Why a Solo Trip to Hokkaido is the Best Travel Idea?

When life feels overwhelming, sometimes the best solution is a solo journey. If you’re traveling within Japan, one of the best destinations is Hokkaido. Compared to mainland Honshu, Hokkaido gives you the feeling of visiting another country—yet it’s surprisingly affordable to get there. Whether by plane or train, Hokkaido offers wide-open landscapes, delicious seafood, and unforgettable cultural experiences.

I love Hokkaido!

Why Choose Hokkaido for Solo Travel?

Travel isn’t always about going abroad. Even the act of flying across Japan can shift your perspective and give you clarity. Many travelers say that simply being above the clouds helps them make important life decisions. That’s why taking a flight to Hokkaido can be so refreshing compared to a train journey.

Train Travel is Also an Option

Of course, solo train trips are wonderful too. The views from the carriage window can inspire new thoughts. However, keep in mind that taking the Shinkansen to Hokkaido can cost around ¥60,000 one way, which is expensive.

Here’s good news for U.S. residents: if you’ve lived in America for over 10 years, you may qualify for the Japan Rail Pass, allowing unlimited JR travel for one to two weeks at a flat rate. This makes Hokkaido much more accessible.

Meeting People on the Road

One of the best parts of solo travel is the people you meet along the way. Conversations with strangers outside your usual circle often bring fresh insights. During past trips, I met university students on the train who shared valuable information about school life.

For women traveling alone: safety is important. Never follow strangers, no matter how friendly they seem.

The Challenges of Eating Alone

Traveling solo also comes with small challenges—like eating at restaurants. At 19, I once felt too shy to enter an okonomiyaki shop in Hiroshima and ended up eating convenience-store food instead. Now, in my 40s, I can confidently dine anywhere alone. Today’s younger generation seems more comfortable with this too, so don’t let it hold you back.

Must-See Places in Hokkaido

• Hakodate’s Trappist Monastery
  Visiting Hakodate felt almost like being abroad. Its Western-influenced architecture reminded me of California’s frontier towns.
• Saroma
  The vast plains of Saroma felt unlike anywhere else in Japan, resembling Upstate New York or even parts of Europe. It’s also home to abundant wildlife. If you’ve seen the film Drive My Car, you’ll recognize the beauty of Hokkaido’s landscapes.

The Flavors of Hokkaido

Food is one of Hokkaido’s highlights. Fresh hairy crab (kegani), uni (sea urchin), and a variety of fish are absolute must-tries. The seafood alone is worth the trip!

Flying to Hokkaido with JAL

Our family often flies with Japan Airlines (JAL), partly thanks to mileage partnerships between JAL and American Airlines. This summer, we even managed a trip using only miles.

JAL’s service stands out—especially their inflight meals, created through the RED à table project, where top chefs design dishes with sustainability and health in mind. Watching the onboard documentary made the meal even more enjoyable.

Compared to other airlines, JAL feels like the very best for international flights. For solo travelers, it’s an especially reliable choice.

Travel Tips and Safety

• Flying is the easiest way to Hokkaido, but train journeys have their charm too.
• If you’ve lived in the U.S. for 10+ years, the JR Pass is a great option for affordable Shinkansen travel.
• Book your hotel in advance—whether budget or luxury, solo travel gives you freedom of choice.
• Follow COVID-19 safety rules: wear a mask on planes, wash hands often, and avoid crowded urban areas if you’ll be returning to rural communities.

Conclusion

A trip to Hokkaido offers the perfect mix of international atmosphere, natural beauty, and delicious food—all without leaving Japan. Whether by plane or train, solo or with family, Hokkaido provides the sense of adventure and renewal that every traveler seeks.

If overseas travel feels difficult right now, remember: flying from Honshu to Hokkaido already feels like an international escape. Make the most of your trip and enjoy every moment!