Sometimes, traveling solo is way better than going in groups. Not only can you start your journey right away, but it will also push you out of your comfort zone. In addition, you will find new activities, meet new people, and build connections along the way. You will enjoy the solitude and peace that comes with going solo.
Luckily, our visitors will find many activities to do alone in Japan. The list goes on, from exploring the bustling metropolitan cities to experiencing a night in a capsule hotel. So pack your bag and get ready to discover the best solo things to do in Japan with us.
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How Much Does a Solo Trip to Japan Cost?
Since everyone travels differently, expenses also differ from person to person. Some visitors might spend a lot on their Japan trip, while some might cruise through in a budget-friendly manner. Still, according to sources, a solo trip to Japan costs around $50 to $100 a day on average. It can also increase from $150 to $250.
As a solo traveler, you will already save money on guides. You can also cut expenses on accommodation and travel by choosing cheaper versions. Let’s see how much a person will spend in Japan in the following points:
Accommodation:
The cost of accommodation might vary from hotel to hotel. On average, budget hotels cost ¥5,000-¥10,000, mid-range hotels cost ¥10,000-¥20,000, and luxury establishments cost above ¥20,000 a night. Save money by staying in one of our recommended budget-friendly hotels.
Food:
Japanese cuisine is delicious and comes in all price ranges. A visitor can expect to spend between ¥1,000 to ¥6,000 on a meal. Mid-range travelers might spend ¥6,000 to ¥12,000 for dining. You can book a table for two from our recommended romantic restaurants.
Transportation:
Transportation costs vary depending on distance and means of travel. For instance, city subway tickets cost around ¥100-¥200. On the other hand, bullet trains are expensive, and a train ticket from Tokyo to Kyoto costs around ¥8,000. Flights also cost between $600 and $1,200. You can also book a ride using Taxi apps.
Tips For Planning a Solo Trip to Japan
Before embarking on your solo trip to Japan, draw up a travel plan, including things to do and places to visit. It will guide you step by step on your journey and won’t let you get unexpected and unpleasant surprises. Here are some tips for planning your solo expedition:
- Guide Book: Invest in a good Japanese guidebook and bookmark significant attractions.
- Learn Japanese Words: While you don’t have to learn Japanese, understanding common Japanese phrases and words will work wonders while traveling.
- Visas: The Japanese government has allowed visa exemption for 71 countries. Check if you are from any of them.
- Search For Solo Activities: You can find solo activities for Japan on TourTeller, Viator, and GetYourGuide.
- Cash Transaction: Most Japanese businesses don’t accept cards, so take cash wherever you go.
- Be Familiar With Japanese Etiquette: Learn basic social manners such as being polite, taking off shoes before entering a house, bowing, etc.
Best Hotel for Solo Travel in Japan
Traveling solo? You might as well stay in a capsule hotel to save money. These establishments offer small, bed-sized rooms instead of your typical hotel rooms. As you can see in the picture, you will be sharing a room with several other guests. But don’t worry about privacy; you can do whatever you want inside your capsule without others’ interference.
Capsule hotels are intended to be practical and convenient. Solo travelers will primarily benefit from these establishments, which have bathrooms, hot tubs, and every other hotel amenity. In addition, capsule hotels are cheaper than regular hotels. Let’s look at some recommendations below:
- The Millennials Shibuya: Google Map, Check Price
- The Millennials Kyoto: Google Map, Check Price
- Tsukimi Hotel: Google Map, Check Price
- Hotel Owl Tokyo Nippori: Google Map, Check Price
- 9h Nine Hours Ningyocho: Google Map, Check Price
- Bike & Bed Charin Co Hostel, Osaka: Check Price
- Grids Sapporo Hostel: Google Map, Check Price
- Booth Net Cafe & Capsule: Google Map, Check Price
- Resol Poshtel Tokyo Asakusa: Google Map, Check Price
- Book Tea Bed Shibuya: Google Map, Check Price
If you want budget-friendly hotel recommendations, head here. Likewise, check out our blog on family hotels in Tokyo.
