Solo travel in Kyoto is super safe and fun, provided you plan your itinerary by area, book a hotel in the city centre, keep some cash handy, carry an umbrella, and mix walking with Uber or taking the train for longer trips.
Kyoto is a dream destination for any traveller. Exploring this historic city on your own gives you an incredible sense of freedom. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), solo travel to Kyoto has spiked in recent years thanks to how safe and accessible the city is [Source: JNTO 2023]. This guide covers all the practical tips to make your solo trip a breeze.
1. Must-see spots for solo travellers in Kyoto
When you're travelling solo, you have the flexibility to visit the best spots at your own pace. Here are the locations you shouldn't miss:
- Arashiyama area: Don't forget to swing by the Unsai-tei gallery for some stunning views.
- Komyo-in Temple: A hidden gem with a truly zen vibe.
- Okochi Sanso Garden: A peaceful garden that’s way less crowded than the usual tourist hotspots.
- Maruyama Park: Perfect for a slow stroll to soak in the local atmosphere.
- Fushimi Inari: Pro tip—hike all the way to the top. It gets much quieter and more sacred the higher you go.
- Murin-an Garden: Lush greenery that perfectly showcases traditional Japanese landscape design.
- Ninenzaka: An iconic, historic slope that feels like stepping back in time.
2. Itinerary and dining tips
Smart planning is everything. Try to group your visits by location so you’re not just wasting time on transport. As for food, don't stress about finding "Instagram-famous" spots. In Kyoto, you can pretty much pop into any small local eatery and be blown away by the quality.
3. Choosing your accommodation
Since you’re flying solo, your top priorities should be safety and convenience. Stick to reputable, well-known hotels in Central Kyoto. Being in the heart of the city makes getting around so much easier and keeps you safe when you’re out at night.
4. Important little reminders
Keep these tips in mind to avoid any hassle:
- Bring an umbrella: The weather in Kyoto can be a bit moody with sudden showers.
- Keep cash on you: Plenty of local cafes and shops around Gion and Ninenzaka are still "cash-only."
5. Explore the quiet residential areas
Don’t just stick to the tourist-packed areas. Spend some time wandering through the quiet residential neighbourhoods. The peace and authentic local life there will give you a much deeper look into the culture.
6. Getting around
The best way to get around the city is by walking combined with the occasional Uber. However, if you’re staying for a while and need to travel further, the train is the most cost-effective and efficient way to zip around.
Reference: https://blog.dulichdau.com/kinh-nghiem-du-lich-solo-o-kyoto/
