Rising Interest in Solo Travel Among Japanese Tourists
Agoda, a digital travel platform operated by Agoda Company Pte. Ltd., has released some intriguing data capturing the trends surrounding solo travel among Japanese travelers. An analysis of accommodation search data reveals that the interest in solo travel has surged dramatically, indicating that solo trips are steadily gaining popularity both domestically and internationally.
According to the statistics from Agoda, there was an
11% increase in inquiries for overseas solo travel and a
17% increase for domestic solo travel when comparing data from January 1 to December 31 of 2025 with the same period in 2024. This signifies not just a rebound from the previous years but a transformative shift in how solo travel is perceived and undertaken by individuals in Japan.
Preferred Overseas Destinations for Japanese Solo Travelers
When it comes to international destinations, the top cities favored by solo travelers from Japan include:
1.
Seoul
2.
Bangkok
3.
Taipei
4.
Hong Kong
5.
Honolulu
These locations stand out for their excellent accessibility from Japan, along with robust safety measures and established transport infrastructure. This makes them particularly attractive places for Japanese travelers embarking on their first experiences with solo travel abroad.
Among these destinations,
Seoul has emerged as a favorite, especially for those seeking beauty and wellness experiences. Beyond its appeal for refreshing and rejuvenating activities, Seoul is also known for a variety of culinary, shopping, and sightseeing opportunities that can be efficiently enjoyed even in a short stay, making it a prime choice for solo adventurers.
Domestic Solo Travel Sees Notable Growth
On the domestic front, the increase in solo travel interest is remarkable, showing a
17% rise, which surpasses the growth rate of international solo travel. Popular cities among solo travelers nationwide include major urban areas such as
Tokyo,
Osaka,
Fukuoka,
Sapporo, and
Yokohama. However, certain regional cities have shown significant growth in solo travel demand:
- - Chiba (+67%)
- - Takamatsu (+62%)
- - Okayama (+46%)
- - Izumisano (+41%)
- - Saitama (+40%)
These cities are characterized by their advantageous access to major airports, which not only serve as gateways for domestic travel but also as launching points for international adventures. The flexibility and convenience associated with these regional cities accommodate the growing desire among solo travelers to explore on their terms.
In particular,
Takamatsu and
Okayama have gained popularity among solo travelers, illustrating that smaller cities can offer a well-balanced mix of accessibility and tourist attractions. Such trends reflect a broader movement towards avoiding crowded spaces and enjoying the freedom of travel at one's own pace, traits that solo travelers greatly value.
Expert Insight from Agoda's Leadership
According to Masaru Ikai, Senior Country Director at Agoda International Japan, solo travel in Japan is quickly evolving from a unique travel style into a regular option for many. There's a rising curiosity for regional cities within the nation while international attention focuses on easily accessible and safe destinations. Agoda remains committed to providing accommodations and travel products that cater to the diverse needs of solo travelers.
Benefits of Using Agoda for Travel Booking
Travelers can take advantage of Agoda's search functionalities, which seamlessly integrates over
6 million accommodation options,
130,000 flight routes, and
300,000 activities into comprehensive travel arrangements. Utilizing Agoda's mobile app or website, users can easily discover attractive accommodation deals tailored to their preferences.
Data Context
The data referenced was derived from searches conducted by solo travelers from Japan between January 1 and December 31, 2025, contrasted against the previous year's figures.
About Agoda
Agoda is a digital travel platform that provides access to over
6 million hotels and vacation rentals along with flights and activities at competitive prices, facilitating budget-friendly travel around the globe. The Agoda website and mobile app, available in
39 languages, also feature 24/7 customer support. As a subsidiary of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG), Agoda is headquartered in Singapore and operates with over
7,000 staff across 27 locations worldwide, continuously innovating to develop user-friendly travel booking services.
For more details, visit
Agoda.com.