Solo travel offers a unique opportunity for self-discovery, personal growth, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, with no need to compromise on activities or destinations with others. Recently, the popular online travel platform TripAdvisor released their compilation of the best destinations for solo travel in 2025, and two Japanese cities—Osaka and Kyoto—were featured on the list. This idea of solo travel, or the "me-moon", was announced by Forbes as one of their projected trends for the year, so if you've considered jet-setting to Japan alone, now is the time!
What makes Osaka great for solo travel?
One of the key drawcards for visitors to Osaka is the city's food culture, and there are a whole host of ways to enjoy it solo. Ramen stores with solo-friendly counter seating, street food vendors in the Dotonbori area, and even yakiniku (grilled meat) chains like Yakiniku Line (焼肉ライク) which is specifically catered towards solo diners. Of course, food is only one dimension to Osaka, and there are plenty of other attractions that the city offers. With an excellent public transport network and overall safety, solo travelers can easily explore Osaka's many districts, from the bustling shopping streets of Namba to the tranquil and historic Osaka Castle Park.
What makes Kyoto great for solo travel?
If you're after a peaceful, reflective solo travel experience, Kyoto is a fabulous destination to check out. The city is well-known for its temples and shrines, and while some are more visited than others (such as the iconic Fushimi Inari), there are plenty of others where you won't have to battle the crowds. Additionally, Kyoto is a great place for hands-on activities, with places like the Kyoto Handicraft Center offering a variety of classes where you can create items like a painted clay bell doll or folding fan.
