Solo Female Travel to Japan: All the Secrets for a Zen and Safe Journey

When I finally stepped out of Shinjuku-gyoen station, I felt more free than ever. I had just arrived in Japan, but I already felt at home, and the memory of my parents warning me about the supposed dangers of solo travel in Asia, especially as a woman, seemed distant.

Ten months later, after living there, I can confidently say that this destination is probably the safest in the world for a solo female traveler. The Japanese archipelago welcomed me with a kindness that exceeded all my expectations.

Solo female travel to Japan means discovering a country where Japanese society cultivates respect and safety like nowhere else. My travel journal is filled with stories about this fascinating culture, from Buddhist temples to ultra-modern big cities.

If you're still hesitating to take the plunge, let me share my practical tips so your solo journey becomes an unforgettable experience, in complete serenity.

Table of Contents

My safety tips for a woman traveling alone to Japan
Best destinations for solo female travel in Japan
Best activities to do alone in Japan
When to visit Japan to make the most of your trip
Preparing for your departure
Tips for your first solo trip to Japan

My Safety Tips for a Woman Traveling Alone to Japan

Japan isn't known for its safety for nothing. Even though my family had some concerns about me leaving alone (it was one of my first solo trips), I was able to reassure them easily.

Is Japan a safe country for solo female travelers?

Absolutely. The crime rate is one of the lowest in the world.

To give you an idea, I saw Japanese women leaving their bags open in the subway, bikes unattached in front of stores, wallets forgotten on café tables... and everything stays in place. This general honesty amazed me.

From my arrival, I felt a real sense of security.

Japanese men and women: between reserve and respect

The Japanese culture of respect isn't a myth. Japanese people maintain a respectful distance, particularly with foreign women. This reserve can seem cold at first, but it actually hides deep politeness (and also a certain shyness).

And honestly, in the 10 months I spent there, I didn't encounter any problems as a woman, except for one or two interactions with some pushy men in their fifties.

In public transport, I discovered the existence of women-only train cars during rush hours. But they're mostly useful for Japanese women, because foreign women rarely get bothered.

Potential dangers and how to avoid them

The only real risks concern natural disasters: earthquakes and typhoons. Well, that can sound scary, but with the right apps, it's very manageable. I downloaded Safety Tips which broadcasts alerts in real-time, it's reassuring! I experienced two big typhoons in Okinawa, and honestly, apart from being stuck inside for a day or two, it wasn't that terrible.

In nightlife districts like Roppongi or Kabuki-cho, basic vigilance is enough: don't leave your drink unattended and avoid dubious propositions. But honestly, even in these "hot" zones, the atmosphere remains good-natured compared to certain European neighborhoods.

Useful apps and contacts for safety

Essential emergency numbers to remember: police (110), fire department and medical emergencies (119).

For transportation, Google Maps and Google Translate (to understand signs) will be your best allies. The Japan Wi-fi auto-connect app is really practical for accessing the numerous free wifi spots in the country (to tell you the truth, I survived a week in Tokyo without a SIM card, almost without problems).

I also joined the NomadSister community, which connects you with supportive women who host you at their homes for free. Secure accommodation and authentic encounters guaranteed!

Best Destinations for Solo Female Travel in Japan

Choosing your destinations in Japan is like opening a box of chocolates: everything looks tempting! Of course, there are the must-sees that everyone visits, but my most beautiful memories often come from impromptu detours, far from the classic circuits.

Tokyo: between modernity and traditions

The capital offers a perfect balance between urban safety and total change of scenery. For a first time, I recommend choosing accommodation near the subway in central areas like Shinjuku or Ginza (the UNPLAN Shinjuku youth hostel is great).

Don't miss the famous districts of Shibuya, Asakusa, and Ueno. Takeshita Street in Harajuku remains a must-see! There I met Soo Hyun, a Korean high school girl who was also walking alone, with whom I chatted over a crepe before going to take purikura photos (those photo booths for taking cute photos that you can customize).

