Solo Travel Japan and Korea 2023 Questions

sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 18:47
Last edited 25/10/2023 - 10:49

Hi guys,

About to buy tickets to go Korea (first time) and Japan (second time) by myself. I have never travelled solo in the past, so wanted to tick off my bucket list.

Korea
- Seoul: 3 days
- Busan: 2 days

Japan: this is where I really need some ideas. I’m going to spend 2 weeks in Japan and I want to visit places I’ve never been before. Are there good towns to visit during Winter? I’m not going to ski.

Japan: so far
- Osaka: 2 days
- Hiroshima: 1 days
- Tokyo/Fuji mountains: 4 days

Accomodation
- Being solo, I would like to meet some new people along the way. Is hostel the best way to do it? I’ve never stayed at a hostel, I know if I do I would definitely get my own room. Curious what are other ways of meeting new people?
- Which area is best to stay in Seoul and Busan?

Sightseeing: any places that I should definitely check out in Seoul/Busan?

Thanks a mil 🙏

Edit: update on my itinerary, all comments are welcome!

Day 1: arriving Tokyo at night, walk around and feed
Day 2: renting a car drive up to Mt Fuji
Day 3: half day in Kamakura then back to exploring Tokyo
Day 4 & 5 : Tokyo city walk and activities/shopping
Day 6: half day in Tokyo then train to Kanazawa arriving late arvo/night time
Day 7: Kanazawa walkaround
Day 8: Kanazawa to Takayama, arrive morning
Day 9: Half day in Shirakawago
Day 10: Leave Takayama to go Hiroshima
Day 11 Hiroshima
Day 12: Hiroshima to Osaka
Day 13: Osaka
Day 14: Koyasan, will be staying at a temple
Day 15: Osaka
Day 16: Fly to Busan, Korea
Day 17: Busan
Day 18-21: Seoul

Travel Asia Japan South Korea

Comments

  • jjjaar on 16/10/2023 - 19:41
    +2

    With the hostel, I’ve never stayed in any in japan, but across Europe and North America I would always look for ones that have communal spaces like a bar, lounge or kitchen, or even ones that organise activities like a food tour or pub crawl. That’s the best way to meet people if you’re opting for a private room.

    Not sure how you’re planning to divide accomodation but Hiroshima can be done as day trip from Osaka, so you don’t have to move all your luggage. Also from Osaka you can do a Nara half day trip.

    • QF99 on 16/10/2023 - 19:52
      +2

      Would like to add to jjjaar's comment. Hiroshima is about 1.5 hours by bullet train from Shin-Osaka station (Osaka station does not serve any bullet trains), so if you wake up a bit early you could definitely see most of the sights including the peace museum and some Okonomiyaki for lunch. There is a JR sightseeing loop bus in Hiroshima which will take you to the main sightseeing spots in Hiroshima. It is covered by the JR pass (though I would reconsider the pass due to the extragavent price increase). Try the street cars too if you would like. Miyajima island is not too far, and is also covered by JR pass (Use of the JR Sanyo line and ferry). It can get really packed especially on the ferry. So overall, Hiroshima is definitely possible with a day trip, though I personally really did enjoy staying 2 nights around Hiroshima.

      • jjjaar on 16/10/2023 - 19:59
        +1

        some Okonomiyaki for lunch

        Yes. This. Hiroshima and Osaka both have very different Okonomiyaki. Must try both!

        • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 20:47

          oh nice one will try!

      • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 20:46

        Thanks a lot! I'm not going for JR pass this time, and yes I heard the price increase is absurd..I think once I get my trip planned out, I will jump on the site and see if JR Pass is worth it..

    • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 20:45
      +1

      Hey thanks for responding! Actually pub crawl/food tour activities is something I didn't think of!

      Tbh hostel is not my first option but now that you mentioned this, I might just stay at Airbnb/hotel then book activities throughout the day.

      Great tip about Hiroshima thanks so much. I have gone to Nara already, so I won't be going this time.

      Given my last stop is Tokyo, are there cities that you would recommend me to visit along the way (not planning to go Kyoto this trip).

      Thanks so much!

