Things I Wish I Knew Before Going To Japan As a Solo Traveller

Japan is an amazing travel destination. Whether travelling alone or with friends, you are guaranteed the best time in Japan. The country attracts over 24+ million tourists per year. And the rate is increasing!

And whether you are spending a few days or one month in Japan, you will always find something new and exciting to do in Japan.

But if you have never been to Japan, you must have a lot of questions about the country. In this post, I am sharing with you all the things I wish I knew before my first trip to Japan.

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Why you should visit Japan as a solo traveller

Japan is one of the most interesting countries in Asia and the world. I love everything about Japan and Japanese people, especially some Japanese customs that are so uniquely different from everywhere else in the world.

Plus, there is so much to do in Japan. You can enjoy the big city of Tokyo, the delicious cuisine in Osaka, temple-hop in Kyoto, learn about the history of WWII in Hiroshima, and everything else in between.

In the warmer months, explore one of the numerous hiking trails, including the Nakasendo Trail. Experience cherry blossom in the spring is a must! And not to mention, the fall foliage is exceptionally beautiful during autumn. And if you are into winter sports, look no further and make your way to the snowy alps of Niseko, Aomori or Hakuba.

How to prepare for a trip to Japan

If you are travelling to Japan for the first time, you might have many questions about Japanese culture, how to get around, money, etc.

I’ve visited Japan many times and spent over 14 months in the beautiful country. There is so much to learn as the culture differs from the rest of the world.

So, I am sharing everything I know about Japan and all my best Japanese travel tips for travelling alone. Hopefully, they will answer your important questions before your first trip abroad.

Things to know before going to Japan: Travel Essentials

1. Visa Requirement for entering Japan

Most nationalities will receive a visa on arrival when you arrive in Japan. The visa allows you to stay in Japan for up to 90 days.

Click here to determine if you require a visa for a short-term stay in Japan.

And if you do require a visa before visiting Japan, make sure to give yourself ample time to get all your documents together and apply for the appropriate visa.

2. Fill out the online forms on Visit Japan Web (VJW)

In order to have a smoother and faster immigration experience in Japan, fill out the required information on the Visit Japan Web (VJW) website before you get on the plane. The website is an online form for international visitors going to Japan. You will need to enter certain information like your flight, accommodation, passport info, etc.

Once you have entered all the required information, take a screenshot of the QR code. The QR code is required for going through customs.

The website also enables tax-free shopping refunds via a separate QR code. If you plan to do some major shopping, this can be very helpful.

3. Get cash from ATMs at convenience stores

Japan’s official currency is the Japanese Yen (¥). Some places accept credit cards, but many don’t — especially some smaller restaurants that need a ticket purchased from the vending machine.

There are many automated teller machines (ATMs) across the country. I didn’t have a lot of luck with the local bank’s ATMs, but the ATMs in convenience stores like Family Mart and 7-Eleven are all reliable.

Whenever you are in a bind and need cash, visit one of the convenience stores. There is always one nearby. Sometimes smaller towns will have convenience stores. But get some cash in the city first before you venture to smaller towns.

4. Electricity: power socket & universal travel adapter

The standard voltage in Japan is 100V. The power socket is type A & B. It is the same as North and Central America plugs.

Check if you need to bring a travel adapter for all your electronics. 

If your home country is not the same as Japan, bring a universal travel adapter for your travel so you can make sure all your electronic equipment can be charged.

Budgeting for a Trip to Japan

5. Solo travellers can travel on a budget in Japan

There is a misconception about the cost of travelling in Japan. It is not as expensive as you think. It costs less to visit Japan than in North America and some parts of Europe. However, you won’t get the same bargains you get from other countries in Southeast Asia.

But for what you pay in Japan, you will always get high-quality accommodation, food and experiences.

The great thing about Japan is that you can travel exactly how it fits your budget. There are many high-end options for accommodations and food. But there are also just as many budget options as well.

As a solo traveller, I tend to be budget-conscious. Most of my posts will have budget accommodation options. And sometimes I will include other moderate and high-end options just in case you feel you want to splurge.

Safety in Japan

6. Solo travellers should practice regular safety precautions

Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rate is low. The risk of pickpocketing and mugging is low as well. It is rated the 9th safest place in the world based on the Global Peace Index.

I’ve been to Japan many times, and I haven’t had any issues with safety.

And Japanese people are very honest. A friend of mine dropped his wallet at a restaurant, and they chased after him to give his wallet back to him. I’ve never heard of that anywhere else in the world!

So, if you are a solo female traveller, consider going to Japan because you will not have to worry about safety. Japan is one of the best countries to visit as a solo traveller.

My only travel safety tip for Japan is to practice regular safety precautions even if you are travelling in one of the safest countries. As a solo female traveller, always be aware of where you are, don’t walk around sketchy places or areas, and don’t drink too much.

Staying Connected in Japan

7. Data & Wifi

Staying connected is essential, especially if you are a solo traveller or digital nomad. And it is especially useful for having a data connection in Japan as you can use data to translate phrases and navigate your way around a city.