Solo Trip to Japan Itinerary
Most people search for a seven-day Japan itinerary. However, a week is too short to visit this iconic Asian country, with thousands of beautiful attractions. At most, plan a ten-day trip to explore this nation. Although you won’t be able to explore every place on the Japanese map, you can take your time and savor your journey.
Day 1 – 4: Spend Four Days in the Iconic Tokyo City
Start your trip in Japan’s central cultural hub, Tokyo. Home to traditional and ultramodern attractions, this city offers a mix of both worlds. One day, you will explore ancient Buddhist shrines; the next moment, you will marvel at the city views from skyscrapers. You can find many solo things to do on your four-day trip to this metropolitan city, such as:
Visit the Ancient Senso-ji Temple
Travel solo to Tokyo’s oldest shrine, Senso-ji, in Asakusa. You will love exploring this place’s ten areas, including Five-Storied Pagoda, Awashimado Hall, Denboin Gate, and Namakise Shopping Street.
Take a Walk in Ueno Park
Stroll around Ueno Park in Taito City and enjoy the hustle and bustle of Tokyo residents. This place is wonderful during the cherry blossom season. Don’t forget to explore Ueno Zoological Gardens and Tokyo National Museum.
Step Into Anime Heaven of Akihabara
If you are an anime fan or an otaku, you must visit the city of anime, Akihabara. There are many manga cafes, electronic shops, video game stores, and maid cafes. Try your luck on this neighborhood’s indoor arcades.
Look Over Tokyo from Tokyo Skytree
Catch 360-degree views of Tokyo City from the 634-meter Tokyo Skytree. This observation deck is open until 10 PM, so you can enjoy night views. Book a table at Sky Restaurant 634 for a candlelit dinner.
Hike To Mt. Fuji
A solo hiking trip to Mount Fuji will be worth your time and money. You will climb the mountain while getting breathtaking natural views. You can camp around Fuji Five Lakes at night.
To learn more, see our blog, Four Days In Tokyo Itinerary.
Day 5 – 6: Embark On A Two-Day Journey To Kyoto
Breathe in the spiritual atmosphere of Kyoto on Days 5 and 6 of your 10-day Solo Trip To Japan Itinerary. This district has over 400 Shinto shrines and 1,600 Buddhist temples. It will provide a contrasting experience from neon-lit Tokyo City. Solo travelers will find many activities here, including:
Pray to the Love of God at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
The gorgeous Kiyomizu-dera shrine houses Okuninushi no Mikoto, the Japanese deity of love and matchmaking. However, you don’t need a partner to pray to the god. You will discover true love for yourself at this temple.
Take a Selfie at Fushimi Inari Taisha
Fushimi Inari Shrine looks gorgeous with its vibrant orange torii gates. You must snap a picture or two in front of this picturesque setting. Also, pray to Inari, the god of a good harvest and success.
Shop for Souvenirs in Nishiki Market
While touring Kyoto, you must go on a shopping spree in the Nishiki Market. This market offers diverse products, including local handicrafts, delicacies, clothing, pottery, and tiles. Buy what fits your budget.
Take a Break From the City to Kinkakuji Temple
Located in the middle of a serene lake, Kinkakuji Temple provides a peaceful retreat to travelers from a busy city life. It is also known as the Golden Pavilion, as its two stories of the pavilion are covered with pure gold leaf.
Wish for Good Fortune at Yasaka Shrine
Explore Yasaka Shrine, or Gion Shrine, which has over 1,350 years of history. This famous Japanese Shinto shrine is crowded with devotees all year long. Locals believe this temple provides good fortune.
Explore more solo things to do in Kyoto in this blog.
Day 7 -8: Make The Best Of Your Two-Day Trip To Osaka And Nara
Nara is only 28 kilometers east of Osaka, so it’s easier to travel between them on the same day. Osaka is known for its rich nightlife, diverse food culture, and unlimited fun experiences. Likewise, Nara is home to massive Shinto Shrines and ancient palaces. It also has an abundance of wild deer. Let’s see some of the best solo things to do in these Japanese districts.
