Traveling alone is always a unique experience, it has its positives and negatives. Traveling alone you have the freedom to do what you want. Of course, before choosing a country to travel alone, you need to know if it is a good destination for that purpose. In this article, we'll show you why Japan is one of the best countries for solo backpackers traveling alone.
One of the main reasons why Japan is one of the best choices for traveling alone is its safety. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, with an extremely low crime rate. You feel completely safe walking in the mountains of Japan or even exploring small islands. Even if you lose something valuable, it is very likely that you will find it again, thanks to the honesty of the Japanese. During my trip to Japan, I forgot my bag with my passport in one place, and I was able to successfully retrieve it by going back to the location.
In addition to security and honesty, the Japanese are very hospitable. It doesn't matter if you go to a hostel, ryokans, or guest houses, you will feel at home. Even if you feel strange being alone, remember that Japanese society is quite individualistic and struggles with loneliness. So it is absolutely normal to stay and walk alone in Japan.
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You travel alone, but you're not alone
It's true that many Japanese people are shy and quiet, and you may feel a bit lonely at times. But it's not hard to make friends! In fact, it's quite easy; most Japanese people want to practice and use their English, so they will try to communicate with you in that language. However, if you know Japanese, it becomes a thousand times easier to socialize, and in no time you'll have friends and companions for your adventures. Just don't be shy like me!
In Japan, people always follow the rules, so you don't have to worry about unexpected or unpleasant situations. People in Japan are willing to help; sometimes you don't even need to ask for assistance. They have complete patience to face the language barrier, pulling out their phones and using Google Translate. Although some think that Japan is somewhat xenophobic, the great reality is that most Japanese people love foreigners; they enjoy different and new things... Sometimes you might even stand out. Just don't confuse the shyness of the Japanese, thinking that they are avoiding you. Almost everyone is elegant, respectful, and pleasant!
Most backpackers comment that they have traveled alone through many countries, but they can't think of a more welcoming country for solo travelers. It's impossible to be bored in Japan. A country full of culture, shops, restaurants, sightseeing, museums, castles, temples, mountains, islands, forests, animals, and much more.
It's totally different from what people think
Japan is one of the easiest countries to travel alone. Everything in Japan is made to make our lives easier, especially the rail system. With it is possible to move around every city or country. Everything is well signposted, organized and even cheap. Sometimes it is cheaper to live as a tourist in Japan than in Brazil, the idea that everything in Japan is expensive is not real. There are thousands of different restaurants, with cuisines from all over the world, the competition is huge and the prices for food are very low.
There are many free and paid tourist attractions, and when traveling alone, you have no problems deciding which places you want to go. Sometimes you may feel more comfortable going to a 温泉 alone without any acquaintances. Another great convenience in Japan is the convenience stores that make your life easier when you want to buy something. Japan is a country that will surprise you a lot; you don't need to be afraid of traveling alone. The first time I traveled alone was straight to Japan, and I felt much safer and comfortable boarding the plane.
Everything in Japan is capable of surprising you! Try to make the most of every opportunity that comes your way! Don't waste time down!
Tips for traveling alone to Japan
Of course, to have a satisfying trip you need to make sure and a few things, so we'll leave some tips and suggestions below:
- Rent a portable WiFi device or unlimited chip;
- Book in advance;
- Plan your itinerary and leave alternative options;
- Call 110 in emergencies;
- Take your hotel card in case it gets lost;
- Always have cash with you, some stores do not accept cards;
- Learn Japanese;
- Use a train map;
- Try a ryokan and onsen;
- Ask for help whenever you need it;
The only negatives of traveling alone in Japan is the fact that you don't have anyone to take pictures with. Sometimes you may feel lonely or need someone to talk to Japanese people for you. So plan to travel alone, but find different people for different experiences on your trip.
In general, no matter where you go in Japan, you will always find places to relax your mind. Japan is not only the best country to travel alone, but one of the best countries to travel to no matter the situation! Its rich and unique culture, safety and ease are just one of the thousands of reasons why Japan is a must-see! Have you ever had the chance to visit Japan? What are you waiting for?
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