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Booking.com reported that 40% of people travelled alone in the last six months, with almost 60% holidaying solo in the past year. Japan, considered one of the safest countries for solo travellers, has legal measures on top of welcoming locals to ensure security of those visiting. Central Japan offers diverse experiences for solo adventurers, especially along the Three-star Road running from Matsumoto to Kanazawa. This route, featuring five destinations across four prefectures each awarded three stars on the Michelin Guide Japan, combines tradition and modernity, providing enriching encounters and self-discovery opportunities for solo travellers.
Kanazawa: Where Tradition Meets Modernity
Kanazawa is an ideal destination for solo travellers thanks to its harmonious blend of historic charm and contemporary attractions. The city’s well-preserved districts, like Higashi Chaya-gai, offer traditional tea houses and artisan crafts, creating a perfect ambiance for solitary exploration. Kenrokuen Garden, a serene haven, provides a peaceful retreat for introspection. Kanazawa’s culinary scene at places such as Omicho Market tantalise the taste buds of solo adventurers with fresh seafood and exquisite kaiseki cuisine (traditional multi-course dinner). Art enthusiasts will enjoy the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art and navigating the city solo is effortless thanks to friendly locals and an efficient public transportation system.
Takayama: Nostalgic Charm and Local Delights
Takayama’s streets, frozen in time, offer solo travellers a nostalgic charm. Wander through Sanmachi Suji, where well-preserved merchant houses transport visitors to the Edo period. Sake tastings at places like Hirase Shuzo become intimate experiences, where travellers can learn not just about the sake but also about the history and craftsmanship behind it. The bustling Takayama Morning Markets provide a lively atmosphere, encouraging solo travellers to mingle with locals, sample fresh produce and discover handmade crafts.
Shirakawago and Gokayama: Tranquil UNESCO Retreats
Find solace in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Shirakawago and Gokayama, where solo travellers can slow down amidst the timeless gassho-zukuri farmhouses. Sharing communal meals and stories with fellow travellers fosters a sense of companionship.. Dive into the ancient craft of washi paper-making, connect with the craft and understand the artisanal passion and preservation of traditions. Gokayama’s nature walks amidst charming thatched-roof houses offer moments of introspection, allowing solo travellers to absorb the serenity of their surroundings and find inspiration in nature’s simplicity.
Matsumoto: Nature’s Serenity and Historic Splendour
Surrounded by nature, Matsumoto offers a haven for solo adventurers. The iconic Matsumoto Castle, Japan’s samurai legacy, invites travellers to delve into its history and architectural marvels. Kamikochi’s hiking trails, winding through awe-inspiring landscapes of towering peaks and crystal-clear streams, become pathways for self-reflection. At Shirahone Onsen, the healing waters provide not just physical relaxation but also a space for meaningful conversations with fellow bathers, connecting over shared experiences and the universal joy of unwinding.
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