the price is increasing by about double!

I spent 3 weeks in Japan in 2023 and took the JR or Shinkansen between each city I visited. I used JR trains to travel within each city. Even though I would have used the JR Pass a lot, it still didn’t make financial sense for me to get one.

That’s because I wasn’t using the JR enough or on expensive enough lines that purchasing a JR Pass made sense.

Be sure to do the math and use a JR fare calculator before purchasing a JR Pass to make sure you’re getting enough bang for your buck by buying the pass.

The benefit of the JR Pass is that you can pre-reserve seats on the train, which is a huge plus if you have luggage and have to reserve luggage space.

Although, when I was in Japan, I never had to reserve luggage because you only have to reserve it on the most popular and busiest routes like Tokyo to Kyoto or Tokyo to Osaka.

You don’t have to reserve luggage space on most Shinkansen trains.

And if you’re going from Osaka to Kyoto without a JR Pass, just get on the slower JR train rather than the Shinkansen. It’s a third of the price and only takes 10 or so minutes longer if you get on a super rapid train.

JR Fare Calculator (see if the JR Pass saves you money)

Be Internet Safe

Even if you get an esim for your phone, you’ll still be relying on public wifi during your solo trip to Japan. Even if it’s only while at your hotel.

Please don’t waste your esim data and use it at the hotel rather than the complimentary hotel wifi!

And since you’re going to be using public wifi at least part of your trip, I’m going to lecture you about the importance of using public wifi safely.

Public wifi networks are just that. Public. That means anybody with the code can access the wifi. From my experience, a lot of hotels in Japan don’t have a password on their wifi. Anybody can access the wifi even if they aren’t staying at the hotel.

This means that there are countless people using the same unprotected wifi network as you. That puts you personal online information (like you’re banking information) at risk of being stolen.

All it takes is one person with bad intentions, and you’re dealing with the headache of cancelling bank cards while abroad. Trust me when I say that’s no fun.

The only way to protect yourself when using public wifi networks is by installing a VPN on your devices. A VPN essentially puts an invisible forcefield around your devices that makes it impossible for prying eyes to access your personal online information.

A VPN makes using public wifi networks just as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the password.

One of the most important things you should so when preparing for your Japan solo trip is install a VPN. It’s the simplest safety precaution you can take.

The cost per month for a VPN subscription on a two-year plan costs less than a latte and cake pop at Starbucks. You have no excuse not to protect your online information.

I always say that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online information with a VPN.

My Favourite VPN

I’ve used a lot of VPNs over my many years of travel. Most of them, frankly, suck. VPNs are notorious for slowing your devices down, and you really feel the different in internet speed when using a VPN.

That’s not the case for NordVPN . It’s consistently ranked the fasted VPN on the market and the only VPN I’ve ever consistently used. You don’t feel like your internet speed is slowed down at all when using NordVPN.

You can install a single NordVPN subscription on up to six devices. That makes it super easy to protect all your devices for one low price.

One of my favourite feature of VPNs is being able to cloak my location. That allows me to watch Netflix from different countries and watch Canadian sporting events while abroad.

There are really no downsides to installing a VPN on your devices. It’s an extremely small price to pay for the peace of mind you get by knowing your private information is safe and sound while you’re abroad.

Get the fastest and most reliable VPN on the market for an extremely low price.

One of the first things you’ll notice on your solo trip to Japan is how quiet it is. In terms of volume. Not in terms of people. There are always tons of people in Japan.

It’s a widely known rule that people are quiet and respectful while out in public. This means no talking on the metro and no loud conversations at restaurants.

And please, please never answer a phone call while on public transit. It’s considered quite rude to speak on the phone in nearly every indoor public setting in Japan. But if you talk on the phone on the metro, you will definitely be getting dirty looks.

Just be sure to be quiet, reserved, and respectful while in public in Japan. I know you’re on a solo trip to Japan, but I also know a lot of you like to make friends while travelling alone. So, if you go out with a group (or while you’re alone), please be quiet.

There is a time and place for loud conversations, and in public is not it.

Oh, and small talk isn’t really a thing in Japan. I know my American friends love starting small talk with strangers, but you’ll be getting weird looks if you try that in Japan.

Taxis are Extremely Expensive

Taxis are never the most affordable way to get around, but in a lot of places they’ve not super expensive. They’re affordable enough that you can justify taking a taxi if it’s going to be super convenient or save you a lot of time.

Japan is not one of those places.

Japan has the most expensive taxis I’ve ever seen in my life.

There is no circumstance I could ever see justifying me using a taxi instead of the metro other than being physically injured and needing to get to a hostpial.

And even in that circumstance, I may still take the metro because the taxi fees are so high.

If you normally take taxis when you travel, you’ll need to get used to the idea of using public transportation or walking.

See point one about staying near a train station if you need a refresher. 😉

The good news is that Japan has one of the best public transportation systems in the world. It’s so easy to get around. You won’t even miss taking a taxi.

Most major cities have large metro systems. Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto all have metros where you can easily get around. Smaller cities in Kanazawa rely on buses. But they’re smaller cities, so it’s easy to walk everywhere if you’re staying in a central location.

Just be prepared to use public transportation and walk a lot while in Japan. Taxis are a luxury not a normal thing to use.

Purchase Popular Tickets Online in Advance

As we’ve talked about in this article, Japan is busy, and there are often queues. To cut down on your time waiting in line, there are two things you can/should do:

• Get to attractions earlier in the day to avoid crowds
• Purchase tickets online in advance if you can

These two things will save you heaps of time on your solo trip to Japan. You’ve got a lot to see and do while in Japan alone, and you don’t want to be stuck waiting in a line if you don’t have to.

There are also some things you need to pre-purchase tickets for. As in you can’t get them at the door or they’re likely to be sold out. Those two main things are Universal Studios Japan in Osaka and Tokyo Disney Resort .

This is especially true for Tokyo Disney. You have to purchase your tickets in advance. You can’t buy them at the gate. Universal recently reintroduced buying tickets at the gate, but it’s a super small park and sold out in advance more days than not.

Other Tickets You Should Consider Buying in Advance

• Tokyo Skytree

Shibuya Sky

• Tokyo Tower Observation Deck
• TeamLab Planets (hugely popular and likely to sell out)
• Sanrio Puroland 
• HARUKAS 300 Observatory
• T eamLab Botanical Garden (Osaka’s version of TeamLab Planets)
• Osaka Museum of Housing and Living

Narita is Very Far Away from Central Tokyo

Narita is very, very far away from central Tokyo. Haneda is closer to central Tokyo, but the majority of international flights fly in and out of Narita.

This means you need to have a solid plan on how you’re getting from the airport to your hotel. Sometimes it can take up to two hours depending on where you’re staying.

You can either take the metro or a limousine bus. I prefer the bus. You’re guaranteed to get a seat, probably drops you off closer to your hotel, there is no need to transfer, and you don’t have to deal with your luggage. It just sits nicely under the bus.

Taxis aren’t an option unless you’re rich because they’re so expensive. A taxi from Narita to central Tokyo will cost you a few hundred dollars!

And the last thing you want to do on a solo trip to Japan is break the bank taking a taxi just because you didn’t plan properly!

The fact that Narita is so far away from central Tokyo also means that you need to be strategic about when you book your flight.

If you land late in the evening or depart early in the morning, you might have an issue. Maybe the buses aren’t running early or late enough or maybe you don’t want to drag your butt out of bed super early or be trying to find your hotel in the dark.

If you’re arriving late or departing early, I highly recommend staying at a hotel near the airport for a night. It’s so much more convenient. I’ve done it before for a flight departing at 11am and would do it again in a heartbeat.

Plus the hotels near Narita are surprisingly affordable. I loved my stay at the Hilton Narita . It was super nice and seemed like it should have costed more than it did.

Most airport hotels offer a bus to and from the hotel, which is super convenient. The hotels say it takes about half an hour to get to the airport. From my experience, it takes about 15, but it’s better to be early than late!

Go to Tokyo Disney on a Tuesday or Wednesday

Tokyo Disney is a must do for any theme park or Disney fan. Heck the theme parks are so well done that even people who hate Disney enjoy them.

Tokyo Disney Resort has two theme parks: Disneyland and DisneySea. DisneySea is the more unique one of the two, but they both have rides you don’t want to miss.

TDR is hugely popular. Not only with tourists but also with Japanese people. This means that it’s always busy. The most popular rides often have wait times between 90 and 180 minutes.

That’s just on a normal day. Not even during the busiest times of year.

So, you definitely need a strategy when going to Tokyo Disney. It may be your only trip, and you want to get the most out of it.

There are way too many tips and tricks about Tokyo Disney to put into this short(ish) blog post. You’ll have to do a deep dive on that on your own. TDR Explorer is a great place to start!

One important tip I will give you is to visit Tokyo Disney on either a Tuesday or Wednesday.

This is when the parks will be the least busy. You’ll be able to get a lot more done on a Tuesday or Wednesday than on the weekend.

Mondays and Thursdays are normally medium busy. I’ve noticed that a lot of the times school groups are filling up the parks on Thursdays leading up to the weekend, and they’re a lot busier than Wednesdays.

Mondays have carryover from people visiting over the weekend. They’re not as busy as a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday but are still quite busy.

So, if you have flexibility in your schedule, try to arrange your trip to Tokyo Disney for the middle of the week. This will give you the best chance at having lower crowds.

Make Sure You Have Health Insurance

Health insurance is an essential part of travel, and you need to make sure you have health insurance that covers your solo trip to Japan.

You may have travel coverage through your work plan. If you do, you just need to make sure it covers the entire duration of your trip. Most policies only cover the first 21 or 30 days of your trip.

If you’re like me and don’t have insurance through your employer, you have two options.

First Option

The first option is perfect for people who are only going abroad for a shorter period of time. This is buying travel insurance from a major company in your home country.

You can normally get insurance through a bank, company that sells house or life insurance, your local healthcare insurer (like Blue Cross), or through a company like AAA or AMA or CAA.

All these places will let you purchase a travel health insurance policy to cover the duration of your trip.

These are normally reasonably affordable. Especially if you’re only gone for a week or two. They offer decent coverage, but they often make it a headache to make a claim.

You can also get a multi-trip policy that covers you for every trip you take abroad in a year as long as the trip is under a certain amount of days. You get to choose the amount of days when you purchase the policy, and they range anywhere from 7 to 60 days.

This is what my retired parents use, what I used when I was a student, and what most casual travellers use.

Second Option

The second option is for long-term travellers and digital nomads. That’s purchasing health insurance through a specialized company that solely provides insurance to travellers.

There are a couple of companies you can get this type of insurance through. I personally use Safety Wing and think they’re the best option you there.

They’re very affordable, have a low deductible, make it easy to make a claim, and even provide you coverage in your home country for 30 days as long as you’ve been abroad for 90 days.

I love the flexibility of Safety Wing and being able to cancel anytime I want. If I’m going to be in Canada for a few months, I can cancel my policy and then reinstate it when I start travelling again. They even let you purchase your insurance while you’re abroad and already on your trip, which is quite rare.

Again, this option is best for people travelling for a long period of time. It’s much cheaper in the long run than the first option and provides better coverage.

Bonus: Try the Melon Fanta (Trust Me)

This may sound like a weird thing to throw into this article but hear me out. The Melon Fanta in Japan is the best soda I’ve ever had. And I’m a soda girlie.

I know. I know. It isn’t healthy, but it just tastes so good!

Melon Fanta is incredible . It’s a bit hard to find in convenience stores, so you may have to order it at a restaurant, but it’s so worth it.

I tell all my friends who go to Japan to try it, and they all love it.

I know it sounds like an odd flavour of soda, but please trust me and try it!

My Favourite Things to do in Japan Alone

Tokyo Disney Resort

Shinjuku Gyoen

Todaiji Temple

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Kiyomizu Temple

Museum of Housing and Living

Universal Studios Japan

Osaka Castle

This article ended up being way longer than I thought it would! I guess I just have a lot to say about taking a solo trip to Japan and being in Japan solo.

Japan is a super unique country and requires a bit more planning and understanding than a lot of other countries. It’s so easy to accidentally offend someone because you don’t know the social norms.

But I hope this article helps you better understand what a solo trip to Japan will be like and how to best prepare for being in Japan solo.

It’s an amazing country, and I have no doubt you’ll love it. Basically everybody does. That’s why it’s so popular!

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Solo Trip in Japan: Complete Guide to Itinerary, Attractions, Cost and More

How to start a person traveling to japan for the first time, how did you travel to japan alone for the first time.

There are many things in daily life that always experience the first time, such as traveling to Japan with friends for the first time, going to Tokyo for the first time, going to Kyoto for the first time, taking the JR train for the first time, and taking the Shinkansen for the first time Trains, learning to ski in Japan for the first time...

Then suddenly, for some reason, it became the first time to travel to Japan alone, and suddenly there was only one person to deal with all the issues such as air tickets, accommodation, itinerary planning and so on. At this time, you will unconsciously ask, is it safe to go to Japan alone? How should a person go to Japan to arrange accommodation, attractions, and itinerary planning? What should I pay attention to when traveling to Japan alone? Also, who else would choose to go to Japan alone?

Perhaps for you who will go to Japan alone for the first time, this trip may be a major test in your life. Because you need to face a language barrier environment alone, and you have to solve all the things that will happen during the entire trip alone.

Difficulty of traveling alone in Japan

However, according to my many travel experiences in Japan in the past, traveling alone in Japan is not as difficult as I imagined. As long as I can overcome the first time I go to Japan alone, I will learn how to arrange the second and third trips . Just like I have been to the top of Mount Fuji, Hokkaido, Tokyo, Kyoto, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Kumamoto, Nagasaki, etc. in the past, basically only a small part of Japan has not been visited

At the same time, I also tried to live in Japan alone, deal with different problems in daily life in Japan alone, and so on. In fact, traveling alone to Japan is not a terrible thing, but something that you will fall in love with unconsciously.

As I said at the beginning, there is a first time for everything. So whether you are "the first time to travel to Japan" or "the first time to travel to Japan alone", as long as you have not been to Japan many times, today's article will sort out one for you Japan itinerary planning. First of all, it will start from the most basic itinerary planning, and then to accommodation arrangements, scenic spot selection, and then to Japanese culture, what needs to be paid attention to when traveling in Japan, etc., will share past experience with you.

I hope that after reading this article, you can plan a Japanese travel itinerary that belongs to you. Whether it's your first trip to Japan alone, or your first trip to Japan with your family or friends, you can complete the entire itinerary at the end and return home safely with good memories.

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Is it safe to travel in Japan?

People often ask: Is Japan a safe and tourist-friendly country?

This is a question that many people who plan to travel to Japan for the first time will ask. To put it simply, Japan is different from other countries. Japan is a country that attaches great importance to tourism, and crimes against overseas tourists are very rare. If some unavoidable natural disasters and accidents are excluded, Japan is a very safe country on the whole.

In addition, the Japanese are a nation that attaches great importance to laws and regulations and the feelings of others, so even if you lose your wallet, mobile phone, or a coin, you can find it back with the assistance of the police and station staff thing.

More in-depth, as long as you concentrate on activities in popular tourist attractions and shopping areas, and do not walk into some residential areas or private land, the chances of accidents are basically very low. At the same time, try to avoid going to some unknown restaurants, izakayas, and places suspected of being pornographic places and gambling places, so that you can minimize the chance of accidents.

Is Japan suitable for traveling alone?

If you are traveling to Japan for the first time, and there is only one person, you don’t need to worry too much in just a few days in Japan.

Because Japan is a place with very developed railway construction, you will definitely find JR stations or local railway stations near almost all scenic spots. Therefore, there is no need to worry about transportation arrangements. Traveling to Japan by yourself can actually solve transportation planning easily.

In addition, in major cities in Japan such as Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, etc., there are also many accommodation plans and restaurants suitable for one person, and many of them are very cheap and good quality accommodation and restaurants. So even if there is only one person going to Japan, it is not like other countries where only double rooms and double packages can be booked.

Another point is that as long as your actions don't affect other people, basically the local Japanese don't care whether you come to Japan alone or in a group. As long as you follow their instructions, whether you are in a hot spring hotel, taking JR, or going to some high-end restaurants alone, they will serve you according to the usual standards.

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Can I travel to Japan without knowing Japanese?

The answer first: If you only go to some popular tourist spots, this is totally fine. However, if you want to go to some scenic spots suitable for in-depth travel, learning some basic Japanese is a necessary condition for setting off to these scenic spots.

If you are going to Japan with your friends

To put it simply, if you are traveling to Japan with your friends, and you only go to popular tourist attractions in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, there will be no problem even if you only speak English. Because many of the clerks who can work in tourist areas are people with certain English skills, there will be no problem in ordering food, checking out, or inquiring about scenic spots in simple English. And because you are going to Japan with a group of friends, even if there is an accident, they will help you, so if you can communicate in Japanese, it will be helpful for the itinerary, but it is not a necessary skill.

However, if you are traveling to Japan alone, or plan to go to places other than popular attractions and stay in accommodation other than major hotels, your Japanese ability will completely affect your itinerary experience.

If you go to Japan alone

For example, take the itinerary in Tokyo as an example. If you go to some independent small restaurants, izakayas, etc. in residential areas this time, basically you must understand the Japanese on the menu before you can order food. Or if you want to book some cultural experience activities, you need to have Japanese communication skills to participate.

More importantly, if you are going to Japan alone and plan to leave popular tourist areas such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, whether you can speak Japanese will determine your chances of getting help. Because Japanese people in other regions may not be able to understand complex English sentences, especially when you miss the last JR train and need help when you are injured, Japanese will be the fastest language for you to get help.

Of course, if you are on an itinerary that mainly focuses on popular attractions, you can also say "すみません-Sumimasen", "これ- kore", "ありがとうございます- arigato gozaimasu", etc., which will be better than "Excuse Me / Sorry" , "This" and "Thank You" make it easier to get help from the store staff.

What attractions can you choose when you go to Japan for the first time?

It's the first time to travel to Japan, but after opening the map of Japan, I still don't know which places are worth visiting? In fact, the whole of Japan is mainly divided into two main parts, the city and the suburbs. You can decide which place to go according to your knowledge of Japan.

major cities in japan

If you are going to Japan with your friends this time, if you have never traveled to Japan, and if you don’t speak Japanese, Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are all very suitable places for you to go.

Because these three places are very mature tourist areas, besides there are many scenic spots that allow you to arrange a itinerary for a week, and there are also people from different countries working in these areas, so even if you only speak English and Chinese The whole journey can be completed smoothly.

And between Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, I will recommend you to go to Tokyo or Kyoto first, and save Osaka for the next time you come to Japan.

Because the attractions and characteristics of Osaka are actually similar to those of Tokyo, what can be experienced in Osaka can be experienced in Tokyo. However, what you experience in Tokyo may not necessarily be experienced in Osaka. A simple example is like sightseeing at a high-altitude observatory. Tokyo has Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and Shibuya Sky, but Osaka only has Osaka Tsutenkaku and Umeda Sky Observatory, but they cannot compare with Tokyo Skytree in terms of height.

In addition, Tokyo and Kyoto represent both modern and traditional Japan. If you are going to Japan for the first time, you want to experience Japan’s big cities, anime, shopping, or Japan’s ancient capital, kimono wearing experience, tea ceremony experience, geisha performance, some traditional Japanese activities and so on.

To sum up, Tokyo and Kyoto are places with very complete tourism resources. Even if you don’t spend too much time researching the itinerary, basically you don’t have to worry about transportation, accommodation, attractions, etc. place to go and get bored.

Japanese regional cities

Of course, for you who will be going to Japan for the first time, you don’t necessarily have to go to places like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. If you have enough preparations before departure, in fact, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Kumamoto, Nagoya, Shikoku, Hokkaido, etc., some places with natural attractions are worth your consideration. However, because the transportation facilities in these places are not as developed as Tokyo and Kyoto, there may only be one JR train passing by every hour.

In addition, because these places are not places that some overseas students would choose to go, sometimes it may be a little difficult to communicate in English. In addition, there are many places where the explanations are only in Japanese, which is not like the habit of providing Japanese, English, and Chinese multiple languages at the same time in Tokyo.

So for you who are going to Japan for the first time, if you still choose to go to these places, you need to have a certain level of Japanese ability, and have enough time to study each day's itinerary before departure, so that you can ensure that you are in the itinerary There will be no surprises along the way.

For those who travel to Japan for the first time, unless there are other people who have been to these places who can serve as tour guides and can quickly identify some important traffic and scenic spot information, it is best to have a certain level of Japanese ability, otherwise Should save it for the next time I visit Japan.

What are the attractions to choose when traveling to Japan alone?

If you have traveled to Japan several times, but this time it happens that only one person goes to Japan, and it is the first time to go by yourself, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka are some places suitable for departure at any time. The shopping malls, restaurants, and different attractions are sure to be enough for you to arrange a long-distance trip. If you want to challenge yourself, you can also consider using the JR Shinkansen train to go to Tokyo and Kyoto at the same time to experience two completely different Japans.

In addition, in summer, Mount Fuji, Hokkaido, Hiroshima, and Fukuoka are some places where you can enjoy the natural scenery. Or in Hakone and Nikko in winter, there are many hot spring hotels you can go to. As long as you book the required tickets and accommodation in advance, it is basically as simple as planning a trip to Tokyo.

However, it is not recommended to go alone for some relatively high-risk activities, such as going skiing in winter alone, climbing a mountain in Japan with only one person, or going into some suburban areas alone, all of which must be avoided.

How to arrange accommodation when going to Japan alone?

If you choose to go to areas such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, business hotels and youth hostels are some accommodation options worth considering. The characteristic is that the housing price is cheap, and the distance from the station is not very far. Even if you need to drag your suitcase, it is very convenient.

If you want to have enough private space, there are APA Hotel Both are great accommodation options. If you want to communicate more with other people, youth hostels will be a good accommodation solution, but not every city in Japan will definitely have this kind of accommodation option.

For example, I often Agoda The advantage of booking APA hotels in different areas above is that you can apply for free cancellation when you need to change your itinerary. In addition, you will also recommend other hotels, youth hostels, and even capsule hotels in the same area. When the APA hotel has no rooms available, I can immediately book other hotels instead of spending time calling each hotel to check availability.

However, you should pay more attention when you book some high-end hot spring hotels, because most of the hot spring hotel rooms are sold as double rooms, and the meals are mainly set meals for two people. In other words, no matter if you are alone, you still have to pay the cost of a double room before you can stay in those high-end hot spring hotel rooms.

Check Prices and Discount Offer: Book hotel accommodation in Japan

What should I pay attention to when traveling to Japan?

Since Japan is said to be a very safe country, why do we need to pay more attention during the tour?

The reason is simple, because the language and culture of each country are different, which may cause misunderstandings due to some cultural conflicts. Moreover, many people will overestimate their abilities during the trip, or lack of planning, and finally encounter some accidents that could have been avoided.

Therefore, whether you are going to Japan with friends or by yourself, you should pay attention to the following points when you go to Japan for the first time.

Knowing basic Japanese will enhance your travel experience

Since Japanese is the common language in Japan, if you want to get help from the shop staff quickly, the effect of asking questions in Japanese will be much better than English. In addition, making good use of translation software can help you break the language barrier, and the efficiency will be much better than simply using English to inquire with the clerk.

Avoid eating while walking in Japan

Japan is not a country that is used to shopping and eating at the same time, but is used to eating near restaurants and small shops before continuing to go shopping and shopping. If you're used to walking into different shops with your drink in hand, definitely avoid it when you're in Japan. Otherwise, you may need to pay before you can leave when the goods are wet.

Pay attention to the departure time of the last railway train

Regardless of whether you are traveling to any part of Japan, you must pay attention to the departure time of the last train on the railway. Because JR railways in different regions will have different last train times. For example, for JR trains in some remote areas, it is not impossible for the last train to leave at 18:00 in the afternoon.

Although the last JR train in Tokyo will end around 00:10 in the middle of the night, the distance between different stations in Tokyo is actually very far. If you don’t want to spend money to take a taxi, it will take a lot of time to walk there. So before you plan to arrange some night activities, it is better to check the departure time of the last bus of the day.

Avoid being alone on the street late at night

Although Japan is a country with very good law and order, it does not mean that there will be no crimes at all. Especially in some bar areas and nightlife-based areas late at night, if you are not familiar with Japanese culture, you must try to avoid going there late at night. This is the best way to ensure your own safety.

In addition, if you go to Japan alone, when you go to some remote places, try to stay in some main shopping streets after nightfall, so that even if you encounter an accident, you can get help immediately.

Avoid going into residential areas, private land, farmland

The Japanese attach great importance to private land, so even if you see a lot of sunflowers planted in some farmland, it is not recommended to go to touch or take pictures. Just like the Christmas tree in Biei, Hokkaido, you can't actually go in and take pictures, because the location of the Christmas tree is within the scope of private land.

Avoid going into some unknown restaurants

If you go to places where izakaya are concentrated in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, and you meet some people who entertain you warmly on the street, or tell you that you don’t need to spend time queuing up, hoping that you will go to some specific restaurants, then you must careful. Because those restaurants are likely to be some restaurants that charge high fees. Seats, ice cubes, drinking water, snacks, service fees, etc. will be calculated independently, and they will also give you a high bill.

So if you are traveling to Japan for the first time, or if you are only traveling to Japan alone, it is recommended that you go to some restaurants in department stores, which will be safer and more convenient.

Avoid taking pictures of other people's faces

The Japanese are not a very enthusiastic nation, so when taking pictures in Japan, you must avoid taking pictures of other people. And according to Japanese law, they have the right to refuse to let you take pictures, and they can also ask you to delete photos that include their appearance, which must be paid attention to.

don't force yourself to go to any itinerary

For you who are traveling to Japan for the first time, sometimes you will want to visit several different attractions in one day. But it is often easy to underestimate the travel time required in the middle and whether your physical strength can handle it.

In fact, Japan is a country that is suitable for visiting again and again. Whether you go to a certain scenic spot today or next year, there will still be no big difference in this scenic spot. So when you really have no way to go to a certain scenic spot, it is actually the most appropriate choice to give up decisively.

cheap dining options

Although prices in Japan are not cheap, there are also delicious and cheap bentos sold in convenience stores and supermarkets. For example, there are many branches in Tokyo Kitchen Origin , provides a lot of bento options around ¥500, which is cheaper than lunch and dinner in many restaurants.

In addition, some beef rice restaurants, ramen restaurants, Chinese cuisine restaurants, etc., are all places where you can eat for less than 1,000 yen. If you don't have a lot of travel budget, restaurants like Matsuya, Otoya, Hidakaya, etc. will be your best restaurant choices during your travels in Japan.

Tickets and internet devices required in Japan

If you have never traveled to Japan, you can go first klook.com Book the required Internet devices, tickets, and then depart for Japan. The feature is that it can save the time of queuing up to buy tickets, and sometimes you can get additional discounts, which are basically cheaper than buying tickets on the spot.

and klook.com Basically, it contains most of the packages you need to use during your travel in Japan, from theme park tickets, JR train passes, to different one-day tour guide groups. As long as you plan your itinerary, you can start immediately with these packages.

Japan is a country suitable for traveling in any season and at any time. No matter whether you are going to Japan for the first time or whether you are going to Japan alone, you will always find a way that suits you best to experience different aspects of Japan. local culture.

If you are planning your next trip to Japan, you must check out more travel information articles on this website. Maybe you can get a new experience in this Japan travel itinerary!

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Ryu_C@RakuRakuJP

RakuRaku, which is 楽々 in Japanese. This site is committed to providing the most authentic travel information in Japan, bringing you a different Japan travel experience!

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Japan Solo Travel Itinerary

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Japan is a fascinating country with a rich culture and history.

If you’re thinking of traveling there solo, here is an itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip.

This itinerary includes some highlights in each region of Japan, travel tips, and safety tips so that you can experience as much as possible during your stay.

From vibrant cities to stunning countryside, Japan has something for everyone.

So get ready to explore one of the most amazing countries in the world.

