Solo Travel to Tokyo Japan: First Timer’s Guide
Known as ‘the land of the rising sun,’ Japan is a surreal country offering breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, a delicious restaurant on every corner, and delicate castles that will leave you in complete awe as you travel and take your first solo trip to Tokyo, Japan.
While Japan may be ahead of the game technology-wise, this Asian country works to retain its historic roots with easy access to traditional houses (Ryokans), shrines, pagodas, and hot springs.
Even as you venture out past Tokyo into the prefectures like Shizuoka, you are instantly sent back in time.
This solo travel to Tokyo guide for first-timers will not only help you make an itinerary for your trip but will also help you navigate the complicated train system and make sure you find the right ATMs that will accept your foreign cards.
The worst thing you can do is not do enough research and assume you’ll figure everything out when you get there.
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Here is all you need to know for your first trip to Tokyo, Japan alone!
Navigating Trains in Tokyo with Travel Cards
If you’re not planning to buy a Japan rail pass to explore other cities in Japan, you could easily get away with either a Suica card or a Pasmo card to help you reach the major districts throughout Tokyo.
The major stations like Tokyo station, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ikebukuro to name a few have a machine where you can purchase these cards. But if you want to take the train to your hotel, consider buying one at Haneda or Narita airport in the terminals.
You also have the option of buying a blank card without your name or one that has your name.
I personally used the Pasmo card without a name on the card. (Be careful and make sure you follow the directions closely on the screen to make sure you don’t accidentally select the commuter card option.)
Tip: Google Maps is a super helpful tool that provides real-time updates on trains including the crowd level and fare.
Finding ATMs for Foreign Cards
I feel like there isn’t enough information out there about the difficulty of finding ATMs that accept foreign cards in East Asia. But I’m here to tell you from experience that it’s not easy even in Tokyo.
While it’s not hard to find a global ATM in the airport, it can get a little more difficult to find one once leaving the airport, so I would make sure to have plenty of cash to last you a couple of days.
When finding the right ATMs, look for Japan Post Bank, Mizuho, or Aeon Bank.
Tip: Always have more than one credit card/debit card with you as one may decide not to work.
When exploring the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku or the Imperial Palace of Chiyoda, you will most likely find a 7-eleven on every corner with most of them providing an ATM for foreign cards.
You can also find them at major post offices, Lawson convenience stores, and Family Mart.
Places to Stay in Tokyo for Solo Travelers
The main districts of Tokyo that are great for solo travelers are Shinjuku, Ginza, Harajuku, and Shibuya.
But it all depends on your preferences as a traveler. If you enjoy the nightlife, stay in Shinjuku or if you love fashion, look for accommodations in Harajuku.
There are also a variety of accommodations including Ryokans, hostels, high-rise hotels, and capsule hotels. Here are a few hotels that are great for solo travelers!
1. The Global Hotel Tokyo
A capsule hotel near Okubo Park in Shinjuku, The Global Hotel Tokyo is in the ideal location for travelers wanting to explore natural sites like the famous Shinjuku Gyoen National Park and the Meiji Jingu Shrine.
While this capsule hotel provides the privacy needed for travelers, there is an opportunity to socialize and meet new people on the roof.
Each room also has a beautiful terrace with garden views.
2. Nadeshiko Hotel Shibuya
A female-only capsule hotel in the lively district of Shibuya, Nadeshiko Hotel immerses female travelers in an authentic Japanese culture experience with a kimono to wear in the bathroom and onsen.
The communal bathrooms and lounge of Nadeshiko Hotel Shibuya are known for their excellent service and cleanliness.
This 1-star capsule hotel is located in a good area that is both safe and near popular sites like The Shoto Museum of Art, Moyai Statue, and the Shunichi Atsumi Museum.
3. Via Inn Akihabara
Located in Chiyoda, Via Inn Akihabara is a great place for solo travelers with its great location and comfortable rooms. One thing visitors can look forward to is the extensive buffet breakfast before starting the day.
Although the nearby train can be a bit noisy, the central location and the close proximity to train stations make Via Inn Akihabara an ideal place to stay if you prefer a little more privacy compared to a capsule hotel.
The hotel is near Enjuinari Shrine and is 12 miles from Haneda Airport.
4. Keio Plaza Hotel
One of the few eco-friendly hotels on this list, Keio Plaza is right near the center of Shinjuku with a comfortable and luxurious backdrop. Guests can expect panoramic views of the Shinjuku Skyline and their own slippers and yukata robes.
Even though this hotel offers a variety of cuisine and a Sake bar, make sure to explore and try restaurants outside of the hotel. (I know it’s tempting to stay inside your hotel all day, especially if you’re traveling to a foreign country alone for the first time…)
5. Onsen Ryokan Yuen Bettei Tokyo Daita
Experience “Old” Japan at the relaxing Onsen Ryokan Yuen Bettei Tokyo Daita in Setagaya City.
While you are immersed in traditional Japanese culture, the Ryokan offers 4-star accommodations like air-conditioning, an elevator, a private bathroom, spa facilities, and even a restaurant.
Take a day to relax in the hot spring bath and then go out and explore the Shiganji Temple, Hanegi Park, and Haneda Airport.
6. Pearl Hotel Shinjuku Akebonobashi
Only 8 minutes via subway from Shinjuku station, the Pearl Hotel Shinjuku is one of the many Pearl Hotel chains in Japan.
Nestled in a lively alleyway with a ton of restaurants, shops, and convenience stores, this eco-friendly hotel is a great place for solo travelers that provides slippers and super clean rooms.
