Tokyo as a first-time female traveller: top tips for a successful trip

Japan is generally famed for being home to some of the most reserved and solitary people, each minding their own business and making you believe you'll be on your own. The truth is that you'll find numerous groups of tourists ready to exchange advice with you or even share a journey with you, not to mention that some locals are warming up to foreigners, too. Your odds of befriending people aren't high, but this won't be a problem. Despite all the myths indicating that it's too costly, too hostile, or simply overwhelming for solo travellers, Tokyo is great for solo travel.

If you've dreamt about strolling through the catchy neon-lit streets filled with pubs, izakayas, and shops, brimming with colours, activity, and life, then you should no longer sleep on what can be the most memorable escapade of your life. Here's an expert lowdown on some of the most important things you must acknowledge before prepping your itinerary and departing, so let's cut to the chase!

Reliable and swift connections everywhere

We likely don't have to emphasize that one of the most important considerations before setting foot on foreign ground is how you'll stay connected and in touch with those at home, besides other things that rely on your cellular plan. In Tokyo, like any other Japanese city, you have a few ways to access the internet, including wireless connections at your accommodation or public connections found almost everywhere. Nevertheless, it's safe to say that the most secure method to go online is not any of these options. Since cyberattacks have long risen, you don't want to connect to sketchy sources if you have a fast, reliable, and cheap cellular plan, like those highly-used eSIM plans about which you can read here.

Digital SIM cards, also known as eSIMs, are easily downloadable and usable at any point of your journey, eliminating the stress of visiting airports or store shops to buy and activate physical cards. Estimate the number of days you'll spend on Japanese ground and your preferred payment method out of the many, and you're good to go everywhere and anytime without worrying about useless roaming fees or poor connection in the wilderness, among other common woes.

Stress-free travel for three full days

Getting a Greater Tokyo Pass makes sense whether you're travelling for a day or three since it's a ticket that allows for three full days of limitless travel on every group member's tram and train line, some bus lines, and all Tokyo Metro lines. You'll have pretty much every area of the city covered and easily accessible with transportation modes that are friendly to women, be they travelling for business or holidaymaking.

The greenlit areas include the Metropolitan area and three nearby prefectures, costing 6,000 yen for adults and only 3,000 yen for children, should you travel with your little one/s. However, please pay attention to the fact that you'll need a separate pass to stroll through the Hakone Tozan Line or general transportation modes in the Hakone, the destination famous for its nature-filled surroundings, breathtaking mountain scenery, upscale art museums, and more must-sees.

Many may suggest that you'll need to break the bank for a successful, bespoke solo travel to Japan, but this doesn't necessarily apply to the capital. The costs for food, transport, tickets, and other things are just as they are for those going to Tokyo in groups or as part of couples, all the more since you have a Japan Rail Pass readily available to help you slash the unavoidable expenses.

Visiting top landmarks on a budget

With a Tokyo Pass, you can enjoy an entry plan for unrestricted admission to more than 50 beloved cultural facilities, including the following:

• The Suntory Museum of Art in Midtown, amidst a high-end shopping mall covering two floors, will present you with some of the most exquisite art pieces in a very inviting and relaxing setting. The building, consisting of pieces of cultural and artistic interest, was relocated from Akasaka Mitsuke 17 years ago and has become a priceless landmark ever since.
• The Hama-risky Gardens, located in the city's special strolling wards, will dazzle you with kilometres-long areas of greenery overlooking the land and sea. With a history dating back to the 17th century and a teahouse that attests to the Edo shogun era, be ready to see two duck hunting scenes, a tidal pond, distant views of skyscrapers, and a detached residence for the high-level family of that time.
• The National Museum of Nature and Science houses more than 25K exhibits spanning realms ranging from Japanese ecosystems to dinosaurs and outer space, so prepare for a thought-provoking journey. You'll discover a piece of the Natan, the iron meteorite that hit China in 1516, preserved remains of the famous Hachiko dog, and even a 360-degree movie theatre.

The "hitori" culture is actually at home here

Despite a natural initial second thought to visiting Japan alone, it's paramount to note that the culture of the solo traveller, also known as the "hitori" culture, is well-developed here. You have bars, eateries, cafes, karaoke pubs, and restaurants that welcome solo travellers with open arms and unique offerings.

For instance, head confidently to the clean and bustling streets of Harajuku and Shibuya for people-spotting and shopping. For some stunning street art, staple jazz bars, and Insta-ready culinary trends, you can safely stroll through the hipster-like Shimokitazawa.

Did you know that Yanaka can transport you back in time owing to the streets filled with traditional shopping and friendly cats? For cosplay, anime, and everything in between, you have Nakano, Ikebukuro, and Akihabara, where you'll likely stumble upon other buffs of the Japanese culture ready to share their fandoms with you.

Some hotels are known to cater greatly to independent travellers, like the ones enumerated below:

• The Know Tokyo Shinjuku, known for its good price-quality ratio, is usually booked for three days. It has a great tapas restaurant for meals whenever you crave some delicious Japanese staples.
• Moxy Tokyo Kinshicho, boasting quality service, an upscale location, and excellent amenities, provides effortless access to Shinjuku Stations.
• Andaz Tokyo, located in the city's dynamic entertainment and business district, offers comfortable, state-of-the-art Japanese rooms.

In addition to the hotels, staying in a volunteer project can be a unique and fulfilling way to experience Tokyo. You'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, meet like-minded individuals, and contribute positively to the community. These opportunities provide a different perspective on the city's vibrant life and allow you to forge meaningful connections beyond the typical tourist experience.

As you can see, there's no shortage of spots ideal for solo travellers in the city of Edo. They're safe, clean, and intuitive enough for you to enjoy them to the maximum!