There are a few ways to stay connected in Japan.

1. Purchase a Prepaid SIM card

Get a data-only prepaid SIM card before or when you arrive in Japan. The SIM card is excellent for a short-term stay (a few days to a few weeks) in Japan.

There are several options for buying SIM cards. Here’s what I recommend:

• Selected 7-Eleven or Family Mart at the airport and city centre – Esim Plus tourist SIM card from ￥900 for a SIM card and top up 3, 5, 7, 14 or 30 days.
• Online – order a SIM card in advance (check if your mobile phone support eSim)

2. Other free wifi spots in Japan

Airports, major train stations, bus terminals, and museums, will have free wifi.

And download Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi. It is a free app and allows you to connect to the free wifi hotspots around the city.

Major department stores will offer free wifi as well. They do not require a password.

Whenever you are in need of free wifi, Starbucks is always the answer. You can log into the network without any password. And there is always a Starbucks nearby.

Language

8. Official language: Japanese

Japanese is the main language in Japan.

Most Japanese people will know a few English phrases in major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Fukuoka, especially in the tourism sector like hotels, restaurants, and retail stores.

However, if you find yourself in smaller towns, some people are not as well versed in English as you may hope.

Before you leave home, download Google Translate. It is an app on your smartphone that can translate words and phrases between two languages. It is especially useful in Japan. You can type in what you want to say, and it will translate it into Japanese.

Another feature of Google Translate is translating a written text. Open your Google Translate app, take a photo of the written text, and it will automatically translate the text into English. This feature is especially useful when you are in a restaurant or a retail store. The app works best when the text is typed and not handwritten.

9. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases

At a minimum, if you know how to say “hello” and “thank you,” it will go a long way. (I only knew these two words when I was there!)

Here are some words and phrases that you might find useful.

“hello” is Kon’nichiwa

“thank you” is Arigatōgozaimashita or Arigatō 

“how much is it” is Ikuradesu ka

“delicious” is Oishī

Getting Around Japan on your own

10. Take public transportation with an IC card

An IC card is a rechargeable smart card that allows you to take public transportation, including major routes for trains, subway, buses, streetcars and some ferries.

At the start of your trip, buy an IC Card at the airport or any JR train station. You can pick up one of the major IC Cards (listed below) and use the same card across the country for most transportation, including suburban trains, subway, buses, and other transportation as indicated. You can even use an IC card for purchases at convenience stores.

Below is a list of all the major IC cards and their respective regions:

• Pasmo – Greater Tokyo (Tokyo)
• Suica – JR East (Tokyo)
• TOICA – JR Central
• ICOCA – JR West (Osaka)
• SUGOCA – JR Kyushu (Fukuoka)
• Kitaca – JR Hokkaido

11. Purchase a Japan Rail Pass before your trip

If you are planning to travel a lot by train and within a short period, buying a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) will save you a lot of money and headaches. You should order the pass before leaving for your trip. It is cheaper to order before you travel abroad.

For some regions in Japan, buying a JR Pass while you are in Japan is possible, but you will be paying a bit more.

If you are unsure if buying a rail pass versus buying individual tickets as you go, you can use the Japan Rail Pass Calculator to determine if buying a rail pass is worth your money. The Japan rail pass is easy to use once you understand how it works.

12. Google Maps and Japan Transit Planner

Google Maps is an excellent tool for checking train schedules, connection and options. I mostly use the app on my phone to quickly check train options and availability.

If I want to dig deep and plan an entire trip, I use Japan Transit Planner, a website that can check the exact schedule and price for any trains in the Japan Rail System and other railway systems. It will save you a ton of time trying to figure out all the stations and routes. You can check for the most updated schedule and cost for all the places you want to visit in Japan.

13. Take the Shinkansen at least once in Japan

Riding the Shinkansen (Japanese bullet train) is a must while you are in Japan. The high-speed train connects Japan’s major cities and travels up to 320 km/hr.

While the train is fast, comfortable and punctual, it doesn’t come at a cheap price. However, Japan Rail Pass covers most Shinkansen routes except for Nozomi and Mizuho trains.

If you don’t have a rail pass, you can buy individual Shinkansen tickets. Buy one from any JR train station or purchase it online from Klook. Sometimes I found the rate on Klook is better and retrieving the actual ticket from the kiosk is quite simple as well.

14. Use Google Maps to navigate

Google Maps is my primary choice for navigating around different places in Japan.

Typically, I pin all the attractions, restaurants and places I want to visit. And whenever I am out in the city, I can follow my saved pins on the map and find all the places I want to see.

My Google Maps can look chaotic with all the different coloured pins, but it is my favourite way for highlighting all the places I want to visit.

Booking accommodations in Japan

15. Book hotels and hotels via Agoda or Booking

From my experience, Agoda and Booking are the best websites for booking hotels, guesthouses and hostels.

I usually check Agoda first because their database has more options for accommodations in Asia. I also noticed that have the most competitive prices I have seen elsewhere.

