Welcome friends, to the ultimate guide on solo female travel to Japan. The Land of the Rising Sun has captivated many people throughout the years for its unique culture, entertainment, and whacky trends. In this guide, you will learn the dos and don’ts of solo female travel in Japan. You’ll learn the best places to go, what to do, how to keep yourself safe, and what to expect.

So why should you listen to me? Simple. I lived in Japan for three years and I can speak and understand Japanese pretty well. I have a pretty good understanding of the culture and how the society runs as a while. This blog post will give you an insider scoop on what it’s like traveling as a woman in Japan. I’ve traveled there solo many, many times. In my opinion, Japan is one of the best destinations for solo female travel.

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solo female travel to japan

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Japan good for solo travel?

Japan is one of the safest places in the world for solo travel because the crime rate is so low. If you have common sense and use practical safety measures in Japan, you’ll be just fine.

Where are the best places to travel alone in Japan?

Big cities like Osaka, Tokyo, and Kyoto are obviously very tourist friendly because that is where most people travel to. However, I also recommend going to Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Nara, and Okinawa as well.

What’s the best time of year to visit Japan?

Obviously spring and fall are the best times of year to visit Japan. You’ll get to experience all of the cherry blossom festivals in spring and the autumn leaf viewing festivals in fall. I promise you will most likely regret visiting Japan in summer—death by humidity shall be evident.

What are the best things to do in Japan?

Where to even begin? You definitely have to try basic staple foods like ramen, sushi, and kushikatsu. You have to visit temples, try a traditional tea ceremony, and see sumo matches as well. And my favorite? You MUST rent a kimono in Japan.

solo female travel to japan

How To Travel To Japan

Most people choose to fly into Narita which is about 90 minutes away from central Tokyo. While flying into Narita may be the cheaper option, I highly suggest that you fly into Haneda airport as it is much closer to Tokyo. If you do fly into Narita, I suggest you take the bus. These buses depart from Narita every 15-20 minutes and cost about 2,800 yen or $27. For more information on how to get from Narita Airport to Central Tokyo, click here.

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How To Get Around Japan

There’s lots of ways to travel around Japan whether it be by plane, train, or car. If you’re using public transport in Japan, you’re definitely going to need SUICA card. These can be bought at any train station at the kiosks in the wall. It’s really easy to load and unload your card.

If you’re planning on going to Japan for an extended period of time and traveling all around the country, I recommend checking out the JR Japan Rail Pass options to find which ones suit you.

How To Stay Connected in Japan

Japan is still very stingy when it comes to sharing their wifi. Most places will have you enter a code via receipt to access their wifi. This is why I highly recommend having a 4g wifi box to carry around with you. That way, you never have to worry about being without and not being able to access your maps or apps.

I also recommend carrying an external battery to charge your phone. There aren’t many outlets around so it would help you if you’re in a tight spot.

Always Have Cash

While having an abundance of cash on you in the West may make you squeamish, that’s not the case in Japan. It’s not uncommon for people to have $500 worth of cash in their wallets. Since Japan is a cash is king society, this is seen as a social norm.

Why Travel to Japan Solo?

Japan is really safe for solo travelers. You can leave your valuables on the table and no one will take it. You have the benefit of walking around late at night and no one bothering you. In addition, Japanese are polite and they will not catcall you in public.

A lot of the food in Japan is delicious. My favorite comfort food, kushikatsu comes from Japan. Food is prepared with a lot of care and never looks slopped together. The same goes for fast food.

The countryside is incredibly beautiful. My favorite places in Japan have been away from big cities.

Related: What’s it Really Like Living in Japan?

solo female travel to japan

Is Japan safe?

The number one question I always get asked is, “Is Japan safe for solo female travelers?” Well, I’ve got great news for you. Japan ranks in the top 10 in the Global Peace Index. Like every country, travelers should exercise their common sense in Japan when visiting entertainment districts and using ATMs. I have almost been grabbed by touts in Tokyo and let me tell you, it’s not a good experience.

Even though Japan experiences earthquakes and tsunamis, just know these are quite rare and Japan has many safety precautions in place especially after the 2011 Fukushima tragedy.

