Japan comes with so many surprises, unforeseeable and of course unforgettable moments. What I love the most about Tokyo and Japan in general is the friendliness of its people. Although many did not speak English very well (especially the elderly), they always were too kind and supportive and friendly. I never felt unsafe or lost as a woman traveling alone. There was always support and a friendly smile around the next corner, babe. During this journey my heart skipped the beat and every time I look at pictures from this trip, I suffer from wanderlust the strongest. So to say, only a few countries surprised me that much, offered cultural depth and so many unique and epic things to do that you can truly find and explore only in Tokyo, the real travel epicenter of Japan! I’ll tell you below why Japan and Tokyo has to move up on your solo travel bucket list, girl!
Note: COVID-19 pandemic might affect the activities described below. They might get cancelled or do not take place at your time of visit. Please check the providers’ pages carefully and regularly as things might change on short notice. Check out the government’s website from your home country for the latest immigration updates that apply to you when visiting Japan.
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Story Contents
1. Cross Shibuya streets during rush hour
At Shibuya crossing more than 2 million people cross the streets every day. Thus, become one of them and get lost in the crowds while be blinded by the bright lights of the billboards and the skyline around you. Ready, babe?
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2. Watch Tokyo from above at Skytree
Tokyo is a massive city with and overwhelming skyline and is best viewed from the very top. Head to Tokyo Skytree to catch an amazing view over Japan’s mega city and its surrounding districts distributed literally in all hemispheres.
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3. Pet some cats in a cafe
Going to a cafe doesn’t seem crazy enough? Well, go to a cat cafe and pet some cats while enjoying your coffee. The little furry friends will love you! Otherwise visit an owl cafe, hedgehog cafe and many others that are spread all across Tokyo.
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4. Take a bath at an onsen
An onsen is Japan’s little wellness oasis! And I know that you love wellness and spas, right? Those public baths allow to relax while enjoying a hot bath. Be prepared for gender separated access and denied access for tattoo lovers.
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5. Enjoy a show at the Robot Restaurant
Tokyo’s craziness about fantasy, anime, and technique comes alive at the famous Robot Restaurant. Reserve a table in advance and be ready for a mind blowing show and something that you’ve never seen before! Your senses will get overloaded and you’ll start questioning whatever you have seen before.
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6. Watch sumo wrestling
When the sumo tournament is on, visiting sumo wrestling is just incredible. This is when families come together and spend a great time watching the games. The all-day events are a cultural must-do for all ladies traveling. Book your tickets in advance for the Tokyo round at Ryōgoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall.
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7. Eat ramen at Ichiran restaurant
Ramen (spicy noodle soup) itself is a true pleasure. Additionally, order one that you can personalize at Ichiran Ramen restaurant, babe. Besides, the concept is truly a unique experience: You will never meet the cook, the waiter or other guests while eating, as this comes with private seating cabins.
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8. Get to know your fortune at Asakusa shrine
Head to epic Asakusa shrine in Tokyo’s north. At this buddhist temple Sensō-ji you will meet your fortune. In a small procedure you will receive a omikuji strip of paper and the contents written on it predict your fortune. If it is a good fortune you keep it, if it is a bad one, you knot the paper around a cord so that the wind can carry it away quickly. What will your fortune hold for you, girl?
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9. Sing karaoke
Nothing new right? But so much better in Japan than anywhere else, believe me. Go and sing some songs out loud in a karaoke bar. Even trying to sing a song in Japanese will be true fun. Would you dare?
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10. Visit a gaming hall
While it is quite silent on the streets, when the doors get open to a gaming place, the noise is unbeatable. The Japanese love to play, gamble, and spend time at those halls. Check out the newest games and try your luck.
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11. Grab sushi at the fish market
Japan’s fish market offers delights just as fresh as it can get. Although the fish market moved from its favorite ancient place recently it is still worth a visit to grab the freshest sushi on earth, babe.
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12. Embrace cherry blossom in Ueno park
In spring, Ueno park gets covered by tons of white blossoms and petals from the cherry trees. Celebrate the new beginning with the Japanese people in this stunning surrounding. It’s like a magical dream comes true when the petals cover the entire park.
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13. Visit Mt. Fuji
Close to Tokyo, Mt. Fuji is waiting for you. This active volcano is the largest mountain in entire Japan. It’s snow-covered peak makes it a perfect postcard picture. You can hike in the area or go kayaking in the lakes with breathtaking views over the volcano.
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14. Stay at a ryokan and wear a kimono
Staying at a traditional ryokan overnight is an incredible experience. You will sleep on the ground, wear beautiful slippers, and will learn how to wear a kimono the correct way. I can recommend Mount View Hakone in closed-by Hakone/Mt. Fuji region for an amazing and authentic stay.
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15. Eat black eggs to live longer
On your way around Mt. Fuji you will not miss place Ōwakudani. It means “great boiling valley” and the area is known for thermal spots and trails lead along the steaming springs that smell of sulfur. That’s exactly where they cook eggs in. It is being said that for each black egg that you eat, 7 years will be added to your life.
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Want to explore more countries in Asia, babe? Check out my blog posts about Singapore, Vietnam and Bali.
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Are you ready to explore Japan in winter? This is when Hokkaido region comes in the travel game. Read my blog post about the best winter wonderland destinations from around the world.
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// Disclaimer // I was not paid for my reviews and recommendations mentioned in this blog post. The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are purely my own and can be considered as honest evaluations.
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What is your favorite spot in Tokyo? What would you love to visit? Please leave your comments and thoughts below or on social media @storiesoutofthesuitcase. Happy Traveling ♥