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Table of Contents

Important Information You Should Know

• Currency: The currency in Japan is the yen (JPY). 1 USD is approximately 127 JPY.
• Language: Japanese is the main language spoken in Japan. However, English is also widely spoken, so you should have no problem communicating with locals.
• Weather: The weather in Japan varies depending on the season. summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold and snowy. The best time to visit Japan is in the spring (from March to May) or autumn (from September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Also Read 📖

• Does it snow in Japan?
• Public transportation: Japan has an extensive and reliable public transportation system. trains and buses are the main modes of transport, but there are also taxis and ride-sharing services available.
• Accommodation: There are many accommodation options in Japan, from hostels and guesthouses to traditional Japanese ryokans (inns). You can also find apartments and vacation rentals if you’re looking for something more long-term.

Phrases/Words to Know When Traveling Solo To Japan

Here are some key phrases and words to know that will help you get around and communicate with locals.

Japanese is a difficult language to learn, but with these basics under your belt, you’ll be able to manage:

• Konnichiwa – Hello
• Sayonara – Goodbye
• Arigato – Thank you
• Hai – Yes
• Iie – No
• Onegai shimasu – Please
• Sumimassen – Excuse Me
• Wakarimasen – I don’t understand
• Ikura desu ka? – How much is it?
• –wa doko desu ka? – Where is _ ?
• Kouban – Police Station
• Konbini – Convenience Store
• Hoteru – Hotel
• Toire – Bathroom / Toilet
• Intānetto – Internet

Solo travel in Japan can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to plan your trip carefully.

This article provides an overview of the best places to visit in Japan and offers some tips for making the most of your time there.

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Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo

Arriving in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, you’ll be greeted by a bustling metropolis with a unique blend of modern and traditional culture.

After checking into your hotel, head out to explore some of the city’s highlights.

Start with a visit to the Meiji Shrine, then walk through the nearby gardens.

If You’re Feeling Adventurous – Take a ride on the Tokyo Skytree , one of the tallest towers in the world. In the evening, enjoy some delicious Japanese food and watch a traditional Kabuki performance.

Day 2: Tokyo

Today, explore more of what this incredible city has to offer.

Visit the Imperial Palace and the nearby East Gardens.

Then, take a stroll through the lovely Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

In the afternoon, head to Akihabara, known as Tokyo’s “Electric Town” for its many electronics stores.

Finally, finish your day with a walk around the historic Asakusa district.

Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone

After breakfast, take a bullet train to Hakone, a town in the mountains southwest of Tokyo.

Here, you can enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Ashi.

Take a cruise on the lake, then head to the hot springs for a relaxing soak. You can also consider booking one of the best hotels in Hakone.

Day 4: Hakone to Kyoto

From Hakone, take a bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s former capital.

Start your day with a visit to the Fushimi Inari Shrine, then explore the Philosopher’s Walk.

In the afternoon, stroll through the Gion district and admire the traditional architecture.

Finally, end your day with a relaxing soak in an outdoor hot spring.

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Day 5: Kyoto

Spend your day exploring some of Kyoto’s many temples and shrines, including the Kinkaku-ji Temple and the Golden Pavilion.

Then, stroll through the peaceful bamboo forest at Arashiyama.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

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Day 6: Kyoto to Hiroshima

Take a bullet train to Hiroshima, a city on the western coast of Japan.

Start your day with a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, then explore the nearby Hiroshima Castle.

In the Afternoon – Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the Itsukushima Shrine and walk through the deer-filled forest.

Day 7: Hiroshima to Osaka

From Hiroshima, take a bullet train to Osaka , Japan’s third-largest city.

Start your day by exploring the Dotonbori district, known for its lively nightlife and delicious food.

Then, walk through the peaceful grounds of the Osaka Castle.

In the afternoon, visit the Umeda Sky Building for stunning views of the city.

Finally, end your day with some shopping in the Shinsaibashi district.

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Day 8: Osaka

Today is your last day in Japan, so make the most of it!

First, visit the lively Tennoji Zoo, then walk through the beautiful gardens at the Osaka Mint Bureau.

In the afternoon, explore the city’s many museums, including the Osaka Museum of History and the Osaka Science Museum.

Finally, finish your trip with a walk through the peaceful grounds of the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine.

Travel Tips For Solo Travel To Japan

1. get a jr pass.

If you’re planning on doing a lot of travel within Japan, then it’s worth getting a Japan Rail (JR) pass.

This pass gives you unlimited access to the JR train network, which includes the Shinkansen (bullet train).

You can purchase a JR pass online or at a major JR train station.

2. Download a translation app

Having a translation app on your phone can be extremely helpful when traveling in Japan.

Google Translate and Microsoft Translator are both good options.

These apps can translate Japanese text and speech, so you can communicate with locals more easily.

3. Learn some basic Japanese

Learning even just a few basic phrases in Japanese will go a long way.

Locals will appreciate your efforts, and it can make your travels much easier.

4. Stay connected

Japan has excellent WiFi coverage, so you should have no problem staying connected during your trip.

Many accommodation options offer free WiFi, and there are also plenty of public WiFi hotspots available.

5. Use cash

Although credit and debit cards are accepted in Japan, cash is still the most widely used form of payment.

It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for incidentals such as taxi fares or small purchases.

You can withdraw money from ATMs, which are widely available throughout the country.

6. Pack light

Japan is a very convenient place to travel, so you won’t need to pack too much.

A small backpack or suitcase should be sufficient for most trips.

Be sure to pack comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.

7. Get travel insurance

Travel insurance is always a good idea, especially when traveling solo.

If you get sick or injured while in Japan, travel insurance will cover your medical expenses.

It can also provide peace of mind in case of lost baggage or other unexpected problems.

Safety Tips For Solo Travel To Japan

1. avoid crime.

Japan is generally a safe place to travel, but there are still some things you should be aware of.

Avoid walking alone at night, and don’t leave your belongings unguarded in public places.

Be cautious of scams, especially involving ATMs or taxis.

2. Stay alert on public transportation

Japan’s public transportation is very safe, but it’s still important to be aware of your surroundings.

If you’re using the subway, make sure to keep an eye on your belongings and stay alert when exiting the station.

3. Know the emergency number

The emergency number in Japan is 110 for police and 119 for fire and ambulance.

If you find yourself in an emergency situation, don’t hesitate to call for help.

What Is the Best Month to Visit Japan?

The best time to visit Japan is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). 

These seasons offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery.

The weather is especially pleasant in April and May when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

If you’re interested in seeing the autumn leaves, the best time to travel is from mid-September to early November.

Keep in mind that Japan is a large country, so the weather can vary depending on the region.

When Should You Avoid Japan?

Since weather significantly depends on which region you visit, bad weather in one area could mean clear skies in another.

You can expect the rainy season from early June to mid-July. That is the case in most of the country except in Okinawa where the rainy season begins in early May.

The key is to stay updated on the weather forecast and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

For example, if you’re planning to visit Tokyo during the rainy season, consider doing so at the beginning or end of the season when rainfall is typically lighter.

Or, better yet, plan your trip for another time of year. Keep in mind that rates for hotels and airfare are typically cheaper during this time as well.

Another thing to note is that typhoon season runs from August to October.

While typhoons don’t hit Japan every year, when they do, they can cause widespread damage and disruptions, including public transportation shutdowns and flight cancellations.

FAQ About Solo Travel To Japan

Is solo travel to Japan right for you?

This FAQ will help you decide if traveling to Japan on your own is the right choice for your next vacation.

Is Japan Good for Solo Travel?

Japan is a great destination for solo travelers.

The country is safe, efficient, and full of interesting things to see and do.

While Japanese culture may be unfamiliar at first, it’s easy to get used to with a little help from locals and other travelers.

And, with its large cities and many rural areas, Japan has something to offer everyone.

Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples, hiking in the mountains, or simply enjoying the modern conveniences of a major city, Japan is an excellent choice for a solo trip.

There are many travel options available to accommodate different budgets and interests, so it’s easy to customize your trip to suit your needs.

Plus, with its convenient transportation and English-language signage, Japan is one of the easiest countries in Asia to travel around.

How Much Does It Cost for A Solo Trip to Japan?

The average price of a 7-day trip to Japan is $1,659 for a solo traveler, $2,690 for a couple, and $1,913 for a family of 4.

These prices include airfare, lodging, transportation, and meals.

Prices will vary depending on your specific itinerary and travel style.

A solo trip to Japan can be a great way to explore the country at your own pace.

You’ll have the flexibility to do what you want when you want, and you won’t have to compromise on your travel plans.

However, a solo trip to Japan can also be more expensive than traveling with others.

To get the most out of your trip, it’s important to carefully consider your budget and what you’re willing to spend.

Is It Easy to Travel to Japan Alone?

Yes, it is easy to travel to Japan alone.

There are many things to see and do in Japan, and it is a very safe country to travel in.

The people are friendly and helpful, and there is plenty of English signage and information available.

You can easily get around using public transportation, and there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from.

Read Next – Is Japan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Solo travelers will find that Japan is a great place to visit.

How Many Days Is Sufficient in Japan?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount of time needed to explore Japan depends on your individual interests and travel style.

However, we generally recommend spending at least a week in Japan if you want to experience the country’s highlights.

If you’re interested in exploring Japan’s major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka , and Kyoto , then you’ll need at least a week.

This will give you enough time to visit the main attractions in each city and get a feel for the different regions of Japan.

If you want to venture off the beaten path and explore some of Japan’s less-visited areas, then you’ll need more time.

Two weeks or more will give you the flexibility to slow down your pace, travel by public transportation, and really get to know the local culture.

Ultimately, how much time you spend in Japan is up to you. If you’re short on time, you can still see a lot of the country in a week.

But if you have the opportunity to stay longer, you’ll be rewarded with a richer and more authentic experience.

If you’re looking for an amazing solo travel destination, look no further than Japan.

This incredible country is filled with beautiful landscapes, interesting culture, and delicious food.

In this article, we’ve outlined a perfect 8-day itinerary to help make the most of your time in Japan.

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A 12-Day Detailed Itinerary For Japan Under ₹80,000 Trip Cost

I was always fancied by Japan in multiple ways. And after having been enticed by its culture and food through videos for over a year, I finally decided to experience its intrinsic culture in person. From a truly delectable traditional cuisine to the awe-inspiring Bullet train, it is amazing how Japan has managed to tie tradition and modernity with a single thread. It’s a perfect place for solo travellers, friends, couples and even families. Despite the language barrier, Japan surely knows how to mesmerize you. 

So, if you’re someone who has been fascinated by Japanese culture, or if you’ve grown up watching Anime, then count me as your friend! I am Yogita Chainani, a travel lover, and I went for a 12-day trip to Japan along with my sister in April 2019. We went to Tokyo, Kyoto and Nara, and this is how we planned our trip at ₹80,000. Here is our itinerary for Japan. 

Things To Keep In Mind While Planning A Trip To Japan

Flight Cost: We were tracking the flight costs for over a month before finally booking it. We booked the flight tickets through SkyScanner, and the return flights cost us ₹ 26,000 per person. 

Visa: When it comes to Visa, the process was quite simple. We paid ₹500 per person for a single entry visa, which was valid for a month.

Also Read: Japanese Visa for Indians, Indian Passport: Types, Application Fee, Form, Requirements And Visa On Arrival

Stay: Keeping the budget in mind, we chose to stay in a hostel over a hotel. For Tokyo, we booked the DEN hostel, which is nestled in the Kanda area of Tokyo and is around 50 minutes from Haneda airport. While travelling for 6 nights and 7 days, we paid ₹10,000 per head, which is decent for the quality of the place. In Kyoto, we booked the Len Kyoto hostel, and for 4 nights and 5 days where we paid ₹8,000 per head. As for Nara, we made a day trip, so we didn’t have to make any bookings. We used the HostelWorld app to book both the hostels. 

Transfers: Travelling in and around Japan is expensive. Hence, to save up on the travelling cost, we had bought a Japan Rail Pass for ₹18,000. The pass covered most of our travel expenses in the country. Right from local JR lines to selected Bullet train rides, everything got covered with this pass. Apart from this, for private buses and metros, we spent an additional ₹5,000 per person. For transfers from the airport to the hostel in Tokyo, we took a limousine bus, which cost ₹650 per person. 

Food: We set a budget, and roughly spent ₹4,000 (₹2,000 per person), which is about 6000 Japanese yen on food per day. Sometimes it was a bit more, and sometimes it was less. So, our overall food cost was ₹ 20,000 per person, which also included drinks. 

Best Time to Visit Japan: Japan is known for its Cherry Blossom season and if you intend to visit this futuristic country, then plan your trip between March-May. Not only March to May, but September to January is also an ideal time to visit Japan. The weather is quite pleasant, humidity is low, and the cold climate makes it easy for travellers to explore the place throughout the day. I travelled to Japan in April, and here’s my 12-days, day by day itinerary.  

Also read: Japan Asks Theme Park Visitors To Avoid Screaming On Roller Coasters

We boarded the 11PM flight from Terminal 2- Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai to Singapore Changi Airport, from where we took a connecting flight to Haneda Airport, Japan. We flew with Singapore Airlines, and I must say, it’s my favourite. The flight from Mumbai to Singapore was about 5 hours and 40 minutes. We had about an hour and 10 minutes of layover in Singapore, and the flight from here to Haneda was about 7 hours and 30 minutes. After reaching Haneda airport, we cleared our immigration, activated our Japan Rail Pass and took a limousine bus to reach Tokyo. The bus ticket cost us ₹630 per person. 

We checked in the hostel, DEN, on Day 1 and passed out immediately. The next day, we woke up early with the faint rays of the sun, got ready and spoke to our hostel manager, who guided us to the nearest metro station. Kanda metro station was at a walking distance from the hostel. On our way, we grabbed some hot coffee, sandwiches and a bottle of water from a nearby Seven-Eleven. These are convenience stores that are open 24×7. 

I must say Seven-Eleven is a hit in Japan, and right from a cup of Joe to hearty Ramen meals, you can find everything at an affordable rate. After sipping some coffee, we took a train to Harajuku station. Our first spot of the day was Takeshita Dori, which is located at a walking distance from Harajuku. 

Takeshita Dori will take you one step closer to the famous Japanese Pop and Kawaii Culture. Right from street artists to a plethora of picturesque cafes and side stalls, Takeshita is a street that you cannot miss. And while you are there, don’t forget to try the delicious crepes. From Chocolate to Bacon Crepe, there are tonnes of options to choose from. We had a lip-smacking crepe at Santa Monica Crepe, and it was worth every bite.

After spending a good 2-3 hours in Takeshita Dori, we explored the Harajuku area of Tokyo. For lunch, we kept it light and ate some Mozzarella Sticks from a roadside stall while sipping on some famous Japanese bubble tea. At around 5PM, we headed to the famous Meiji Jingu Shrine, which is known for its unmatchable beauty. The entry to the shrine is free, and the entrance from the massive Torii gate for this shrine will inevitably transport you to a different world.

After getting bewitched by the spellbinding magnificence of this shrine, we made our way back to Harajuku. We went for dinner to Cafe Lagoon in Harajuku and ended our night on a merry note. Post that- we headed back to our accommodation. 

For us, Day 3 was all about exploring the culture of Japan. Hence, we decided to explore the Asakusa area of Tokyo. We grabbed some coffee from Seven-Eleven and headed to Kanda station to board a metro for Asakusa. We got down at Asakusa station and walked for 10 minutes to reach the pristine Sensoji Temple and I can never forget that sight. Sensoji is one of the oldest temples in Japan, and the entry to the temple is free. 

We walked around the temple, observed the locals for a while and headed to Nakamise Dori, which was just 2 minutes from the Sensoji Temple. 

Nakamise Dori is known for its local cuisine, souvenirs shops and also gives you a stellar view of the Tokyo sky tree. By the time we finished exploring the street, it was already lunchtime. So we gave local Japanese cuisines a try and savoured some red bean, Hello Kitty Pancakes and Ramen in Nakamise Dori.

Post that, we headed straight to the Tourist Information Center of Japan, which again was a short walk from the temple. Tourist Information is also famous as an observatory. The entry to the observatory was free.

We bought some coffee from the cafe and observed the magnificent Tokyo skyline from the top. It was around 6:30 pm, and we decided to explore more of Asakusa. We manoeuvred around the area and headed back to the hostel by 12:30 am. 

After spending three glorious days in Japan, Tokyo had already become home. We woke up with lots of excitement, chit-chatted with our fellow hostellers and ventured out to visit the famous and the most luxurious street of Japan, Ginza. Right from Louis Vuitton to Prada, you’ll find all the high-end stores in here. We shopped a bit from Gap and Adidas, we got some top-notch quality products at insane prices.

After exploring Ginza, we went to Shibuya. While Shibuya is known for the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, it’s also known for Hachiko Statue, the beautiful Yoyogi Park and theme cafes. We explored the area, spent some time at Yoyogi Park and by that time, it was already evening. So we headed straight to witness the iconic Shibuya crossing- a crossing where hundreds of people – and at times thousands of people – cross at a time, coming from all directions at once.

Once done enjoying the Shibuya crossing, we shopped a bit from Zara and Forever 21 and headed to TGIF in Shibuya. We ate, shot some pictures for the gram and enjoyed the nightlife in Shibuya. 

On day 5, we decided to take it a bit slow. We chilled in our hostel for a while, interacted with fellow travellers from London, South Korea and Canada, and left the hostel at around 1PM for Shinjuku. We visited the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which again is a famous observatory in Tokyo, and on a clear day, you get to witness the sight of Mount. Fuji from the observatory.

The entry to the observatory was free. We spent some time appreciating the majestic Tokyo skyline and then explored Shinjuku for a while before catching a bus for Akihabara.

If you love Anime and arcade games, then Akihabara is for you. I wanted to win at least one Dragonball toy, but I couldn’t, hard luck!  After the gaming session, we went to the famous Yodobashi Camera centre in Akihabara and shopped for some Bluetooth headphones. We ended the night by eating pizza, ramen and sipping some sake in Akihabara. 

This was the day when I shopped till I dropped, and I am not kidding. I had researched about outlet malls in Tokyo and had decided to buy things from there itself. The outlet mall was on the outskirts of Tokyo, but the ride was completely worth it. We boarded a train for Mitsui Outlet Mall at Tokyo Station and got down at Kaihin-Makuhari Station. From there the outlet mall was at a walking distance. There was a 60% off deal going on for all items in the mall. I treated myself to a Michael Kors wallet at flat 90% off.

We spent around 8 hours in the mall, and in the end, we were too exhausted to go anywhere else, so we ate something at McDonald’s, and headed back to our hostel.

It was our last day in Tokyo, and we wanted to make the most of it. We explored our neighbourhood, went to see the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower.  For us, we didn’t buy a ticket for the observatory since we had already enjoyed a free view of the majestic skyline from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building in Shinjuku. We visited a few cafes, tried some Matcha Ice Cream and headed back to the hostel.

The time had arrived to bid adieu to the vibrant city of Tokyo. With heavy hearts and a bucket full of memories to cherish for eternity, we checked out from our hostel, brought some snacks for our train ride and headed to Tokyo Station. And finally, we boarded the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto.

It was a smooth and pleasant ride, and guess what – the bullet train had wifi too!

Also read: Luxury Japanese Sleeper Trains Are Travel Goals!

We reached Kyoto at around 5PM, and from there caught a bus for Kawaramachi- the area where our hostel was. It was 6 pm when we reached the hostel, we checked in, freshened up, spoke to our roommates and headed out to explore the Kawaramachi area of Kyoto.

For dinner, we ate some food at the hostel bar and called it a night. 

After exploring the nightlife and pop culture of Tokyo, it was time to experience a mellow version of Japan by exploring its former capital, Kyoto. We had planned a list of things, and hence we ventured out at 7.30AM itself. 

We grabbed a bite from the nearby Seven-Eleven and headed straight to the salient Arashiyama’s Bamboo Forest. The forest is both locally famous and world-renowned and the entry is free.

From dense forests to cherry blossoms to throbbing autumn Kyoto colours, Arashiyama was a visual delight during this season. We explored the tranquil forest area and visited a few other spots in the nearby locality.

Post that we headed to the famous Nishiki Market. Almost 400 years old, this place is a fresh food market and is lined with over a hundred restaurants and shops. The market was lively and allowed us to taste Japan’s culinary culture at its finest. After savouring some food and drinking some OG bubble tea, we headed back to our hostel, which was at a walking distance from the market.

We left early and headed to Fushimi Inari. This place is known for its tunnels of more than 10,000 closely-spaced orange torii gates that wind over the hills of Mt. Inari beyond the entrance to the shrine.

One can also dress like Geisha and explore this beautiful place. We went a bit late to this place and couldn’t grab good pictures.  But if you want to take some fab shots for the gram, then try visiting this place as early as possible.

After getting spellbind by the captivating beauty of this place, we headed to the famous Gion district of Kyoto. We manoeuvred around and got to know more about Geisha culture while exploring some beautiful alleys of Gion district.

We celebrated our time in Kyoto by tasting some Japanese beer and absorbed the traditional culture on the banks of Kyoto’s scenic main waterway. Post that, we went to the famous Pontocho Alley, where traditional culture and Geisha still thrive.

It was officially our last day in Kyoto. And since we were short on time, we boarded a train to Nara, which is known for its slow-paced life. On the way to Nara, we enjoyed the sight of the beautiful fields and quaint villages of Japan.

We visited the famous Kasuga Grand Shrine and also explored the old  Nara market. After exploring the streets of Nara for a few hours, we headed back to Kyoto. Post that, we ate something, packed our bags and slept early that day. 

We checked out of our hostel in Kyoto and headed to Kyoto station. We caught our bullet train for Tokyo station. After reaching Tokyo station, we again took an Airport liner for the Haneda Airport terminal. We spent the final few hours at the Haneda airport before bidding goodbye to the exalted country of Japan. 

Things I haven’t included: I went a bit crazy with shopping, so haven’t included the detailed pricing for the same.

Final Thoughts on Japan:

Japan has been exceptional in distinct ways. Just in 13 days, this country managed to give me the memories of a lifetime.

Japan will always have my heart. It is a country that taught me language is just a medium of communication. And people can still help each other without knowing the language. The amicable town of Kyoto made me fall in love with the culture, while Tokyo made me feel livelier than ever.

Also read: The 10 Most Romantic Destinations In The World

Things To Remember: 

We wanted to visit Robot Cafe, but couldn’t, because we didn’t know that the tickets had to be booked online at least 15 days in advance. So if you intend to visit Robot Cafe, book your tickets in advance. 

If you are planning to go in March or April, do carry a thick jacket and an umbrella with you. The weather gets unpredictable at times, and you don’t want to freeze in the cold. 

We visited Japan in April, which is also a month where people across the country get a one-week holiday, it’s known as their Golden week. Hence, we skipped crowded cafes and Disneyland. 

People in Japan are warm, helpful and kind. So when in doubt, always ask for help! 

Lastly, do not litter on the streets and trains; it’s highly looked down upon. Also, if possible, avoid taking calls on the train- it’s considered a bit rude.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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.

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Home » Asia » Japan » ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Japan | Destinations & Tips for 2023

ULTIMATE Guide to Solo Travel in Japan | Destinations & Tips for 2023

Japan is the DREAM for many curious travelers. Manga, anime, sushi, cherry blossoms, Nintendo, Toyota, hot spring pools, Buddhist temples; the thought of these lit a fire in me! But with no one willing to tag along for the ride, I had to start planning a Japan solo travel trip.

There’s nothing like relaxing in hot spring pools, listening to Japanese patrons, eating real Japanese sushi under Tokyo Tower. And believe me, visiting Japan is even better solo .

You can take your time. You’ll get to know the locals and test your language skills. Japan is also extremely friendly and safe.

It’s perfect for lone wolf adventures through her many islands. You can experience it all by taking in the beauty of her rural landscapes or venturing into her busy cities at the forefront of high tech.

With all the excitement of traveling to Japan, I’m here to jump-start this new endeavor as you plan this journey to experience the beauty of Nihon and Nippon for yourself. So, let’s start with how to make the most of your solo traveling in Japan, the best places to stay, where to go, and how to survive in this unique country.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

7 Things to Do in Japan When Traveling Solo

5 best solo destinations in japan, the best travel apps for solo travel in japan, safety tips for solo travelers in japan, tips for solo traveling in japan, how to meet people when solo traveling in japan, final words for solo travelers in japan.

Backpacking Japan is EPIC. Can’t find a buddy to go with? Go alone!

I’m here to show you that traveling solo in Japan is a breeze . However, there are seven things that you should consider when traveling around the country. These can be things to do alone, taking full advantage of your solo experience, or activities you could do with your new travel friends. 

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Hangout in Hostels

One of the best solo travel tips is to stay in one of the amazing hostels in Japan !

You can meet fellow travelers while staying in a great place on a reasonable budget. You can save money and rely only on your bedroom to sleep, with the option to socialize with others in shared lunging areas or use those extra funds to see more of Japan.  Hostels also have various accommodation options, so even a solo female traveler is well cared for.  

Take a Group Tour

Even if you ride solo in Japan, taking a group tour is a great way to break up the experience and keep yourself sane with socializing. Sometimes it’s nice to relax and let a tour guide take you to some unique attractions as you lay back and have a yarn with a fellow traveler. 

I loved the bus tour of Tokyo because I could sit and chat to all my new buddies while escaping the rain.

Stay as a Home Stay With a Japanese Family

If you want to test your Japanese and get a taste of traditional life in Japan, the best way to do this is to organize a homestay with a Japanese family.  Despite it being more common for younger adults and teenagers, there is no age limit for homestays. There are many brilliant companies like Go! Go! Nihon that makes it easy. 

Spend a Relaxing Day at an Onsen Hot Pool

One of Japan’s most famous past times is relaxing in an Onsen Hot pool, and considering this is often a solo experience, it is one of the best ways to relax on holiday. There are many places in Japan that host hot pools. However, the most famous is Kurokawa Onsen, found in Minamioguni.

Have a Quiet Trip to a Traditional Japanese Shrine

Wherever you find yourself in Japan, you are likely to encounter a traditional Japanese shrine, and what better way to learn about the cultural heritage of its people and spend some quiet alone time than a trip to these places! In Tokyo, a popular shrine is Ise Jingu, a beautiful 4 th -century BC shrine dedicated to public happiness. 

Relax With a Traditional Tea Ceremony

Experience the ancient tradition of ‘way of the tea’ as you taste one of Japan’s most sacred ceremonies. This quiet Japan solo travel experience allows you to witness first-hand the ceremony and the delicious taste of tea. Kyoto and Uji have various places for tourists to experience this tea ceremony. 

Attend a Japanese Language Class

If your language skills could do a little more work, attending a Japanese language class is a great solo adventure in Japan. You can meet others trying to learn the craft and practice at your own pace, then test what you’ve learned in your solo ventures around Japan.

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Japan is like nothing else. But why? It’s a place I found where you’ll find something magical, futuristic, and unexpected around every corner.

The people and their culture will make you understand why Japan is a special place to so many people (including ourselves). I have hand-picked five of the best solo destinations in Japan to ensure you still have a brilliant time on holiday without feeling like you are missing out on a complete experience—and to make the most of riding alone.  

Staying in Tokyo is the best option for solo travelers in Japan because, as you may already know, it is the capital city. Here you will find an ultramodern megacity intermixed with traditional Japanese cultural heritage, world-class hospitality, attractions, and public transport. I also love that it’s super visitor-friendly and safe for solo travel. 

I can guarantee it’s a breeze to get around, but that is not all! It is the place to be to see the famous Japanese tech industry, be served by a robot waitress in a mall, or gaze at the headquarters of the big tech and gaming giants.

However, to experience a slice of their older attractions, I recommend the many Buddhist temples, such as Senso-ji. Oh, and you cannot beat the high city views from Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji. 

When staying in Tokyo, one of the best hostels for Japan solo travel I found was the Tokyo Guesthouse Oji music lounge . Not only was this two-star hostel easy on my budget, but it was also perfect for meeting fellow travelers while playing the lone wolf. 