      • donga100 on 16/10/2023 - 22:11
        +1

        Not sure if it's still the same now but many years ago I stayed in some hostels in Japan and they had curfews of 11pm or 12am where doors would be locked so not good for nightlife. For a unique experience you could try a capsule hotel.

  • QF99 on 16/10/2023 - 19:58
    +2

    For South Korea, I'm sure you'll stumble onto a BHC if you go to some of the main sightseeing spots. It's really good, though best shared in a group. If you dine in, they even give you a plastic glove to eat the chicken! Get some takeout and eat like a king along Haeundae Beach

    • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 20:47

      I love my chickennnnn

  • QF99 on 16/10/2023 - 20:12
    +2

    Some street food I found good was here in this area of Busan though might be a bit far from by public transport
    Food was hit or miss at the Myeong-Dong Walking Street, but still would go there at night time for some food.

    • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 20:48

      where is the best place to stay in Seoul and Busan? I don't have to stay in the city but would prefer not too far from it.

      • QF99 on 16/10/2023 - 22:11

        I don't really know, but I stayed at the Stay Classic Hotel at Myeongdong. It was pretty small (cruise ship balcony size) but was extremely clean and modern. It's close to Seoul station so easy access from both airports. Taxis are pretty cheap in South Korea, (public transport even cheaper) so you may end up using them quite a bit. It's within walking distance from the walking street I mentioned, and the Lotte Department Store Main.

        Busan I stayed at the Grand LCT with a group which was pretty pricy so I wouldn't recommend it for going solo.

      • Blokeinhisundies on 18/10/2023 - 21:25
        +1

        Myeongdong is the most popular. Close to all the main sites and shopping areas. Hongdae is also good but with a younger, more party atmosphere. Public transit in SK is awesome and cheap so it's not that big a deal where you stay other than travel time relative to where you want to go.

        In Busan the main tourist sites are more spread out and on both sides of town so somewhere like Seomyeon is usually the best bet. Lotte Hotel Seomyeon is pretty bougie and has direct access to the subway station, a fancy mall chock full of luxury brands and a casino on site.

  • Shadowsfury on 16/10/2023 - 21:04
    +2

    I actually did my first solo trip a decade ago to those two countries! Spent about a week in Korea and 3 weeks in Japan (first time to both) - basically the month of December so I was around snow but didn't go skiing either! Best spots for snow on this trip was when I went through Matsumoto (great castle) and Nagano (snow monkeys).

    For Korea - I went to Jeju for 2D/1N instead of Busan (hired a car and drove around the island) - I was back in Korea for work in 2018 and ended up just doing Busan as a (very) long daytrip by taking one of the first trains out and coming back on one of the last ones - felt like we saw most of what we wanted to

    I'd definitely consider hostels (I don't do them any more though) - also goodwill guides I used in both countries and were great

    Happy to answer any other questions you have - here or PM - bit different in that this isn't your first trip to Japan so can see why some places might be skipped on purpose.

    • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 21:18

      Legend thanks so much. Now I just realised there won’t be much snow in Feb/March in Japan and Korea :/

      Might PM you for some questions!

      Hostel is def not my first option haha!

      • wackedupwacko on 16/10/2023 - 23:59
        +2

        There are snow in Japan depending on where you go. But Tokyo / Osaka in general doesn't get snow that collects on the ground regardless of the month of the year.

        • sauce2k on 17/10/2023 - 00:09
          +1

          thanks now im thinking I might just have to go Hokkaido instead

          • wackedupwacko on 17/10/2023 - 00:18
            +1

            @sauce2k: With your short time frame - i wouldn't suggest it.

            Tokyo could cover your whole trip and you would still be discovering all sorts of things. Also unless you really enjoy bone chilling cold - hokkaido can get extremely cold (was there in Feb this year and it was "warm" a nice -5 on average).

            • sauce2k on 17/10/2023 - 06:23

              @wackedupwacko: I don’t mind exploring the north part of Japan and skip Osaka for example. Like Sapporo/Hokkaido then just go Tokyo , use it as base and do day trips here and there.

              Was it snowing when u in Feb? I grew up in China so similar temperature in winter. Don’t mind it 😎

              • wackedupwacko on 17/10/2023 - 11:24
                +1

                @sauce2k: Heavy snow in Aomori (northern tip of main island) we're talking a solid 50cm for areas they didn't clear a path for. Sapporo was cleaned up when we arrived but a blizzard kicked in for an arvo and it became white again.

