© Copyright 2025 Contiki. All Rights Reserved. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is a trademark of The TreadRight Foundation, registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions, and is being used under license.
What to Pack
Keep it light. Japan’s streets are suitcase-unfriendly, so backpacks win. Bring comfy shoes, a Type A/B adapter, and cash (many spots are still card-free). Onsen plans? Pack a towel and tattoo cover. A coin purse and pocket Wi-Fi will make your Japan solo travel way smoother.
What to wear
Dress smart. Locals go for neat and modest, even in the summer heat. Layers are essential - weather shifts fast between Tokyo and the mountains. For shrines and temples, cover shoulders and thighs. On Japan solo tours, you’ll blend in better and feel more respectful when dressed right.
Etiquette tips
Polite is the vibe. Take shoes off indoors, bow instead of handshake, and don’t eat while walking. Trains are quiet zones (no calls or loud convos please!). Slurping noodles? Totally fine. If you’re on our Japan tours for solo travellers, your Trip Manager will keep you etiquette-savvy along the way.
Language Tips
English signage is common, but basics help. Learn: “Konnichiwa” (hello), “Arigatou” (thanks), and “Sumimasen” (excuse me). Locals appreciate the effort. Bonus: download Google Translate and the Japan Travel by Navitime app. Solo travel in Japan feels less solo when you speak a bit of the lingo.
Back To Top