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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