Right now, there is a level 2 advisory in Japan for international travel due to COVID-19. The elderly and those with preexisting health conditions should not travel. Also, because of the Global Pandemic, non-essential travel to Japan should be avoided.

Because of the Confucian mindset of Japanese society many exercise a mindset to think about what is for the common good. You will see children wandering around unescorted on public transportation. People leave the doors to their houses and cars unlocked. (I’ve done this many times before.)

One good thing as a woman, I can walk around at night and in public with no one bothering me. Strange men do not scream at me and for that, gives me peace of mind. Of course, there have been instances where I have been followed and approached by strange men, but these happen very rarely.

What I will ask all women to exercise caution with is the trains. Rush hour is a great time for chikan aka perverts to grope and grab women. Some of them are so good at it, you’ll never see them coming and you won’t know who did it. Usually if you start screaming about a chikan and grab hold of them, someone around you will call security at the station and have them arrested. Sadly, this groping problem is so big, at night and during rush hour, there are train carts reserved for women only. These carts are marked with a pink line on the platform.

I personally have one had a problem with a man who pretended to fall asleep and was bumping his crotch against my arm while I was sitting down. When I started screaming he was a disgusting pervert pig in Japanese, he was pretty startled and ran away. Just be aware this kind of shit does happen and its not pleasant.

Also, because in Japanese culture people like to avoid conflict, people won’t jump in to help you like they would in America. I learned that the heard way after some creepy old pedo tried to grab my 16 year old sister. Learn from my mistakes. It’s okay to be rude and punch a pervert. They deserve it because they don’t know how to keep their disgusting hands to themselves.

Solo Female Travel to Japan

One of the huge downsides about solo female travel in Japan is the language barrier. It’s going to get you where you least expect it. While big cities have signs in English in the most popular areas, if you stray too far from the beaten path, it might be intimidating. Many Japanese, despite being able to speak it conversationally, don’t have the confidence to use their English in social situations unless they’re perfect. (And news flash, most people aren’t perfect so you probably won’t hear many people speak English to you.)

Japanese isn’t an easy language to learn, but trust me, if you learn the basics, you are going to have an easier time. I recommend trying Japanese Pod 101 to help. Learning the basics like how to order at a restaurant, how to ask for directions, and basic kanji will save you a lot of headaches in the long run. If you’re planning on traveling there for two weeks or more, Houston, you ARE going to have a problem.

When I tell you everything is different… I mean it. For example, in Japanese restaurants, it’s common to have a button you push which calls the waiter to you. You tell them what you want and you order your food. They bring it to you and unless you need something more, you keep pressing the button. When you pay the bill, you pay up at the front of the restaurant and go.

In addition, trash is separated differently, public transport can be overwhelming to navigate if you’ve never done it before, and even the way Japanese party is different. Until you get there, you won’t realize how different Japan is and how your world will do a complete 180.

Related: How Not To Be a Complete Dickhead in Japan

What To Do in Japan as a Solo Female Traveler

Below, I’ve curated my favorite experiences in each location. Since I lived in Japan three years and have traveled there several times solo, you can be sure you will most likely LOVE every experience as much as I have. There’s so many incredible things to do in Japan and you’ll have no trouble picking from any of these amazing activities. When picking where to go in Japan as a female solo traveler, any of these are wonderful to experiences alone or with a backpacker you picked up.

Tokyo

Tokyo is the place most visitors first drop down in Tokyo. It is the most expensive city in Japan, so be prepared for that. It is the capitol city so there are tons of people around at all hours of the day. My favorite places to check out are Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Harajuku. Don’t forget to say hello to Hachi the loyal Akita outside Shibuya Station and take a trek to Mount Fuju’s 5th Station. For more recommendations and in depth guides on what to do please check out The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary for Weeaboo Trash, Fun and Cheap Things To Do in Tokyo, and the Asakusa Night Foodie Tour.

Kyoto

Kyoto was the old capital of Japan and also the center of everything traditional. It has the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan and is incredibly stunning in spring and autumn. Please also check out the Ultimate 3 Day Kyoto Itinerary for more in depth details about enjoying your time in Kyushu.

