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 Japan is one of the best choices for solo travel is your safety. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, the crime rate is extremely low. You feel completely safe walking in the mountains of Japan or even exploring small islands. Even if you lose something of value, it is very likely that you will find it, thanks to Japanese honesty. During my trip to Japan I forgot my passport bag in one place, and I managed to retrieve it successfully, returning to the place.
In addition to safety and honesty, the Japanese are very hospitable. It doesn't matter if you go to a hostel, ryokans or homestays, you will feel right at home. Even if you feel awkward being alone, remember that Japanese society is quite individual, and they struggle with loneliness. So it's absolutely normal to stay and walk alone in Japan.
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You travel alone, but you're not alone
It is true that many Japanese people are shy and quiet, you will feel a little lonely at times. But it's not hard to make friends! It is actually very easy, most Japanese people want to train and use their English so they will try to communicate with you in that language, but if you know Japanese it is a thousand times easier to socialize and in a short time to have friends and company on 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 have to ask for help. They have total patience to face the language barrier, picking up their cell phones and using google translator. Although some feel that the Japan is kind of xenophobic, the harsh reality is that most Japanese people love foreigners, they like different and new things... Sometimes you will even stand out. Just don't mistake the shyness of the Japanese, thinking they are avoiding you. Almost all of them are polite, respectful and pleasant!
Most backpackers comment that they have traveled alone to many countries, but cannot think of a country more welcoming to solo travellers. It's impossible to get 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 spots, traveling alone you have no problem deciding which spots you want to go to. Sometimes you may feel more comfortable going to a hot spring alone without anyone you know. Another great facility of Japan is the convenience stores that make your life easier when buying something. Japan is a country that will surprise you a lot, you don't have to be afraid of traveling alone. The first time I traveled alone, I went straight to Japan, and I felt much safer and more comfortable on 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 you get 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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