Solo travel is arguably one of the best ways to explore the world.
You’re able to do whatever you want, whenever you want – you set the agenda and the itinerary.
And when it comes to choosing a destination, some countries are better than others.
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This is where Japan shines. Recently recognised as the world’s Best Destination for Solo Travel, there are so many reasons why a trip to Japan is best done alone.
In many cultures, eating or going to a movie alone can feel socially awkward. Japan has the opposite philosophy: Ohitorisama, which translates to “party of one.”
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The best places to visit in Japan – besides Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka
In Japan, the art of being alone is celebrated; being alone is seen as a sign of independence rather than loneliness.
Many restaurants cater to solo diners, karaoke lounges and gaming arcades offer solo options, and locals won’t bat an eye seeing a traveller on their own.
Here’s why Japan is so great for solo travellers.
It’s super safe
Japan consistently ranks among the top 10 countries in the world for safety.
Especially in big cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, there’s a lively, 24-hour culture. With reliable public transport, all-night entertainment, and plenty of other people out and about, you can feel secure matter what time you’re roaming the city.
For solo female travellers, many trains offer women-only carriages during rush hour, and many hotels provide women-only floors for added peace of mind.
Accommodation is cheap if you’re on your own
Capsule hotels are big in Japan. If you don’t need much space, just somewhere clean to lay your head, these are a great option.
They also often include communal spaces to connect with fellow solo travellers, speedy Wi-Fi, luggage storage spaces and tasty snacks. Again, there are also female-only capsule hotels if that gives you peace of mind.
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Slick public transport
Solo travel can be stressful when you are the only one responsible for directions. In Japan, you’ll never have this issue.
Japan’s train network is second to none: clean, reliable and on time, literally down to the second. You can easily navigate to the right station entrance with Google Maps and pay using your phone by downloading the Welcome Suica Mobile app.
Almost all public transport and major tourist sites have clear English signage.
Solo dining is celebrated
There’s no stigma attached to dining solo in Japan, in fact, there are styles of dining specifically designed for it.
Standing sushi bars, known as tachigui, allow solo diners to enjoy authentic, affordable sushi. Some ramen restaurants allow diners to sit side-by-side between partitions, watching the chefs in action. There’s no need to miss out on a magnificent meal if you’re travelling solo.
The “Konbini” (convenience store)
Don’t want to deal with the hassle of finding dinner when it’s just you? 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are open 24/7 and act as a solo traveller’s lifeline. The food is fresh, cheap, and high quality – try out the ‘cult status’ items like the egg sandwich, or Famichiki fried chicken from Family Mart.
Cashiers will always ask if you want your meal heated up (“Atatame-masu ka?”). You can grab chopsticks and straws, making it easy to eat back at your hotel or in a park.
Because they are open 24/7 and incredibly well-lit, convenience stores also serve as great landmarks if you’re alone. If you ever feel lost or uncomfortable at night, ducking into a konbini is a good way to regroup.
A focus on wellness
Onsen bathing is delightful as a solo activity, providing an opportunity to enjoy the serenity and focus on self-care and wellness.
Most onsen offer single-sex bathing options, and some ryokan and onsen towns also allow bathers to book a kashikiri buro (private bath) for the ultimate solo soak.
If you have a tattoo, no worries, there are tattoo-friendly onsens too.
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