My favorite spot: Gōtoku-ji, a Buddhist temple full of maneki-neko, in the Setagaya district of Tokyo. I admit, I went there just for the cats, and I wasn't disappointed! It's a bit out of the way, but its unique charm is really worth the detour. 🐱

Kyoto: immersion in ancestral Japan

Kyoto represents the perfect introduction to traditional Japan for a solo female traveler. The temples are easily visited alone, the atmosphere is contemplative, and Japanese people naturally respect your need for tranquility.

The Fushimi Inari-taisha shrine deserves a nighttime visit to avoid the crowds! Kiyomizu-dera is also worth doing, but watch out for tourist crowds. For an experience away from tourists, head to the magnificent Ōbai-in temple. And if you want to eat delicious omurice, go to Creek cross, a small basement restaurant run by a kind gentleman who does everything himself.

My favorite spot: my afternoon break in a small traditional tea house run by an adorable octogenarian couple. I tasted warabi mochi (made from bracken starch and not rice like classic mochi, and covered with kinako, delicious roasted soybean powder) with matcha. 🍵

Osaka: street food and warm atmosphere

Osaka surprised me with its human warmth. Unlike Tokyo, Osaka residents don't hesitate to start conversations, especially in street food stalls.

Prices are more affordable than in Tokyo, and street food allows you to eat deliciously for a few hundred yen. I was amazed by the Dotonbori district, lively and colorful, and the Namba Yasaka shrine with its twelve-meter-high lion head. Don't forget to visit the magnificent Osaka Castle and its park.

And if you love theme parks, you absolutely must spend a day at Universal Studios! As a big Nintendo fan, I was in paradise seeing all the sets in the Super Nintendo World section.

My favorite spot: discovering the real takoyaki (golden octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (kinds of savory pancakes with cabbage), specialties of the city. I'm salivating just thinking about it. 🐙

Hiroshima and Miyajima: history and spirituality

These two destinations complement each other perfectly for an introspective trip.

Rather than visiting the Memorial Museum in Hiroshima, I went to the Honkawa Elementary School Peace Museum, which was the school closest to the bomb's epicenter.

But Hiroshima isn't just about its history. Its castle, rebuilt after the war, houses a fascinating museum about the feudal era and offers a panoramic view of the city. The Shukkei-en garden is a true haven of peace with its flaming maples in autumn and its small bamboo forest.

Miyajima offers a soothing spiritual break. The island is easily reached by ferry, and the hiking trails allow you to isolate yourself from the tourist flow.

My favorite spot: the sunset over the floating torii of Miyajima, observed from the beach. The 16-meter torii seemed to emerge from the golden waters like magic. ⛩️

Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko: nature and serenity

The region offers a striking contrast to urban excitement.

Oishi Park offers a sublime view of Lake Kawaguchi with Mount Fuji in the background: blue sky, reeds, little flowers, momiji (maple leaves tinted red in autumn), swings... enough to have fun with photos!

The small village of Oshino is a bit too touristy for my taste, but seeing Mount Fuji reflected with the moon in one of the village's 8 ponds is still a magical moment.

My favorite spot: HanaCafe Kikyou, a small café I discovered while walking along Lake Kawaguchi. I don't understand how I could be the only customer: the decor with dried flowers is magnificent, you can see Mount Fuji through the window, and everything is delicious (éclairs covered with crunchy chocolate, brown sugar latte...)! 🗻

7-Day, 10-Day, 15-Day Japan Travel Itineraries

It's too hard to propose a unique itinerary for Japan, as each region would deserve an entire trip. Between urban culture and preserved nature, the possibilities are endless depending on your momentary desires.

