As a first-time solo female traveler in Japan, get ready to witness the effortless blend of tradition and technology. Plus, with the high safety standards, Japanese culture, cuisine, and too many adventures on the platter – Japan is one big bag of surprises.If you want to experience all the surprises without hassle, here are 10 helpful and practical tips for first-time solo female travelers in Japan.
1. Hop-In and Hop-Off Public Transport Smartly
Japan wears many hats – one of which is its high-tech transportation system. Efficient, affordable, and punctual. Whether you want to shuffle between adjacent cities like Osaka and Kyoto or between Hokkaido and Tokyo – Japan’s public transportation is always at your service.
But you have to use public transportation tactfully. Otherwise, you might need to break the bank to sustain your Japan vacation. Thus, probably the most common tip you will hear for a Japan trip is to get your hands on two things:
JR Pass
JR Pass—Japan Rail Pass is a saviour for cross-country travel. It allows you to board unlimited trains at an affordable cost for a period of time. You have to book this multi-use pass in advance and collect it after arrival in the country.
Cost for 7 days – ¥50,000
Cost for 14 days – ¥80,000
Cost for 21 days – ¥100,000
IC Card
Another must-purchase in Japan is an IC card – a prepaid card. Suica and Pasmo IC Cards are two of the most popular ones in Japan. You can use it in almost all public transport in major cities in Japan. But there’s an added advantage to the IC Card compared to the JR Pass, which is that you can even use it at vending machines and restaurants. And if you own an iPhone, you can even carry the digital version of an IC Card.
2. Learn Basic Japanese Words and Phrases
Language is not a barrier in Japan. It is a very English-friendly country, but things always get easier if you know the key phrases and words of the foreign land. It goes a long way to enhance your overall solo trip to Japan. In fact, it makes you feel more confident and a part of the Japanese community. Here are simple expressions to make your everyday interaction in Japan easier:
- Hello – Konnichiwa
- Thank You – Arigatou Gozaimasu
- Excuse Me – Sumimasen
- At what time? – Nanji ni?
- Which train? – Dono Densha?
- Gratitude for the meal – Itadakimasu
- Where is __? – __ wa Doko Desu ka?
3. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
One of the best tips for solo female travelers in Japan is to opt for accommodations wisely. As a solo traveler, budgeting does become an issue, but do not just focus on it. Prioritise your safety before finalising your Japan solo travel accommodation. And if you are on a shoestring budget, opt for capsule hotels; the pods are an experience in itself, and they do not burn a hole in your pocket.
4. Value Your Valuables
The first thumb rule of any trip anywhere is to value your valuables. Japan is no exception. Whether you are a first-time solo female traveler in Japan or not, keep all the documents – phone, passport, cash, IDP (International Driving Permit), etc. in one place like a fanny pack. And carry them 24X7 with you.
5. Never Go Cashless In Japan
Cash is king in Japan – local shops, izayakas – pubs, restaurants, etc. prefer to deal in cash over cards. Plus, it is wise to have some Yen with you for emergency purposes and last-minute network mishaps.
6. Be Punctual
When in Japan, do as the Japanese do – be punctual. Everything in Japan works on the clock – trains, buses, subways, eateries, etc. If you are a “usually late” type of person, put extra effort into reaching the venue in advance, especially if you are getting around Japan by public transportation. After all, who wants to re-book everything all over again?
7. Download Essential Apps
- Ecbo Cloak for nearby luggage storage to travel hands-free in Japan.
- Klook for attraction tickets.
- Google Translator to translate anything and everything on the spot.
- Google Maps to locate and navigate through Japan.
8. Stay Connected With a Portable Wi-Fi
Yes, in a technology-first country like Japan – you need to buy a portable Wi-Fi to stay connected. Preferably from the airport itself – there are lines of shops selling portable Wi-Fi. You can even rent out a portable Wi-Fi if you don’t want to invest in it from the same shops. Just recharge it and have a solid network connection throughout your trip.
9. Respect Japanese Etiquettes
It is always good to be mindful of Japanese etiquette. As a first-time solo female traveler in the Land of the Rising Sun, here are some ways you can show respect to Japanese etiquette:
- Locals value silence on commutes – so stay quiet while traveling on public transportation.
- Don’t eat on the go; Japanese love to savour their food.
- Do not knock on convenience store 7-Eleven.
- Place cash or coins on the tray in restaurants and stores to pay instead of hand-to-hand transactions.
- Remove shoes before stepping inside a house, shrine, or bathhouse.
- Rinse your hands and mouth before entering an onsen.
- Take the table manners seriously to show respect to the host.
- Do not play with chopsticks; it is considered rude.
10. Be Vocal for Local
Japan is known to boast some of the most posh restaurants and malls in the world. But do you know where you can taste the real Japanese food and find the best buys? The local markets! Eat at local places and shop from thrift shops for an authentic Japanese experience.
Are These 10 Tips for Traveling to Japan Alone Sufficient To Stay Safe?
Well, no matter how many tips you have in your pocket – it is always how practical and conscious as a traveler you are that determines your ultimate safety.
Although, Japan is hands-down the safest country to travel as a solo female traveler, there’s no harm in being aware and keeping these tips in mind for a smoother time in the Land of the Rising Sun.
As the editor of the blog, She curate insightful content that sparks curiosity and fosters learning. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, she strive to bring diverse perspectives and engaging narratives to readers, ensuring every piece informs, inspires, and enriches.