Heading to the former capital of Japan, Kyoto is another brilliant place for solo travelers to experience Japan. I can tell you that its famous Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, palaces, and gardens help the city live up to its UNESCO World Heritage Site, without a doubt! My must-see attractions for visitors include Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kiyomizu-Dera, and Kyoto Tower (you can compare notes with a visit to its Tokyo sister).  

Another reason why I adore Kyoto so much is its entirely visitor-friendly, with excellent public transport and friendly locals who are happy and willing to interact with a mixture of miming and simple Japanese. All these things make it an easy solo traveling experience. 

So where should you stay in Kyoto ? You will be ecstatic to learn they have MANY solo travel-friendly hostels where you can relax.

The Kyoto Hana Hostel is my top pick; this hotel isn’t just a budget-friendly choice, with a five-minute walk from Kyoto Station Central. I love the opportunities to meet others in their range of shared bunk rooms, with the option for female-only. They even have a Japanese sleeping experience if you pick a private room with a shared bathroom. Kyoto hostels are epic!

Visiting Japan’s second-largest city Osaka, you will find a wonderful Japan solo travel experience that is hard to beat! All the while being treated to an affordable travel experience with excellent public transport and an endless list of things to do and see! 

During my visit, I adored learning about Osaka’s origins dating back to the 3rd Century AD and how it quickly established itself as a significant port. Today this old-timer still holds a strong sense of modernity. However, it isn’t all about its industry when you come here.

Osaka offers SOOO many things for solo travelers, including its mouth-watering food and the iconic Osaka Castle. I particularly recommend a stop by the Osaka Museum of Natural History , its numerous parks, and Buddhist temples. 

When you stay in Osaka as a solo traveler, I can rest your worries with their range of hostels waiting to welcome you to this iconic city. Notably, The Stay hostel is my favorite, as a great budget-friendly choice, all while being treated to shared bunkrooms, a rooftop terrace, a shared kitchen, and dining and lounging areas. 

My favorite place to go on a solo mission through the rural parts of Japan is Hakone.

The best thing about this place is, of course, it’s… HOT SPRINGS! This little 1892 village may have this as its main tourist drive, but it’s certainly not the only thing. You will adore its location in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park just west of Tokyo with gorgeous lakes and mountain forests. 

It is a perfect solo destination! You can make the most of its tranquility, take a solitary walk, and relax in the hot springs at the end of a sweaty hike. Adding to this, it’s just a short stop outside of Tokyo.

In my mind, it makes it even better as you could take a day out of city life to taste rural Japan. So if you take the dive to Hakone you need to check out Lake Ashinoko, Hakone Shrine, the Botanical Garden, and of course, Hakone Onsen (the to-die-for hot spring). 

If you decide to stay in Hakone, I recommend the Guest House Azito is in the heart of the town. Here you can choose several sizes of shared dormitories, traditional Japanese beds, and even a little apartment for those wanting that complete Japan solo traveling experience.  

Hokkaido is a real treat for solo travelers in Japan. This isn’t just because it’s the second largest, most northern island of the Japanese archipelago; it’s a poorly kept secret that we tourists are taking advantage of every year come winter!

Why is it so desirable? All solo travelers can admire this wild haven for nature lovers and ski enthusiasts with over seven national parks and numerous ski fields.

In my opinion, the best place to see it all is the largest national park Daisetsuzan. Here, you will be gifted with stunning views at their peak season in Autumn. In Daisteuzan, you MUST visit Mount Niseko (the largest mountain), with its brilliant views as you venture out into the untouched wild landscapes.

Although say you want something more ‘chill’? For those wanting a slice of busy city living, I recommend visiting the largest city in Hokkaido, Sapporo. Not only is this a great place to make your base while exploring the island’s wonders, but it also has many fun things to do inside its walls.

Sapporo is a mountainous city famous for its beer, skiing, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, so to say there is a lot to do here would be an UNDERSTATEMENT. Learn about the rich brewing history or dive deeper into the snowy attractions that make the region so famous.

During a stay in Hokkaido one of the best hostels to stay when traveling solo is Ten to Ten , found Sapporo. They have shared bunk rooms with an option to pick female-only or private rooms, so this is appreciated! They also have a laidback and friendly attitude which is perfect for a solo traveler in Japan which makes it a highlight of a trip to Hokkaido.   

Having the right travel apps on hand when traveling solo in Japan will make the whole experience a blast. But what are the best travel apps for going solo?

• Japan Official Travel App. The perfect tool on hand to give you a must-see travel inspiration. 
• Jorudan. The official Japan travel app for getting around Japan.
• Hostelworld . The best place for finding hotels at a moment’s notice. 
• Japan Wireless. A place to get pocket Wi-Fi or a mobile SIM. 
• Couchsurfing . Find a couch to sleep on for a cheap way of travel.
• Dating Apps. Apps like Tinder, Grindr, and Bumble allow you to make friends and date while traveling. 
• Ho lafly . An e-SIM application that allows you to download a data-only SIM card without installing a physical card.

If meeting like-minded travellers is your goal, check out the current popular Facebook groups for travelers in Japan. Or, just do it the old-fashioned way and head to a hostel bar and introduce yourself!

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When traveling anyway, it’s important to know how to travel safely . Being solo in Japan is no exception, although it is known that this country is a very safe place to visit with a low crime rate. Travelers shouldn’t get complacent.

I want to share several tips to ensure that your dream trip doesn’t turn into a nightmare. Let’s go.

• When traveling solo in Japan, don’t travel alone at night ; if you must, keep to well-lit and populated areas. This is particularly true if you don’t know where you are or are unfamiliar with the area.

• Japan still has its handful of bag snatchers, so keep your bags tightly closed and buttoned u p, and never let it out of your sight! The same goes for cash; make sure you don’t keep it all on your person at any one time and keep it locked up securely at your hostel or hotel.

• Speaking of cash, it’s also a great idea to have cash on you in case your phone breaks, your card stops working, or you find a shop that only accepts money. 

• Female solo travelers in Japan can opt to stay in hostels with female-only dorm rooms or pay a little extra for a private room if they feel unsafe being in shared spaces. However, don’t let these worries ruin the experience of staying in a hostel.

• The public performers of the geisha and maiko don’t like their photos being taken, so don’t even ask for a selfie! Also, as extra respect for their culture, don’t misuse your chopsticks and try to learn the art before you go. Plus, learning Japanese will make the locals love you!

• When you go out, watch your drinks and don’t accept food or drinks from strangers. 

The final Japan solo travel tip I can offer is much more general…. Make sure you assign a safety person back home that you tell them where you are going regularly, so if something were to go wrong, they could ring alarm bells.

• Get an IC card ASAP. You will quickly find (as have I) our golden ticket to galavanting around
• Japan’s public transport with this prepaid card!
• Buy Yourself a SIM (I particularly love the air sim) or something less finicky like a portable pocket Wi-Fi. I believe that a SIM or portable Wi-Fi is a must when traveling solo in Japan. TRUST ME! You will save a lot on roaming fees and never get lost. 
• Get a JR rail pass. I found this pass was a lifesaver. It allows you to see ALOT of cities by train, all for one fee, that will take you all over Japan.
• Polish up your Japanese . Knowing basic phrases in Japanese is a must. I can assure you making the effort to talk with locals in their mother lounge will go a long way!
• Don’t let someone else plan your trip. I find the most fun you have when traveling is when you forge your own path. It allows you to make the most of your solo trip to Japan and see it all!
• Become the lion of your own adventure. Don’t be afraid to get a little crazy and throw aside those set plans if something even more enticing rears its head from behind the tall grass!
• Crime may not prowl in Japan as much as in other places, but… Be aware of what is around you, and don’t do anything too crazy!
• Travel insurance is a MUST. Trust me, it can save your trip. Would you want to be stuck in an airport without a plan B?

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Meeting like-minded people is one of the best things about solo travel. Here are some of my favourite ways to meet others on the road.

• Keep your eyes peeled for events . I find events a great way to meet people even if solo traveling Japan. You never know what might be going down when you’re in town!
• Make social connections through apps. Whether you are looking for a fun hook-up or are a solo female traveler , I find these offer endless ways to satisfy your social juices. So even you internet lurkers have no excuse! 
• Take advantage of short-term memberships. Sure, even if you are JUST in Japan for a few days, there are countless reasons I say why you’d benefit from these. You can work out at a gym or sports club and meet others while getting toned.
• Check out the brilliant Facebook groups. You can bet Japan has many Facebook groups to forge tight networks between foreigners. But what ones? These particular ones are nifty: Japan Travel , Friendly Discussion Group , Destination Japan , Japan Travel Community ?? , and For Foreigners Living in Japan .
• Be open to making friends! The number one thing I would say that will keep you from meeting people in Japan is being shut away. The best advice is to be present, friendly and say yes to every opportunity! You will soon find making friends while traveling solo will be a thing of the past!

Japan is a great solo travel destination with many fun things to do and a rich cultural heritage, making it one of the best places to go on holiday. There are not many terrible things to say about it as a place to go when you are visiting by yourself; however, with these tips we have offered, the small downsides can easily be avoided with a little planning.

Japan highlights the best things about traveling solo as you forge your path and make your own choices. If you want a lazy hot pool, you can do it! If you want to use this trip to improve your language skills and have meaningful discussions with locals in Japanese, you can also do that. 

It does live up to its reputation, and if you get the chance, you won’t regret visiting Japan for a solo experience.

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• Travel Planning Guide

Japan Travel Budget - Visit Japan on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Japan Costs

• Is Japan Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Japan cost?
• Japan On-Your-Own Itineraries
• Yaeyama Islands
• Japan Hotel Prices
• Japan Cities: Hotel Prices by City
• Best Beach Hotels in Japan
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Japan
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Japan
• Best Cheap Hotels in Japan
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Japan
• Best Business Hotels in Japan
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Japan
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Japan
• Best Luxury Hotels in Japan
• Best Hotels for Skiing in Japan
• Best Hotels for One Night in Japan
• Best Hotels for One Week in Japan
• Best Party Hotels in Japan
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Japan
• Best Adults Only Hotels in Japan
• Where Do Backpackers Go in Japan? A Review of Hostels and Guesthouses.
• Hostel Prices & Reviews
• Japan Activities
• Japan Tour Prices
• The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan
• The Best Historical Tours in Japan
• The Best 10-Day Tours in Japan
• The Best 2-Week Tours in Japan
• Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Japan
• The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Japan
• The Best Coach Bus Tours in Japan
• The Best Adventure Tours to Japan
• The Best Eco Tours in Japan
• The Best Train & Rail Tours in Japan
• The Best Sightseeing Tours in Japan
• The Best Cultural Tours in Japan
• The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Japan
• The Best Luxury Tours to Japan
• The Best Tours for Seniors to Japan
• The Best Contiki Tours to Japan
• The Best G Adventures Tours to Japan
• How much does it cost to travel to Japan? (Average Daily Cost)
• Japan trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in Japan?

Is japan expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to Japan?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Japan?

You should plan to spend around $127 (¥18,714) per day on your vacation in Japan. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $31 (¥4,568) on meals
• $18 (¥2,719) on local transportation
• $121 (¥17,840) on hotels

A one week trip to Japan for two people costs, on average, $1,775 (¥261,998) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 127 ¥ 18,714
• One Week Per person $ 888 ¥ 130,999
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,775 ¥ 261,998
• One Month Per person $ 3,804 ¥ 561,425
• One Week For a couple $ 1,775 ¥ 261,998
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 3,550 ¥ 523,997
• One Month For a couple $ 7,607 ¥ 1,122,850

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Japan cost?

A one week trip to Japan usually costs around $888 (¥130,999) for one person and $1,775 (¥261,998) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Japan on average costs around $1,775 (¥261,998) for one person and $3,550 (¥523,997) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Japan will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Japan on average costs around $3,804 (¥561,425) for one person and $7,607 (¥1,122,850) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Japan is $420 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• 10 Day Best of Japan Tour Package 10 Days - 7 Destinations $ 1,677
• Highlights of Japan 11 Days - 8 Destinations $ 2,899

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Japan is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Asia, Japan is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Taiwan or Macao.

For more details, see Is Japan Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Japan?

The average Japan trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Japan travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Japan

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Japan is $60 (¥8,920). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Japan is $121 (¥17,840). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 60 ¥ 8,920
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 121 ¥ 17,840

Hotel Prices in Japan

Looking for a hotel in Japan? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Japan based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $102. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Toba View Hotel Hanashinju Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 174
• Aman Tokyo Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 699

Local Transportation Budget in Japan

The cost of a taxi ride in Japan is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $18 (¥2,719) per person, per day, on local transportation in Japan.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 18 ¥ 2,719

Recommended Services

• Private arrival transfer from Kansai International airport to Kyoto City Viator $ 115
• Shuttle Van Transfer, Yokohama(Port)⇒Tokyo, Narita, Haneda, TDR Viator $ 114

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for Local Transportation in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Subway ¥ 1,200

Food Budget in Japan

While meal prices in Japan can vary, the average cost of food in Japan is $31 (¥4,568) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Japan should cost around $12 (¥1,827) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Japan is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 31 ¥ 4,568

Recommended

• Sushi & Sake Tasting Cooking Class + Local Supermarket Visit Viator $ 112
• Private/ YANAKA home cooking experience, homely and local style. Viator $ 102

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical prices for Food in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Food for Fuji Hike ¥ 721
• Meal at Airport ¥ 1,043
• Conveyor Belt Sushi Snack ¥ 800
• Late Night Noodles ¥ 800

Entertainment Budget in Japan

Entertainment and activities in Japan typically cost an average of $20 (¥2,909) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 20 ¥ 2,909

Recommended Activities

• Private guided hidden gems tour by local English speaking driver Viator $ 68
• Experience all of Japanese culture and Japanese food experience classes "origami, udon,… Viator $ 84

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Typical prices for Entertainment in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Osaka Aquarium (for 2) ¥ 4,600

Tips and Handouts Budget in Japan

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Japan is $3.42 (¥505) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Japan is Never .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 3.42 ¥ 505

Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps Budget in Japan

Unfortunately, bad things can happen on a trip. Well, you've just got to deal with it! The average price for a scam, robbery, or mishap in Japan is $2.89 (¥427), as reported by travelers.

• Scams, Robberies, and Mishaps 1 $ 2.89 ¥ 427

Alcohol Budget in Japan

The average person spends about $16 (¥2,338) on alcoholic beverages in Japan per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 16 ¥ 2,338
• Private tour: Tokyo's Oldest Sake Brewery and riverside walk. Viator $ 245
• Pub Crawl in Nagoya Viator $ 49

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Typical prices for Alcohol in Japan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Alcohol prices in Japan, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Sake ¥ 600

Water Budget in Japan

On average, people spend $4.59 (¥677) on bottled water in Japan per day. The public water in Japan is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 4.59 ¥ 677

Related Articles

Japan on a budget.

At A Glance

• Japan is recognized for its strikingly different culture from the west. If you do some research on this country's interesting customs before your trip, you will find your experience all the more enlightening. You will also better understand how to handle different situations as they arise.
• This is a complex country with a diverse and rich history. A great way to familiarize yourself with the region is to read any number of books on the country, fiction or nonfiction, before you begin your trip. You'll be able to see the people, customs, and cultures through different eyes, and your experience will be even more meaningful and memorable when you can put it in context.
• Japan is a great country for cyclists. If you're comfortable on a bicycle head to the countryside and find a good route. You'll pass through beautiful landscapes, picturesque towns, and meet some friendly people. It's a wonderful and unique way to experience the country. It will also help you cut down on transportation costs which can be quite high throughout Japan.
• Make sure you keep your passport on you at all times. Police can question you and will often fine you if you do not have it on you. Some first time offenders get off with just a warning. In particular, nightclub raids are common, so if you're going out for the evening, don't leave home without your passport.
• Public transportation in Japan is excellent but expensive. There are many different types of transportation passes that offer any number of ticket combinations and various discounts. Make sure you fully research and understand your options before you purchase a ticket. Some passes have stricter limitations than others so make sure you look into this before buying a pass.

Top Tourist Attractions

Transportation, popular foods, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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• Travel Tips
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My Ultimate 10-day Itinerary for Your Solo trip to Japan

It’s no secret that Japan is a breathtakingly beautiful country and one that  must be on your travel list . A country that appeals to all of your senses and leaves a lasting impression on your mind. From the dazzling lights to beautiful and serene Zen temples and shrines, Japan has a lot to offer on its plate.

But when a country has so many beautiful experiences, there arises a problem—the problem of plenty. As a solo female traveller, none of us has the luxury to spend forever in the beautiful island country. So how do we plan the trip within a stipulated time so that we can include all the experiences? Isn’t that a million-dollar question? So here I am, trying to plan a 10-day solo itinerary to Japan for you.

To be honest, I have taken on an extremely difficult job. Ten days is almost impossible to explore Japan. In fact, ten days is not nearly enough to explore a single city. But alas, we do not have the luxury to spend forever here. So, let me tell you how to plan your perfect 10-day solo travel itinerary to Japan. 

Day 1: Reaching Tokyo

Tokyo absolutely should be the first place on your Japan itinerary. It is not only because Tokyo happens to be the capital city of the country but also because it is the perfect melting pot of the old and the new. 

You will definitely be jet-lagged on your first day after a long trip. Pop in a  jet lag pill  if things get really bad for you. But even otherwise, I would recommend that you take it lightly on the first day. If you are landing at midday, check into your capsule hotel (I can’t recommend this enough) and then freshen up and leave to explore Shibuya. 

My favourite part of Tokyo – Shibuya

Walk leisurely along the world-famous Shibuya crossing and spend some time just taking in the essence of modern Japan. With its bright lights, huge electronic posters, and a throng of people around, Shibuya is often compared to New York’s Time Square. Also, if you love the movie Lost in Translation, you will immediately love it. The best thing to do is to see people literally pouring in from all directions!

But that is not all there is to Shibuya. Before you get to the crossing, stop to see the statue of the most-faithful dog that ever was: Hachiko. If you are visiting Tokyo at the beginning of March, you can also see people honouring Hachiko on March 8. Plenty of dog owners come with their adorable dogs to pay their respect. It gives you the perfect opportunity to see and pet some dogs. Have food at some of the best ramen places in Shibuya for dinner. Opt for the Tonkatsu broth, and it will soothe you and prepare you for the arduous journey ahead in our Japan itinerary. Or you can queue up at Genki Sushi, where sushi comes to you on a conveyor belt. 

The options for delicious food are too many in Tokyo. So why don’t you go through the list of  15 must-visit restaurants in Tokyo  and learn more?

Start the morning bright and early at the Meiji-Jingu shrine in Shibuya for that peace and quiet. The Shinto shrine is dedicated to deified Emporer Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken. Also, walk around the adjoining Yogogi park and prepare yourself for the roller coaster day ahead!

Next, let’s head to Harajuku, Tokyo’s most fun district. If you are a fan of anime, do visit this place on a Sunday when you find girls dressed in anime costumes on the streets. If not, don’t be disappointed. Harajuku still has plenty to offer. Walk along the famous shopping street of Takeshita Dori. Though everything you see will catch your attention, restrain yourself. You still have a long way to go in the country, and there’s no need for extra luggage at the beginning of the trip. But even if you are not shopping, be sure to try out the famous street food crepe. Next on our Japan itinerary, we have Shinjuku. It’s the trio that completes the trip. 

Shinjuku is again lively, bright, loud, and crazy. Take in all the essence of modern Japan here. You can either visit the Robot restaurant or, even better, try out the experience at Omoide Yokocho, commonly known as Piss Alley. It is a lot like Spanish tapas bars where you get good alcohol and small portions of food. 

After you have eaten, end the day with a grand view of the beautiful city from the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan government building. 

Walk up, and let’s begin. You have walked a lot the day before. Your legs are a little tired. You might also have a little too much sake to drink at the Piss Alley. So, let’s start with a good breakfast of eggs. Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market to try out  tamagoyaki  at Yamachou and Marutake. The piping hot, sweet, and savoury dish melts in your mouth and provides the perfect beginning to your day.

After this, take a train and get off at Aomi station and exit from the north end, and be prepared for a visual treat that is beyond your wildest imagination. A magical mix of colour, light, and sound teamLab Borderless is the world’s first digital museum where art is confined to a room but is rather seamless. It uses 500 computers and 470 projectors to create an indescribable experience. Also, this the coolest place to click all your pictures to upload on Instagram. 

After the experience here, spend some time with yourself at Ueno park in Tokyo. I would always recommend travelling to Japan during the cherry blossom season. The country turns a shade more beautiful during the season of sakura. If you do travel, then Ueno Park should be on your Japan itinerary as this is ultimately the best spot in Tokyo for  hanami . End the day with a trip to Tokyo SkyTree, which is the tallest tower not only in Japan but the entire world.

Seeing the beautiful Mount Fuji should definitely be on your Japan itinerary. The majestic view of the mountain is second to none and is bound to make you feel humble. So, after we have seen the hustles and bustles of the capital, let’s take a day trip to Hakone. But I have a tip here. You might travel all the way to Mount Fuji only to see it behind a mesh of clouds and be disappointed. So, check the weather forecast before travelling and even if you see that the morning is a bit cloudy, scrap plans for Hakone and instead include a day trip to Nikko or Kamakura to your Japan itinerary. 

Day 5: Kyoto is the next stop

It’s time to bid Tokyo goodbye for now because it’s time to see the rest of the beautiful country. But before you board your first bullet train in Japan, do remember to get your  Japan Rail Pass . It will make travelling so much easier and reasonable in a foreign country. And now time to travel to Kyoto where we will spend the next couple of days. 

Try and take an early morning bullet train from Tokyo so that you can reach Kyoto by 10.30 am and enjoy the full day in the beautiful city. Check into your place of stay (a ryokan is definitely recommended here), freshen up, and prepare for the day. While Tokyo is lights, glitz, glamour, Kyoto is where you get to  experience the essence of old Japan  the difference in scenery is soothing.

Explore the bamboo forest

Take a bus to the Saga-Arashiyama station, where your first stop is the Tenryu-Ji Shrine and the beautiful Zen garden accompanying the shrine. A beautiful collection of flora awaits you here, most of which you will not find outside Japan. Once you leave the garden, you will come across the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and walking through the forest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It takes around 15 minutes to walk around the entire grove, so walk at a slow pace and take it all in. Also, the pictures come out really well here. 

After you roam around the bamboo groves, it’s time to meet some cute little monkeys at the monkey park. It is a 20-minute climb to the top, and I often wondered if it was worth it. But trust me, even if the journey seems arduous at first, it is beautiful when you reach there. The park houses about 100 snow monkeys, and the view from this place is spectacular. You can also feed the monkeys here for a very small amount, and they will pose for you!

After monkeys, it’s time to witness the golden hour at Kinkakuji or the golden pavilion. With two of three storeys made of gold, Kinkakuji, looks radiant and the best part is the reflection on the moat that the shrine stands on. The best time to visit Kinkakuji is definitely sunset when the slating sun rays fall on the pavilion, making it look like it’s on fire. Then drag your weary self to the ryokan to enjoy some of the best Japanese hospitality. 

Get up early in the morning because the first thing today on the Japan itinerary is the Fushi Inari shrine. It is best to go early so that you can get the best click at the vermilion coloured gates that is so well known. Interestingly, each torii gate at the shrine is a donation. The trek up the hills is beautiful early morning.

Now that you have worked up an appetite let’s get acquainted with some of the most delicious food Kyoto has to offer. Stroll along with Nishiki Ichiba Market, known as Kyoto’s kitchen, and for very good reasons. This is the best place to get out of your comfort zone and try out new food. I assure you won’t be disappointed. You should definitely have the tako tamago, a specialty of Kyoto, which is a candied octopus with a quail egg stuffed in its head. Yum…

The next part on your Japan itinerary is something that I know you have been waiting for in Kyoto. Yes, I know. Spotting a geisha. The best chance of spotting one is on a walk in the Gion district, though the chances aren’t too high. But in case you spot one, remember to be courteous. Don’t follow them or stuff your camera into their faces. If you want to feel like a geisha, you can dress up in silky kimonos and paint your face, and have your picture taken.

After this, visit the Higashiyama district, Kyoto’s best-preserved heritage area. With numerous temples, shrines, gardens, and tea houses, this takes you back in time. End your Kyoto trip with a walk along Philosopher’s path, which if you are visiting during sakura season takes the beauty to another level.

Bidding adieu to the beautiful city of Kyoto, next on our Japan itinerary is a day trip to Nara. Just an hour from Kyoto, Nara is known for its deer park, where over 1000 deer roam freely. During the sakura season, this place is a must-visit as pink and white petals of the cherry blossoms wafting through the air and land on the ground turning the park into a shade of light pink.

After spending time with the adorable creatures, do visit the Todai-Ji temple, which dates back to 752 AD. This is a UNESCO site and is known for its 15metres tall bronze Buddha statue. A visit to Nara is incomplete without trying the city’s famous snack- mochi, which is a warm sticky cake with red bean paste inside.

A trip to Osaka

After exploring Nara, it’s time to head over to Osaka. Try and squeeze in a visit to the Osaka castle if you are here during the sakura season. 

The best way to take in the essence of the beautiful castle that was built by Hideyoshi Toyotomi is by taking the Gozabune. It is a luxury boat that takes you along the inner moat surrounding the castle, and you can enjoy the castle while relaxing on the boat. After visiting a piece of Japanese history, it’s time to jazz up your night.

Next on your Japanese itinerary is a trip to Shinkensai. This is a place where the past meets the present. The nostalgic post-war atmosphere hangs heavy in this area. It has a very vintage Paris or New York feel to it, and that’s what makes this so special. The best part? The Tsutenkaku Tower here resembles Paris’ Eiffel Tower and the view of the city from it. End your day with some delectable kushikatsu, which is skewered and battered, deep-fried food that can range from chicken to vegetables and even desserts!

According to your Japan itinerary, today is ‘fall in love with Osaka’ kinda day. Start the day with a visit to Universal Studios. It is always crowded so be sure to book  tickets  way before your visit.

Wake up the inner child in you and allow it to go crazy. From Jurrasic Park to Spiderman to Jaws to Harry Potter, this is one place where you can experience it all. You will definitely be exhausted after this, so let us reserve the rest of our trip strolling around Dotonbori and experiencing the best that Osaka has to offer: food.

Dotonbori is known for the huge neon advertisements, glitz, the giant crab with movable limbs, and the famous Glico sign. Dotonbori is a shopping paradise, and I am sure many a thing with catch your eye here. But the best thing about Osaka, if you ask me, is the food. Osaka is the food capital of Japan, and rightly so. From the okonomiyakis to the udons and the takoyaki it will leave a lasting impression on your palette. If you want to explore Osaka more, there are  plenty of other things you can do .

This day is a little jam-packed on your Japan itinerary. But I promise you it will be well worth it. Today we will cover not one but two places in a day. Miyajima and Hiroshima. Travelling will take a little time but fret not because it is all covered by your JR Pass. 

I would recommend visiting Miyajima first. Once you reach the station, head straight to the torii gate but not before meeting some extremely friendly deer. During the high tide, the torii gate looks like it is floating and is a beautiful sight to behold. After you have seen this, head out to explore the city a little more, but this time on a ropeway before taking a trip to Hiroshima on a ferry.

We all know how War War II ravaged Japan. And Hiroshima is the symbol of what war and strife can destroy in the world. But today, the city is an ambassador of peace while it still remembers its gory past. The peace museum houses remnants of the nuclear bomb blast like pieces of clothing from people who died that day. It is sure to bring a tear to your eye.

But Hiroshima is so much more than just a bomb site. Do visit the Hiroshima castle, where you can catch Samurai performances outside the castle walls. It is now time to head back to Osaka or Kyoto, whatever works out better for you. Tomorrow on the last day of the trip, you will travel back to Tokyo again.

Back to Tokyo again. Feels strange right? With the trip almost over, it feels like the last day during a vacation before the school reopened. But such is life. So, let’s not waste time and see that our last day in this beautiful country is enjoyed to the fullest. And for that, we will spend a leisurely day at the Akihabara district. This area is famous for its manga and anime stores, so if you are a fan, you are in luck. Check out huge electronic stores, spend hours at a gaming arcade and eat at a themed cafe in the area. This is indeed the perfect day before boarding the flight the next day.