I don’t know about you but choosing a hotel where you are within walking distance of attractions, restaurants, and shops is a must! This hotel is also a 5-minute walk from Akebonobashi station.
Tokyo Japan Itinerary
Although Tokyo is filled with so many things to do, spending around 5-7 days here will allow you time to taste some of the best restaurants, shop thrift or designer brand clothes, and explore top attractions.
I would also include taking an excursion to Mt. Fuji even though it’s technically not in Tokyo, but the meetup is located in Tokyo.
Day 1: Explore Near the Hotel & Grab Dinner
Since there is a day of travel, it is recommended to take it slow and explore the area your hotel is located in.
On my first day, I showed up to check into the hotel when the lights of Shinjuku were brought to life. Look up Google Maps for specific restaurants or be spontaneous like I did and come across restaurants as you explore.
Here are some of the best restaurants and cafes for solo travelers:
- Ichiran Shibuya (Japan, 〒150-0041 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jinnan, 1 Chome−22−7 岩本ビル B1F)
- Gyoza no Fukuho (Japan, 〒160-0022 Tokyo, Shinjuku City, Shinjuku, 2 Chome−8−6 KDX新宿286ビル)
- Yakuoji Cafe (66 Ichigayayakuojimachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 162-0063, Japan)
- Sushi Tokyo Ten Shibuya (3 Chome-21-3 Shibuya, Shibuya City, Tokyo 150-0002, Japan)
- Locale (1 Chome-17-22 Meguro, Meguro City, Tokyo 153-0063, Japan)
- Toritama Honkan (6 Chome-22-19 Shirokane, Minato City, Tokyo 108-0072, Japan)
- Torito Bunten (in Tsukiji Market)
- Royal Den Harajuku (Japan, 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya City, Jingumae, 3 Chome−25−7 波多野ビル 2F)
Day 2: Walk to a nearby Cafe & Visit the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Spend the second day sleeping in a little bit since most cafes don’t open till at least 8 am. There is a Starbucks inside the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden if you want to experience specialized Starbucks drinks that can only be found in Japan.
The cost for entry into the national garden is 500 yen and is a place where you can easily spend all day with the grand greenhouse filled with exotic plants and a Taiwanese pavilion.
This place is especially popular during the cherry blossom season with plenty of space to admire the beautiful blooms.
While the garden used to be part of the Imperial family during the Edo period, now the Shinjuku city garden is a place for admiring nature while escaping the busy city only steps away.
Day 3: Visit Tokyo Tower or Shibuya Sky & Zojo-ji Buddhist Temple
You can’t visit Tokyo without taking a trip up to one of the tall structures highlighting a magnificent view of the city. I decided to head to Tokyo Tower in Minato City.
The climb up to the tower is quite tough but the view from the top is worth it.
Grab some lunch in the food court area while you’re there! For the top deck, expect to pay around $16 depending on the demand. (Both Shibuya Sky and Tokyo Tower are around $16.)
Shibuya Sky seems to be a favorite among tourists with a view of the city and Mt Fuji (on a clear day.) Reserve a ticket on Klook and find yourself on top of the world as you view Tokyo from the roof of the Shibuya Scramble skyscraper.
Walk less than a mile from Tokyo Tower to the famous Zojo-ji Buddhist Temple where you are instantly immersed in traditional Japanese culture with several pavilions, temples, and shrines.
This landmark is free of charge but there is an opportunity for offerings inside the temple.
The most notable feature of this temple is the rows of baby Jizo statues that represent the lives of unborn babies that were gone too soon.
Day 4: Go Shopping in Harajuku & Hang out at Shinjuku Golden Gai
If you’re looking for a place with unique clothes, food, and other items, Harajuku is the place to go. To beat the crowds, visit before 10 am when everything is starting to open.
I personally thought Harajuku was a great place for fashion lovers looking to explore their style. I think this area can be skipped if you’re not too into fashion.
You can also find your fair share of food here that may just be too adorable to eat. For a more in-depth tour of book a Harajuku Kawaii food tour.
You can also stop by the Meiji Shrine for a break from the crowded streets.
After spending a couple of hours dipping in and out of shops on Takeshita Street, it’s time to head back to Shinjuku and experience the glimmering nightlife that Tokyo has to offer with Shinjuku Golden Gai.
Tip: Visit the Godzilla head in between the buildings!
The history in itself makes this place fascinating as once an area filled with prostitution and frequented by the yakuza.
But after cracking down on prostitution, these dark alleyways became a popular place for drinking with some bars dating back to the 1960s.
Now, it is as lively as ever with over 200 bars throwing locals and visitors alike back in time. When visiting this area, do practice caution and use common sense.
Day 5: Visit Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Go Shopping at Pop Up Stores
While exploring Shibuya, I did run into a few pop-up shops and familiar shops as well as Uniqlo. You can also stop by a cafe with a view of people crossing the famous Shibuya Scramble Crossing.
Tip: You can always add in a rest day if you think you need it!
Here are a few more attractions and places to go if you have time:
- Studio Ghibli Museum (must book tickets well in advance)
- teamlab Planets Tokyo (book tickets in advance)
- Sensoji Buddhist Temple (free)
- Tsukiji Market
- Imperial Palace (free)
- Visit Ginza and Asakusa
Solo Travel to Tokyo Guide
Tokyo is a thriving city that perfectly blends the future with the past.
Although you will be tempted to fit everything in your itinerary for your solo trip to Tokyo, just remember that you’re traveling, and travel is a time to soak in the sights and explore.
You can always book another trip back!
Hope you enjoyed this solo travel itinerary to help you plan out your trip to Tokyo, Japan!
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