Carly’s solo adventure with temples, gardens, and traditional Japanese foods!
Tokyo
Activities
Sensō-ji in Asakusa
Senso-Ji was my favorite part of Tokyo. The temple itself is beautiful and the shrines are really neat to visit. In the morning, the complex is nearly empty with only a few visitors starting their day with prayer, but once the shops in front open up, the crowds start flowing in. It’s a great place to souvenir shop. Asakusa itself is a really nice area to walk around, very tourist friendly and lots of good shops and food.
Market outside of Sensō-ji Temple
Imperial Gardens
The Imperial Gardens are located within the city, and the amount of space dedicated to showing off native plants is impressive. However I would not recommend visiting unless it’s a nice day out. It is free to go into the gardens, which are more like a well-groomed park and there are some historic buildings (guard towers, samari houses) to look at. I wouldn’t recommend making a special trip out there though.
Restaurants
No specific place stood out, but you should definitely make a point to grab a bento box. They are essentially full meals (hot or cold) within a take away container and can be found at most restaurants and convenience stores. They’re fast, easy, and cheap and are a great way to get some good typical Japanese food.
Hotel
Sakura Hostel in Asakusa
Sakura Hostel is a great location with adequate facilities. There was wifi, but you have to pay for breakfast and towels. It’s targeted toward youths and backpackers.
Transportation
Trains seem to be the main transport, though the metro system is not especially easy to navigate. However, the information booths will usually send you in the right direction. You do need different ticket types for different trains, and it’s not especially clear which for which.
Japan Travel Tips:
Solo Travel – I traveled to Tokyo by myself, and felt comfortable everywhere I went. I met several single travelers, particularly women. As a female, being aware (not staring at your phone or map while walking), dressing appropriately (knees and shoulders covered), and walking confidently is an easy way to avoid being a target. Don’t be afraid to say no thanks and keep walking.
Culture – You’ll notice that most public spaces are quiet, so be aware of your conversations when you are out. Especially on the trains where no one is speaking.
Follow the rest of Carly’s trip Backpacking Southeast Asia Here:
Hanoi & Hue, Vietnam – Female Travelers’ Guide to Backpacking Vietnam
Singapore – Solo Female Traveler’s Trip to Singapore
Bangkok & Koh Samet, Thailand – Solo Traveler’s Guide to Backpacking Thailand
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