                If you do plan on going, fly up/down don't take the train. There's a really nice onsen town in Hokkaido near the Shin Chitose Airport (Noboribetsu). Also try to book your travel to and from the airport in airport shuttle buses - trains can get massively bogged in snow weather. We almost missed our flight because our 20min rapid train ride became 1 hour 15 mins due to slow driving speeds. Sapporo can get pricy if your dates line up with snow festival otherwise it's generally ok.

      • donga100 on 17/10/2023 - 19:26

        If you are going in Feb/March it's actually possible to see some cherry blossoms. This site has details of where to find the particular variety that blossoms early. It's also a great site for other bargain-friendly travel advice.

    • DingoBilly on 17/10/2023 - 08:42

      Curious but how were the snow monkeys?

      I'm debating whether to head up to Nagano or whether to go to Takayama instead. Most people recommend Takayama over Nagano it seems.

  • Pcoder on 16/10/2023 - 22:15
    +1

    I've been plenty of time to Hokkaido in the Winter, its not just for Skiing, and can be enjoyed for its winter wonderland atmosphere (If you can see the Sapporo Snow Festival, its very nice).

    Hostels are very good for the Social aspect. I've been to a couple over the years where we started talking to a few people and decided to do a day activity and they turned out to be good days. The main problem with Hostels is if you go with shared rooms, can get noisy if someone snores, but Japan and Korea are good at having Hostels with private sleeping quarters that are cheap (maybe shared toilet/showers). One good thing about most toilets and share facilities in Japan and Korea they do tend to be very clean and kept in good working order.

    You can also still do cheap business hotels as well but its always good to have a social aspect to your trip and I can remember some good times in Hostels.

    • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 22:25

      Thanks! I won't be able to make the snow festival I think! Looks like gonna finish just before I get to Japan.

      In saying that, I haven't purchased tix yet.

  • debb on 16/10/2023 - 22:59
    +2

    Here are a few possibilities:

    Kurashiki historical quarter, a little canal area with relocated old buildings. About half way between Osaka and Hiroshima.

    Takayama / Hida-Takayama in the mountain region of Gifu, likely to see snow (I haven't been in winter.) Traditional street areas are atmospheric. It may not be easy as a day trip because of its distance.

    Outdoor onsen in winter, lovely experience to bath in extremely hot water surrounded by snowscape. Okayama and Takayama will have some options for this.

    • sauce2k on 16/10/2023 - 23:24

      I have a tat, I don't think I'm allowed in public onsen..is this still the case lol

      • debb on 17/10/2023 - 12:41

        Lol…some places do allow nowadays, I believe, you'll probably need to confirm with them.

  • No and then on 17/10/2023 - 07:28
    +2

    If you're visiting mount Fuji, give yourself some flexibility. The weather changes so quickly.

    Maybe you can go west of Tokyo. Like Nagano, Toyama, Kanazawa. Tateyama ice wall, shirakawa village are in that area.

  • sharka on 17/10/2023 - 08:51
    +3

    For the Japan part of your trip
    Given that you're going in the winter and you're not going to ski, I'd recommend:

    Kanazawa: Often called "Little Kyoto", Kanazawa is a beautiful town with traditional houses, geisha districts, samurai residences, and Kenrokuen – one of Japan's three best gardens. It looks even more picturesque with snow.

    Kyoto: Even if you've been there before, Kyoto in winter has a different charm. The temples and shrines covered in snow are stunning. Plus, you can explore parts of Kyoto you might not have seen before.

    Nara: If you didn’t visit during your last trip, Nara is home to friendly deer and some of Japan's oldest temples.

    Takayama & Shirakawa-go: These towns are particularly famous for their traditional houses, some of which are over 250 years old. Shirakawa-go, with its gassho-style houses, is especially picturesque in winter when it’s covered in snow.

    Yokohama: Just south of Tokyo, it’s a lovely port city with a modern feel. The Chinatown here is also worth a visit.