See What the Fuss is All About Osaka Castle
Osaka’s symbolic representation is the iconic Osaka Castle. It takes visitors back to the ancient period when samurai and emperors ruled Japan. Scenic grounds surround this gigantic palace.
Sign Up for a Thrilling Adventure at Universal Studios Japan
Explore the world-class theme park Universal Studios Japan in Osaka. It has something for everyone. You don’t have to worry about being old; you can bring out your inner child, hopping from one ride to another in this park.
Catch a Bird’s Eye View of Osaka from the Umeda Sky Building
Would you like to look over Osaka from the 173-meter Umeda Sky Building? It has two towers connected by the Floating Garden Observatory. This place is worth your time and money.
Feed Baby Deers in Nara Park
You won’t find anything cuter than a Bambi coming to you for rubs and food. Nara Park allows visitors to tame and feed deer crackers to deer. You will find deer everywhere in this park.
Enjoy Solitude Walking Around Kasuga Taisha
Savor the solemn and peaceful atmosphere of Kasuga Taisha in Nara Prefecture. This sacred shrine houses four deities from Kashima, Hiraoka, and Katori. You can write your wish on the lantern or Ema and hang it at the shrine.
Discover more fun things to do in Osaka in our TourTeller blog.
Day 9: Head to Miyajima and Hiroshima
On Day 9, you will explore two iconic Japanese places. You can start your day at Miyajima, which is famous for its giant torii gate. Afterward, have a fun-filled day at Hiroshima. You will be surprised to see the glow up this place has had since the devastating atomic bombing of the Second World War. Check out the following solo things to do in these areas:
Visit Itsukushima Shrine
As mentioned before, Miyajima Island has the famous giant torii gate. Well, it is part of the Itsukushima Shrine, which is registered as a World Heritage site. Both are built over water and appear to be floating in the sea.
Explore Everything There is to Miyajima Island
Although Miyajima Island is only 30.39 km², it offers many experiences. Visitors can explore the Daishoin Temple, hike up Mt. Misen, and take food tours. Don’t forget to try Momiji Manju and buy some as souvenirs.
Stroll Around Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is located in the area that was once the heart of Hiroshima’s busting scene. After World War II, only Genbaku Dome was left standing in the area. As such, this park was created to commemorate the memories of those who passed away in bombings.
Step Back in Time at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Since you are already at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, you might as well visit its main facility, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. It has exhibitions on the events of August 6, 1945, and shows how much Hiroshima residents suffered during such a crucial period.
Day 10: Back to Tokyo and then the Airport
Take a bullet train from Hiroshima to Tokyo on the final day of your 10-day Japan Itinerary. Before heading to the airport, you can have a leisurely day exploring nearby Tokyo attractions. Some of the best solo things to do in Japan at the last minute of your trip include:
Stuff Your Belly With Food At Tsukiji Market
Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market has the finest sushi bars offering the best seafood with fresh ingredients. These shops are open from 5 AM to 2 PM, giving visitors plenty of time to enjoy their meals.
Do Last Minute Shopping in Ginza
Before boarding your flight, make a stop in Ginza for last-minute shopping. You might never know what you missed buying unless you explore the stores in this commercial district. Buy gifts and souvenirs to take back home.
Take a Flight Back Home from Haneda Airport
Sadly, it would be time to return home after a memorable ten-day Japan expedition. You can catch international flights all over the globe from Haneda Airport, aka Tokyo International Airport. Make prior bookings to catch your flight.
French explorer Andre Gide once said, “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” Likewise, unless you courageously embark on a solo trip, you won’t find the pleasures that come with it. Have faith and leap to explore Japan on your own.
Try our handpicked solo things to do in Japan and discover more activities as you travel along. Go on day trips and meet like-minded individuals. Similarly, enjoy your time without having to socialize. Most importantly, discover why people enjoy traveling solo in this Asian country.