7-Day Itinerary

Day 1-3: Tokyo (arrival, districts of Asakusa, Shibuya, Harajuku)
Day 4: Kamakura (Hōkoku-ji temple and its small bamboo forest, seaside walk)
Day 5-6: Kyoto (Fushimi Inari at nightfall, matcha tasting, kimono photos)
Day 7: return to Tokyo and departure

10-Day Itinerary

Day 1-3: Tokyo (thorough exploration)
Day 4: Yokohama (Chinatown, Red Brick Warehouse, Tokyo Bay)
Day 5-7: Kyoto and Osaka (Gion at sunrise, Osaka Castle)
Day 8: Hiroshima (Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, Shukkei-en Garden)
Day 9: Miyajima (Mount Misen by cable car, Itsukushima Shrine, deer watching)
Day 10: return to Tokyo (4h by shinkansen)

15-Day Itinerary

Day 1-4: Tokyo and surroundings (Kamakura, Hakone)
Day 5-8: Kyoto, Nara and Osaka (deer park, takoyaki)
Day 9-10: Hiroshima and Miyajima
Day 11-12: Nagano (Matsumoto Castle, Jigokudani snow monkeys)
Day 13-14: Mount Fuji and Five Lakes region (shrines, Oshino village, Oishi Park)
Day 15: return to Tokyo

Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Explore in Japan

Nagasaki and Saga Prefecture

I wasn't expecting anything when I went there, and I was so pleasantly surprised! Nagasaki blends Chinese, Christian, and Japanese influences with striking harmony. I loved strolling through Chinatown, where I discovered my favorite Ghibli shop ever.

In Ureshino, a pretty little town in Saga, I stayed with Yoko and Miyoshi, an extraordinary couple: he's a 1964 Paralympic gold medalist (he was born visually impaired), she's a certified masseuse, and both are singers! They walked from Nagasaki to Tokyo, and even wrote a book and released albums. I left with a copy of their book, Yoko's album, and stories filling my head.

Nagano and its mountains

Nagano holds a special place in my heart. Working at the Shiga Kogen ski resort allowed me to forge precious friendships, observe the adorable snow monkeys, completely immerse myself in Japanese life, and become a ski pro (not).

And if you want to see snow monkeys bathing in hot springs, visit Jigokudani (not far from Shiga Kogen by the way)! The walk through the forest to access the park is really rejuvenating.

I also highly recommend Matsumoto Castle, plus if you go in winter you can see it light up at nightfall. In summer, mountain hiking will offer you breathtaking panoramas.

Kagoshima and Sakurajima Volcano

Yes, another destination in Kyushu, but I can't help it if I loved this island!

The city of Kagoshima faces the incredible Sakurajima. It's one of the most active volcanoes in the country, from which continuously escapes a long plume of smoke... Its last eruption was in 2021 and it remains closely monitored.

Shiroyama Park offers a stunning panoramic view of the volcano. The climb via the stairs is a bit tough, but when I arrived facing Sakurajima, I was speechless! In the city center, I took a Ferris wheel ride at sunset, and I tried a great coffee shop run by a kind Brazilian gentleman.

Best Activities to Do Alone in Japan

Solo female travel to Japan allows you to savor each temple, each walk at your own pace.

Explore Tokyo in depth

Go get lost in Tokyo's lesser-known neighborhoods, you'll have beautiful surprises! One of my best discoveries was the Koenji district, with its vintage thrift stores, bars, and family atmosphere.

And my favorite address: R Za Dokusho Kan, a small dimly lit silent café where locals come to read while enjoying hot drinks and cakes.

Relax at the onsen

It's a typically Japanese experience. After a long day of exploration, soaking in these hot mineral waters and forgetting all your worries is really the best. Plus, depending on the places, there are plenty of different types of springs!

If you're hesitating out of modesty, I understand, I had the same doubts before trying. But honestly, we're among women (and sometimes children), and it's such a widespread and normal custom that no one will pay attention to you!

Just remember to wash yourself well at the small showers provided for this purpose before entering the water, and to tie your hair high enough so it doesn't touch the water.

Go on day trips

Go recharge in Kamakura with its beaches and magnificent temples, on a day trip from Tokyo. But a little tip: don't take food out on the beach if you see crows around, they won't hesitate to attack (me and my onigiri still remember).

If you take the train from Kyoto to Saga-Arashiyama and climb to the top of Mount Arashi, you'll enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto in the company of about a hundred adorable Japanese macaques in their natural habitat!

