Traveling alone has become quite popular, especially in the younger generations.
If you choose Japan as your next destination, you will not regret it, as it has many beautiful cities and places to visit.
However, if you are wondering if it is safe to travel to Japan alone, or you would like some tips to help you get around, then you will find answers in this article below.
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How to travel to Japan alone
Is there a reason to travel alone to Japan?
- There is something fascinating about Japanese culture
- The contrasts in Japanese culture are inspiring
- There is nothing better than Japanese food
- Natural beauty abounds in Japan
- There is no danger in Japan
Tips for Traveling Solo in Japan
- Having cash on hand
The majority of Japanese establishments still accept cash, despite the fact that many accept credit cards internationally. Additionally, foreign bank cards are not accepted at many Japanese ATMs. Make sure to carry enough cash with you when traveling in Japan so you don’t have to worry about finding an ATM that accepts your cards.
- Before you go through immigration, make sure you have proof of departure and accommodation details
The disembarkation card must state your intended stay in Japan. A phone number and an address in Japan will also be required.
You might also be asked to show proof of your intended departure by the immigration officer. Ticket for return flight, for example. Before boarding your flight, make sure you have all this information with you. To ensure that nothing suspicious is going on, the immigration officer may request a special interview in a separate room.
- Japanese Taboos to be aware of
In Japan, there are a few taboos to keep in mind if you are traveling solo. Among them are:
- Shoes should be removed whenever required to do so, like entering homes, spas, and onsens. (You’ll notice shoe racks or locks when you see them.)
- Using public transportation shouldn’t be done while talking on the phone.
- Stick chopsticks horizontally into food rather than vertically. Offerings to the dead are common in East Asia.
- One finger gestures should not be used when addressing people.
- Cold and cough masks are required when you have them.
- The Japanese Royal family should not be discussed or criticized.
If you are traveling alone and without friends to intervene, these are very important things to remember.
- Make sure you plan how you will store and move your luggage
A solo trip requires a minimum amount of luggage. As a result of Japan’s crowded cities and transportation facilities, this is an extremely important aspect to consider. Large bags are typically not allowed on long-distance trains.
It is fortunately possible to travel with large bags in Japan due to the availability of some useful facilities. Japanese bus and train stations have plenty of coin lockers. Lockers may run out, but that’s never guaranteed.
- Preparation is key to success
If you want to navigate around Japan more easily, you should learn some basic terms and words before going. The majority of Japanese students do not master English, despite it being taught in many public and private schools.
It is important that you speak clearly and slowly when speaking English with Japanese people. It is important to remember that such conversations require patience and understanding because Japanese has a different pronunciation system than English, so words such as “ticket” become “chiketo”.
Is Japan Safe for Solo Travelers?
The safety of Japan makes it a great destination for solo travelers. Crime does exist in this country, but one cannot assume that it is nonexistent. As with anywhere in the world, safety practices such as avoiding dark alleys, avoiding drunk people, and not hiking alone in nature are universal.
The issue of sexual harassment and gropers on crowded Japanese trains is well known to female solo travelers. If you are traveling during peak hours, avoid using Japanese public transportation.
- Using Japanese public transportation shouldn’t cause you to be late
When it comes to Japanese train departures, you can set your watch using them regardless of whether you are traveling alone or not.
The train station should be inspected at least two hours prior to departure.
- All About Japanese Buses
Uninitiated travelers are often baffled by Japanese bus ticketing, starting with how passengers board from the middle. When alone, embarrassment is triple unbearable, so know how to ticket correctly:
- The board should be viewed from the middle. Ticket holders should collect a slip of paper with a number from the dispenser next to the entrance.
- The front of the bus has a large electronic board with constantly changing numbers. The electronic board should be consulted before alighting. Your ticket shows the fare to pay under the number corresponding to it.
- In the collection box near the driver, deposit the fee and the ticket before alighting.
- Visiting Japanese castles requires comfortable clothing
Fortress-like Japanese castles were originally constructed as fortifications. Consequently, getting to the keep (i.e. their most distinctive, photogenic part) is quite an uphill trek via meandering passages. You will find that the steps to get there are even steeper, and the exhibits are usually uninteresting to foreigners once you get there.
When visiting a Japanese castle, be prepared for quite a workout.
- If you are rejected by an establishment, don’t be offended
If you encounter a pub that rejects you when traveling alone in Japan, do not be offendedaces do so because they feel they lack the cultural and language skills to handle foreign customers. Others might be concerned that their usual clientele might mind the foreign presence.
If you encounter a pub that rejects you when traveling alone in Japan, do not be offended
Conclusion
It is not uncommon for a pub to reject you when you are can be fun and challenging. As you can see, there are some aspects to consider when traveling alone in Japan.
When traveling alone in Japan, do not be offended if a pub rejects youn.
Traveling alone in Japan, don’t be offended if you run into a pub that rejects you