I can tell you that the itinerary of your Japan trip that I have chalked out for you is quite hectic and involves a lot of walking. But what can you do if there are so many sights to behold in the beautiful country? So even though it might have been hectic, I am sure you will at no point feel exhausted. Instead, you’d be excited for more. And when the time comes after ten days to say sayonara to Japan, I assure you, your heart will be heavy.

An introverted solo female traveller on an adventure around the world.

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Solo Travel in Japan tips + best places to go alone in Japan

If you’re looking for tips on solo travel in Japan? Great, because this post has you covered.

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you. This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

Not only did I spend one month travelling in Japan alone (and have been a solo female traveller for over 5 years!) but I’ve also invited other Japanese experts to share their thoughts on the best places to travel alone in Japan.

Whether you’re looking for hidden gems or the best way around major tourist sights in Japan solo, we’ll recommend awesome things to do that will guarantee a memorable solo trip.

Table of Contents

Is Japan good for solo travellers?

Pros of solo travel to Japan:

• Safety: this is the main reason Japan tends to end up in so many ‘solo travel destination’ lists, I swear. Is it deserving of that title? Honestly… I think there are easier places to solo travel! However, it’s completely accurate that you’ll feel safe here as a solo female traveller.
• Ease of getting around: the train and bus system is pretty easy to navigate, especially in Tokyo and on bullet trains. That said, I used to live in London, so I was used to using the metro… it might feel challenging if you’re not used to it!
• Easy to stay connected: Most hostels had great WiFi, as did many major stores and most transport!
• Variety of activities – whether you’re into city sights, stunning beaches, historic temples, mountain hiking, or gentle nature, Japan has everything.
• Hostels are (usually) pretty good quality in Japan, with many including capsule beds with your own shelf, curtain, light, and plugs tucked inside. Read my post on surviving hostels as an introvert if you’re still nervous!
• Japan is introvert-friendly! Locals won’t be fussed by seeing people eating alone, since that’s a common practice! So that’s good news if you want to try all the tasty treats but feel self-conscious.
• Vegan options: On that note, if you’re a vegan traveller , you won’t bother your mates when you want to eat in all the amazing vegetarian Buddhist restaurants!

Cons of solo travel to Japan:

• Loneliness: I found it harder to meet people in Japan than in any other place I’ve visited. This is likely since ‘backpacker-style’ travellers are over the sea in Southeast Asia! Also, as it’s such an introverted society, I often found it INCREDIBLY hard to find someone to help me if I needed help. The country is known for being very polite, but not friendly, per se. (And no judgment from me, it was probably particularly tricky as I’m an introvert too!)
• Cost: Solo travel can be expensive , so for budget travellers, Japan won’t be as friendly for your wallet as other destinations such as Southeast Asia or The Balkans. Private rooms, taxis, and many tours are unfortunately more expensive for solo travellers, and I felt the sting much more in Japan than I have in other destinations.
• Some tours and traditional accommodations don’t accept solo travellers. I stayed at a Minshuku during a hike along the Kumano Kodo trail, but I wasn’t able to find a budget-friendly way to stay in a Ryokan during my trip.

Tips for solo female travel in Japan

Solo travelling to Japan is a bold choice for first-time travellers, speaking from my own experience! So I’d recommend it for more experienced travellers (whether or not it’s your first solo destination). 

On the one hand, it’s very very safe, and the public transportation is great. I always felt safe as a female travelling alone in Japan. On the other hand, there’s less of a solo travel scene than in other countries I’ve been to, so it’s harder to meet people – whether you’re looking to socialise or just need some friendly advice.

• Learn a little about local customs if you want to blend in. For example, it’s not polite to eat on public transport.
• You don’t need to speak Japanese (especially in Tokyo and Kyoto) but that doesn’t mean it’s easy in small towns. I found not speaking the language harder in Japan than in other places I’ve visited. I recommend having Google Translate handy, and learning the words for basic phrases like Thank You, Excuse Me, and Your Cat/Dog is very cute is always appreciated by locals.
• If you want to meet people, staying in hostels is the easiest option. Or if you’re staying in a hotel, you can still often join tours aimed at backpackers, or head for a drink in a hostel bar where people are usually looking to socialise.
• Don’t be afraid to venture outside of Tokyo, Kyoto, and the main hotspots and discover some epic Japan hidden gems ! Although travelling outside of the norms can be more intimidating if you’re a first-time solo traveller (like I was during my Japan trip!), my favourite places to visit solo in Japan were all off the main route!

Best places for solo travel in Japan

Looking for a solo travel destination in the countryside of Japan? Then Hokkaido, especially its eastern part, is a perfect place to go if you want to immerse yourself in untouched nature by yourself.

My favourite spot is Shiretoko, which is just a 1.5-hour drive away from Memanbetsu Airport. The Shiretoko Peninsula, mostly covered by a national park, offers several outdoor activities that can be enjoyed solo in every season; five-lake hiking, snowshoeing to a waterfall and ocean cliffs, natural hot springs, and many more.

It’s best to visit during the summertime (June to September) with a rental car, but totally doable to travel by public transportation as well. Just check the timetable beforehand and plan your connections well. Things don’t run too often in the countryside!

For accommodation, I recommend Yuhi no Ataruie – a modern, cozy hostel with a hot spring, a spacious shared kitchen, and a breathtaking sunset view. Shiretoko is also known for its fresh seafood, so make sure to enjoy the delicious local food!  

by Yuuka from  My Eastern Hokkaido

No solo trip to Japan would be complete without the almighty Tokyo, especially if this is your only time visiting Japan. And if you don’t have long to explore, you can still see the iconic suburbs of Harajuku, Shibuya, and Shinjuku in one day in Tokyo .

Kamakura is a fab day trip, and well worth adding to your solo Japan trip itinerary even if you just have 3 or 4 days in Tokyo . If you don’t have long in Japan, it’s a nice and easy way to see a different side of the country without being much trouble to get to from the capital.

Travelling to Tokyo alone can be a wild ride, but that’s part of the fun! And despite the massive scale of the city, it’s one of the capitals I’ve felt safest in.

Nestled in Japan’s beautiful mountains, Hakone is the perfect destination for solo travellers looking to explore a different side of this incredible country. The Hakone area is known for its relaxing Onsen (hot springs), unspoiled nature and breathtaking views of the iconic Mount Fuji which looms over the area. 

Hakone is full of exciting things to see and do. From the volcanic valley of Owakudani to the Pirate Ship Cruise across Lake Ashi, Hakone is a great spot to escape the chaos of the cities and experience traditional countryside life. The area is well-connected and easy to get around, making it a great destination for solo travellers. 

Most visitors to Hakone follow the famous Hakone Loop which includes the Owakudani Valley, the Hakone Shrine and the Sightseeing Lake Cruise. If spending longer than one day in Hakone, consider exploring further afield and taking on the Mount Kintoki hike or visiting the Mishima Skywalk.  

Hakone can be done as a day trip from Tokyo by taking the Odakyu Romance Car from Shinjuku Station. Hakone is also the perfect spot to slow down for a few days and immerse yourself in traditional Japanese life. Consider purchasing the Hakone Free Pass to save money. This includes transport to and from Hakone as well as transport between Hakone’s main attractions. 

One of the best hostels in Hakone is Guesthouse Azito. The hostel has private and spacious capsules as well as a social bar area. 

by Emily from Journey by Backpack 

Naoshima (the art Island)

Located in the Seto Inland Sea between the main island of Honshu and Shikoku, Naoshima is a small island known for its art museums, outdoor sculptures, and friendly vibe. Naoshima’s small size and friendly locals make it a perfect destination for solo travellers. I was able to get around by public bus and electric bicycle. 

While it’s possible to do Naoshima on a day trip from Okayama, an overnight stay provides more time. To reach the island, take a bus from Okayama station to Uno Port, then take the ferry across to Miyanoura, which runs approximately once an hour. I booked a hotel that was walkable to the Miyanoura ferry port, so I didn’t have to walk far with my bags. There are also tons of luggage lockers by the port. 

Naoshima has become very popular in recent years, due to its two large pumpkin sculptures by Japanese contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama. So it’s wise to book ahead for the Chichu Art Museum and Art House Project. Both have James Turrell art installations that play with light in unexpected ways. For me, Turrell’s work was a highlight of visiting Naoshima! 

There are only a handful of restaurants on the island and they get crowded during meal time. I recommend Naoshima YADO FOOD, a sweet pub restaurant run by a local couple that serves spicy chicken or tofu curry with the best carrots I’ve ever eaten. YADO FOOD is also right near the I Love You bathhouse, an artsy version of a traditional onsen, so you can soak before or after your meal. 

by Lindsey from Queer Adventurers

As a first-time ever solo traveller, I admittedly found solo travel in Kyoto quite tricky. But that’s likely just because I wasn’t used to eating alone yet, and the vegan spots I was eating in were way more foreign couple-dominated than other places I went to in Japan, which had other solo diners.

That said, Kyoto is a once-in-a-lifetime destination for so many people, so it shouldn’t be skipped. It’s safe and packed with many of the country’s most photographed destinations, and truth be told, it’s every bit as picturesque as you expect it to be. Many of the key attractions are easy to navigate on foot, and a fun way to meet other travellers here is to take a walking or bicycle tour of the city.

Don’t miss Kiyozimu-dera Temple, Gion, the Fushimi Inari Shrine (I highly recommend hiking to the top of the shrine – this was my favourite part of the city and a great way to avoid the crowds gathering around the front of the temple), and the golden Kinkakuji Temple. The Bamboo Forest is also worthy of a visit but go early if you want to avoid the masses.

If you’re a fan of quiet walks and want to connect to Kyoto’s history, I highly recommend template spotting walking along the Philosoper’s Path. Walking from Kiyomizu-dera, Maruyama Park, and then crossing through Gion before walking along the canal side path felt very peaceful, and Ginkakuju Temple at the end of the route took my breath away.

Travelling to Osaka is a must for solo travellers due to its rich culture, lively nightlife, and renowned food centres. Getting to Osaka is relatively simple via a train from Tokyo or Kyoto, and you can also fly in by landing in the nearby Kansai airport. 

When choosing a place to stay, you will want to consider proximity to public transportation as it’s the best transportation method for travelling across the city. I decided to stay near the Osaka station because, as a  first-time visitor to Osaka , I wanted to be close to a main public transport hub.

However, for solo travellers looking to make the most of their nightlife excursions, I would recommend staying near Dotonbori because it’s such a fun neighbourhood to be in and has great public transportation. Dontonbori is an energetic entertainment area known for its flashy neon signs, giant shop signs, and tasty restaurants. It’s also relatively busy and well-lit, which I prefer for travelling alone or with a small group. 

You can easily spend your night in this district by collecting toys from various Gachapon machines as I did and eating to your heart’s content at the multiple restaurants that line the street and canal. The most notable dishes here are Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, and jiggly cheesecakes. 

 Osaka Is also an excellent spot for those who appreciate the historical significance of Osaka in Japan’s history and want to learn more about its rich culture. During the day, make it a goal to visit the beautiful Osaka Castle to learn more about Osaka’s history. There is a small entrance fee of roughly 600 yen and an additional 200 yen if you want to explore the castle garden. 

by Yesenia from The Sisters Who Voyage

If you’re a fan of majestic castles, tranquil temples, or military history, then Himeji is the place to go.

Himeji is located in the Hyogo prefecture between the cities of Osaka and Hiroshima, and it is easily accessed by both the Shinkansen (bullet train) and the Rapid Lines. While Himeji holds a population of around half a million people, it has a small-town vibe, with little crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere. This makes it the perfect Japan solo travel destination.

I spent an entire year jumping around cities in Japan by myself, and one of my favourite and most frequent day trips was Himeji. This was due to its two most spectacular sights: Himeji Castle and Mount Shosha.

Himeji Castle was built in the 16th century and is considered one of the most beautiful castles in all of Japan. Mount Shosha is an idyllic temple complex outside of Himeji’s main city centre. Located at the top of a mountain, it is accessible through a small, 30-minute hike or by ropeway.

I was never concerned for my safety while solo travelling in Himeji, even when I was hiking on my own. With its friendly locals, serene streets, and low crime statistics, Himeji is a very welcoming and safe destination. It’s also an easy trip to make, as there’s not much you need to book in advance (unless you plan to stay the night!).

by Mia from Walk a While with Me

If you’re travelling to Japan alone, there are so many great things to do in Fukuoka for solo travellers. I really enjoyed visiting Fukuoka as it felt less tourism-dominated than other Japanese cities I visited, and more like a genuine working city. I felt very comfortable solo dining here and the hostels were super affordable.

I recommend walking around the city to see the Canal City Shopping Centre and its free anime water show and Tocho-ji Temple, which has a 5-tier read pagoda and 10 10-metre high wooden Buddha Statue.

I also enjoyed taking a tube to Fukuoka Tower (a 234m high tower with an observation deck at 134m) and Seaside Momochi. However, my favourite spot was walking around the Hakata Castle ruins (dating back to 1601) in Maizuru Park.

If you don’t have long in Kyushu but want to discover more of its magic natural attractions, I recommend this Kyushu travel itinerary . It’s the route I took as a solo traveller, and it took me through Beppu’s multicoloured hot springs and two active volcanoes – Aso and Kagoshima.

Okinawa is the perfect destination for solo travellers to Japan. This tropical island is located about 400 miles south of mainland Japan and is most easily accessible via Naha International Airport.

There are plenty of  reasons to visit Okinawa , including visiting historical sites, trying the local cuisine, and watching cultural performances. But the best reason to visit is for its beaches! The island of Okinawa has some of the most beautiful beaches that I have ever seen. In addition, there are plenty of snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities on the island. I recommend checking out Cape Maeda on the west coast of the island due to the diversity of marine life there.

Unfortunately, getting around Okinawa is tricky due to a lack of public transportation. I recommend that travellers rent a car to fully be able to explore the island. There are so many small villages around the island that are worth visiting that are only accessible with a private car.

by Andy from Explore with Finesse

Zamimi Island

Zamami Island is an excellent beach and adventure destination, perfect for families and solo travellers. The island is a perfect day trip from Okinawa, as it is located 50 minutes by high-speed boat, and provides world-class beaches, water activities and hiking. 

One of the most enjoyable things to do while on a  day trip to Zamami  is to partake in the many water activities, such as snorkelling the blue calm waters or kayaking around the little island. Two of the most popular beaches are within walking distance from the main port, making it very accessible for solo travellers. 

If water activities are not your forte, you can easily hike around the island or rent a scooter to view some breathtaking viewpoints. My recommendation would be to hike to the Takatsukiyama Observation deck, as it’s within walking distance of all the popular spots on the island. 

I’d encourage travellers to book high-speed boat tickets online (1-2 months in advance) as they tend to sell out, especially during peak season. Alternatively, there is a slower ferry (2 hours) that services the island, but it is more suitable for those intending to stay longer.

by Deirdre from Build & Board Travel

Experiences for solo travellers in Japan

See the snow monkeys in jigokudani.

In as little as an hour you can get the train from Nagano to the Snow Monkey Park, Jigokydani Yean Koen. The train station is in a small village called Yudanaka. Since the train from Nagano to Yudanaka is a private line you cannot use your Japan Rail Pass for this journey. However, the private train company sells a Snow Monkey Pass which is valid for two days. It gives you unlimited use of trains and buses between Nagano and Yudanaka plus entry to the Snow Monkey Park.

Seeing the monkeys bathing in the onsen (hot spring) is what people come for. You are most likely to see this during the colder months. Since Yudanaka is in the mountains it remains cold for longer than lower areas. I visited in April and enjoyed the cherry blossom in Kyoto whilst it was still cold enough in Yudanaka for the monkeys to use the onsen. However, the monkeys are in the area year-round so this is also an interesting destination in summer.

Although you can visit the snow monkeys on a day trip , I recommend staying overnight in one of the many traditional hotels in Yudanaka called Ryokans. You can sleep on a futon in a tatami room and enjoy a Japanese breakfast. Another reason to stay overnight is because Yudanaka is a historic onsen town. Anyone spending the night can borrow a key to the local hot springs dotted around town. Most ryokans will lend you a yukata (bathrobe) and getas (slippers) to walk from one onsen to the next through the narrow streets of the old town. Having lived and travelled extensively in Japan this is the most authentic onsen experience I have had. 

by Kristin from ScotlandLessExplored

Universal Studios Japan

Why do I suggest that Universal Studios Japan is the perfect place for a solo traveller in Japan? Single rider lines that’s why! USJ is one of the busiest theme parks in the world and the queues can be immense. Yes, you can jump them by paying for an Express Pass, but, Osaka’s Universal Studios also has 10 rides with the potential for a single-rider queue and, unless it’s a very busy day in the park, using one means you’ll queue for about half the time you’d spend in the normal queue – sometimes less; I walked straight onto both Jaws and Spiderman one rainy Sunday afternoon.

The one thing being solo won’t help you with is entry to the newest area, Super Nintendo World, as you need a special timed entry ticket to this ( see more on those here ) but, once you do get in there – the Mario Kart ride does have a single rider line for you to hop right on. And the other benefit of being solo here is that there’s no one there to see how badly you score on the VR part of the ride!

You need to book Universal Studios tickets in advance, Studio Passes and Express Passes go on sale two months before the entry date. If you do decide to buy an Express Pass, you’ll need to snap those up fast as they do sell out.

USJ is a short train ride away from central Osaka, so you don’t need to stay by the park. It’s an easy commute – I stayed at the Hen na Hotel Namba where you get checked in by robot dinosaurs. Rooms here are perfect for one – you can even book ones with a tiny robot companion.

by Helen from Japlanease.

Disneyland Japan

The best thing about visiting Tokyo Disneyland solo – no one saw that the Beauty and the Beast ride made me cry! The downside, there’s no one to chat with as you stand in the, potentially extremely long, queues, so I suggest adding enough to your budget to pay for the line-skipping Premier Access passes, particularly for Beauty and the Beast at Disneyland and Soaring: Fantastic Flight at Tokyo DisneySea the rides with the two longest queues in the park.

It might seem strange going to Disney as a solo adult, but forget that in Tokyo. There are so many Japanese adults there with friends or partners, you don’t feel odd walking around as a grown-up without kids, and you certainly don’t feel out of place as a solo one. Plus, because the majority of the park guests are Japanese, when you do meet another tourist, especially another solo one, chances are you’ll strike up a chat.

The staff will happily take your photo for character interactions, and, pleasing your stomach means you can avoid the busiest times for meals – by waiting a little bit later, I managed to snag a solo seat for the adorable Baymax-shaped curry with no forward planning. And, if your feet start to hurt, which they will, and you decide you’re done for the day, you can head home knowing everyone is happy! Fewer blisters, few arguments – why wouldn’t you go on your own?

There are two Tokyo Disney parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea , and you’ll need to buy tickets for both in advance. The parks are a 40-60 minute train ride from Central Tokyo, or, if you’re not watching your budget, at least ten hotels surround the resort.

by Helen from  Differentville

More experiences for solo travellers in Japan:

• Solo hiking the Kumano Kodo – an ancient pilgrimage trail that winds through mountain forests, across rivers, and past hidden shrines.
• Take part in a food tour or cooking class: – although solo dining is normal in Japan, that doesn’t mean it never gets lonely. But there’s an easy way to enjoy the amazing Japanese cuisine with others – join a cooking class or food tour!
• If there’s somewhere on your wishlist that you feel too intimidated to do alone, I advise looking for a tour that will allow you to go as a group. Ask your hostel for budget-friendly suggestions or check out GetYourGuide if you like to plan in advance.

Saving money as a solo traveller in Japan

If you’re truly on a budget, don’t get the JR rail pass. Seriously. Use a mix of bullet trains (so you get the experience!), night buses, and regular trains. I got the night bus from Tokyo to Kyoto and felt very safe! I recommend staying in each place for longer to get a real feel for it so you’re not spending as much on transportation, as that’s a huge part of a budget.

If you’re on a mid-range budget, then the 7, 14, or 21-day JR rail pass is likely right for you, as it’s certainly cheaper than buying all the train tickets separately and you’ll have the freedom to go wherever you want.

For flights, use Skyscanner or WayAway to find the cheapest flights for the month you want to travel.

Hostels are the way to go for budget solo travel in Japan, though if you’re on a mid-range budget you can switch things up with private rooms and get a Ryokan once or twice. Search for cheap accommodation on either Hostelworld (for hostels) or Booking.com (for a mix of everything).

If you’re a long-term traveller who’s happy to solo travel, you could also check out sitting opportunities (I’ve now had free accommodation on four continents with TrustedHousesitters ) or do a WorkAway (I volunteered at an animal sanctuary in New Zealand and it was the best experience ever).

Click to join Trustedhousesitters – free homestays in exchange for pet care . Use code CASSIE25 to get 25% off TrustedHousesitters memberships

Food-wise cut costs by cooking in your hostel or by picking up a packed lunch from a convenience store. This way, you’ll just be paying out for a big meal at dinner.

And, of course, take advantage of free activities (everything I did in my first day in Tokyo was free)

Is solo travel in Japan safe?

Yeah, I definitely felt safe solo travelling in Japan. As with any country, stay cautious walking around at night and trust your gut if anything feels off.

The only time I felt uneasy was the few times I got lost in the winding streets of Kyoto or smaller towns. Looking back, I wish I’d bought a Japan e-sim card or pocket WiFi so I’d always have had access to the internet. But hey, you live and you learn, and six years into solo travel, I’m still getting sim cards these days!

But, other than that, I honestly felt safe everywhere I went… even hiking alone in the mountains!

If there’s anything I missed, feel free to drop me a comment. Safe travels, and I hope you have a fantastic trip to Japan!

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Hi, I'm Cassie, and I've been solo travelling the globe since May 2018. In this time, I've backpacked around Southeast Asia, Japan and The Balkans, alongside living in New Zealand and Australia. Current location? Mexico

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14 comments.

p.s. This was your first big trip!? I know people that lived in Japan for years that didn’t make it to all these spots. It just shows you are a great travel planner! ❤

Lol that is amaaaazing! “Inu ga kawaii desu ne!?” I can see why that would get some smiles.

You are so right! Japan was my first ever solo trip (and big holiday in general) and although I tried to learn a little Japanese before hand, I didn’t get much further than hello/thank you/your dog is very cute. The latter definitely put a smile on a few people’s faces and I learn this phrase everywhere I go now. 😉

Thank you Holly, I hope you have a fantastic trip to Japan!

I hope you have a fantastic summer trip to Japan, and that my Japan blogs can still be helpful to you! 🙂

In my first few months of solo travelling I skipped this step (I was trying to be super budget…) but it ended up being so much harder! I find solo travelling with a local sim card so much easier now.

Ohh perfect, I’ve lots of Japan posts that I hope can come in handy for you! I’m sure you and your partner will have a fantastic trip. x

thank you Marga! I hope my Japan posts can help you plan your trip. There are so many amazing and unique things to see and do, solo or otherwise 🙂

Honestly, if you speak a little Japanese you will find it so, so different. Each time I travelled in Japan I had people be incredibly kind (inviting me to their homes or to eat with them…) They were always a little freaked out that a white girl could speak to them, but then wouldn’t stop chatting!

I hope you can learn a teeny bit then try again. 😀

I’ve solo travelled all over the world so I love your post! But actually planning my honeymoon to Japan so I’ll adapt these great tips a little bit. Can’t wait to visit again!

I haven’t experienced solo travel yet, but Japan is on mine & my partners travel bucket list! Saving this for hopefully 2025!

Thanks for these tips. We’re planning on going to Japan over the Summer, it might not be solo, but this list is also super helpful for families with a teen who want to visit Japan.

Your idea of getting a SIM card or pocket wifi are great ones, especially for solo travelers.

It’s SO helpful that you included both pros and cons of solo travel in Japan! So good to know about getting around the city safely, making sure to save this for my trip to Japan! Thanks!

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10 Days in Japan: A First-Timer’s Complete Japan Itinerary

last Updated: August 16, 2024 hiroshima japan kyoto miyajima nara osaka tokyo

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Looking for the best way to spend 10 days in Japan?  You’re in the right place! 

Continue reading for tons of first-hand tips, recommendations, and a complete 10 day Japan itinerary, which can easily be turned into two weeks in Japan if you’ve got a few more days.  I absolutely LOVED my time in the country, and with some proper planning, I can guarantee you will too.   

Japan is over-stimulating and over-whelming in the best way possible. An absolute thrill to the senses. 

From the shiny bright lights of Tokyo’s Akihabara District to the serene temples and zen gardens in Kyoto , Japan is a country where the past and the future collide more than you initially realize.

I can promise you that every bite of food will be better than the last, and you’ll be saying oishi (“delicious” in Japanese) during every meal.

If you can visit during cherry blossom season, you’re in for a real treat – the streets will be lined with the most beautiful bunches of white and pale pink flowers you’ve ever imagined, which in turn makes the country smell absolutely phenomenal.

Japan is quite literally the most fascinating country I’ve explored to date. (And I just hit my goal of 30 countries by my 30th birthday a few months ago!) #killingit

I’d love to spend more time in Japan, and am highly encouraging everyone I know to discover this little piece of Asia sooner than later. So today, I am sharing with you my 10 day Japan itinerary, all heavily researched (for hours!) before my trip and followed pretty much to a T.

Overview of this 10 Day Japan Itinerary

When I initially started planning my trip, I was worried that 10 days in Japan wouldn’t be enough. Thankfully, I proved myself wrong and was able to see and do  oh so   much , as well as stuff myself silly with all those Japanese snacks I had heard so much about. [Spoiler alert: bring stretchy pants.] 

The country is filled with so many fascinating areas, but 10 days in Japan will give you enough time to see the highlights. To be completely honest, this Japan itinerary is rather jam packed, yet highly efficient (I promise!), although I suggest slightly modifying it if you’d like a more relaxed trip or are traveling with kids.

While we’re at it, check out all my travel planning tips right over here!

This Japan itinerary starts in Tokyo , makes a day trip to either Kamakura, Nikko, or Hakone, then ventures south to Kyoto , with day trips to Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Miyajima Island. Distances really depend on the mode of transport you use, with bullet trains being the fastest.

• Days 1-3 : Tokyo
• Day 4: day trip from Tokyo
• Days 5-6: Kyoto
• Day 7 : Nara and Osaka
• Day 8 : Miyajima and Hiroshima
• Day 9 : morning in Kyoto  → Tokyo
• Day 10: Tokyo in morning/afternoon  → airport

Japan is a decently large-sized island country located in Eastern Asia, being slightly smaller than California .  Rest assured, the entire country is connected via trains. In my experience, Japan may have the most efficient and well-connected public transportation system in the world (and that’s coming from someone who spent their childhood riding the extensive New York City subway).

Despite holding the title for the 10th most populated country in the world (aka: it’s crowded), you can still find some peace and solitude in the many gardens and temples located just about everywhere.

Pre-Travel Guide to Japan

Where to get the best flight deals to japan:.

I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights , and always always always use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two. 

Always check budget airlines that may not be listed, especially if you are coming from other areas in Asia with shorter flight times.  A great list of budget airlines can be found here .

For reference, we flew premium economy on China Airlines with a short layover in Taipei for about $1200 round trip from San Francisco – during Easter and cherry blossom season – but I saw deals for under $800 in coach. [I’m not complaining about the upgrade that my husband insisted on buying, but know that cheaper flights are out there.]

If you’re coming from the East Coast USA, flights will be a bit more expensive but shouldn’t be more than $500 more or so.

Where to stay:

In an effort to keep things simple (and avoid changing accommodation every night or two – what a pain!), this itinerary will have you staying in 2 main areas (Tokyo and Kyoto).

I highly advise booking accommodations near centrally located train stations in each as it’ll be easiest for the day trips mentioned in the 10 day Japan Itinerary below.

I opted to stay near Shibuya Station in Tokyo, as it’s centrally located and easy to reach other districts. In Kyoto we stayed near Kyoto Station as we were taking a bunch of day trips and wanted to be able to walk to our accommodation easily after a long, busy day on the road bullet train.

