By sasta holiday Japan is one of those countries you think you understand from social media… until you actually land there and realize you had no idea. There’s this quiet magic to the place. Everything is unbelievably clean, people are respectful in a way that feels almost calming, and as a solo female traveler, you instantly feel safe – like the whole country is gently watching out for you.
And the best part? Nothing feels chaotic. Even the crowds make sense. The trains run so perfectly on time that you start questioning your own life choices (“Why doesn’t my country do this??”). And every meal – even something random from a convenience store – tastes like someone put actual love into it. Japan just has that effect on you.
List of Places You Can Roam Around –
1. Tokyo – Loud, Soft, Weird, Beautiful… All at Once
Tokyo is a rollercoaster in the best possible way. You’ll have moments where you’re stuck in the middle of Shibuya Crossing thinking “wow, I’m literally inside a movie right now,” and then, five minutes later, you’re in a quiet temple garden listening to wind chimes like the world suddenly hit mute.
Things you just have to experience in Tokyo:
- Shibuya Crossing – It looks chaotic, but walking through it actually feels weirdly satisfying.
- Harajuku – Fashion, cute cafes, color everywhere… you’ll end up buying something you never planned on.
- Senso-ji Temple – The smell of incense, the red lanterns, the calm… you feel it instantly.
- Akihabara – Anime, gaming, electronics – even if you’re not a fan, it’s fun to people-watch.
- Random ramen shops – You’ll eat more than you planned. And you won’t regret it.
Tokyo feels like a city that never stops moving but somehow still gives you space to breathe.
2. Kyoto – Soft, Slow & Unbelievably Beautiful
Kyoto feels like someone hit the “slow-motion” button on life. It’s where Japan’s heart lives – old temples, bamboo forests that whisper when the wind moves, and narrow lanes that look too perfect to be real.
Some moments you won’t forget:
- Fushimi Inari Shrine – Walking through those endless red gates at sunrise honestly feels spiritual.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Forest – If you go early enough, it’s just you, the tall bamboo, and the soft sound of your footsteps.
- Gion District – Wooden houses, lanterns, and sometimes you might spot a geisha rushing quietly down the street.
- Tea houses – Sitting down for a cup of matcha feels like participating in a centuries-old ritual.
Kyoto is not a city you rush – it’s a city you feel.
3. Osaka – Fun, Loud, and Deliciously Extra
Osaka has this infectious energy that just pulls you in. It’s warm, loud, friendly, and honestly? The food alone is enough reason to visit.
What you can’t miss:
- Dotonbori – Neon lights, insane signs, and food stalls everywhere. It’s chaotic but memorable.
- Osaka Castle – Beautiful grounds for a peaceful walk.
- Street food – Takoyaki, okonomiyaki… everything tastes better than it should.
Osaka feels like Tokyo’s fun, slightly crazy cousin – and you’ll love it.
4. Hokkaido – Quiet, Pure & Winter Wonderland Vibes
Hokkaido feels like stepping into a completely different Japan – wide landscapes, fresh air, and snowy scenes that look unreal.
- Sapporo Snow Festival – Massive ice sculptures glowing under the night sky.
- Ski resorts – Powder snow people travel halfway across the world for.
- Natural hot springs – Sitting in a steaming onsen while snow falls around you? Pure bliss.
Hidden Places That Are Totally Worth the Detour
- Kanazawa – A calmer, less touristy Kyoto with beautiful gardens.
- Kamakura – Temples + beaches, just an hour from Tokyo.
- Shirakawa-go – A storybook village with snowy, triangular-roof houses.
- Hakone – Onsen vibes + (if you’re lucky) a perfect Mount Fuji photo moment.
Best Time to Visit
- March-April – Cherry blossoms (yes, they really are as beautiful as the photos)
- October-November – Fall foliage that makes everywhere look like art
Culture Tips You’ll Be Glad to Know
- People stay quiet on trains – seriously, no loud phone calls.
- Cash is still a thing, especially in small towns.
- Queues matter (you’ll see what I mean).
- Bowing is normal – you’ll start doing it without realizing.
Safety for Solo Women
Japan might actually be the safest country you’ll ever travel to. Walking alone at night feels normal, and people go out of their way to help. Still, the usual travel awareness is always smart.
Foods That Will Steal Your Heart
Ramen, sushi, tempura, yakitori, curry rice, okonomiyaki, convenience-store meals… Honestly, you can’t go wrong.
Where to Stay
- Tokyo: Capsule hostels (they look futuristic but are super cozy)
- Kyoto: Traditional ryokan for that “real Japan” feeling
- Osaka: Budget hotels or lively hostels near Dotonbori
A Simple 7-Day Plan
Tokyo (3 days) → Kyoto (2 days) → Osaka (2 days)
It’s fast, easy, and perfect if it’s your first time.
If you’re a solo traveller or a group who’s finding a best place to book their trip you’re at the right place. Give a try to Sasta Holiday and thank me later.
Are you willing to visit any of these?
Thailand
Indonesia
Mexico
Georgia
Morocco