Solo female travel in Japan

Konnichiwa gozaimasu! If you’re a self-proclaimed adventure woman and you’re thinking of solo female travel, Japan might be the place for you! Seeing Japan on your own as a woman may seem daunting - particularly if you’re traveling from the Western world - but it’s an incredible place with so much to offer.

From snow-capped mountains to bustling and high-tech cities, sweeping bamboo forests and pristine beaches, The Land of the Rising Sun has endless exploration possibilities. Bubbling in culture and rich in history, there is quite literally something for everyone here.

Best time to visit Japan

The most popular time to visit most of Japan is springtime - this is when the sakura (cherry blossom) is in bloom, painting the pavements and parks of Japan in a blanket of pink. Tourists flock from around the globe, as well as natives from Japan, to view this spectacle, so it can become very busy in places like Nata, Kyoto, and Tokyo. 

Saying that, spring and autumn are a great time to visit temperature-wise before the summer humidity kicks in. Yes, Japan can become very, very humid, so unless you’re planning to stay on the coast, summer might be a good time to avoid.

If you’re a keen skier or snowboarder, winter is the perfect time to visit the northern island of Hokkaido.

Things to do in Japan

Japan has a vast number of cities and towns to visit across all five of its main islands - Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa. For example, being a solo traveler in Tokyo is similar to visiting a small country, with its 23 ku (districts) and intricate subway system, you can easily spend an entire trip just there.

To help you decide what to do, as well as where to go, here are some must-see attractions across Japan’s stunning landscape.

Onsen (Hot springs)

There are roughly 3,000 onsen spas to visit in Japan. This is an ancient tradition for cleansing and relaxation, often surrounded by nature and hot spring waters. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, we recommend Arima Onsen (Arima Hot Springs) in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture as this is one of Japan's oldest on the south coast near Osaka.

Skiing and snowboarding

On the north island of Hokkaido, you will find an abundance of beautiful mountain ranges. Between December and April, you can clip on your skis or snowboard and take the fresh air and breathtaking views for a ski season. 

See the sakura (cherry blossom)

Arguably one of the biggest draws for tourists in spring, the blossoming of the sakura is a magical event described as being something out of a fairytale. Sakura parks can be found all over Japan, although Kyoto, Osaka, and Arashiyama draw some of the largest crowds. After taking in the sites and as many photos as possible, you can enjoy a cup of sakura tea with some hanami dango (pink balls of fried dough).

The Studio Ghibli Museum

For anime otaku (fanatics) this is a must-see while you’re in Japan. Situated in West Tokyo, you don’t need to be a Studio Ghibli fan to enjoy this magic museum. It combines set recreations, galleries of original drawings, as well as being in a beautiful and zen environment to allow your imagination to run wild! From art to the history of animation, it also has its own on-site cinema and reading room.

Ōkunoshima (Rabbit Island)

Before you ask, yes, this is what you think it is. An island, covered in wild rabbits. Don’t believe us? When it comes to anything cute and fluffy, we never joke! Ōkunoshima allows and encourages visitors to feed and pet these very tame wild bunnies, of which there are nearly 1000 roaming the island. Located in the Seto Inland Sea near Hiroshima, it’s an easy and fun day out via the Shinkansen (bullet train).

Best ways to travel around Japan

Shinkansen (Bullet Train)

If you think of Tokyo as the heart of Japan, the Shinkansen railway tracks are the veins and arteries. Still holding the title of being the fastest trains in the world, these can take you to all the main cities and islands around Japan.

Coaches and buses

These are a popular choice for many locals, particularly when you’re outside of the city. They’re cheap and are a great way to see the stunning and varied Japanese countryside.

Weather in Japan

People often underestimate the size and variation in terrain across Japan. Because of this, the weather can be very different in one part to another throughout the year. For example, on the northernmost island, Hokkaido, known for its ski resorts and mountainous landscape, you would be best visiting in mid-winter if you’re a skier, or in late spring to enjoy the warmer temperatures and beautiful nature. However, winter can be very cold, hence the skiing!

Summer can reach temperatures of the high 90s Fahrenheit or high 30 in centigrade. It can also be humid throughout the summer months, so if you’re planning to be there during that time it might be good to stick to the coast and mountains.

Spring and autumn are cool with a spattering of very warm days, but you’ll be more likely to encounter rain during these months.

Accommodation for solo female travelers in Japan

Of course, we would highly recommend house sitting in Japan for solo female travelers! Nothing beats the company of a furry friend in a local home with all your amenities. Dog walking is a great way to find your way around town and meet new people in dog parks.