• Luxury:  Cerulean Tower Tokyu Hotel
• Mid-Range:  Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyo
• Budget:  Shibuya Tokyu Rei Hotel
• Check out other hotels in Tokyo here.
• Luxury:  Hotel Granvia Kyoto
• Mid-Range:  Kyoto Century Hotel
• Budget:  Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto
• Check out other hotels in Kyoto here.
• Yado Kiramachi
• Kyoto Takasegawa Bettei
• Muromachi Yutone Kyokoyado

Airbnb is also a great option and a good way to save some money if you’re spending a few nights in one spot (always check the cleaning and booking fees, as these can greatly increase the price should you only need a 1-night stay).

New rules regarding Airbnb rentals were implemented in June 2018, and now listings must be registered and display a license number on their booking page. Thankfully all current listings on Airbnb are compliant (the company removed any which failed to register in 2018), so you can be sure your booking is absolutely legit.

While I’d love to recommend the Airbnbs we stayed in during our trip to Japan, they are no longer available. However, there’s tons more to choose from – just check out the Airbnb website .

When to visit:

There’s never a horrible time to spend 10 days in Japan, but each season has their pros and cons.

Spring : If you’re hoping to see the ever-so-beautiful cherry blossoms, April is your best bet. That being said, it’s also the month most people visit Japan for that very reason. I visited in early to mid-April, and while yes it was crowded, the beauty of the cherry blossoms found throughout the country was well worth it.

Fall : Autumn is another wonderful time to visit Japan, as you’ll get to experience the vibrant fall colors (bright red leaves) from September to November.

Summer (June to August) is hot, humid, and rainy (although the rain tends to dissipate in early July), while winter (Dec-Feb) is generally cool, sunny, dry and great for snow-sports in the mountains.

Note that weather varies dramatically throughout the country, so be sure to plan accordingly especially if you visit higher altitudes.

Read Next: When to Visit Japan (Weather, Seasons, Festivals, and Crowds)

How to get Japanese Yen:

I highly advise you to NOT exchange your money at a currency exchange kiosk before or after you land as you won’t get the best rates. Instead, take out local currency (Japanese Yen) at the airport via ATM machine.

If you travel quite frequently, consider applying for a Charles Schwab bank account. The company refunds any and all fees associated with foreign transaction ATM withdrawals. You’ll pay no ATM fees anywhere in the world, including your home country. It’s what I’ve been using for years and it’s saved me 100’s in unwanted pesky fees.

Surprisingly, considering it’s crazy-advanced technology and all, Japan is mostly a cash society; yes, we were exceptionally wowed by that! Expect your credit card to get rejected at most places (especially small eateries and of course street-food stands) and be sure to carry enough Yen with you.

If you’re coming from the US, an easy way to figure out USD to JY is to move the decimal point two spots to the right >> 100Y = approximately $1USD. Just for quick reference, 10,000Y = approximately 100USD.

How to Get Around Japan:

If you’re visiting Japan from elsewhere in the world (i.e. you are not a resident of Japan), you are able to purchase a JR train pass for varying amounts of time.  The JR pass gives you access to all of the trains, most Shinkansen lines (bullet trains), the ferry to Miyajima, and a few other transportation lines.  Options include 7-day, 14-day, and 21-day.

I used a 7-day JR pass during my trip, and I highly advise you to do the same if you’ll be following this 10 day Japan itinerary. The Green Car option, while a bit more expensive, is JR’s version of “first-class” and most definitely worth it in my opinion.  Note that it does not cover all bus routes/lines and some local trains, but these only cost about 100-300Y ($1-3USD), so no biggie.

If you plan on using a JR pass, you NEED to purchase it before you enter the country . Once you arrive in Japan, there is no option to buy it. And when I say no option, absolutely NO option at all.  

Once you purchase the pass (which must be done outside of Japan) you will receive a voucher in the mail (within a few days) which you will then exchange upon your arrival in Japan at a designated JR ticket booth in major train stations. 

Buy your Japan Rail Pass here (it’s the company I used and our voucher arrived promptly in the mail). There was free delivery straight to our home which I greatly appreciated, and once in Japan we saved a ton of money on the Shinkansen (high-speed bullet train), and breezed through the JR rail stations like a boss.

I can’t imagine doing Japan any other way than with a JR Pass. Check out the options (standard and green pass) here.

UPDATE — Buying a JR Pass in Japan : The Japan Rail Pass be will sold at a higher price point and on a trial basis in Japan through October 1, 2023 at major stations and airports. However, if you know you’ll be using one, miiiight as well save a bit of money and purchase it beforehand from a trusted company . There’s really no reason not to.

The public transportation system in Japan is top-notch, and although extremely overwhelming (at first, trust me), it’s by far the best (and most cost effective) option for getting around throughout the country.

Electricity and Power in Japan:

Japan uses the same 2-pronged electrical outlets as found in the USA. If you’re coming from America, note that some electrical devices use a three-pronged plug.

It’s also important to understand that the amount of voltage is different and you’ll need a converter (different than an electrical adapter) to change the amount of electricity pushed to each device if you plan on bringing anything which uses an excessive amount of power (including hair dryers, curling irons, and/or straightening irons). 

If you don’t want to worry about this, I suggest you invest in dual-voltage devices made especially for travel like this  dual-voltage blow dryer , dual-voltage mini straightener , and this dual-voltage curling iron .

Using a Pocket Wifi Router in Japan :

If you’ve done any research on Japan, you probably came across something called Pocket Wifi . What is it exactly and why should you consider getting it for your trip to Japan?

Pocket Wifi is exactly as it sounds — a small portable device that you can keep in your pocket (or purse/backpack/day bag) that provides wifi to all your devices (cell phone, iPad, computers, etc). And the best part? One Pocket Wifi will power up to 10 devices, so you can share the same Pocket Wifi with your family and friends.

Since wifi is less common in Japan than in other countries (surprising, right?!), this handy little device does wonders! You will be able to find free wifi in your hotel/ryoken, Starbuck locations around the city, and some other restaurants, but I always recommend having your own, especially if you’re visiting any smaller cities. Do note that some ryokans and older hotels might only have LAN cable internet access, instead of wifi, so you’ll definitely want a Pocket Wifi there!

You’ll use wifi on your phone for just about everything in Japan — train schedules, getting around, translating important phrases, making FaceTime calls to family, etc. You don’t wanna be without it when you need it!

And they make it so super easy — the Pocket Wifi will be delivered straight to your hotel in Japan! Once you’re done with your trip, use the convenient prepaid envelop to return your router from any address in Japan. Couldn’t be simpler than that!

Check out the benefits and purchase your Pocket Wifi here. Honestly, a life saver!

Useful Japanese Phrases:

• Hello/Good Afternoon: konnichiwa
• Good bye: sayonara
• Delicious: oishi
• Thank you: arigatō
• Please: kudasai
• Where’s the toilet: benjo wa doko desu ka?
• Does anyone speak English? Eigo no hanaseru hito wa imasen ka

Packing tips for Japan:

Clothing : Seaso ns are kind of temperamental in Japan, and you may be wishing you brought different clothing. Therefore, I highly suggest you pack layers for your trip to Japan. An umbrella (cute ones here , here , and here ) and light raincoat (like this or this one ) are recommended as well.

We encountered much more rain during our 10 days in Japan than we had originally planned for, and I’m glad I brought along a raincoat. If you don’t want to stuff a coat in your luggage, consider bringing along a poncho  just in case.

Electricity and Power : As noted above, most of Japan’s electrical outlets are the 2-pronged “Type A” type (100 Volt, 50-60 Hz).

If you have a device with a 3-pronged or European/UK-style plug, you may need a travel adapter (for all devices) and power converter (for high powered devices like a hair straightener or blow dryer).

Pack comfy shoes that are easy to take off. You’ll need to slip off your shoes at various temples, at the airport, at ryokans, and some restaurants. My favorite ones here (on sale), here , and here .

I also suggest bringing along socks if you don’t want to go barefoot… These sushi socks are quite cute and perfect for the occasion…  🙂 

Small throwaway bags for garbage. You won’t find many garbage cans around Japan in general, and it’s expected that you keep your trash on you until you can throw them away. Keep a small bag in your purse/backpack for this purpose. A small foldable tote is perfect for this, and can be used for spontaneous shopping trips.

Pack light. Navigating Japan is much easier when you have a small suitcase, especially since Japanese trains (and train stations) do not cater to travelers with a lot of luggage. In addition, there’s not as many elevators or escalators as you might wish, so remember, you may be carrying your luggage up and down a few flights of stairs.

I recommend traveling with a small rolling suitcase (one that fits in the overhead bin on an airplane like this one or this one ) and a backpack (I have this one and love it).

Stay organized with packing cubes , which also help you fit more into smaller suitcases (I’m able to fit about a months worth of summer clothing using packing cubes and packing strategically).

Language : If you’re up for it, you can also consider taking along a small Japanese Phrase Book . The language is quite difficult, and Google Translate (which won’t work without wifi or a cell plan) saved our butts far too many times.

Japanese written language uses characters, which you’ll see all over the place.  Thankfully, most signs are written in phonetics using the alphabet we use.

We were also surprised by the low number of people who speak any English. Save yourself some frustration and pack a lightweight phrase book in your bag. Interested in learning some Japanese before your trip?

This book looks like loads of fun, and I’m actually thinking of buying it before my next trip back to the country. (The Japanese language is difficult you guys, just trust me.)

Travel Insurance for Japan

Yes, you need this. I always recommend purchasing travel insurance before your trip. You never know what might happen (flight delays, lost baggage, illness), and travel insurance definitely helps with all of those unfortunate unexpectancies.

I highly recommend the companies World Nomads and SafetyWing . I’ve recently been buying coverage with SafetyWing since they cover pandemic-related costs (which most travel insurance companies do not do).

Whenever we travel, we always buy a short term plan (depending on how many days/weeks we’ll be away) before leaving for any trip! Even if you don’t end up using it, peace of mind is 100% worth it in my opinion.

Find plan options and pricing here (and at only a few bucks a day, there’s no excuse not to!) I always say, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford your trip. It’s that easy.

Buy your travel insurance now — don’t wait until it’s too late!

10 Days in Japan:  A Complete Japan Itinerary

And now, the fun part! The 10 day itinerary in Japan!

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo!

You’ll most likely be flying into Narita Airport  and will need a little over an hour to get into the city center via the Narita Express.  After such a long flight (with lots of time difference), it’s best not to plan much on this first day – hello, jetlag! 

I suggest exploring the area you’re staying in (my suggestions: Shibuya or Akihabara) and devouring your first Japanese dinner of either ramen or pork Katsu.

During my stay, I opted for an AirBnB in Shibuya , which has an epic nightlife with tons of stuff going on, restaurants included (even if “partying” isn’t your thing- it sure ain’t mine!).  Use this first afternoon/night to relax and rest up, as the rest of this itinerary will be go-go-go!

Day 2: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (West Side)

Today’s all about modern Tokyo !  You’ll be exploring the western districts of the city, including Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku – just saying these names are fun!  You can either walk from district to district as they are fairly close together, or buy single use train tickets to hop between each. 

DO NOT USE YOUR JR PASS YET as it will expire before you finish needing it later on during the trip. Train tickets within Tokyo are not very expensive, and you won’t be needing many today anyways!

Stop 1: Shibuya

If you opted to stay in Shibuya, you won’t need to take a train here!  Shibuya is Tokyo’s version of Times Square , and with all the bright lights and massive amounts of people, it’s easy to see why.  Be sure to check out the world-famous Shibuya Crossing , where 100’s of people scramble across the street at once. 

For the best view above, head to Starbucks (you’ll need to order something before going upstairs), or find the Keio Inokashira Line at Shibuya Station for another perfect view.

Also say “Hello” – or Konichiwa — to Hachiko (the most loyal dog in the world statue) at Shibuya Crossing and do some shopping at Tokyu Hands .

Meiji Shrine shouldn’t be missed as well, which is the Shinto shrine that is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken.  You’ll be seeing lots of shrines and temples during your time in Japan, and Meiji is a great one to start with! 

If you’re lucky, you may even witness a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony!  I, however, was not so lucky.

Stop 2: Harajuku

If you want to get a taste for Japanese street style, visit Harajuku.  On Sundays, you can see traditional Harajuku Girls dressed in elaborate costumes and anime – so fun! Try and spot the girl in the photo below all decked out in costume. If you can’t make it on a Sunday, you can get a feel for Japanese street style any day of the week. 

You can reach Harajuku by taking the Yamanote line to Harajuku Station, although it’s not a far walk from Meiji Shrine.

Walk down the famous shopping street of Takeshita Dori , where you’ll find a whole mess of fun stores and fun cafes.  Note that most shops don’t open until 11am, but if you’re following this itinerary, you’ll probably arrive here around 1pmish or so. 

Be sure to try a crepe – the unofficial street food of Harajuku, which you’ll find all over Takeshita Dori!  We also visited a hedgehog café and played with them for about 45 minutes or so.  A super quirky and super weird area, definitely not meant to be missed!

Read Next: Top Things to do in Harajuku

Stop 3: Shinjuku

Shinjuku is the largest neighborhood in Tokyo (dubbed the crazy entertainment district), and you’ll find thousands of restaurants, shops, entertainment, and other attractions that you could easily spend all day here. 

With limited time, we spent a decent portion of the afternoon and night here and felt that was sufficient enough to see the highlights.

Many people opt to see the ever-so-popular Robot Restaurant , which I’ve heard is an other-worldly experience, but after reading reviews, we decided against it.  Do your own research and decide for yourself whether this show is worthy of your time and money. 

Whether you decide to spend part of the evening at the Robot Restaurant, I highly encourage you to make a visit to Omoide Yokocho , commonly known as Piss Alley. 

Piss Alley is a small network of alleyways along the tracks northwest of Shinjuku Station filled with dozens of tiny eateries serving ramen, soba, sushi and yakitori.  Just pick one with open seats and go in – they’re all worthy of some stomach real-estate.

Consider the free observation deck on the 45th floor of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building , visit Shinjuku Gyoen (a large public park near Shinjuku Station being a perfect cherry blossom spot – check on hours, we missed the entrance by about 20 minutes 🙁 ), and find an epic view of the area from the pedestrian overpass near the northwest corner of the Shinjuku station.

Day 3: FULL DAY IN TOKYO (East Side)

Now it’s time to experience the more traditional side of Tokyo , including Sensoji Temple and Ueno Gardens.  Another bird’s eye view can be seen today, at nearby Tokyo Skytree.

If you’re staying in Shibuya like I did, you’ll need to take the train from Shibuya Station to Asakusa Station (35-45 min on train) via the JR Yamanote Line to Ginza or Asakusa Line. Make sure to purchase single tickets – do NOT activate your JR pass yet!

Asakusa and Sensoji Temple

Asakusa is the spiritual heart of Tokyo and a good place to start your day!  Sensoji Temple is the main attraction here, and you’ll start your morning journey at the Kaminarimon Gate . 

As you walk toward the temple buildings, check out the historic  Nakamise Dori shopping street, pick out some souvenirs and grab a Japanese snack (or two!) before exploring Sensoji Temple. 

Consider drawing Omikuji (written fortunes) while here.  If you’re up for it and are interested, check out the surrounding old-fashioned neighborhoods around Asakusa.

Sumida Park and Tokyo SkyTree

If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, I highly advise you to visit Sumida Park , which is an absolutely wonderful spot to see the flowers in bloom!  It was one of the least crowded public parks we went to and FULL of cherry blossoms! 

I cannot recommend this spot enough!  Bring a snack or two and sit on a blanket for the ultimate experience. We got sakura donuts from Mister Donut (located all around), and ate our flower-themed treats amongst the cherry blossoms.

Next up – Tokyo SkyTree , the tallest tower in not only Japan, but the entire world!  At 634m (2,080 feet),  the complex has two observation decks with great views over the city.  There’s even a glass floor for any of you brave souls!  Expect a cue, so plan on spending a bit of time here.  The Tokyo Skytree is about a 20 minute walk or a 5 minute train ride from Asakusa.

If you don’t wanna wait in line, I highly encourage you to book your skip-the-line Tokyo SkyTree ticket in advance. You can even upgrade to include the Tembo Galleria.

End the afternoon at Ueno Park , another large public space located in central Tokyo and another lively cherry blossom spot.  There are more than 1000 cherry trees of multiple varieties lining its central pathway and lots of temples and shrines here to check out, as well as museums and a zoo if those are of interest to you.

You’ll most likely want to take the JR train from Tokyo SkyTree to Ueno Park.  

Akihabara District

Wake up because we’re off to Tokyo’s crazy Akihabara District! Spend the evening perusing the many electronic shops, including Yodobashi Akiba – the world’s largest with nine stories stuffed with hi tech equipment – for geeks with money.

You’ll also find Japan’s diehard fan anime culture here, with stores devoted to anime and manga; just be sure to keep kids away from the adult-only sections (I wondered at first why all the anime was butt naked)! 

You could easily fill up a whole afternoon and night in Akihabara, from its maid and Gundam cafes, gaming centers (check out Super Potato Retro Shop if you want to be transported into the 90’s), and just gazing at the bright lights.

Day 4: DAY TRIP from Tokyo — 3 Options

Today you’ll activate your JR pass and start putting it to use!  Now that you’ve explored Tokyo, get out of the busy city center and explore another nearby area.  There are numerous day trips you can take from Tokyo , and depending on your interests, you may want to visit more than one! 

Unfortunately this ten day Japan itinerary only allows for one, but if you have another day or two to spare, you could easily do all three. 

I opted for Kamakura because of the rainy and cold weather, but I would have loved Nikko or Hakone had the weather been more cooperative that day. With two weeks in Japan, you can most definitely do all three if you’d like.

Here are my three recommended day trips from Tokyo:

1) Kamakura

Don’t miss the Great Buddha of Kamakura (at Kotokuin Temple), easily the most popular attraction in the area, and literally hard to miss at 44 feet.  Here you’ll find the second largest Buddha in all of Japan. 

Another site not to miss, and only a few minute walk from the Great Buddha – the Hase Dera Temple , which is a beautiful temple located on a hillside overlooking the ocean.

There’s also a bamboo forest at Hokokuji Temple , similar to that in Kyoto, and it’s possible to see Mt. Fuji on a clear day from Kenchoji Temple. 

Once you’ve had your fair share of temples, or are just hungry for some lunch, head on over to Komachi-dori , the busiest commercial street in Kamakura. Try the local specialty of Shirasu-don , (a Whitebait rice bowl), which you’ll easily find in numerous restaurants on the busy street.

Not interested in venturing to Kamakura alone and prefer a group tour?  Looking back, I wished I booked a tour.  Although it wasn’t too far away, we got a bit confused on the train and wasted a bunch of time trying to navigate our way to Kamakura, and then even more time once we arrived.

Many of the tours include other highlights like a tea ceremony and a view of the Bay, which we missed by going alone. I recommend these (from Tokyo) which cover all the top attractions:

• Full Day Trip to Kamakura, Yokohama, and Tokyo Bay (from Tokyo) : Not only does this day tour from Tokyo take you to all the highlights of Kamakura, but you’ll also get to have lunch in Yokohama’s bustling Chinatown, visit the traditional Japanese-style sunken garden of Sankei-en (including tea rooms!), and admire the modern cable-stay Yokohama Bay Bridge.
• 5 Hour Nature and History Walking Tour:  This walking tour follows a hiking route from Kita-Kamakura to Hase-dera Temple, passing many historic temples and shrines.  You’ll be able to enjoy some wonderful panoramas from a hiking trail that offers views in all directions. Note that transportation is not included.

Literally sick of the city and need to get some nature into your life?  Nikko may just be your answer.  Full of ancient moss, stone lanterns, vermillion gates, and towering cedars, there’s a reason why this area is one of Japan’s most visited areas.

Located about two hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is the site of the famous Toshogu Shrine , the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu (VIP in Japan), and numerous other temples and shrines. Don’t miss the famous Shinkyo bridge , the beautiful Nikko National Park (on a sunny day), Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss, and Kegon Falls . 

I’m quite bummed we didn’t make it here as all the photos look absolutely spectacular, but now I’ve got another reason to return to Japan!

Trying to fit in a lot during your one day in Nikko?  Consider a group tour which gets you around easily to all of the highlights.

Day Trip Options here: 

• From Tokyo: Nikko World Heritage Full-Day Tour :  Explore the beautiful mountain landscape of Nikko, Japan, experience the majesty of the Tamozawa Imperial Villa, bow to the three golden Buddah’s at the Rinnoji Temple, explore the surrounding landscape with a trip to Kirifuri Falls, and have a relaxed Japanese lunch at a local restaurant.
• Nikko: Autumn Leaves and World Heritage Full–Day Tour :  Discover the beautiful autumn leaves and world heritage of Nikko. During your full-day tour by air-conditioned coach, visit Nikko’s natural sights, Senjo-gahara and Kegon waterfalls, and Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Perfect during those autumn months!

If you have more than 10 days in Japan, check out these additional day trips from Tokyo .

If seeing Mt. Fuji is on your bucket list, then I definitely recommend making the day trip to Hakone. 

Once arriving, you have a whole slew of options to fill your day, including the Hakone Tozan Cable Car for stunning views, the Hakone Ropeway for even more epic views, Owakudani with views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day, and a small Buddhist alter. 

You can also take a Hakone Sightseeing Cruise and spend time at the Hakone Open Air Museum (art gallery). Brave? Try a black egg!

If you’re not up for heading to Hakone alone , there are numerous day trips from Tokyo that leave the transportation and planning up to someone else.  You’re on holiday – treat yourself and save yourself the hassle! I recommend the followings tours:

• From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Day Trip by Shinkansen : Spend a day trip traveling to Mt. Fuji, Japan’s most famous symbol and highest mountain. Enjoy the view from the 5th Station before visiting the nearby resort town of Hakone, known for its onsen hot springs. Return to Tokyo by bullet train!
• From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji and Hakone Tour with Bullet Train :  Get spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and its surrounding mountains on a day trip from Tokyo. Cruise across Lake Ashi by boat and take the ropeway up Mt. Komagatake. Relax in the hot springs resort of Hakone, and then catch the bullet train back to Tokyo.

However, note that seeing the mountain is never guaranteed and it’s possible you may make the trip only to be disappointed.  Some months out of the year have higher chances of visibility, including the winter months.  If it looks like a questionable morning with lots of clouds, I highly suggest you alter your plans and opt for either Nikko or Kamakura instead.

Day 5: MORNING BULLET TRAIN TO KYOTO then EXPLORING

First Bullet Train Ride!

*Note that you’ll be required to make a seat reservation if you have opted for the Green JR Pass.  Make this reservation when you first exchange your JR voucher for a ticket, or the night before leaving for Kyoto.  Don’t wait until the morning of because it’s possible the reservation desk will not be open yet.

Get up nice and early, grab some breakfast in the station/on the way to the station, and take a 7:00/7:30am bullet train from Tokyo Station (you may need to transfer at Shinagawa Station) in route for Kyoto! 

If you take this early morning train ride, you’ll arrive in Kyoto around 10:30am or so, which is necessary if you want to see a bunch of Kyoto sites today.  Once you arrive in Kyoto, put your luggage/bags into a coin locker (roughly 500-900 Yen for two suitcases for the entire day) and get exploring!

A note about Kyoto’s public transportation: Unlike Tokyo, Kyoto relies on large public buses. We were unaware of this and unfortunately caught off guard when we couldn’t take fast trains to get around. Give yourself some extra time as it’ll take longer to get around. Embrace it – look outside the window on the bus and take in some local Kyoto life.

Arashiyama Area

Catch the bus to the  Saga-Arashiyama Station , where you’ll be hanging out for a few hours.  First up, Tenyru-Ji Shrine and its accompanying zen garden.  So many beautiful plants and flowers (nicely labeled in both English and Japanese) here, such as the Japanese wisteria, which you’ll never see outside of Japan.

Once you exit the garden, you’ll come across the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove/Forest .  Walking through the Bamboo Grove is definitely one of the essential experiences to have in Kyoto so don’t pass it up! 

The grove is much smaller than I thought, taking roughly 15 minutes to walk through, but is absolutely excellent for photography.

Walk through slowly to take it all in, and don’t forget to look up at the towering bamboo!  Bring a wide-angle lens and if possible, a go pro, in order to include as much of the bamboo in your photos!

Before you head to the Monkey Park (coming up next!), you’ll most likely come across a lovely area with small eateries and a beautiful, green emerald lake. A good spot for some photos in my opinion!  🙂  We enjoyed a few vending machine coffees and teas here (you’ll be doing that everywhere in Japan too, you’ll see!).

Read Next: Top Things to do in Kyoto and Attractions

Next up, walk to the Iwatayama Monkey Park !  Yes, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk completely uphill to reach the park, but definitely worth it!  Just be aware, the Google Maps directions to this attraction are wrong.

The entrance to the park is simply near the orange shrine gate at the south side of the Togetsu-kyo bridge. Look for a cartoon picture of a monkey and you’re golden!

The park is a nice change from the temples and shrines you’ll be seeing a lot of in Kyoto, and it’s so much fun to feed the monkeys for only 100Y.  There’s also a wonderful view of Kyoto from up here.  

Before anyone gets mad at those pictures of the monkeys “behind bars”, please know they are free to roam wherever they’d like throughout the park, and us humans are actually put in an enclosed area when feeding them. This is to protect both the animals and us.

We could have easily spent hours watching the monkeys and admiring the view, but off to the Golden Pavilion it was!

Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)

If you’ve got more time today, take the bus to the Golden Pavilion , which is super impressive and made entirely of gold!  Reflected in the lake, it’s no wonder this is one of the top things to do in Kyoto. 

Make sure to try some Japanese flavored ice cream here, such as green matcha and/or black sesame, my new favorite!  It’s guaranteed to be crowded, but very, very worth it in my opinion.

*Don’t forget to head back to Kyoto Station to collect your bags before heading to your hotel or AirBnb for the night!

Day 6: FULL DAY IN KYOTO

Nishiki Market

Start the day at the Nishiki Market – known for its different food stalls where you can try all kinds of Japanese cuisine and treats. 

Stroll for an hour or so up and down the streets of the market, stopping whenever something tickles your fancy. The market is a great place to dive into some of the more unusual dishes – don’t be a chicken, try them!

However, absolutely don’t leave the market without trying tako tamago – the infamous candied baby octopus stuffed with a quail egg.  It tastes way better than it sounds – I could have eaten three!

Want a taste of those cutesy animal donuts you’ve possibly seen all over the internet? You can try them here – at Floresta Donuts .  I had a hard time eating mine as it was just too cute to bite into! Quite possibly my favorite thing I ate during our 10 days in Japan! SO cute!

After your fix of Japanese delicacies and donuts, walk on over to Gion, Kyotos famous geisha district.  If you’re lucky you may spot a real true-life geisha , although they tend to walk fast to their destination and don’t like to show their face. 

However, if you do spot one, but courteous and don’t obviously follow them or point your camera directly to their face.  Show respect for their culture. I wasn’t so lucky and didn’t spot any on my trip.

Higashiyama District

End the day at the Higashiyama District, the world famous hub of Kyoto’s best-known shrines and temples.  And let me tell me, this place is worth checking out. It’s one of my favorite areas in all of Kyoto .

Make sure to walk down Sannenzaka and Ninensaka – the two most beautiful streets in the district, with numerous souvenir shops and eateries.  It can get rather crowded during the day (for good reason!), so we chose to come a bit before dusk had encountered a less cramped experience. 

Still cramped, but less cramped than I imagine mid-day would be. You’ll find some eats on the walk – make sure to try a sakura cream puff !

Kyomizu-dera Temple , a listed UNESCO site, should be next on your list.  Again, it’s quite busy, but the view out over a sea of trees is hard to beat – just imagine this during cherry blossom season (absolutely to die for!) And yea, try an onigiri maki – an emoji in the wild!

Finish off this (long and tiring) day by walking part of the Philosopher’s Path (found on Google Maps as  Tetsugaku-no-michi) , a path that runs along a narrow river and is lined with more cherry blossom trees than you can ever imagine! 