  • Become a Maiko – Maiko are Geisha in training. You can tell them apart because their kimono are more brightly colored than that of an actual master.
  • Kyoto Food Walking Tour – Experience Kyoto’s best cuisines and markets on this tour. Understand, love, and enjoy the traditional foods of the beautiful old capital of Japan.
  • Experience a traditional tea ceremony – Take a step into Japan’s traditional culture as you watch how matcha is prepared and served.
  • Rent a Kimono in Kyoto – This is the ultimate experience as Kyoto has the highest concentration of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan.

Nara

Located close to Kyoto and Osaka, Nara is a perfect day trip destination. For more information, you can check out the perfect day trip to Nara itinerary here. What makes Nara so appealing? It isn’t as busy and overwhelming as Kyoto is. In addition, it is home to the famous Nara Deer Park and Todaiji Temple.

  • Give crackers for bows at Nara Deer Park – This has to be one of the coolest experiences I’ve ever had in Japan. The deer will bow and give your prayers to the gods for some crackers.
  • Go to the Kasuga Shinto Shrine – If you didn’t know Shinto was once the popular religion of old Japan. Shinto mostly dedicates worship to different gods and is really cool to check out.
  • Visit Todaiji Temple – This has one of the largest indoor Buddhas in Japan. It’s truly a beautiful spectacle to behold.

Osaka

Osaka is hands down one of my favorite places in Japan. Every time I go, I find my wallet a little less lighter and my hips a little more rounder. Osaka is known as Japan’s kitchen for all the right reasons. Japanese comfort foods like takoyaki, kushikatsu, and okonomiyaki were born here. For more information to plan your trip, you can read my Quintessential 4 Day Kyoto Itinerary here.

  • Universal Studios Japan – You can’t go wrong with USJ. After all, you can go cosplaying as your favorite characters and no one will think twice. Every year, they have a Universal Cool Japan special where they have specific attractions and movies for popular animes like Detective Conan, Sailor Moon, and Trigun.
  • Visit Osaka Castle – Often shown as one of the most beautiful castles in Japan for promotion, if you skip this… You’re a first class doobie.
  • Walk Around Dotonbori – Anything and everything that is ever going on in Osaka is happening here. Enjoy all the food, restaurants, bars, and shopping to your heart’s content.
solo female travel to japan

Okinawa

This beautiful island is a place I formerly called home. It’s gorgeous and worth the trip if you know what you’re doing. I think Okinawa is good if you’re an experienced solo female traveler and not so good for a first timer. If you’re a nature and ocean lover, you won’t want to miss it. Nonetheless, check out my Ultimate Guide to Okinawa and Tokashiki Guide to help you with planning your trip.

solo female travel to japan

Hiroshima

You may have heard Hiroshima as the place where the atomic bomb dropped during World War II. While some of the aftermath is visible in the city, it’s a beautiful place to travel. There’s so much history to be learned and I love how it really promotes world peace. Check out Klook for more tours and activities to do in Hiroshima.

  • Visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park – Here you’ll be able to see the Atomic Bomb Dome. Formerly the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, this building came to be known as symbol of the devastation of war and promotion of world peace. This was the only structure left at the hypocenter of the bombing. A Peace Memorial Park was erected around it with beautiful cherry blossoms around the river that bloom every spring as a symbol of hope.
  • Visit Miyajima – This is a small island off the coast of Hiroshima prefecture. It’s famous for its giant “floating” wooden gate and beautiful seaside temple.

There are so many more amazing destinations in Japan. It’s almost impossible to choose between them. The places I listed are some of my top picks, so be sure to enjoy them all for me!

Where To Stay As a Solo Female Traveler to Japan

One of the coolest parts about traveling to Japan is there are female only floors in hotels, hostels, and capsule hotels. I have commonly stayed on female only floors because it freaks me out to share a dorm with other men. Yes, it may be a little bit pricier than a mixed dorm, but I’d rather be safe than sorry. This is just my personal preference, but I don’t trust men in general and I’ve had bad experiences with them throughout my life. I never want to put myself in a shitty situation when abroad and traveling. Just be aware when you travel solo, you have to look out for number one. Trust everyone as far as you can throw them and be cautious.

That being said, I highly recommend staying at the Nine Hours Hotel in Tokyo which offers a women only floor and the Cafetel in Kyoto which is a women only hotel.

Related: How To Survive Summer in Japan

Is Japan good for first time solo female travelers?

