Japan is an incredibly safe, fascinating, and welcoming destination for solo female travelers. We asked our global community of over 550k women who travel solo for their best advice for travel to Japan, and this is what they said…

From vibrant cities like Tokyo to the serene beauty of Kyoto, Japan offers a diverse range of experiences that can leave any traveler awe-struck.Whether you’re wandering through ancient temples, soaking in the unique culture, or indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, solo female travel in Japan is an adventure of a lifetime. These travel recommendations are from fellow solo female travelers, who have shared their best tips and insights to help you navigate Japan safely, comfort, and with ease. And if you want to go far off the beaten path, not worry about logistics, and have the time of your life, check out our tour only for solo female travelers.
1. Tokyo: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Tokyo is a must-visit destination for solo female travelers in Japan, offering a dynamic mix of ultramodern city life and traditional elements that are easy to explore on your own. It’s one of the safest and most solo-friendly cities in the world, with public transport systems that are efficient, clean, and straightforward.
What You’ll Love About Tokyo:
- Shibuya Crossing: Experience the famous scramble crossing, where hundreds of pedestrians cross in every direction at once. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching and getting the pulse of Tokyo.
- Shopping in Harajuku: Harajuku is a haven for fashion lovers, from quirky boutiques to high-end stores. The unique street style will inspire you to experiment with your look.
- Meiji Shrine: Escape the city buzz by visiting Meiji Shrine, an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. It’s one of Japan’s most visited Shinto shrines and a serene place to connect with Japan’s spiritual side.
- Solo-Friendly Cafes: Many cafes and restaurants in Tokyo are designed for individuals to relax and enjoy their meals at their own pace. These spots offer a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for solo female travelers who want to unwind.
Tips for Solo Female Travel in Tokyo:
- Public Transport: Tokyo’s metro system can be a bit overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—there are plenty of English signs and apps like Google Maps to help. The train stations are extremely safe, even late at night.
- Solo-Friendly Attractions: Tokyo’s attractions, from art galleries to parks, are perfect for solo exploration. The city has a range of activities that cater to solo travelers, with plenty of opportunities to meet people while maintaining your independence.
What our community of solo women travelers say about Tokyo
- Visit the Senso-ji Temple.
- Explore Asakusa, one of the districts in Tokyo.
- Take a walk through Ueno Park, as it is lovely.
- Take a nice walk from Ueno Park past Yanaka Cemetery to the small shopping street Yanaka Ginza and have dinner at a small, cute yakitori.
- Go on the 5am Ramen tour.
- Experience the fish market.
- If you want to experience the nightlife, I’d do Tokyo last (jet lag is worn off by then)
- Visit Universal Studios/DisneyLand.
- I fell in love with the matcha tea ceremony.
- Tokyo has some of the best Japanese food I’ve ever had (splurged on food here).
- The markets are extra special to explore.
- I would recommend the Kabuki Theatre. We really enjoyed its performance and it’s totally different from western theaters.
We also sleep in a buddhist monetary tucked into the mountains, walk through secret bamboo forests and quirky cemeteries with creative tombstones, and we soak in private onsens on our women only Meetup Tours.

2. Kyoto: Historic Beauty and Serene Temples
Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, is a must-see destination for anyone looking to dive into the country’s rich history and stunning natural beauty. The city is known for its tranquil temples, stunning gardens, and peaceful atmosphere, offering a perfect setting for reflective solo travel.
What You’ll Love About Kyoto:
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): This Zen Buddhist temple is one of Japan’s most iconic sights, with its shimmering gold leaf exterior and tranquil pond reflecting its beauty.
- Fushimi Inari Taisha: Walk through thousands of red torii gates leading to the top of Mount Inari. The hike up can be done at your own pace, making it an ideal spot for those who prefer quiet reflection in nature.
- Gion District: The Gion district offers a chance to glimpse traditional teahouses and even catch a sighting of geishas heading to their evening appointments. It’s a charming area to explore, especially during the evening when the lanterns light up the streets.
Tips for Solo Female Travel in Kyoto:
- Public Baths (Onsen): Kyoto offers some of the best onsen experiences, which can be relaxing for solo travelers. Many onsen facilities cater to women, with separate bathing areas, so don’t be shy about trying out a hot spring experience to unwind.
- Solo Strolls: Kyoto’s temples and gardens are ideal for solo exploration. You can spend hours wandering through peaceful, quiet paths without feeling rushed. Take your time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
What our community of solo women travelers say about Kyoto
- Visit the famous temples.
- I very much liked the food market.
- The famous torii gates at Fushimi Inari were amazing, but it gets very crowded so go first thing in the morning.
- The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove was gorgeous and tranquil.
- Go to the cafes by the river.
- If you like green tea and matcha, Uji is the city to visit and it’s only a quick train ride away from Kyoto. You can do a tea ceremony there and eat/drink everything green tea and matcha.
- Kyoto was fascinating with one half of the city steeped in older cultural traditions and the other half ultra modern.
- Climb to the top of Fushimi Inari.
- Kyoto was by far my favorite part of Japan because of it’s history and traditional aesthetic.
Kyoto is interweaved into our Japan Meetup Tour, designed specifically for solo female travelers.