You’ll end at the Silver Pavilion, although not as fancy and intricate as the Golden Pavilion, and not even lined in silver, but still impressive nonetheless.

Day 7: DAY TRIP TO NARA AND OSAKA

It’s time for some day trips today, and we’ll be crossing off two in one day’s time!  Head to Nara from Kyoto Station (via JR Nara Line – roughly 1 hour on the express train), then after seeing some of the top temples, head on over to Osaka and eat everything!

Get ready to interact with some deer in Nara Park , which can be found all throughout the area and are literally impossible to miss!  And oh yea, those crackers you see being sold on the street?  Those are for the deer, not us hungry humans!

A few temples to see: Todaiji (must visit Unesco World Heritage Site with super tall Buddha), Kasaguga Taisha Shrine (the most important shrine in Nara), Kofukuiji Temple, and Gangou-ji Temple.  If you’ve had enough of temples by this time, head over to Osaka and skip a temple or two.

Tip : Get the Nara Kotsu one day pass (it’s more of a wooden plague you can wear around your neck if you please) for 500 Yen.  This sightseeing bus brings you around to the top attractions in Central Nara, and is good for most of the buses you see throughout the city.

Off to Osaka for the rest of the day!  Many people skip Osaka as they think it’s just another large city like that of Tokyo, but we absolutely loved our few hours here!  Don’t skip it!

First up, the ever-so-beautiful Osaka Castle , one of Japan’s most famous landmarks!  Get off at Osakajokoen Station. 

Note that the castle may very well be closed by the time you reach it depending on how long you spend in Nara (last admission is 4:30pm in April, a bit later in the summer months), but the outside alone is worth the train and short 20 minute walk!

Next up, Dotonbori Street !  It’s an absolute madhouse full of people, shops, and eateries, and an absolute must-do while in Osaka.  Be sure to look up and admire the moving animal billboards found on the buildings.

Osaka is the food capitol not just of Japan, but of the entire world.  Hence, you’ll want to eat everything in sight (just leave some room for a Kobe beef dinner).  Try beloved regional dishes like okonomiyaki, takoyaki (fried octopus balls – tastes way better than it sounds), udon, and hiyashi ame ginger drink.

Rule of thumb: if there’s a long line, the food is out of this world.  Wait and you’ll be rewarded.

If you want to get some shopping on, head on over to nearby Shinsaibashi, the city’s premier shopping district.  We chose to skip the shopping and focused on stuffing our faces 😉

Great dinner suggestion: Tsurugyu.  This place is all about Kobe beef , and is super fresh and decently priced.  Expect to pay around 5,000Y per person, drink included.  Reservations are highly recommended, although we somehow got extremely lucky and were able to sit at the bar – but don’t count on this!

Day 8: DAY TRIP TO MIYAJIMA AND HIROSHIMA

Get ready for another jam-packed day.  Yes, it’ll take a while to get here, but trust me, on a clear, sunny day, it’s 100% worth it and absolutely beautiful. 

Take an early morning bullet train to Hiroshima, which takes roughly 2 hours from Kyoto Station, then a local JR train to Miyajimaguchi Station, then finally the JR ferry to Miyajima.  All included in your JR Pass .

You can choose to visit either Miyajima or Hiroshima first, but I highly recommend visiting Miyajima during high tide to see the gate “floating” in the water.  Check tide schedules online.

If you opt for Miyajima first (again, tide dependent), and take an 8am bullet train out of Kyoto Station, you’ll reach Miyajima by approximately 11am.

Head straight to the tori gate (after some deer interaction of course, yes there’s deer here and they’re SUPER friendly, just watch your food). 

You’ll want to snap a million photos because this place is just so damn beautiful it’s hard not to!  You can also check out the floating shrine as well, which we loved and was unlike any other shrine/temple we saw in Japan!

Spectacular views your thing? Take the Miyajima Ropeway (~15 minutes, $17 roundtrip) for better-then-great views of the whole area from the top of Mt. Misen . There’s a bus at the base of Miyajima Island which will take you to the ropeway station fo’ free as well if you’re already feeling super tired from your journey.

Before heading back to the ferry, pick up some ice cream (green tea or black sesame, you are in Japan!) – perfect on a hot, sunny day.

Take the ferry back to Miyajimaguchi Station, then the JR train to Hiroshima.  Note that you’ll need to either take a tram or buy a Hiroshima Sightseeing Hop-On, Hop-Off Loop Bus “Meipuru-pu” to get around in Hiroshima super easily – which is free of cost for JR pass users . 

We took the sightseeing bus to Hiroshima Castle , and then to the area with the A-Bomb Dome , Children’s Peace Monument , and Peace Memorial Museum and Park .  The museum was closed by the time we arrived, but we were still able to wander around at the memorials and pay our respects.

End this super long day eating okonomiyaki at Okonomimura , a humungous multi-level eatery with tiny stalls of different shops making varieties of the famous pancake.  Just for reference, we made it back on a bullet train around 8:30/9pm, getting back to Kyoto around 11pm.  Told you it was a long day.  😉

Day 9: KYOTO THEN BULLET TRAIN BACK TO TOKYO

Today’s your last day in Kyoto, so it’s time to do those last-minute things you missed, including the Fushimi Inari Shrine.   Put your bags in coin lockers at Kyoto Station before heading out for the day (just don’t forget to pick up before the bullet train heading back to Tokyo!)

Morning/Afternoon in Kyoto

1. Fushimi Inari Shrine (Taisha): COME EARLY BEFORE THE MASSES ! No matter how tired you are, do not skip Fushimi Inari Shrine!  To get here, you’ll need to take the JR Line (Nara or Keihan Main) from Kyoto to Inari Station. 

The shrine is comprised of over 10,000 beautiful orange-y red tori gates arching over a scenic, possible 2-hour-long walking trail. You don’t need to do the entire circuit, but definitely make it past the initial arch as this is the most populated one due to its close proximity to the start. 

Make sure to notice the numerous fox statues along the shrine grounds, as they are thought to be Inari’s messengers and hold much importance to this area. And get some inari sushi if you’re a bit hungry – look how cute they are! Definitely one of my favorite things we did during our 10 days in Japan.

Read Next: Alllll the best things to do in Kyoto

2. Nijo Castle: One of Kyoto’s most popular and impressive sights, and a wonderful place to walk around on your last official morning in the city. The grounds are large with numerous fortifications, a lovely castle, beautiful moat, and gardens.

Inari Shrine to Nijo Castle: Head back to Kyoto Station, then take the JR Sagano train to Nijo stop

3. To-Ji Garden and Temple: Depending on your groups level of tired-ness, you may choose to skip these gardens (which are a 15 minute walk from Kyoto station).  We were too pooped from the week’s festivities to even think about wandering around here, and let’s face it – I saved myself an hour or so of complaints from my husband. 

We both get a little grumpy when the tiredness kicks in.  If you do decide to go, you’ll find the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan, a lovely garden with a koi fish pond, and some beautiful cherry blossoms. Next time for me!

Bullet Train to Tokyo

Once you’re done with your activities in Kyoto, back on the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Tokyo it is!

The bullet train from Kyoto to Tokyo takes around 3 hours or so, and with our stomachs grumbling already, we opted for a dinner of bento boxes to take on the train with us.  You’ll find a handful of stalls in the train station selling a wide variety of food options, with bento boxes being absolutely perfect for the long train ride!

Since you’ll only be in Tokyo for one additional night and will need to take the train from Tokyo station to Narita International Airport the next day, I suggest staying in the Ginza area, 1 or 2 stops on the train depending on which line you take.

It also lets you explore a new area the next morning before heading off to the airport.

Recommended hotels in Ginza:

• Luxury : Millenium Mitsui Garden Hotel  (where we stayed and we absolutely loved it! – and less than $150 a night!)
• Mid-Line : Solaria Nishitetsu Hotel Ginza  (super chic upscale hotel at affordable rates in a great location)
• Budget : Tokyo Ginza Bay Capsule Hotel  (if you don’t know what a capsule hotel is… go check that out!)

Day 10: SUSHI BREAKFAST AND OFF TO THE AIRPORT

Before heading out for the day, it’s a good idea to check out of your hotel to avoid rushing back for the mid-morning check-out time, and be sure to ask your hotel to store your bags (which you’ll pick up later before heading off to the airport).

Sushi Breakfast at Tsukiji Market

On your last official morning after 10 days in Japan (cue the sad face), there’s nothing better than an authentic sushi breakfast!  And no better place to get fresh sushi than at the Tsukiji Fish Market – the world’s largest, busiest fish market! 

Note that the Tsukiji Fish Market is comprised of two parts – the inner market (the Uogashi wholesaler market) and the outer market.  The inner market is where you’ll find the early-morning wholesale tuna auction (think 4am, yes, really that early), while the outer market is for all of us foodies hoping to satisfy our taste buds with some seafood goodness.

While Daiwa Sushi and Sushi Dai are two of the most common sushi shops in Tsukiji Market, the lines are astronomically long.  We picked a place at random and had a wonderful experience – the fish was fresh, service was adequate, and prices were competitive.

You won’t find mediocre sushi anywhere in this area, so decide for yourself (and your hungry belly) if waiting in those long lines is worth it.

If you have a little extra time and wanna learn about Japanese food culture and the market in general, consider signing up for a Tsukiji Outer Market Food and Drink Walking Tour . You’ll sample bonito, katsuobushi, dashi stock, sushi, sake, fresh tuna, local omelets (my all-time fave) and so much more. I so wish we did this as we didn’t learn much about the market and honestly didn’t even know where to begin on our own — there’s so many stalls and we didn’t know half of the foods!

Next time we’re in Japan I REALLY wanna take this combined tour of the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market and sushi-making class! I love taking cooking classes when I travel (I’ve made macarons in Paris, egg tarts in Lisbon, and tamales in Mexico so far), so I think sushi in Japan is next for me!

Shopping in Ginza

After filling up on some sushi (and ice cream, because, why not?!), head back to Ginza for some upscale window shopping.  This district is home to the most expensive shopping and real estate in Tokyo – kind of like New York’s Fifth Avenue, but with more lights!

Off to the Airport

Depending on your flight time, you may have a bit more time, but it’s always wise to get to the airport extra early for international flights. 

Head back to your hotel, collect your bags, head to Tokyo Station, then to Narita Airport (takes approximately 1 hour via Narita Express), have one more Japanese meal at the airport, and say goodbye to this eclectic yet charming country.

If you have any questions on this 10 day Japan itinerary, please ask below in the comments! If you follow this itinerary (exactly what we did), I can promise you not only will you see so much in such a short period of time, but you won’t be stressed out planning either!  🙂

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Photos via Day 1a | Day 2 and Steam Fire at Asakusa  | cherry blossoms | Akihabara | Hakone 1 and 3 | Hakone 2 |

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September 23, 2020 at 10:18 pm

Great post! We are planning to visit Japan around cherry blossoms season next year. Your 10-day itinerary seems perfect. We might add 3 to 4 days to it as we love to follow the slow pace when we travel 🙂

September 23, 2020 at 10:47 pm

You’re gonna have the best time ever – I wish I could go back and do my entire itinerary again! An extra few sounds would be perfect; we had to rush around a lot!

April 13, 2021 at 11:26 pm

Very elaborate Japan guide! Hope to visit this wonderful place in the near future!

March 27, 2022 at 5:54 am

Thanks so much, this was very helpful, and fun to read. I’ve been once by myself and hope to return with my wife. If it’s not too personal, what was the total cost of the trip for two?

April 4, 2022 at 6:16 pm

Hi Bill! So glad the post was helpful! Unfortunately it’s really hard to say the total cost, as it greatly varies depending on what hotels you choose, activities you do, and restaurants you eat at! With that being said, the street food is absolutely phenomenal and a great way to save a bit of money! We loved it all!

April 7, 2022 at 1:22 am

such an amazing post and trip, wish i can go there very soon. thankyou for sharing 🙂

July 18, 2022 at 8:44 am

I am so very grateful for your post. I have been researching for months and this is the most helpful post I have found! We will be traveling to Japan April 2023 for my sons graduation present. We will only have 7-8 days there. If you were to take off 1-2 days which would they be. Right now I am thinking one less day in Tokyo but not sure what else to eliminate.

July 20, 2022 at 6:58 pm

So glad you found it helpful! I would cut off the day trip from Tokyo, and eliminate a day in Tokyo like you suggested. You can see the main highlights of Tokyo in 2 long, jam packed days. It’ll be a very hectic and tiring trip, but you’ll see a lot in just a week! I cannot wait to go back to Japan! Enjoy your trip — sounds like it’ll be a special one!

August 29, 2022 at 1:19 pm

I’m planning a trip to Japan and this has been super helpful! One question though, did you mainly find lodging in just Tokyo and Kyoto? And you did day trips out of those cities but would return back?

August 29, 2022 at 8:42 pm

Hi Francesca — yup, did exactly that! I stayed in Tokyo and Kyoto and did day trips! SO much to see! Have such a great trip! I cannot wait to go back to Japan!!!

October 1, 2022 at 10:40 pm

Hey! your post is SUPER helpful for my 10 day trip I want to take in April 2023! But I was curious if you visited any hot springs or passed by any while on your trip? I want to go to one with my boyfriend and have a relaxing dip 🙂 I look forward to the trip and your trip sounds like something we would follow to enjoy our time! thnk you 🙂

October 2, 2022 at 4:33 pm

Hey there! We didn’t have time for any on our first trip, but spent a few days at an onsen in Mt. Muji on our second trip! Highly recommend adding that in if you’re looking for some peace and quiet! It was incredible!

August 9, 2023 at 9:19 am

Hi! Which onsen do you recommend?

November 1, 2022 at 11:18 am

Can u suggest a place to do one day of kintsugi lesson. I love your itinerary and plan to follow it to the T. And will definitely share my experience once I am back… I have about 13 days…one last thing..anything that a vegetarian can eat

November 6, 2022 at 2:26 am

Excellent guide! May I know is the 7-day JR pass one-way only (Tokyo -> Kyoto)? Do we need to buy another ticket/pass for the bullet train from Kyoto back to Tokyo?

November 6, 2022 at 4:32 pm

The JR pass works for all directions! As long as it’s still within the 7 days if you buy the 7 day pass! You can use the pass as many times as you want within the time frame you buy it for. It’s great!

November 27, 2022 at 10:18 pm

love your itinerary! i’m planning to visit japan in december and wondered if the disneyland in tokyo was worth it?

November 28, 2022 at 7:47 pm

Hi Rama! How exciting! I’ve never been to Tokyo Disney so unfortunately cannot comment! Have a great trip! Japan is easily one of my favorite countries!

January 19, 2023 at 12:04 pm

This post is amazing! We are planning a trip to Japan and this has everything. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences!

January 20, 2023 at 5:15 pm

Of course, so glad it’s helpful! Let me know if you have any questions! We loved our trips to Japan and can’t wait to go back!

February 9, 2023 at 2:03 pm

Thank you so much for sharing, this is super helpful! I was wondering, if you were to have stayed at a ryokan during this trip, when / in which city would you recommend staying? I’m currently planning a 10 day try and would like to follow your itinerary but also want to squeeze in a stay in a ryokan!

March 22, 2023 at 6:38 am

I just wanted to thank you. My wife and I returned last night from our first trip to Japan, 11 nights in total. We followed your itinerary almost to the letter, including all three day trips from Tokyo – Kamakura, Nikko and Hakone.

It was an extra special trip for us, celebrating my 50th birthday, and your itinerary made the incredibly intimidating task of knowing how to structure a short trip to Japan, manageable and endlessly rewarding.

I commend you for your excellent research and wanted you to know how valuable of a service you are providing!

March 28, 2023 at 7:06 pm

Just to be clear, you’re recommending just two home bases during the ten days in Japan: Tokyo and Kyoto? We’re going in October and are booking hotels. So – one hotel in Tokyo and one hotel in Kyoto from which we see those cities and take day trips. It’s that simple?

April 5, 2023 at 11:07 am

Yup — makes it so much easier than booking a different hotel for every night! 🙂 The train system is amazing in Japan and you can easily get to so many day trips from both major cities.

April 26, 2023 at 3:42 pm

We are planning a trip to Japan in April 2024 and I came across you blog post. Amazing post and your detailed itinerary is very helpful. I’m wondering if there is any advantage of choosing Narita vs Haneda airport. We will be flying from SFO and have options to both.

April 27, 2023 at 2:05 pm

If you can find a flight to Haneda for a decent price, I’d actually choose that! It’s much closer to Tokyo itself. However, more airlines fly into Narita. I’ll be looking into Haneda for my next trip! 🙂

May 9, 2023 at 4:22 pm

Thank you so much for this very helpful itinerary. My husband and I are planning to visit in early December to celebrate my 60th birthday. Your suggestions and recommendations were very helpful and I will definitely be using them. Thank you again.

May 9, 2023 at 5:54 pm

Glad it was helpful! That’s so exciting — what a special spot for a birthday! Have the best time, and let me know if you have any questions!

May 21, 2023 at 2:06 am

We are booked on a cruise around Japan for 10 days but coming in earlier to do some land tours and hopefully see things we will not be able to do on the cruise. All your information was so informative and will be looking more into it all. We will be leaving Sydney Australia on 23rd March 2024 specifically for Cherry Blossom time.

August 9, 2023 at 9:17 am

Hi! We are flying to HND arriving June 8th at 21:05. We depart from NRT June 20th. I haven’t booked any accommodations yet. I’m trying to follow your itinerary. How many nights would you recommend in Tokyo and Kyoto? Should we stay in another city for a few nights to reduce traveling time? Regarding the JR Pass, we fall in between the 7 day and 14 day pass. I’m thinking the 7 day pass should be enough if we start using it day 4 or 5. Thank you!

November 5, 2023 at 2:56 pm

Hi Jess. Your itinerary was the inspiration for my first visit to Japan last month with my niece. We followed the majority of the 10 days outlined including all of the daytrips except for Hakone. Your suggestions were excellent because each day trip was unique and memorable. Your tips on where to purchase the local currency, the JR train pass as well as the packing tips were incredibly helpful. We also made it a point to try every single one of your foodie recommendations. Black sesame and Sakura were definitely our favorite Japanese flavors for ice cream. Nishiki Market, Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, the floating shrine in Miyajima, the Great Buddha statues at Kotokuin in Kamakura and at Todaji in Nara, Okonomimura in Hiroshima, Fushimi Inari Shrine were absolute highlights. Thank you so much for sharing this well-researched and well-organized itinerary that helped us make the most of our truly breath-taking adventure in Japan.

November 8, 2023 at 12:16 am

So glad it was helpful and that you had an amazing trip to Japan! Every time I go back I’m already planning my next trip! Such a wonderful, diverse country!

December 18, 2023 at 4:02 pm

Hello, I want to make sure I understand your itinerary. At the beginning, does it call for 4 or 5 nights in Tokyo?

January 16, 2024 at 12:46 pm

What would you add to this itinerary if you travel with 12 and 13 year old children?

January 20, 2024 at 10:56 pm

Hi there! I don’t have kids so not sure I’m the best person to ask! There’s tons of things to do in Tokyo for people with all different interests though.

February 20, 2024 at 5:16 am

Fantastic info for a possible first time visitor. Thanks so much! Just querying the following part of your page though:

“If you’re coming from the US, an easy way to figure out USD to JY is to move the decimal point two spots to the right >> 100Y = approximately $1USD. Just for quick reference, 10,000Y = approximately 100USD.”

If I move the decimal place to the right for 100.00Y that equal 10000 USD based on the above. Should that have said “move the decimal place two spots to the left (which would = 1.00)

February 20, 2024 at 5:19 am

Ignore all that.. I now see it from the US point of view – i.e. move the US decimal point two spots to the right to get JPY. Sorry! Great site, really appreciate ethe information.

March 7, 2024 at 3:50 pm

what is the latest the bullet trains operate for example taking a day trip from Kyoto to Osaka at what time do you have to head back? Is there a website were we can see this?

April 20, 2024 at 2:29 pm

Hi. My name is Jack, I live in Japan for more than 10 years and run a personal blog jackinjapan.com I would be glad if you can read my work)

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Solo Travel in Japan: Tips and Tricks for an Unforgettable Adventure

Solo travel to Japan has become increasingly popular, with more and more travelers seeking the freedom and adventure of exploring the country on their own. With social media platforms like Instagram showcasing the country’s friendly and approachable side, there’s been a boost in the confidence of solo travelers. The visual appeal and personal stories shared on these platforms help demystify the travel experience, encouraging more people to embark on solo adventures. If you’re wondering, “Is it safe to travel to Japan alone?” the short answer is yes. That being said, these essential tips and tricks for traveling alone in Japan will ensure a smooth, safe, and enriching experience.

Accommodation Tips

1. Capsule Hotels: For budget-conscious solo travelers, capsule hotels are an excellent option. These unique lodgings, available throughout Japan’s major cities, offer affordable, clean, and secure accommodations. Each guest enjoys a small yet comfortable capsule equipped with essential amenities. Capsule hotels often feature separate sleeping quarters for men and women, enhancing safety and privacy. The communal social rooms are perfect for meeting other solo travelers, fostering a sense of community and shared adventure.

2. Hostels and Guesthouses: Another budget-friendly option is staying in hostels or guesthouses. These accommodations often provide social opportunities and can be a great way to meet fellow travelers. Look for hostels with high ratings for cleanliness and security, and consider choosing ones that organize social events or group activities. At Tourist Japan, we have access to some unbeatable industry rates. Browse through our range of recommended Japan hotels , sorting by price, to find something that suits you and your budget.

Find a Japan Hotel

Navigating the Country

1. Utilize Public Transportation: Japan’s public transportation system is efficient, reliable, and relatively easy to navigate, even for solo travelers. The Japan Rail Pass is a cost-effective option for long-distance travel across the country. Apps like Google Maps and HyperDia can help you plan routes and schedules, making it easier to get around.

2. Guided Tours: If you’re nervous about navigating Japan on your own, consider joining Tourist Japan’s guided group tours . Not only will you meet fellow travelers, but you’ll be escorted through the country by expert local guides. With our carefully curated itineraries, which can often be adapted to your interests, we ensure you make the most of your time and feel relaxed and secure throughout your trip. Our hand-selected guides provide deeper insights into Japan’s culture and history, guaranteeing a richer travel experience. Most popular among solo travelers in Japan are our Japan Budget Tour Packages . Available in a range of lengths, and including a variety of locations, these packages, which include tours and hotels, focus on keeping the costs at a minimum and the experiences at a maximum. You’ll see the best of Japan while making friends and memories for life.

See all Japan Budget Packages

How to Safely Solo Travel in Japan

1. Stay in Well-Populated Areas: When choosing where to stay and explore, prioritize well-populated and tourist-friendly areas like Tokyo’s Shibuya and Shinjuku , Kyoto’s Gion district, and Osaka’s Namba. These areas are vibrant, offer plenty of attractions, and are generally safe for solo travelers.

2. Keep Important Documents Secure: Always keep a copy of important documents, such as your passport and travel insurance, in a secure place. Have the contact information for your country’s embassy or consulate in Japan readily available.

3. Use a Mobile Phone with Data: Having a working phone with data is crucial for staying connected and navigating. Purchasing an eSIM for Japan is inexpensive and simple, ensuring you can stay connected wherever you are. Consider upgrading your eSIM to include phone features for an extra layer of security.

4. Trust Your Instincts: Trust your instincts and avoid situations that feel uncomfortable. Japan is generally safe, but being cautious and prepared ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Must-Visit Places

1. Kyoto : Explore the serene temples and traditional teahouses of Kyoto. This city is rich in cultural heritage and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling urban centers.

2. Tokyo : Experience the vibrant energy of Tokyo, from the bustling streets of Shibuya to the historic temples in Asakusa . Tokyo offers a mix of modernity and tradition that captivates every traveler.

3. Hiroshima : Visit the historical sites of Hiroshima to learn about its profound history and resilience. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum are must-see destinations.

4. Nara : Spend a day in Nara, known for its friendly deer and stunning temples. The town’s tranquil atmosphere and cultural landmarks provide a unique travel experience.

5. Hakone : For a blend of nature and culture, head to Hakone. Enjoy hot springs and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and sightseeing.

Final Tips For Solo Travel in Japan

1. Connect with Other Travelers: Joining local events or staying in social accommodations can help you connect with other travelers. This can enhance your experience by sharing tips, and stories, and possibly traveling together for parts of your journey.

2. Plan Ahead but Stay Flexible: While it’s good to have a plan, allow for some flexibility in your itinerary. Spontaneity can lead to unexpected and memorable experiences.

3. Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Knowing a few basic Japanese phrases can go a long way in making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. Locals appreciate the effort, and it can help you in everyday interactions.

Embarking on a solo travel adventure in Japan can be incredibly rewarding. With the right preparation and a spirit of adventure, you’ll have an unforgettable experience exploring this fascinating country on your own terms. When you find yourself in need of some guidance, assistance, or companionship, our team of travel experts at Tourist Japan is here to help. With guided tours, tour packages, hotel bookings, private trans f ers , and a huge range of Japan travel resources to help plan your trip, we’ll ensure your solo adventure is a success!

See all Japan Guided Tours

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Japan Tours for Solo Travelers

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10 best Japan solo travel packages

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Japan Golden Route with Hiroshima

9 day independent japan, best of osaka, kyoto and hiroshima 6 days, japan one life adventures - 10 days, 9d splendid japan with nagoya (private 3 star hotel rooms), highlights of japan - 7 days, stunning japan with shirakawa-go (private 3 star hotel rooms), japan one life adventures - 14 days, essential japan, wonders of japan end osaka.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Cruise on Lake Ashi near Mount Fuji
• Wander through Nara Park's free-roaming deer
• Experience bullet train ride to Mount Fuji

“Very good. The tour was excellent.”

• Christmas & New Year
• Explore Tokyo's iconic landmarks by bus
• Discover Kyoto's temples and shrines
• Visit Meiji Shrine and Imperial Palace

“I really appreciated the inter-city travel and accommodation being sorted.”

• Experience Arashiyama's serene Bamboo Grove
• Stroll through the vibrant Dōtonbori district
• Explore Osaka Castle and its historic exhibits

“Everything else great :) The hotel rooms booked were not ideal or suitable for our needs.”

• 2019 TourRadar Tour of the Year - Overall Winner
• Soak up the unique atmosphere of Japan
• Grasp simple Japanese phrases and learn to make sushi

“Activities are great and for everybody. Overall a great trip and I would absolutely book it again!”

• Coach / Bus
• Discover Tokyo's vibrant Shinjuku Kabukicho area
• Cruise on Lake Yamanaka with views of Mt. Fuji
• Ride the Shinkansen to Hiroshima and Miyajima

“This tour would not have been as enjoyable if they did not include the optional tours as free with our itinerary.”

• Discover the historical side of Kyoto and admire grand temples
• Travel from Kyoto to Hamamatsu on the world-famous Shinkansen
• Meet the friendly locals and feed the deer in Nara Park

“The Tokyo/Osaka Tour from June 8-14,2023 was an awesome experience. Very professional and knowledgeable.”

• Savour the flavours of authentic Japanese green tea
• Experience a ride on Japan's world-renowned Bullet Train
• Uncover unique treasures on Tokyo’s futuristic streets

“Excellent service and trip arrangements for the Sakura season.”

• Travel by bullet train and spend a night in a temple

“The tour was a perfect balance of sightseeing, different activities and time to explore alone/with others from the group.”

• Explore the geisha district in beautiful Kyoto
• Pass a sumo stadium and spot the stone Jizos in Tokyo
• Visit anime, manga, and gaming heaven, Akihabara

“The itinerary was appropriate and well planned. The hotels were of a good standard.”

• Stroll through Kyoto's mystic bamboo forest
• Explore traditional arts in Iyashi no Sato Nenba
• Capture Tokyo Tower from Zojoji Temple

“This tour was well organised and professionally conducted.”

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Japan Solo: Trip Planning Resources, Itinerary and Budget

March 14, 2018 by Janice Waugh

The Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine in Kyoto. Photo by Thomas Tucker on Unsplash

I'm off to Japan solo.

I'm sure the trip will go by in a flash. But the planning, that was slow and arduous.