Also, I check Booking when I cannot find the right accommodations on Agoda. Sometimes, hotels and guesthouses in small towns are listed in Booking and not Agoda. So for those instances, I check both websites.

16. Book Airbnb accommodation for long-term travel

Airbnb is an excellent option, especially when travelling long-term or wanting to experience staying at a local Japanese accommodation.

Since 2018, Airbnb has implemented a new law that requires hosts to register their units and display a license number on their listings.

Adding new regulations ensures the comfort and safety of travellers who book Airbnb. This is a really good thing if you are travelling solo in Japan.

Customs and Etiquette in Japan

17. Dress modestly in Japan

Even though Japan is a fashion-forward country, you should dress conservatively. And ladies, it might be a good idea to cover your shoulders whenever possible. Showing too much skin is frowned upon. And if you have any tattoos, you may want to cover them as it might draw too much attention.

Clothing essentials for spring include light layers, while the summer wardrobe should be very light as the weather can be quite hot. Fall is a great time to visit Japan as the weather cools down. And certain parts of the country experience cold weather, so winter jackets and warm layers are a must.

Eating in Japan

18. How to eat at Japanese Restaurants

The eating culture in Japan is quite unique. Between restaurants and convenience stores (yes, I said convenience stores!), there are many options for food in Japan. 

Some smaller restaurants will require you to purchase a ticket from the vending machine. First, you purchase your ticket from the vending machine. Then you give your ticket to one of the staff, who will seat you inside. 

19. Tipping at Japanese Restaurants

Tipping is not necessary in Japan. It is considered rude according to Japanese culture. So all you need to do is pay the exact amount on the bill and that’s it.

20. Buy almost anything at vending machines

You can buy almost anything from vending machines. Countless vending machines all over Japan sell cold and hot beverages (great for winter), cigarettes, and sake. I’ve even seen a vending machine selling bugs! eek!

21. Japanese convenience stores are truly convenient

7-Eleven, Lawson and Family Mart are Japan’s three most popular convenience stores in Japan.

You can find any snacks, drinks and even a full meal.

And as I mentioned already, they also have reliable ATMs where you can get cash.

Besides food and getting cash, you can also buy toiletries (if you forget to bring your own), buy clothing (like socks, t-shirts, etc). Convenience stores in Japan are truly convenient!

Other Things to know before going to Japan

22. Prepare for Typhoon Season in Japan

Typhoon season in Japan is between June to October. Depending on the severity of the typhoon, it could be light rain drizzling to windy rainstorms. Typhoons can happen across Japan, so please pay attention to weather reports, especially if you are travelling between summer to fall.

Are you ready to take your first trip to Japan?

It was a really fun post for me to write. I hope I answered most of your questions before you start planning your first trip to Japan. Did I miss anything else? Let me know in the comments!

Ready to plan your trip to Japan? Here are some of my go-to travel planning resources:
* Book your flight: find flight deals on Skyscanner 
* Book accommodation: find the best Japan accommodations on Agoda or Booking
* Buy insurance: Safetywing is my go-to provider for travel insurance, as it covers many things. I will never travel without the Nomad Insurance Package because it protects me against unforeseen events. Get a quote today.
* Order a SIM card: order a SIM card in advance and set up your mobile phone before arriving in Japan.
* Join tours: check Klook or Get Your Guide for the best tours around Japan.

Thank you for reading my Japan info post

For more Japan travel inspiration, check out my Japan page for more posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kanto region

• 5-day Tokyo itinerary for first-time visitors
• Where to stay in Tokyo for solo travellers
• Tokyo Food Guide: 42 best places to eat in Tokyo

Chubu region

• Nagoya day trip: What to see in one day
• Nakasendo Trail Guide: 1 to 3-Day Itinerary for hiking on your own
• Best things to do in Matsumoto: 1-day itinerary
• Takayama 2-day itinerary for first time solo travellers
• Shirakawa-go Solo Guide: How to get there & Itinerary
• Kanazawa Itinerary: 1 to 2 day Itinerary for Solo Travellers
• Toyama 1-Day Itinerary for first time solo travellers
• Karuizawa Itinerary: 1 or 2 Days

Kansai region

• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Kyoto: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kyoto Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• Uji day trip from Kyoto
• Kurama to Kibune hiking itinerary
• Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
• Nara famous food: Where and What to Eat
• Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Where to stay in Osaka for first time traveller
• Where and What to Eat in Osaka, Japan
• Minoh Waterfalls Trail: easy day hike from Osaka
• Osaka to Kobe day trip: 1-day itinerary
• Best food in Kobe: Where and What to Eat
• Arima Onsen day trip itinerary
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

Chugoku region

• Naoshima Art Island: 1-day itinerary
• How to spend one day on Teshima Island
• 21 Best things to do in Kurashiki Japan
• 13 Top things to do in Onomichi Japan
• Okunoshima Island: 1-Day itinerary on Rabbit Island
• Shimanami Kaido: how to spend one day cycling Japan’s best bike route
• Hiroshima 2-day itinerary
• Day trip to Miyajima from Hiroshima

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queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I’ve been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!