Exploring Japan

Japan is one of those places that pulls you back time and again, even with the little quirks that drive you crazy.

First off, it’s super safe to travel as a solo person. The cities are spotless, the trains run like clockwork (seriously, they apologize for being 30 seconds late), and there’s an amazing mix of ultra-modern skyscrapers and serene temples that make you feel like you’re time-traveling.

Tokyo is this neon dreamscape with vending machines on every corner (including for hot drinks!) and quirky themed cafés. But hop on a train for a few hours, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by misty mountains, ancient shrines, or traditional ryokan inns where you can soak in an outdoor hot spring with the view of the stars.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. English signage can be hit-or-miss outside major cities, and trying to order food in a small-town restaurant is an adventure in charades (fun but tricky!). Sometimes it’s difficult to get tickets for activities without a local guide to help navigate through Japan’s old-fashioned websites. Also, if you don’t like fish in your food: you might be in deep trouble.

Despite these tiny bumps, the warmth of the people, the incredible food, and the sheer diversity of experiences make Japan a country where every trip feels like a new adventure. Plus, where else can you go from a high-tech robot show to feeding deer in an ancient park in the same day?

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• Japan travel tips •

Having the right essentials can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth, stress-free trip. Here’s a list of must-haves to keep you prepared and ready for whatever Japan throws your way!

Guidebook: Lonely Planet is my go-to for detailed guidebooks, and their Japan guidebook was just updated in April 2024. Win!


My Travels in Japan


I’ve visited Japan twice now for a total of nearly six months. The first time was in 2023, and my second visit was in 2024. I love visiting Japan because of the good food, the excellent public transit, and the many cute things I can buy in stationery stores.

It’s not super expensive to visit for such a long time, either! While you can always stay in hostels to save a bit of money, there’s actually plenty of decent, cheap hotels and AirBNBs– especially if you’re willing to stay just outside a major city. Taking buses for long distances will also save you some cash compared to the bullet trains, and you can always get a good meal from a 7-11 for under $5.

During my trips to Japan I visited the following cities: Daito, Fukuoka, Hiroshima, Kawagoe, Kobe, Kyoto, Matsue, Miyajima Island, Nagasaki, Nagoya, Narita, Odawara, Osaka, Tokyo, Yonago, Yufuin. I stayed in hostels, capsule hotels, regular hotels, and AirBNBs. I saw ancient temples, modern skyscrapers, and tons more!

Considering I’ve been a world traveler for only 24 months or so, having spent 6 of them in one country means a lot! I’m already planning my next visit, where I plan to explore other islands than the ones I’ve already been to!

This page has all the articles I’ve written about traveling Japan on a budget as a solo female backpacker, plus some other recommendations.


Japan Tours


Nervous about traveling alone? Just want to hang out with some people while exploring a country? Book a group tour! Bonus: having a travel guide who can give you ALL the info about what you’re looking at, while you’re looking at it, AND knows the best places to have dinner.

Contiki Adventures

If you’re between 18 and 35 and love making new friends while exploring the world, Contiki’s your go-to tour company. They’re known for being highly social and packing in tons of adventure—whether it’s Europe, Asia, or somewhere else. Think of it as traveling with a friend group that’s just as pumped as you are!

Featured tour: Japan Unrivalled (13 day tour!)

G adventures

G Adventures is perfect if you’re all about authentic experiences and small groups, but without giving up the adventure part. Their trips take you all over the globe—from trekking in Peru to exploring the African savanna. They welcome everyone from fresh graduates to seasoned explorers, so no worries if you’re not 22 and backpacking anymore!

Featured tour: Japan Express: Osaka to Tokyo


Where to Go Next