Exciting, yes, but it took time!

I would research, then process the information, integrate it with what else I knew and then, maybe, make some decisions.

And then I'd reverse some decisions and make others. Over the course of planning this trip I've had at least seven – maybe ten – itineraries. Tokyo and Kyoto were a given but what about in between. I wanted to experience the countryside and smaller towns. At first my focus was on Lake Biwa, outside of Kyoto. But still, it's a big lake and I was struggling with where.

Then I chatted with a book club friend, Mina. She pointed me to Yudanaka for its onsen, the ancient Nakasendo Trail, and the mountain town of Takayama. These were highlights of an organized tour of Japan she took a couple of years ago. It made sense to me. History, small towns and the outdoors.

At first I was determined to do it all. I played with train schedules and cut my time back in Tokyo and Kyoto. But in the back of my head, I knew it was crazy. It would break my basic rule of trip planning: no fewer than three nights in any location. Five destinations in nine days is definitely a breach.

I reluctantly gave up Takayama and focused on Mogame and Tsumago on the Nakasendo Trail. But then accommodation wasn't available. I was back to Takayama and dropped the trail. Then, finally, with all the onsens in every location, I wondered whether I really needed Yudanaka. I dropped it.

Finally, I have my Japan itinerary finalized with 3 nights per location. I'll go to Tokyo, Kyoto and Takayama. I know what I plan to do. When I return, I'll let you know how closely I stuck to the plan and to my budget. Both are below, but let's start with the research process.

I'll arrive in Tokyo but leave the next morning. My thinking is that the city will be a bit much for me in a jetlagged state. I'll spend time there at the end of my trip. Photo by  Erik Eastman  on Unsplash.

Japan Trip Planning Resources

I booked my flights a few months ago in an attempt to get the best deal. I think I missed it by a week but I try not to think about that. Next was figuring out what to do! Here are the resources I used most often.

• Solo Traveler . We have a category on Japan with a few posts in it written by readers who have been. I started there when deciding where to go in this small country that has so much to see.
• Tour companies . I then looked at a few organized tours to see what they included. Most hit the highlights of the larger cities. As I mentioned, getting out of the cities was a priority for me.
• Friends . I have a surprising number of friends with Japanese friends living in their homeland. Mina helped by focusing my itinerary outside the major cities. Glenda, who has been to Kyoto a number of times, convinced me that it is not a city to breeze through. There's too much there. Elizabeth connected me with a friend in Tokyo who I will be meeting one night. Dale connected me to a Canadian working in Tokyo who helped me with an accommodation issue.
• Global Greeters . I always check to see if Global Greeters are in a city I'm visiting. I have a greeter set up for Tokyo and I'm waiting for confirmation of one in Kyoto.
• Rome2Rio . I use Rome2Rio a lot when planning a trip. Put in a start and an end point and it gives you how to get there by various modes of transportation and how long it will take. It's pretty accurate though not perfect. You have to double check the specifics once you've made your choices but it is great for determining a reasonable plan.
• The Amateur Traveler. This is a great site. Chris Christiansen interviews people on a variety of travel topics. He's been doing it for years. You can listen to the interview and also read the transcript and use the links in the show notes. I listened to  Hike Japan’s Nakasendo Trail – Episode 479 Transcript  and confirmed that I definitely wanted to include this in my trip itinerary. Unfortunately, as I said above, it will have to be another time.
• Japan Rail Pass . Because my plan includes a number of stops the Japan Rail Pass makes sense. It can only be purchased by people who do not live in Japan and must be bought before arrival. I bought it online. It has to be ordered and delivered to your home so make sure you order in advance.
• Booking.com . I tried the site for Japan Guesthouses but I found it cumbersome as you have to submit a request and wait to hear back. When I did, my request wasn't available. This could take weeks. I went to my go-to accommodation site, Booking.com . During my search I booked 15 nights, carefully making sure that all were cancelable. Then, of course, I cancelled the ones I didn’t need ending up with my required 9. I went cheap in  Tokyo and Kyoto with  hostels. They look beautiful and I’ll thus be saving my money for Takayama, where I booked a traditional Japanese ryokan or inn. Booking all on one site I can see all my accommodation in one place and know that there are no gaps.

Enjoying the countryside is an important part of my Japan itinerary. I want the quiet and nature but I also want to see life in smaller places. Photo by  Masaaki Komori  on Unsplash.

Japan Solo: My Itinerary and Budget

Here's my rough itinerary for Japan. I booked all my accommodation because it's a short trip so I don't have a lot of flexibility.

• Day 1 – Arrive Tokyo Haneda, Japan at 4:55pm. 1 night in hostel
• Day 2 – Take train to Kyoto. Booked into hostel for 3 nights.
• Day 5 – Train to Takayama
• Day 8 – Train to Tokyo
• Day 10 – Fly out to Sydney. Yes, I'm off to Sydney to visit family for a week after Japan.

And my budget including all taxes:

• Flight – Cdn$1,621 (a Japan return flight not my flight to Tokyo, Sydney, Toronto)
• Japan Rail Pass – Cdn$381
• Tokyo – 1 night in female dorm, Cdn$50
• Kyoto – 3 nights in female dorm, Cdn$150
• Takayama- 3 nights in private room with bath, Cdn$$528
• Tokyo – 2 nights in female dorm, Cdn$100
• Food – Cdn$600
• Activities / guides – Cdn$250
• Misc – Cdn$200

Total – Cdn$3,880

Let's make it Cdn$4,000 or US$3,090 or €2,493 or £2,211.

When I'm back I'll give you an update on what I actually did with my actual budget just like I did with last year's road trip around the Adriatic that included Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. Read Planning a Road Trip Around the Adriatic: Slovenia, Croatia & Italy  and  Travel Plan vs. Reality: European Road Trip .

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The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

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How Much Does a Trip to Japan Cost: 2024 Japan Travel Cost Breakdown

by Trip.com

May 30, 2024

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Trip to Japan cost is generally considered moderately expensive, but there are ways to save money and travel on a budget. The major costs of a trip to Japan are flights , hotels, eSIM , JR Pass , transportation, food, and activities.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $50 to $100 per day in Japan, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $150 to $250 per day. It's important to plan ahead and research activities and costs to create a budget that works for you.

How much does a trip to Japan cost for 1 or 2 Weeks?

Cost of a trip to japan for 1 week.

For a one-week trip to Japan, budgeting accurately is key to enjoying a variety of experiences without overspending. Here, you'll find specific costs for a single traveler to Japan.

Cost of a Trip to Japan for 2 Weeks

Extending your visit to two weeks means considering how daily expenses add up over a longer period, especially for accommodation and meals.

How much does a trip to Japan cost for Flights?

The cost of flights to Japan can vary depending on various factors, such as the departure location, time of year, airline, and availability. Generally speaking, the cost of a round-trip economy class ticket from major cities in North America to Tokyo, Japan can range from approximately $600 to $1,500 or more , depending on the factors mentioned above.

Cheap Flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo

• Sort by: Lowest Price
• Sort by: Earliest Flight

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Cheap Flight from San Francisco to Osaka

How much does a trip to Japan cost for Hotels?

Conrad Tokyo

The cost of hotels in Japan varies depending on several factors such as the location, season, and the type of accommodation you are looking for. As a general rule, hotels in major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka tend to be more expensive than hotels in smaller cities or rural areas.

• In Tokyo, for example, the average cost of a mid-range hotel room can range from around 10,000 to 25,000 Japanese yen per night (around $90 to $230 USD). However, luxury hotels in Tokyo can cost upwards of $500 USD per night.
• In other cities and smaller towns in Japan, hotel prices can be more affordable, with mid-range hotels typically costing between 6,000 to 15,000 yen (around $55 to $140 USD) per night.

Of course, prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year and availability. It's always a good idea to compare prices on multiple travel booking websites and to book your accommodation well in advance to get the best deals.

Best Hotels in Tokyo

Hotel new otani tokyo garden tower, imperial hotel, tokyo, intercontinental tokyo bay, an ihg hotel, tokyo dome hotel, the prince park tower tokyo - preferred hotels & resorts, lvx collection, family friendly, mitsui garden hotel ueno - tokyo, henn na hotel tokyo asakusa tawaramachi, rakuten stay tokyo asakusa, tokyo yoshimi home stay, hotel gracery ginza, swimming pool, ana intercontinental tokyo, an ihg hotel, hilton tokyo odaiba, sheraton miyako hotel tokyo, cerulean tower tokyu hotel, a pan pacific partner hotel, best hotels in osaka, rihga royal hotel, the royal park hotel iconic osaka midosuji, sheraton miyako hotel osaka, swissotel nankai osaka, intercontinental hotel osaka, an ihg hotel, hotel universal port, hotel keihan yodoyabashi, rihga place higobashi, osaka view hotel honmachi, hotel new hankyu osaka, hotel keihan universal tower, liber hotel osaka, dormy inn premium namba natural hot spring, city plaza osaka, hotel monterey la soeur osaka, imperial hotel osaka, the westin osaka, conrad osaka, the ritz-carlton osaka, how much does a trip to japan cost for food.

Osaka Dotonbori

• Street food or fast food : around 300 to 800 Japanese yen (around $3 to $8 USD)
• Casual dining or local restaurants : around 800 to 2,000 Japanese yen (around $8 to $20 USD) per meal
• Mid-range restaurants : around 2,000 to 5,000 Japanese yen (around $20 to $50 USD) per meal
• High-end or luxury restaurants : around 10,000 to 20,000 Japanese yen (around $100 to $200 USD) per meal or more.

In addition to restaurants, there are also many affordable options for food in Japan, such as convenience stores and supermarkets, which offer a variety of tasty and healthy food at reasonable prices. It's worth noting that tipping is not customary in Japan, so the prices listed above are typically the final price you will pay. Also, keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the location and the time of year.

How much does a trip to Japan cost for Souvenirs?

Blue Bottle Coffee

• Japanese snacks and sweets : prices vary depending on the item and packaging, but small boxes or bags of sweets can cost around 300 to 500 Japanese yen (around $3 to $5 USD), while larger boxes or packages can cost around 1,000 to 2,000 yen (around $10 to $20 USD).
• Traditional crafts and goods : prices for traditional crafts such as pottery, lacquerware, and textiles can vary widely depending on the item's quality, size, and the artist's reputation. Prices for traditional crafts can range from a few thousand yen to tens of thousands of yen (from around $20 to $200 USD or more).
• Anime and pop culture merchandise : items such as figurines, keychains, and clothing featuring popular anime or manga characters can range from a few hundred yen to several thousand yen (from around $3 to $30 USD or more).

It's worth noting that many souvenir shops in tourist areas have fixed prices, but there may be room for negotiation in other types of stores, such as flea markets or antique shops. Additionally, keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the time of year, and it's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase.

How much does a trip to Japan cost for Transportation?

Osaka Nankai Line Airport Express

• Train and subway : The cost of train and subway tickets in Japan depends on the distance traveled and the type of train. For example, a single ride on a Tokyo subway line can cost around 200 to 400 Japanese yen (around $2 to $4 USD), while a ride on a long-distance bullet train (Shinkansen) can cost around 10,000 to 20,000 yen (around $100 to $200 USD) or more, depending on the distance and train type.
• Bus : Local buses in Japan generally cost around 200 to 500 Japanese yen (around $2 to $5 USD) per ride, depending on the distance and location.
• Taxi : Taxis in Japan can be quite expensive, with prices starting at around 600 to 700 Japanese yen (around $6 to $7 USD) for the first kilometer and increasing by around 100 to 200 yen (around $1 to $2 USD) per additional 200 to 300 meters.
• Rental car : Rental cars in Japan can be expensive, with prices starting at around 5,000 to 8,000 Japanese yen (around $50 to $80 USD) per day, depending on the type of car and rental location.

It's also worth noting that Japan has several transportation passes and discount tickets available for visitors, such as the Japan Rail Pass, which allows unlimited travel on most JR trains for a fixed period, and the Tokyo Subway Ticket, which provides unlimited travel on Tokyo subways for a fixed period. These passes can be a good value if you plan to do a lot of traveling in a short period.

How much does a trip to Japan cost for Attractions?

Universal Studios Japan

• Temples and shrines : Many temples and shrines in Japan are free to enter, while others may charge a small admission fee ranging from 200 to 500 Japanese yen (around $2 to $5 USD).
• Museums and galleries : Admission fees for museums and galleries in Japan vary widely depending on the location and type of museum. Prices typically range from around 500 to 2,000 Japanese yen (around $5 to $20 USD) per person.
• Theme parks : Admission fees for theme parks in Japan vary depending on the location and type of park. Prices typically range from around 2,000 to 8,000 Japanese yen (around $20 to $80 USD) per person.
• Onsen (hot springs) : Prices for onsen vary depending on the location and type of onsen. Prices typically range from around 500 to 3,000 Japanese yen (around $5 to $30 USD) per person.
• Tours and activities : Prices for tours and activities in Japan vary depending on the type of activity, location, and duration. Prices typically range from around 2,000 to 10,000 Japanese yen (around $20 to $100 USD) per person.

It's also worth noting that there are many free or low-cost sightseeing options in Japan, such as walking tours, parks, and public gardens, which can provide a great experience without breaking the bank. Additionally, some attractions offer discounts or free admission for foreign visitors, so be sure to check before you go

How much does a trip to Japan cost for Internet?

Japan eSIM Day Pass

• Rental Wi-Fi router : Rental Wi-Fi routers are a popular option for tourists in Japan. Prices typically range from around 700 to 1,200 Japanese yen (around $7 to $12 USD) per day, depending on the rental company and plan. Some companies offer discounts for longer rental periods.
• SIM card : Another option is to purchase a prepaid SIM card for your mobile device. Prices typically range from around 3,000 to 5,000 Japanese yen (around $30 to $50 USD), depending on the data plan and provider.
• Free Wi-Fi : Many public places in Japan, such as airports, train stations, and coffee shops, offer free Wi-Fi. However, the quality and availability of free Wi-Fi can vary widely.

It's also worth noting that some hotels and accommodations offer free Wi-Fi for guests, so be sure to check before booking. Additionally, some smartphone apps, such as Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi, provide access to free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout Japan. Overall, the cost of Wi-Fi in Japan can vary depending on the method of access and the data plan. However, there are many options available for travelers to stay connected while in Japan.

• Country Japan
• Package Option 500MB/Day
• Number of Days 1 Day
• Price USD 0.81
• Package Option 1GB/Day
• Number of Days 5 Days
• Price USD 3.23
• Package Option 10GB
• Number of Days 15 Days
• Price USD 6.45

Best Japan eSIM for Travelling

How much does a trip to japan cost for passport.

• In the United States , the cost of a new passport book for an adult (16 years or older) is $145, while a child's passport (under 16 years) is $115. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.
• In the United Kingdom , the cost of a standard adult passport is £75.50, while a child's passport is £49. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.
• In Australia , the cost of a new adult passport is AUD $298, while a child's passport is AUD $148. Expedited service for an additional fee is available.

It's important to note that passport fees can vary depending on the country of citizenship and the type of application. Additionally, some countries may require additional fees for visa applications or other travel documents. It's always a good idea to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information on passport and visa requirements and fees.

How much does it cost for Insurance in Japan ?

• For a single trip to Japan, travel insurance can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 USD, depending on the coverage and duration of the trip.
• For an annual travel insurance policy that covers multiple trips to Japan and other destinations, the cost can range from $100 to $500 USD or more, depending on the coverage and frequency of travel.
• Comprehensive travel insurance policies that include medical coverage, trip cancellation/interruption coverage, and other benefits can cost more than basic policies that only cover certain aspects of travel.

It's important to shop around and compare travel insurance policies from different providers to find the coverage that best meets your needs and budget. Be sure to read the policy details carefully and understand what is and isn't covered, as well as any deductibles or exclusions. Additionally, some credit cards and travel booking sites offer travel insurance as a benefit or add-on, so be sure to check those options as well.

How much does a trip to Japan cost for 3 Days?

TeamLab Planets TOKYO

• Flights: Depending on your location, flights to Japan can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 for a round-trip ticket.
• Accommodation: Budget hotels or hostels can range from $20 to $50 per night, so for 2 nights, you can expect to spend around $40 to $100 for accommodation.
• Transportation: Japan has an excellent public transportation system, and a one-way subway or train ticket can cost around $1.50 to $5. For 3 days, you can expect to spend around $30 to $50 for transportation.
• Food and drinks: Meals at budget restaurants can cost around $5 to $10 per meal, while street food and convenience store meals can cost even less. Drinks can range from $1 to $5, depending on the type of drink and location. For 3 days, you can expect to spend around $60 to $100 for food and drinks.
• Sightseeing and activities: Some popular attractions like temples and shrines may be free or cost a small entrance fee, while other attractions like theme parks or museums can cost upwards of $20 per person. For 3 days, you can expect to spend around $50 to $100 for sightseeing and activities.

Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $200 to $400 for a 2-night, 3-day trip to Japan . It's important to note that these are rough estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on your travel style, activities, and other expenses.

How much does it cost for family, couples or single when travelling to Japan ?

Tokyo DisneySea

• Airfare: The cost of airfare to Japan can vary depending on the departure city and the time of year. A round-trip ticket from the United States to Japan can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500 USD per person.
• Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Japan can vary depending on the type of lodging and the location. A budget hotel or hostel can cost around $50 to $100 USD per night, while a mid-range hotel can cost around $100 to $200 USD per night. Luxury hotels and ryokans can cost upwards of $500 USD per night.
• Food and drink: The cost of food and drink in Japan can vary depending on the type of cuisine and the level of luxury. A budget meal at a local restaurant can cost around $7 to $15 USD per person, while a mid-range meal can cost around $20 to $50 USD per person. A cup of coffee can cost around $3 to $5 USD, while a beer can cost around $5 to $8 USD.
• Transportation: The cost of transportation in Japan can vary depending on the mode of travel and the distance. A single metro or train ticket can cost around $1 to $5 USD, while a long-distance bullet train ticket can cost upwards of $100 USD. Taxis and car rentals can also add to the transportation costs.

Overall, the cost of traveling to Japan can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person, depending on the factors mentioned above. A family, couple, or single traveler can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 USD or more for a trip to Japan, depending on the travel style and preferences.

Methods to save money when travelling to Japan

• Visit during the shoulder season: The high season in Japan is during the cherry blossom season in spring (late March to early April) and the fall foliage season in autumn (October to November). If you can travel during the shoulder season (April to May and September to November), you may be able to find lower prices on flights and accommodation.
• Use public transportation: Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trains, subways, and buses. Using public transportation instead of taxis or rental cars can save you money on transportation costs.
• Eat like a local: Japan has a diverse and delicious food culture, and there are many affordable options for eating out. Look for local restaurants and street food vendors that offer affordable options like ramen, udon, and sushi. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Lawson also offer affordable and tasty meals.
• Stay in budget accommodations: Japan has a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Staying in a budget hostel or guesthouse can save you money on accommodation costs, and many hostels offer private rooms as well as dormitory-style accommodations.
• Take advantage of free attractions: Japan has many free attractions, such as parks, temples, and shrines. You can also find free museums and art galleries in some cities.
• Purchase a Japan Rail Pass : If you plan to travel around Japan by train, purchasing a Japan Rail Pass can save you money on train tickets. The pass allows you to travel on most JR trains, including the bullet train, for a set period of time.

Tips for travelling to Japan

• Learn some basic Japanese phrases: While many Japanese people speak English, it is still helpful to learn some basic Japanese phrases like hello, thank you, and excuse me. This can make it easier to communicate with locals.
• Follow local customs and etiquette: Japanese culture has many customs and etiquette rules that may be different from what you are used to. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain businesses like traditional ryokans. Be sure to read up on local customs and etiquette before you go to avoid any cultural misunderstandings.
• Carry cash: While credit cards are accepted in many places in Japan, some smaller businesses may only accept cash. Be sure to carry some cash with you, especially if you plan to visit more rural areas or small towns.
• Use public transportation: Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system that includes trains, subways, and buses. It is a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the country, especially in larger cities like Tokyo.
• Purchase a prepaid transportation card: If you plan to use public transportation in Japan, consider purchasing a prepaid transportation card like Suica or Pasmo. These cards can be used on most public transportation systems and make it easy to pay for fares without having to purchase tickets each time.
• Take advantage of free Wi-Fi: Many train stations, convenience stores, and tourist attractions offer free Wi-Fi. You can also rent a pocket Wi-Fi device or purchase a SIM card for your phone.
• Be mindful of the weather: Japan has a diverse climate, with different regions experiencing different weather patterns. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly. In the summer, it can be hot and humid, while in the winter, it can be cold and snowy.

What is the best time to visit Japan?

Japan can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do and see. Spring (March to May) is the popular cherry blossom season, while autumn (September to November) is the season for fall foliage. Winter (December to February) is good for skiing and winter sports, while summer (June to August) can be hot and humid but great for outdoor activities.

What is the currency used in Japan?

The currency used in Japan is the Japanese yen (¥). It's important to carry cash with you as many small businesses, especially in rural areas, may not accept credit cards.

Do I need a visa to enter Japan?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, UK, and most European countries, can enter Japan for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days. Check with the Japanese embassy or consulate in your country for more information.

Is it safe to travel to Japan?

Yes, Japan is considered a very safe country for travelers. Crime rates are low, and the country is well-organized and efficient. However, as with any travel, it's important to take precautions, be aware of your surroundings, and take care of your valuables.

What is the best way to get around Japan?

Japan has an extensive and efficient public transportation system, including trains, subways, and buses. It's easy to get around, especially in larger cities like Tokyo and Osaka, using public transportation. Consider purchasing a prepaid transportation card like Suica or Pasmo for convenience. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive, especially for longer distances.

Trip to Japan 2024

• 1. How much does a trip to Japan cost for 1 or 2 Weeks?
• 2. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Flights?
• 3. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Hotels?
• 4. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Food?
• 5. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Souvenirs?
• 6. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Transportation?
• 7. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Attractions?
• 8. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Internet?
• 9. How much does a trip to Japan cost for Passport?
• 10. How much does it cost for Insurance in Japan?
• 11. How much does a trip to Japan cost for 3 Days?
• 12. How much does it cost for family, couples or single when travelling to Japan?
• 13. Methods to save money when travelling to Japan
• 14. Tips for travelling to Japan

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Solo Travel in Japan: 17 Best Cities to Visit in Japan

Japan is one of the best countries to travel alone for the first time. As the 9th safest country in the world, Japan has many things to do. From metropolitan cities to rural villages and places off the beaten path, there is something for everyone.

I’ve been to Japan many times and honestly say it is one of my favourite countries. In this post, I put together a list of the best cities to visit in Japan for solo travellers who have never been to Japan before. I hope this list will inspire you to take your first solo trip to Japan.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

Solo travel to Japan: travel tips

Before taking your first solo trip to Japan, check out my post on everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included many travel information, including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are a few quick travel tips for travelling to Japan alone:

• Get an IC Card , a rechargeable smartcard that allows you to take public transportation, including trains, buses, subways, streetcars and ferries. You can use the same IC Card throughout your entire trip in Japan
• Instead of exchanging Japanese Yen (¥) at home, take cash from ATMs at convenience stores like Family Mart and 7-Eleven while you are in Japan
• Either buy a SIM card when you arrive or rent portable pocket wifi before your trip to Japan so you can stay connected at all times
• If you are travelling solo in Japan for a few weeks, consider buying a JR rail pass for 7, 14 or 21 days to save money on transportation and time

Japan solo travel: 17 best cities to visit in Japan alone

Wondering where to visit in Japan alone? I’ve travelled to Japan by myself many times, and I compiled a list of the best cities to visit in Japan for solo travellers who have never been to the country before. But the list is also useful for travellers who want inspiration on places they haven’t been to.

So here are my 17 best places to visit in Japan for solo travellers.

1. Tokyo: a must-visit city for a first solo trip to Japan

Tokyo is the perfect city to start your solo trip to Japan. As the capital city and the country’s biggest city, Tokyo has many neighbourhoods to explore, learn about Japanese culture, and experience city life in Japan.

And if it is your first time in Tokyo, don’t miss neighbourhoods such as Shinjuku, Harajuku, Shibuya, and Omotesando , where you see all the touristy sites. And if you want to get off the beaten path, visit Kichijoji and Shimokitazawa for a laidback vibe.

You can get a good feel of the city by spending about 5 days in Tokyo .

Best things to do in Tokyo

• Walk across the famous Shibuya Crossing , the world’s busiest intersection
• Visit many temples and shrines, including Asakusa, Gōtokuji Temple , and Nezu Shrine
• Shop at local boutique shops in Harajuku and Omotesando
• See a large-scale interactive light and art installation at teamLab Planets
• Visit modern art museums such as 21_21 Design Sight and Mori Art Museum

2. Hakone: traditional hot spring town

Hakone is a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) town in Kanagawa Prefecture. Most people will take a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo. Still, it is worth splurging and spending a night in one of the many traditional Japanese ryokans (traditional Japanese inns with tatami-matted rooms).

Besides experiencing a natural hot spring, tour Hakone where you can see a sulphuric volcano , cruise across a peaceful lake and hike around the rural countryside .

And if possible, visit Hakone during the off-season or weekdays to avoid the crowd. Hakone is one of the most popular places to visit in Japan.

Best things to do in Hakone

• Experience traditional onsen accommodation by staying overnight at a Japanese ryokan
• Enjoy the art installations at the Hakone Open-air Museum
• Take the Hakone Ropeway to see the sulphuric Owakudani Valley
• Hop on the relaxing Hakone Sightseeing Cruise for a trip across Lake Ashinoko
• Hike around Lake Ashinoko and look for Hakone Shrine and Hakone Jinja Heiwa-no-Torii

3. Sapporo: gateway to the island of Hokkaido

Sapporo was once a tiny city in northern Japan. But the city grew and became famous in 1972 because of the Winter Olympics in Sapporo. Today, Sapporo is the fifth-largest city in Japan and is known for its winter attractions, beer and cuisine .

Besides skiing and other winter sports , travellers visiting northern Japan can use Sapporo as a home base and explore other parts of Hokkaido , including many different ski resorts and scenic hotspots.

And you cannot leave Sapporo without trying the local cuisine , including hairy crab, ramen , desserts made with Hokkaido milk and Sapporo Beer .

Best things to do in Sapporo

• See large-scale ice and snow sculptures at Sapporo Snow Festivals in early February
• Take a guided tour and sample beers at the Sapporo Beer Museum
• Eat fresh Hokkaido seafood at Nijo Market and Curb Market
• Go skiing at Mount Teine or Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort
• Visit Furano and Biei Blue Pond as a day trip

4. Nagano: a winter wonderland with snow monkeys

Nagano is one of Japan’s best cities to visit if you love winter sports ! The resorts outside Nagano have excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding and other winter activities . Some of the best places for skiing include the slopes of Hakuba , one of the Winter Olympics locations in 1998.

Another highlight of Nagano is the numerous onsens (hot springs) around the region. Notably, the hot springs in Yamanouchi are very popular with their local “residents,” aka snow monkeys .

Best things to do in Nagano

• Ski or snowboard at one of the resorts just outside of Nagano City
• Visit a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring) like Nozawa Onsen
• See snow monkeys bathe in local hot springs in Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park in Yamanouchi
• See traditional Japanese paintings at Nagano Prefectural Shinano Art Museum
• Take a day trip to see Matsumoto Castle , the oldest five-story six-floor castle in Japan

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 🏔𝐆𝐨 𝐍𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐍𝐎【長野県 観光 公式インスタグラム】 (@nagano_japan)

5. Takayama: explore the rural countryside

If you enjoy hiking and exploring the rural countryside, you might want to check out Takayama . The city is tucked away in the mountains in Gifu Prefecture and is the gateway to the Japanese Alps on the main island of Honshu .

Besides wandering the charming Old Town of Takayama, most visitors will visit Shirakawa-go , a UNESCO Heritage village with hundreds of thatched-roof houses . The picturesque town can be visited any time of the year but is especially beautiful during winter.

And if you are visiting Takayama during the warmer months, take a hiking trip in Kamikochi , which is in the Chubu Sangaku National Park .