    Onsens: Winter is the perfect time to visit an onsen (hot spring). There are many great onsens all over Japan, like Beppu, Hakone, or Noboribetsu in Hokkaido. Even if you don't stay overnight, consider taking a day trip.

    Regarding hostels: Yes, hostels are a great way to meet fellow travelers. Even if you get a private room, you can still socialize in common areas.

    Guesthouses and Ryokans: These are traditional Japanese accommodations that can provide a more intimate experience. Sometimes, you'll share meals with other guests which can be a good opportunity to connect.

    Airbnb: Sometimes, staying with a local can give you a unique perspective of the city. Some hosts are more than happy to provide local tips or even show you around.

    Language Exchanges: Many cities, especially Tokyo and Osaka, have language exchange meet-ups where you can meet locals eager to practice their English.

    Join Tours: There are often city or food tours in major cities where you can meet other tourists.

    For the Korea part of your trip

    Seoul:
    Stay: Hongdae is youthful and full of energy, thanks to its proximity to a university. It’s full of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Myeongdong is another popular area, known for shopping and street food.
    Sightseeing: Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Namsan Seoul Tower, and Insadong.

    Busan:
    Stay: Haeundae area is a good choice as it's close to the beach and has a lot of dining and entertainment options.
    Sightseeing: Haeundae Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Fish Market, and Taejongdae Park.

    • sauce2k on 17/10/2023 - 09:18

      oh my, these are so useful. Very thankful of this!

      I've been to Nara, so definitely going to skip that.

      I'm now tossing either go Sapporo/Hokkaido then travelling down or Osaka and go up. The latter will mean I won't have enough time to go see the former.

      Re. Takayama & Shirakawa-go and Kanazawa, are these three towns more for a day trip?

      • debb on 17/10/2023 - 12:50
        +1

        On one occasion, we based ourselves in Takayama for a few days then day tripped to Kanazawa and Furukawa. It was quite pleasant.

  • sharka on 17/10/2023 - 09:49
    +1

    I'm glad you found the suggestions helpful!

    Both Sapporo/Hokkaido and Osaka-upward routes offer great experiences

    Sapporo/Hokkaido: Hokkaido is absolutely beautiful in winter, especially if you appreciate landscapes covered in snow. Sapporo itself is vibrant and is known for its annual Snow Festival (if your dates align). Otaru, nearby, has a charming canal area. As you travel down, you can stop in onsens like Noboribetsu. But, as you rightly pointed out, this would make your journey long and you might have to skip some destinations in the main island.

    Osaka and up: This would allow you to explore more of Honshu (the main island) in depth.

    Regarding Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa:

    Kanazawa: More than a day is preferable. There's a lot to see including Kenrokuen Garden, geisha areas like Higashi Chaya, samurai districts, art museums, and more. A day can feel rushed, so two days might be more ideal.

    Takayama: You could do it as a day trip, but an overnight would allow you to truly soak in its old-world charm. If you're a fan of sake, Takayama has several breweries that you can visit. The morning markets are also a treat.

    Shirakawa-go: It's often done as a day trip, especially when using it as a stop between Kanazawa and Takayama. However, some travelers opt to stay overnight in one of the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which can be a unique experience.

    If you're tight on time, you could potentially combine Takayama and Shirakawa-go into a longer day trip, or an overnight trip where you spend the night in Takayama.

    Just a thought… what you could do is:

    Osaka (Starting Point)
    Hiroshima
    Travel to Kanazawa (spend 2 days)
    Day trip or overnight in Shirakawa-go (if overnight, maybe in a traditional house)
    Travel to Takayama (spend a day or more)
    Continue to Tokyo/Fuji
    This would give you a mix of city experiences and quieter, traditional vibes.

    • sauce2k on 18/10/2023 - 19:55

      Thank you thank you.

      I might be doing this:
      Did a rough plan for Japan.

      Fly into osaka
      4 night osaka
      2 night Hiroshima
      1-2 night Kanazawa
      1 night shirakawago
      1 night Takayama
      2 night Tokyo
      1 night hakone
      1 night Tokyo

      • sharka on 19/10/2023 - 10:12

        Sounds like a great plan!

        Here are some things to look into for each spot.

        Osaka:
        Check out the Dotonbori area, especially at night.
        If you like history, Osaka Castle is a must-visit.
        Try the local delicacies like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancake).