3. Osaka: Vibrant, Energetic, and Delicious
Osaka is a city that’s known for its culinary delights, friendly locals, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re walking through Dotonbori’s neon lights or sampling the best street food in Japan, Osaka is an unforgettable solo female travel destination. It’s a place that embraces energy and excitement, but still retains a sense of safety and ease for those traveling alone.
What You’ll Love About Osaka:
- Dotonbori District: A lively area known for its neon signs, street food, and entertainment. It’s the best place to sample local favorites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake).
- Osaka Castle: One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, Osaka Castle offers a beautiful view of the city from its observation deck. It’s surrounded by lush parks, ideal for a solo stroll.
- Universal Studios Japan: For those who enjoy theme parks, Universal Studios in Osaka offers a day of fun and adventure. It’s a great option if you’re looking for an exciting solo day trip.
- Foodie Heaven: Osaka is the culinary capital of Japan, and you’ll find yourself eating delicious, inexpensive meals from street vendors or in cozy eateries. The city’s famous kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) and ramen are a must-try!
Tips for Solo Female Travel in Osaka:
- Solo Dining: Osaka is very friendly to solo diners. Many restaurants offer counter seating, where you can enjoy your meal in a relaxed, solo-friendly environment. Don’t hesitate to sit at the counter and enjoy the local flavors.
- Public Transport: Osaka has an excellent subway system, with trains running frequently and safely, even late at night. Make use of the transport apps to navigate the city with ease.
What our community of solo women travelers say about Osaka
- Osaka had such great food and a good vibe.
- Visit Osaka Castle.
- Visit Himeji Castle, which is a short train ride away from Osaka.
- Osaka has the best food and the people are fun!
- In Osaka, you can try a lot of great food around Dōtonbori.

4. Nara: Serenity and Nature Just a Short Train Ride Away
Located just a short train ride from Kyoto, Nara offers a more peaceful, nature-filled experience for solo female travelers. It’s home to friendly deer that roam freely around the city, alongside ancient temples and gardens that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
What You’ll Love About Nara:
- Nara Park: This beautiful park is home to hundreds of friendly deer that roam freely. You can feed and interact with them, making it a unique experience for solo travelers.
- Todai-ji Temple: Visit one of Japan’s most famous temples, housing the largest bronze Buddha statue in the world. The temple’s grand architecture and serene atmosphere provide a perfect backdrop for peaceful reflection.
- Kofuku-ji Temple: Another one of Nara’s historic temples, Kofuku-ji offers a quiet space for solo visitors to enjoy the beauty of ancient Japan.
Tips for Solo Female Travel in Nara:
- Be Mindful of the Deer: While the deer in Nara are friendly, they can be quite cheeky! They might approach you looking for food, so make sure to keep your belongings secure and don’t engage in aggressive behavior.
- Solo Strolls in Nature: Nara Park’s expansive grounds provide plenty of opportunities for peaceful walks in nature, allowing you to enjoy Japan’s natural beauty at your own pace.

5. Hiroshima: A City of Peace and Resilience
Hiroshima, known for its Peace Memorial Park and the hauntingly beautiful Atomic Bomb Dome, is a place of deep history and reflection. It’s an excellent destination for solo female travelers who want to learn about Japan’s past while embracing its hopeful, resilient spirit.
What You’ll Love About Hiroshima:
- Peace Memorial Park: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, which commemorates those who perished during the atomic bombing in 1945. The park provides a place for contemplation and remembrance.
- Miyajima Island: A short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima is home to the stunning Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its “floating” torii gate. It’s an excellent spot for hiking and peaceful reflection.
Tips for Solo Female Travel in Hiroshima:
- Reflection and Remembrance: Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park offers a deeply moving experience, so take your time to reflect on its significance. Solo travelers often find it to be a place of profound peace and quiet contemplation.
More recommendations from fellow solo female travelers
What our community of solo women travelers say about food and drinks in Japan
- Eat EVERYTHING.
- If you’re traveling solo and want friends, do a bar or food tour.
- Try okonomiyaki, nabe, takoyaki, gyudon, bento boxes from the combini, dango, sesame ice cream, pizza man from the combini, pastries, etc.
- If you like green tea and matcha, Uji is the city to visit which is a quick train ride away from Kyoto. You can do a tea ceremony there and eat/drink everything green tea and matcha.
What our community of solo women travelers say about culture/communication
- Anticipate kindness from the locals. I had a woman go out of her way to walk me all the way back to my hotel in Tokyo when I got disoriented, despite the fact we could barely communicate. The people in Japan are so kind.
- Try to learn some key phrases with correct pronunciation as it will help SO MUCH with communicating with the locals.
- Read up on the culture and customs before traveling so you do not offend the locals when you are there.
What our community of solo women travelers say about transportation
- Don’t worry about the transportation as it’s super easy to navigate once you get there.
- Get lost and walk as much as possible. Japan is literally the land of surprises.
- Take the bullet train to a nearby city.
And more from your fellow solo female travelers
- If you can, stay at a ryokan.
- Nara has amazing temples as well and there’s a famous park with wild deer.
- Schedule a tea ceremony/kimono rental.
- Go during cherry blossom season (End of March, beginning of April)
- Go visit Nagano, which is out in the countryside and see the snow monkeys.
- Go up to the mountains into the forest and watch the beautiful monkeys bathe in the natural, warm baths. It’s an experience!
- Go to Nikko and walk in the forest. You’ll see beautiful views and can have a transcendental onsen experience there.
- Hakone is a beautiful resort town filled with onsen (heavenly).
On our women only, Meetup Tour to Japan we stay in a traditional Japanese ryokan and relax in a private hot tub (onsen) after one of the most delicious meals in the country, if you ask us.