Best things to do in Takayama

• Wander around the historic Sanmachi Suji District in Takayama’s Old Town
• Visit the picturesque Hida no Sato , a group of thatch-roof houses
• Take a day trip to Shirakawa-go , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see 100+ thatch-houses
• Attend Takayama Matsuri Festival on April 14/15 or October 9/10
• Hike Kamikochi and see alpine sceneries that are part of the Japanese Alps

6. Kyoto: temple hop around the old capital city

Kyoto was once the old capital of Japan and was home to several emperors. And as one of the bigger cities in Japan, Kyoto has many historical buildings and monuments including 1,600 temples!

But you don’t need to see all 1,600 temples to feel the city. You can spend 2 days in Kyoto and visit a few important temples, including Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) , Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) and Kiyomizudera Temple .

And don’t leave Kyoto without seeing the famous bamboo forest and walking through hundreds of orange torii gates . And for an added bonus, you can rent a kimono or yukata in Gion and walk around the area in traditional Japanese clothing.

Best things to do in Kyoto

• Admire historical temples like Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) , Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) and Kiyomizudera Temple
• See thousands of bamboo in Arahiyama Bamboo Grove
• Walkthrough hundreds of orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine
• See cherry blossom in full bloom (late March to early April) at Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park and Kamogawa River
• Rent a kimono or yukata in Gion and see if you can spot a geisha

7. Osaka: the third-largest city with a vibrant nightlife

As the third-largest city in Japan, Osaka is one of Japan’s top-visited cities. Osaka attracts millions of visitors yearly because of its abundance of history, vibrant nightlife , and unique local cuisine .

And the city is well situated in the centre of Honshu Island . Located in the Kansai Region , international travellers can fly directly into Kansai International Airport (KIX) and arrive in Osaka within an hour.

It is possible to see all the best sites in Osaka in 2 days while travelling in Japan alone. But if you want to stay longer, you can use Osaka as a home base for day trips to Nara, Kyoto, Himeji, and Koyasan.

Best things to do in Osaka

• See hundreds of cherry blossom trees in full bloom (late March to early April) at Osaka Castle
• Make a wish and pour water over the green moss Fudo Myo-o statue at Hozenji Temple
• See all the bright lights and signages, including the Glico Running Man in Dōtonbori
• Visit Shinsekai , an old district in Osaka with cheap eateries and entertainment
• Try a few Osaka food including takoyaki (octopus ball), okonomiyaki (savoury pancake with noodles and cabbage) and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewered food)

8. Nara: oldest Buddhist temples + friendly deers

Just outside of Kyoto and Osaka is a small quaint town called Nara . As it was the ancient capital city of Japan in 710, many Buddhist monasteries and temples were built in Nara. This is why Nara has some of Japan’s oldest and largest shrines and temples . And many of these are UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

But most people visit Nara because they want to see wild deer . While you rarely see deer in Old Nara City, most hang around Nara Park and other green areas on the temple grounds. And you can even buy crackers to feed the deer!

Most visitors take a day trip to Nara from Kyoto or Osaka . But if you are slow travelling through Japan, consider spending more than a day in this quaint town.

Best things to do in Nara

• Visit Tōdai-ji Temple , the world’s largest wooden building with a bronze Buddha statue
• Attend Omizutori (March 1 to 14), the oldest annual Buddhist event at Nigatsudo Hall
• Wander around Old Nara City and see local shops and eat local Nara food
• Watch a live demonstration of the making of yomogi mochi at Nakatanidou
• Buy crackers and feed them to the friendly deers in Nara Park

9. Kobe: try the best beef in Japan

You may have heard of the world-famous Kobe beef , a type of Wagyu beef with tender and very juicy meat. It is from Tajima black cattle raised in Hyogo Prefecture , where Kobe is located.

Besides trying Kobe beef in Kobe, there are many things to eat and do in the busy port city. When you visit Kobe as a day trip from Osaka , wander around the culturally influenced districts and neighbourhoods , hike up the nearby mountains , and see panoramic views of Kobe .

And if you have more time in Kobe, explore Japan’s oldest hot spring town and try the famous “Kinsen golden hot spring,” where the spring water turns reddish-brown once the water touches the air.

Best things to do in Kobe

• Try a teppanyaki Kobe Beef lunch set at Steakland (cheaper at lunch)
• Visit several foreign residences in the historic Kitano-cho district
• Stroll around Kobe Harbour in the evening and see the tall and bright Kobe Port Tower
• Hike up Mount Rokko to see a panoramic view of Kobe
• Experience the famous “Kinsen golden hot spring” in Arima Onsen

10. Himeji: visit one of the top three most beautiful castles

And one of the highlights of Himeji has to be Himeji Castle . It is one of the top three most beautiful original castles in Japan. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is Himeji’s biggest attraction!

Besides, see the “white heron castle,” there are also beautiful Japanese gardens , art museums and temples hidden away in the mountains .

Himeji City is a compact city and can be visited as a day trip from Osaka . The city is only 100km west of Osaka, and if you take the Shinkansen (bullet train), you can be in the quaint city in less than half an hour.

Best things to do in Himeji

• See a view of Himeji from the top level in Himeji Castle
• Visit the traditional Japanese gardens in Koko-en Garden
• Take the Shoshazan Ropeway up to Mount Shosha and wander around the 1,000-year-old temple complex called Engyō-ji Temple
• See a large European art collection at the Himeji City Museum of Art
• Try local Himeji food including menme udon (udon with raw egg) and conger eel with egg on rice

11. Naoshima: the modern contemporary Japanese art island

Yayoi Kusama. Tadao Ando. James Turrell. Walter De Maria . If these names mean anything to you, then you must visit Japan’s best art island, Naoshima .

The small island in Kagawa Prefecture became a contemporary art centre in the 80s when Japan wanted to revolutionize the art scene and create a world-class attraction.

Today, you will find a famous polka dot art installation on the island. Yayoi Kusama’s Yellow Pumpkin became the iconic symbol for Naoshima. Some people might even call it the Naoshima Pumpkin .

Moreover, the island is full of modern architecture designed by Tadao Ando , a Japanese architect known for his modern design and concrete architecture.

As contemporary art lovers, you do not want to miss all the museums and art installations on the small island in the Seto Inland Sea . You can easily see all the art exhibits and museums on Naoshima Island in one day .

Best things to do in Naoshima

• Take photos with the famous Yellow Pumpkin and the Red Pumpkin
• See contemporary art and installations by Claude Monet, James Turrell and Walter De Maria at Chichu Art Museum
• Admire Tadao Ando’s contemporary concrete building at Lee Ufan Musem
• See the permanent and temporary modern art collection at Benesse House Museum
• Visit Teshima , another (but smaller) contemporary art island

12. Kurashiki: a picturesque historic canal town

Kurashiki might be one of the best off-the-beaten-path cities in Japan . Known for its picturesque canal with weeping willow trees , distinctive local architecture style , and delicious local cuisine , Kurashiki has many things to do and is a city you should not miss!

Located in Okayama Prefecture , the charming little town was an important point along the distribution route for Japan’s most prized commodity, rice. Today, you will find many old rice warehouses converted into restaurants, cafes and local retail stores .

Even though Kurashiki is not as famous as other cities in Japan, it is worth visiting, especially if you enjoy the small-town charm and see a preserved historic town .

Best things to do in Kurashiki

• See a picturesque canal with weeping willow trees in Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
• Hike up Tsuragatayama Hill and see an unobstructed view of Kurashiki
• Visit many temples in Kurashiki, including Achi Shrine , Kanryuji Temple , and Honeji Temple
• Take note of the traditional Kurahiski houses that have an austere white-wash wall with black and white latticework patterns
• Try a blue-coloured food on Kurashiki Demin Street

13. Onomichi: gateway to Japan’s best bikeway

Onomichi is a quaint port town known for its temples, cats and cycling . Many people may not know this small town in Hiroshima Prefecture , but if you are looking for off-the-beaten-track places in Japan, Onomich is one of the best places to visit in Japan.

While there are many things to do in Onomichi as a solo female traveller, you can comfortably see everything in a day or two.

But you should set aside two days in your itinerary and cycle Japan’s best bike route, Shimanami Kaido . The 60km bikeway connects six islands in the Seto Inland Sea where you can cycle from Onomichi to Imabari . It takes a full day to cycle to Imabari and another day back to Onomichi. But if you have limited time, you can still cycle Shimanami Kaido in one day .

Best things to do in Onomichi

• See 25 temples along Onomichi Temple Walk , including Tennei-ji Temple
• Take the Senko-ji Mountain Ropeway to the top of Senko-ji Park , where you can see a view of Onomichi and cherry blossoms in the spring
• Hike up Jodo-ji Mountain and see Onomichi from another angle
• Try a bowl of Onomichi ramen (soy sauce-flavoured soup stock with flat noodles) at Ramen Miyachi
• Rent a bike and bike along Japan’s best bikeway, Shimanami Kaido

14. Hiroshima: the “City of Peace”

Most travellers visit Hiroshima to see the monuments dedicated to Hiroshima’s legacy of surviving the atomic bomb during World War II. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park monuments commemorate those affected and remember peace.

Besides seeing all the monuments in the “City of Peace,” Hiroshima has many things to do, including a castle, art museums, and Japanese gardens . And you can comfortably see the best attractions in Hiroshima in 2 days .

And if you are a foodie, try Hiroshima’s local cuisine, which includes oysters, conger eel, ramen and okonomiyaki.

Best things to do in Hiroshima

• Visit WWII monuments in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park , including Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims , the Flame of Peace , the Children’s Peace Monument , and Atomic Bomb Dome .
• Admire contemporary Japanese artwork at the Hiroshima Museum of Art and Hiroshima Prefectural Art Museum
• See a panoramic view of Hiroshima at Hiroshima Orizuru Tower
• Visit different miniature gardens at Shukkeien Garden
• Try local Hiroshima cuisine like Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki , Hiroshima Tsukemen , oysters , and anago (eel)

15. Miyajima: best day trip from Hiroshima

If you are going to Hiroshima, you must take a day trip to Miyajima . The small island is easily accessible from Hiroshima, and you can see everything in one day.

The highlight of Miyajima Island has to be its Itsukushima Floating Torii Gate. This giant orange torii gate seems to be floating on the water near Itsukushima Shrine , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Besides seeing the floating giant torii gate during high tide, hike up Mount Misen or take the ropeway and see a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea and friendly wild deers roam around the island.

Most people will visit Miyajima and return to Hiroshima. But if you want to splurge, you can stay at one of the Ryokans on Miyajima and experience Japanese hot springs in a traditional hotel .

Best things to do in Miyajima

• Admire Itsukushima Floating Torii Gate during high tide (in the morning)
• Get up close to the giant orange torii gate during low tide (late afternoon)
• Wander around Itsukushima Shrine , Momijidani Park , Daishoin Temple
• Hike up Mount Misen and see a panoramic view of the Seto Inland Sea
• Try local culinary delights such as oysters , anago meshi (conger eel), fried fishcake and momiji manju (small cake shaped in Japanese maple leaf with different fillings).

16. Fukuoka: eat your way around the city

Fukuoka is the biggest city on Kyushu Island and the 7th biggest city in Japan. And while Fukuoka has many things to do , the best highlight has to be its culinary scene .

The city is known for its Hakata Ramen or Tonkotsu Ramen . You can get a creamy pork bone broth with thin ramen noodles anywhere in the city. And since Fukuoka is udon noodle’ s birthplace, you must try a bowl or two because it is oh-so-delicious!

Besides soup noodles, try other culinary delights such as motsunabe (hot pot with beef offal), mizutaki (hot pot with local jidori chicken), fresh squid sushi , mentaiko (spicy pollock roe), Hakata Amaou strawberries and wash it all down with local sake .

Most of all, try eating at one of the local open-air food stalls called yatai . There are over 150 yatai’s in Fukuoka (mostly along Nakasa River), where you can enjoy wholesome Japanese foods.

Best things to do in Fukuoka

• Try the Shiromaru Classic Hakata Ramen at Ippudo , a famous ramen restaurant in Fukuoka
• Sample other local Fukuoka delights like motsunabe , mizutaki and mentaiko
• Grab a seat at one of the yatai open-air food stalls and eat Japanese food with locals
• Visit local attractions such as Hakata Old Town , Maizuru Park , Fukuoka Asian Art Museum and Hakata Machiya Folk Museum .
• Hop on Nishitetsu Railway and spend a day in Dazaifu

17. Okinawa: a tropical paradise with white sand and crystal clear water

There are more than 150 islands in the East China Sea between Japan’s mainland and Taiwan at the south end of Japan. And one of the most famous islands is Okinawa .

Okinawa is the largest island in Okinawa Prefecture. While the island has many cultural sites, monuments, and unique Okinawan food , most visitors travel to Okinawa for its subtropical climate and beautiful white sand beaches with crystal blue water .

So enjoy all the water activities such as swimming, snorkelling, diving, surfing and seeing all the coral reefs in the area because Okinawa is unlike everywhere else in Japan. You’ll feel like you are in the Caribbean or the Mediterranean!

Best things to do in Okinawa

• Swim in the crystal blue water and play on the white sand beaches of Okinawa
• Participate in many water sports, including snorkelling and diving
• Take a scenic drive around the island of Okinawa
• See marine wildlife in the massive fish tank at Churaumi Aquarium , Japan’s largest aquarium
• Visit Shuri Castle , a royal palace from when Okinawa used to be the Ryukyu Kingdom

Want to travel like a minimalist? Learn how to pack a 7kg carry-on luggage by following my minimalist travel packing list

Solo travel Japan: places to visit in Japan on your own

I hope you find this list of Japanese cities useful for planning your first solo trip to Japan. These are some of the best cities in Japan and are perfect for solo female travellers.

So the big question is: which cities will you visit during your first solo Japan trip? Let a comment below. Or if you have other suggestions, leave that in the comment too!

Thank you for reading my Japan solo travel post

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Kurashiki Travel Guide: 21 Things To Do in Kurashiki Japan as a Solo Traveller

Japanese Food Culture: 11 Must Try Food in Japan

2 Days in Hiroshima Itinerary: Solo Guide for First Time Travellers

Glad I chanced upon your article which got me interested in Naoshima, Kurashiki, Onomichi and Miyajima. I will be in Tokyo so any recommendation as to how best I should travel to cover all 4 places? I can spend between 5-8 days for this. Appreciate hearing back from you.

Cheers Carol

Hi Carol, those are amazing places! The train will probably be the best way to visit all of these cities. There is a Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass (rail pass) that includes all of these cities but you’ll have to get from Tokyo to Osaka first. There is an online calculator to determine if you can really make use of a Japan railway pass – google “japan rail pass calculator”. It might be worthwhile to get a rail pass especially if you are travelling everyday. Anyway check out those options. Excited for your upcoming trip! 🙂

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Solo Travel: The Cost Of Independence

• Last updated Aug 22, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Traveling alone can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with a surcharge for solo travelers, known as a single supplement. This additional fee is charged when a solo traveler opts for their own room, as group tours typically price their standard room charge for two people sharing. However, there are ways to avoid paying this supplement. Some tour operators offer the option to share a room with another solo traveler of the same sex, eliminating the extra cost. Additionally, an increasing number of tour companies are now offering trips specifically designed for solo travelers, with no compulsory single supplement. These tours provide the thrill and independence of traveling alone, along with the support of a tour director and the opportunity to bond with fellow solo travelers.

What You'll Learn

Solo tours can be more expensive due to single supplements, single supplements are additional charges to cover the full cost of a room, tour operators may pair solo travellers up to cut costs, solo travel is becoming more popular, with more companies catering to this market, solo travel on a group tour offers safety in numbers.

Solo travel has become increasingly popular, with more and more people choosing to explore the world alone. However, those travelling by themselves often have to pay a single supplement, which can be frustrating and costly. This additional charge is due to the fact that group tours are typically priced based on a standard room charge for two people sharing a twin or double room. As such, a solo traveller who chooses to have their own room must pay the full cost of the room themselves, resulting in a higher price.

The single supplement can vary from 10% to 100% of the standard tour cost, depending on the tour operator. This means that a solo traveller could end up paying the same price as two people sharing a room, which can be extremely unfair and expensive. However, there are a few ways to avoid or reduce the single supplement:

• Book early or last minute: Some companies may be more willing to negotiate the single supplement if they have just announced the trip or if they are trying to fill empty spaces close to the departure date.
• Travel in the off-season: Tours are less busy during the off-season, and operators may be more flexible and willing to waive or reduce the single supplement.
• Contact the company directly: Sometimes, a travel agent may not feel competent or willing to negotiate the single supplement. By contacting the company directly, you may be able to get a better deal.
• Use a travel agent: Travel agents are experts in the field and may know of special promotions or discounts for solo travellers.
• Share a room: Many tour operators offer the option of sharing a room with another solo traveller of the same sex, which can help to reduce costs.
• Check for 'no compulsory single supplement' policies: Some tours have policies where, if you are willing to share a room, you will not be charged the single supplement, even if another traveller does not book to share.
• Look for solo travel deals: Keep an eye out for deals and promotions specifically for solo travellers, such as waived or reduced single supplements.

While solo travel can be more expensive due to single supplements, it is worth noting that there are an increasing number of companies that cater exclusively to solo travellers, offering deals and promotions to make solo travel more accessible and affordable.

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When travelling as part of a group tour, the cost of overnight accommodation is usually split between those sharing a room. However, if a solo traveller opts to have a room to themselves, they will be required to pay a single supplement. This is an additional charge to make up the full cost of the room.

The single supplement is often seen as an unfair form of discrimination by solo travellers. The charge typically ranges from 10 to 100% of the standard accommodation rate, meaning a solo traveller will pay the same, if not more, than the price of two people sharing. This is because most tour operators charge by the room, not by the number of people occupying it.

Some tour operators argue that solo travellers should pay more for the luxury and convenience of having a room to themselves. They also argue that they should be compensated for the cost of preparing a room, as this cost remains the same regardless of how many people are staying in the room. Furthermore, some vendors believe that solo travellers will spend less on food, drinks, and entertainment compared to a group of two or more.

However, solo travellers argue that travelling alone is often a necessity rather than a luxury and that the cost of preparing rooms should be distributed among customers without discrimination.

To avoid paying a single supplement, many tour operators offer solo travellers the option to share a room with another traveller of the same sex. It is also worth checking whether the tour has a ''no compulsory single supplement' policy, meaning that if a solo traveller is happy to share a room, they will not be charged the supplement. Additionally, some tour operators are starting to offer trips with no single supplements, recognising the growing popularity of solo travel.

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To avoid paying a single supplement, solo travellers can opt to share a room with another traveller of the same sex, thus splitting the cost. This is a common practice, with tour operators such as Elderhostel, Brennan, Collette, Tauck, Trafalgar, and Uniworld offering roommate-matching programs. In addition, some companies, such as Singles Travel International and All Singles Travel, specialise in singles travel and offer roommate-match guarantees.

While having a roommate can help solo travellers save money, it's important to note that there may be limited options for solo travellers who prefer their own room and privacy. In some cases, tour operators may offer single accommodations for little or no extra fee, especially if bookings are slow and the tour is unlikely to fill up. For example, Tauck, a tour operator, regularly promotes deals for solo travellers with single accommodations at select tour departures.

It's worth noting that the solo travel industry is growing, and more companies are offering trips and departures without single supplements. This shift is a result of increasing demand from solo travellers, who now make up a significant portion of the travel market. As a result, companies are becoming more accommodating of solo travel and providing more options for travellers who want to explore the world on their own.

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Solo travel is becoming an increasingly popular option, with more companies catering to this growing market. The trend of companies catering to solo travellers began around 2009, when businesses started dropping the prohibitive "single supplement" to fill tours during tough economic times. This surcharge is an additional fee that people who book a tour, cruise, or travel package alone are often expected to pay. However, as solo travel has gained traction, more companies are offering trips without this extra charge, and some businesses now cater exclusively to solo travellers.

The rise in solo travel can be attributed to several factors, including a societal shift towards valuing individual experiences and personal growth, the desire for self-discovery and independence, and the emergence of remote work opportunities enabling digital nomadism. The popularity of solo travel is also influenced by the convenience and empowerment that technological innovations, such as user-friendly booking platforms and real-time navigation apps, bring to travellers.

To meet the demands of this growing market, companies are creating niche offerings tailored to solo travellers' diverse preferences. These include curated group adventures, wellness-focused retreats, and authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Additionally, some companies are introducing solo cabins with no single supplements, providing solo travellers with the comfort and privacy of a private room at no extra cost.

The solo travel market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, with a projected CAGR of 13.5% from 2024 to 2033. This growth is driven by changing travel behaviours, technological advancements, the digital nomadism trend, and the increasing emphasis on safety and health in the post-COVID-19 era.

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Solo travel on a group tour is a great way to ensure safety in numbers while exploring the world. Here are some reasons why:

Safety in Numbers

Group tours offer an extra layer of security, especially for solo travellers. Travelling with a group means you are less likely to be targeted by unscrupulous individuals, such as taxi drivers at the airport, or fall prey to tourist traps. A local guide will also be able to advise on areas to avoid and how to get around safely. Additionally, being part of a group means you will have people to watch your back and your belongings, providing an extra sense of security.

Ready-made Friendships

Group tours are a great way to meet like-minded people and form new friendships. This means you can enjoy shared experiences and create lasting memories with your fellow travellers. You will also have people to turn to for help or support if needed, providing an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.

Support and Convenience

Group tours offer a range of conveniences that solo travellers may not have access to. These include pre-arranged accommodation, meals, activities, and transportation. This takes the stress out of planning and navigating a new destination on your own. Local guides and tour operators can also provide valuable insights and recommendations, enhancing your travel experience.

Cost Savings

Travelling as part of a group can often be more cost-effective than going it alone. By sharing accommodation and other expenses, you can reduce your overall travel costs. This is especially beneficial for solo travellers who may otherwise have to bear these costs alone.

Flexibility and Freedom

Group tours offer a balance of organised activities and free time. This allows you to explore your interests and pursue your own adventures while still having the support and companionship of the group. You can also take advantage of optional excursions and extensions to further customise your trip.

In conclusion, solo travel on a group tour offers numerous benefits that enhance your safety, convenience, and overall travel experience. By joining a group, you gain the support, companionship, and security that come from travelling with others, while still retaining the independence and flexibility to create your own unique journey.

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Frequently asked questions.

Group tours are usually priced based on a standard room charge for two people sharing a twin or double room. If a solo traveler chooses their room, they bear the full cost of the room, which is why traveling alone can be more expensive.

Many tour operators offer the option of sharing a twin room with another solo traveler of the same sex, which means you avoid paying the single supplement. You can also check if the tour has a ''no compulsory single supplement' policy, which means you won't be charged extra if you're willing to share a room.

Having your own room gives you privacy and freedom to do as you wish. You can go to bed and wake up without disturbing anyone, and you have the space to yourself to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Yes, some tour operators offer trips specifically for solo travelers, so everyone on the tour is traveling alone. This means you can still have the social aspect of a group tour without having to pay extra for your own room.

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• Duke Trotter Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

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Japan solo tours

It’s time for a Japanese adventure; party of one…

…until you meet the rest of the sushi-seeking, anime-loving and shrine-appreciating travellers on your small group tour. From shopping ‘till you drop along Tokyo’s neon-lit streets and  eating your heart out in Osaka  with newly made friends to wandering through Hiroshima’s Memorial Peace Park while your local guide tells you the story of its past, our solo tours in  Japan  mean shared experiences and memories made between people just as ready to explore this captivating country as much as you are. 

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Japan can be an easy country to move around on your own but by doing it in a small group tour, you’re not only getting the convenience that comes with having everything already organised for you but you’re also being provided with on-the-ground knowledge about cuisine, culture and customs from your own local leader. 

While Japan is prone to a natural disaster or two (think earthquakes and tsunamis), the country itself is actually incredibly safe in terms of crime rate so you shouldn’t come across any problems but all of the universal travel cautions apply; keep an eye on your belongings, stick to well-lit areas and travel in groups after dark.   

There’s almost no point in exploring a country as cool as Japan if you don’t have anyone to share amazing experiences and unforgettable memories with. On a group tour, you don’t have that problem. You’ll automatically have a bunch of new people to meet from all over the world, even if you’re travelling solo.  

Whether it’s knowing exactly what time you need to catch the  shinkansen (bullet train)  to checking you into your  traditional ryokan , our tour leaders handle all of the fiddly organizational stuff so that all you have to do is keep your eyes peeled for Mount Fuji and prepare your stomach for the amount of udon noodles you’re going to eat. 

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Will I have my own room?

It’s completely up to you. On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis and we pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. But if you'd like your own room, an individual room is available on the majority of our trips (it’s just a small extra charge). Just mention this to our  customer service team  when booking your trip and they'll arrange it for you.

As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please  contact us  so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.

How does group time work?

Whether you’re travelling solo or with a partner, our trips have a set itinerary. But within that there’s time set aside for your own exploration (if you want to – no pressure). The amount of free time depends on the  travel style  - you can ask your guide for a few tips then head out alone, or hang out with the group and see where the day takes you.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Can I use my mobile while in Japan?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in Japan but be aware that talking loudly on your phone in public places (like in train carriages) is frowned upon. You will be expected to hide your mouth behind your hand if you must take a call in public. If you want to use your mobile phone, ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive (but be aware of the fees this may incur).

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

How to stay safe while travelling solo

Share your itinerary

Good advice for us all, but particularly for people travelling solo. Make copies of your itinerary, contact details, passport and travel insurance, then email them to yourself and to one or two friends/family at home. Check-in on social media when you can so people can keep track of where you are. 

Remember the little things

If you’re arriving late in a city by yourself, book a hotel with a front desk or concierge service (many hotels also offer private transfers that don’t cost the earth from the airport or train station).

If you're travelling with us, we can help you organise an  arrival transfer.  Read your maps before you head out for a walk (you can use a map app on your smartphone – or take screenshots of where you’re going if you don’t want to use up your precious data). If you need to check your map when you’re out and about, duck into a shop or café to do it.

Leave the blingy jewellery, wedding rings and designer clothes at home, and aim to dress like the locals do – hit up the local markets if you haven’t packed the right outfits. Aim to keep track of travel times, so you’re not caught out after dark.

Roam if you want to

Most mobile/cell providers now offer travel passes to help manage your international roaming costs (which, let’s face it, are expensive!).

For a few dollars a day, you’ll have access to data, which means you can log into your apps (like Skype, email and WhatsApp) when you’re out of WiFi zones and quickly get in touch with someone – a friend at home, someone in your group, or the police – if you need to.

It might also be worth checking out the local cell/mobile providers as these can be quite cost effective. 

Fare's fair

Solo travellers are way more likely to be ‘taken for a ride’ at the airport by unscrupulous taxi drivers, so do your research before you arrive. Make sure you get a cab from the airport/station taxi rank – if you’re not sure where to go, just head to the information desk for help.

Touts tend to hang out in the arrivals area and promise cheaper rates, but can often be dodgy. When you get to the cab rank, ask the driver to use the meter or request a cost estimate before you hop in the car – if it’s way higher than it should be, pick another vehicle.

A lot of airports have train stations attached as well, so consider public transport if you want to save a dollar or two.

Stick together

It’s one of the advantages of travelling solo on a group tour: safety in numbers. The big, 50-person bus groups stand out on the road, but a small  Intrepid group  of eight or nine people, with a local leader showing the way – including areas to avoid and getting around safely – won’t draw much attention.

Plus, it’s a great way to see parts of the world you may feel uncomfortable exploring on your own. If you want to do things on your own, consider a  day tour  to familiarise yourself with a city and get to know the local way of life. 

Trust your instincts

Solo travel is all about confidence. If you’re relaxed and self-assured on the street, you’re more likely to blend in. When you meet new people, don’t assume they’re all out to get you, but be sensible too and trust your gut. If it feels wrong, it probably is.

Remember: the popular tourist areas are often the most well-lit and secure, but they’re often a juicier target for pickpockets and scammers. Just use your common sense; half of travel safety is simply being aware of your surroundings.

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