And of course, go see the deer in Nara on a day trip from Osaka. They're very cute but be careful not to get bitten or charged: even though they're used to humans, they're still wild animals!

Go snorkeling in Okinawa

If you have the opportunity to visit the Okinawa islands, snorkeling is a must. I worked there for 4 months, and I spent many of my days off admiring the multicolored tropical fish, turtles, and corals in the turquoise water.

Blue cave is unmissable, but my favorite spots are Sesoko-jima (not far from the bridge) and Aka-jima (take the opportunity to explore the other islands around). I recommend asking locals for advice to discover others, they know plenty!

When to Visit Japan to Make the Most of Your Trip?

Spring (March-May) is magical with the cherry blossoms, but watch out for dense crowds.

Autumn (September-November) offers sumptuous colors and pleasant temperatures. It's my favorite season, without hesitation.

Winter reveals an authentic Japan, with fewer tourists and fairy-tale snowy landscapes.

I don't recommend going in summer, we enjoy it a bit less with the humid heat and stifling weather. On the other hand, it's the only season that allows climbing Mount Fuji.

Preparing for Your Departure

Good preparation transforms apprehension into excitement. Budget, accommodation, transportation, formalities: I'll share all my practical tips for solo female travel to Japan.

What budget to plan for solo female travel to Japan?

Plan $80-160/day all-inclusive depending on your comfort level.

Accommodation: $28-68 (depending on youth hostel or hotel)
Meals: $22-45
Transportation: $17-34
Visits: $11-22

The JR Pass ($315 for 7 days) can be interesting depending on your itinerary, but it's not always the case, so do your calculations well!

For a two-week stay, plan around $800-1250 excluding plane tickets.

And if you want to know how to save as much as possible during your trip, check out the article on how to travel cheaply to Japan.

How to find affordable and secure accommodation?

Ryokans offer an authentic and truly soothing experience ($68-170), while capsule hotels are an economical and typical solution ($28-45).

Youth hostels are a great way to meet people ($22-40). I also used Airbnb quite a bit, which allowed me to make some beautiful encounters with locals.

And NomadSister is a perfect alternative: this platform offers female travelers free accommodation with supportive women, and allows you to create authentic connections in complete safety.

Getting around Japan: all the means of transportation to know

The shinkansen connects major cities in record time, and with touching punctuality for the French woman I am. But if you want to reduce your expenses, long-distance buses are also very good (if you take a night bus, there are sometimes even seats reserved for women).

In big cities, subways and local buses are very efficient. On the other hand, there are some areas in the countryside where it's easier to rent a car. In the most remote regions, it's not uncommon to have only one train per day, and buses that barely respect their schedules.

I recommend using Google Maps to plan your trips and Google Translate to decipher signs.

Documents and formalities to know before leaving

Your passport must be valid to enter Japan. Good news: most countries benefit from a visa exemption for 90 days. Still check the requirements for your country on the official government website.

I strongly recommend travel insurance because medical costs can quickly add up. No specific vaccination is required.

Think about getting a SIM card or pocket wifi to stay connected. Also bring some yen in cash, some small establishments still don't accept foreign cards, I learned that the hard way!

Tips for your first solo trip to Japan

Learn some polite expressions: "arigatou gozaimasu" (thank you very much), "sumimasen" (excuse me), it's the basics, and Japanese people will be happy about the effort, even if it's clumsy.

Transportation etiquette: give up your seat, speak softly, don't talk on the phone. Also avoid blowing your nose in public, even if it means sniffling. In temples, respect silence and rituals.

Japanese cuisine goes far beyond sushi: dare to try local specialties in konbini or restaurants (I tasted horse sashimi in Kumamoto, and it was surprisingly delicious)! Speaking of restaurants, be careful not to pass food from chopsticks to chopsticks, and don't stick your chopsticks in the rice, it's very rude.

Keep your camera within reach, every street corner has visual surprises in store for you. Finally, accept getting lost sometimes: the most beautiful discoveries often come from unexpected detours.

So, ready for your adventure in the land of the rising sun?

ITINERARY| TRAVEL

Katia

Traveler

04 July 2025

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