        Hiroshima:
        The Peace Memorial Park and Atomic Bomb Dome are sobering but essential visits.
        Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine "floating" torii gate.

        Kanazawa:
        Kenrokuen Garden, Higashi Chaya (geisha district), and the Nagamachi samurai district are top attractions.
        If you like seafood, visit the Omicho Market.

        Shirakawa-go:
        Explore the village and if you're staying overnight, try to stay in one of the traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

        Takayama:
        Morning markets along the Miyagawa River are quite charming.
        The old town has a preserved streetscape which feels like stepping back in time.

        Tokyo:
        As you have a limited time here, try to focus on a few districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Asakusa.
        If you're into electronics or anime, Akihabara is the place to be.

        Hakone:
        Enjoy the hot springs (onsens) and take in views of Mount Fuji.
        The Hakone Open-Air Museum is quite interesting, featuring outdoor sculptures.

        Tokyo (again): Use this time to shop for souvenirs, or explore any areas you might've missed in your initial stay.

        A few additional tips:
        -Use the Japan Rail (JR) Pass if you're traveling between cities using the Shinkansen (bullet train). It can save you money.
        -When transitioning between cities, try to travel in the morning or late afternoon to maximize your sightseeing time.
        -Make reservations ahead of time, especially for popular locations and accommodations.

  • dtc on 17/10/2023 - 09:52
    +2

    Given where you are starting in Japan, I think you have 3 options

    • go south to Kyushu. Less touristy, you might need a car

    • go east to around Koyosan/Izu peninsula and then up the east coast

    • as others have suggested, perhaps Kanazawa - Takayama - Matsumoto then either Nagano (but go to a small village in the hills) or then to Tokyo. Depends on how much you want to travel around aka how much you want to spend on transport

    • sauce2k on 18/10/2023 - 19:57

      Thanks mate. I forgot about Kyushu, I might have to adjust my plan then.. 🤨 see below. I just realised how far Kanazawa is haha

      Fly into osaka
      4 night osaka
      2 night Hiroshima
      1-2 night Kanazawa
      1 night shirakawago
      1 night Takayama
      2 night Tokyo
      1 night hakone
      1 night Tokyo

      • dtc on 19/10/2023 - 09:56

        You can certainly go Takayama to Tokyo in a day (4.5 - 5 hours) but consider going Takayama - Matsumoto (bus), stay a night, then onto Tokyo. You will need to lose a day somewhere else though - perhaps stay one night between Shirakawago and Takayama? Also keep in mind that these areas get a lot of snow and while they generally remain open for tourists, there isnt that much to do when you are snowed in. Matsumoto is a nice little city, mostly you would go for the castle (which you might not need - there is a castle in Osaka, Himeji (as a stop over to/from Hiroshima) and Kanazawa, so you can certainly get your fill of castles elsewhere

        Kanazawa is worth a couple of nights as others have mentioned.

        I havent done the maths but consider whether this is worthwhile (might not be) https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2361_takayama_hokuriku.html

        • sauce2k on 25/10/2023 - 10:53

          thanks for this. Just updated my trip plan :)

  • sydneybargainer on 11/02/2024 - 17:35

    I am planning to visit Japan in few weeks time for 2 weeks.
    Are you happy with your above plan?
    Can you share your experience in hostel? & suggest any hostels will be great.

    Thanks.

    • sauce2k on 11/02/2024 - 19:46

      Hey mate yeh I’m keeping my plan.

      I’m not staying at hostels unfortunately. Decided to go with hotels all the way!

      • sydneybargainer on 11/02/2024 - 21:38

        Any other tips for bargain & travel plan?
        I have been watching stuff on youtube.

        • sauce2k on 13/02/2024 - 10:15

          Hey mate, I don't really chase for bargains when I travel. However, a few things you could do.

          • Shopback/Cashback on hotels. I have saved at least $50/night taking advantage of this.
          • When you are in Tokyo and I'm sure other cities too, buy their 24/48/72 unlimited transport passes to save $
          • Food are generally pretty cheap in Japan, street food/ramen etc. You can't really go wrong with random restaurants in Japan
          • A lot of free sightseeing joints
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