Can’t find the right house sit for you? Don’t worry, there are plenty of female-only hostels in all the major cities, as well as mixed accommodation. One thing for all adventurers to try is a night in one of Japan’s capsule hotels! These are either exclusively all male or female, or else they have particular floors for different genders.

Is Japan safe for solo female travelers?

With one of the lowest crime rates in the world, Japan is one of the safest countries to travel for solo female explorers. However, as a woman traveling alone, you must always be alert and follow any words of caution or safety tips. 

Many places in Japan - from hotels to spas - are gender exclusive, which means there are plenty of female-only places to relax and enjoy. Here are some tips worth keeping in mind before your adventure:

• Don’t walk down any dark streets alone at night, particularly in cities. Although Japan’s crime rate is low, there are still opportunists about.
  
• Be sure to keep your passport and personal belongings in safe place. If you’re house sitting, there may be a safe place to put your things. Hotels and hostels often have safes in private rooms, or else staff can look after these important documents for you.
  
• Beware of fake Buddhist monks! Yes, this is a thing, particularly in downtown areas in Toyko. Tourists have been known to be tricked by people dressed up as monks to swindle visitors out of money claiming to need money for their temple or to feed others. If encounter a monk begging, politely decline or offer to give money directly to their temple. Those posing as monks are more likely to become pushy or overly assertive, so it’s always best to simply walk away.
  
• If you have any tattoos, keep them covered up in public places like onsen or gyms. Why? In Japanese culture, tattoos are often associated with the Yakusa (organized crime gangs feared by a lot of people in Japan) and could mean you’ll be asked to leave places or treated coldly. Wearing a bandaid or make-up over your tattoo could help you avoid an uncomfortable confrontation.
  
• Be careful of bars and clubs offering free entry and free drinks for women. Your safety is far more important than an evening of money off refreshments.
  

Meeting people and connecting with locals

One problem many tourists encounter is the language barrier as English and other European languages are not widely used in Japan, particularly outside of Tokyo. However, by downloading a handy language learning app and brushing up on a few useful phrases, you’ll soon find locals are keen to share their history and heritage with travelers.

To connect with other solo female travelers, Japan has various hot spots in its main cities and towns for meet-ups. Be sure to check out one of the many nomadic and traveler websites to help you connect with fellow explorers.

Tips from a local

• Always be polite! Manners and respectable behavior are really important in Japan. If you’re going to attempt any Japanese, be sure you include phrases like Arigatou gozaimasu (thank you) and Sumimasen (excuse me) in any interactions with locals.
  
• Learn how to appropriately bow in certain situations. For example, bowing too low when greeting someone can be seen as too much and rather embarrassing. Whilst not bowing at all when you enter a shop is seen as rude and disrespectful.
  
• Avoid asking for a knife and fork when eating out! Firstly, a lot of restaurants won’t even have this type of cutlery available. Secondly, learning to use chopsticks is a great skill and you may find some locals will be keen to help you.
  
• Possibly the most important tip - if you see a cat, you must acknowledge it. Cats are adored in Japanese culture and you’ll find they are the rulers of most suburbs. If one approaches, be sure to give them at least a respectful bow or courtesy finger sniff.
  
• Try all the food! Tokyo has the largest cluster of Michelin Star restaurants in the world, and this excellent cuisine can be found in villages, truck stops, and even train stations. Bentō (a packed lunch made up of sushi, salads, and veg) are popular travel meal and very cheap and cheerful!

Japan for solo female pet sitters

As mentioned a few times in this article, Japan is potty for pets! Pet sitting in Japan is a fantastic way to integrate yourself into the local culture with a furry friend in tow. Absorb yourself in day-to-day Japanese life in a traditional or modern home, whilst in the company of a fellow furry local. If you’re dog sitting, it’s a great way to explore areas and meet new people!

Things to do with dogs in Japan

Outside of the city centers, there are loads of parks and hiking trails perfect for pups! Dogs are also widely loved in Japan, so although keeping your snuffle on their lead may be required in most places, they’ll still accept doggo visitors in nature reserves and on beaches.

Dog-friendly bars and restaurants in Japan

Tokyo, Kyoto and other major cities have hundreds of dog-friendly and pup-themed places to eat and drink!  Dogs are very popular pets in Japan (well, where aren’t they?) and will easily be able to find a place to hang out with your new fluffy friend.

House and pet sit

Whether you’re looking for a highriser pet sit in Tokyo, or a chilled beach retreat with a feline friend in Kobe, there are loads of house and pet sits available across Japan!