In my not so humble opinion Japan is one of the best countries for solo female travel in Asia. Japan was the very first country I traveled to solo and I had the most unforgettable time of my life. Because Japan is so safe and most people will not bother you walking around late at night, public transport is great, you won’t get catcalled, and people (most of the time) won’t intentionally try to steal your shit. The fact no one bothers me is one of my favorite parts about traveling Japan. I like to be left to my own devices and go about my business. The older I get, the more introverted I become.

If you’re an extrovert, fear not. A lot of hostels in Japan host young backpackers from all over the world who come to travel to Japan. In addition there is a large foreign expat population throughout the country. Just be aware since people mostly mind their own business in Japan, it can feel very isolating for solo travel in japan.

My best advice is you do you, boo. Do whatever you feel is right for you.

Tips for Solo Travel in Japan

Take my advice on how to solo travel in Japan as a seasoned traveler to Japan. Had I done more research or heeded any of the advice I got from others, then I probably would have saved myself a lot of headaches. Below are my top solo travel tips for Japan.

  1. Be aware of Japanese etiquette – For instance, observe whether an establishment wants you to remove your shoes before entering, don’t talk on the phone on public transport, please line up where you’re supposed to, and wear a mask when you’re sick.
  2. Learn some Japanese phrases – I would have saved myself a lot of headaches had I learned simple Japanese phrases beforehand. Try Japanese Pod 101 to help you learn the basics like ordering at a restaurant, directions, and daily life.
  3. When in Japan, do as the Japanese do – This should be a given, but a warning nonetheless. If you want people to treat you like a local, observe what they do and copy it.
  4. Tattoos could be a problem – If you want to experience an onsen, just know there are a few places who will refuse you if you have tattoos.
  5. Go to designated smoking areas – Japan is trying to curb people being rude by smoking and walking in public. Just know there are certain areas designated for people to smoke to be polite and courteous to others. This is another monkey see, monkey do. Watch what people are doing and where they’re going. If you don’t you could be fined.
  6. Convenience store are perfect for solo dining – If you want to eat cheaply and still get a good meal, try getting a bento or onigiri there. They’re also great for what’s called conbini golfing. This is where you get a bunch of friends together and hop to a bunch of convenience stores, eat and drink outside each one.
  7. Expect everything to be harder – Japanese make it hard on themselves. So you should expect it to be twice as hard. Just so you know, you have to jump through hoops to be tax exempt in Japan by filling out forms and going to certain areas for a tax exemption. It truly is a headache.
  8. Don’t tip in Japan – There is no tipping culture like there would be in the USA. You’re not expected to do so.
  9. Learn how to take the buses – First, get on the bus and take the ticket stub from the stile in front. In the front of the bus, there is a small TV screen or electronic board with changing numbers. The fare you pay will correspond to the number on your ticket. When you get off the bus, but your fare in the box and thank the driver.
  10. Do tons of research before you go to Japan – A lot of places in Japan still lack a lot of English support despite their best efforts to change this. When you do your research you’ll be well informed about what to do and not to do. That way, you can keep from getting bored.
  11. 7-11 and Japan Post Offices have ATMs – Since Japan is a cash is king society, you’re gonna need to keep cash on you at all times. If you run out, these two should be your top options.
  12. Fly into Haneda – This airport is so much closer than Narita but it’s a little bit more expensive. Then again, it is worth it and more convenient to be closer to Tokyo.
  13. Keep your trash with you – Don’t be an asshole and litter. Literally, just don’t do it. Most convenience stores have trash bins outside you can deposit your trash into.
  14. Don’t eat while you walk – It’s considered super rude if you do that. Find a bench or sit down on the curb. The only exceptions to this are Japanese festivals and ice cream.
  15. Bring comfortable shoes – You will be walking a lot despite the really good public transport in Japan. It’s worth it to invest in a cute pair of sneakers. Since Japanese women are smaller, you will find difficulty finding shoes if you’re above a US size 8.

After this gigantic blog post, I hope you’re no longer wondering how to solo travel to Japan and I’ve cleared up all questions. If you follow these tips and tricks I guarantee you will have incredible time traveling in Japan solo. Japan for a solo female traveler is a piece of cake and perfect for first time solo travel.

solo female travel in Japan

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