Travelling by yourself in Japan

What’s the best way to see Japan? Alone, according to Momo Tsukiyama, ブロガー BUROGAA (blogger) , traveller and author of 一人酒、一人温泉、一人山 HITORI-ZAKE, HITORI-ONSEN, HITORI-YAMA (Hiking, drinking and bathing alone). 　

Tsukiyama’s book was being introduced on TBS radio this week. Her love of single travel caused some controversy in the studio.

The presenter, in his 70s, seemed shocked by the idea. His main fear was being asked the question: お一人様ですか O-HITORI-SAMA DESU KA ( Is it just yourself? ). He seemed disturbed by that great British fear of embarrassment.

I have travelled a lot in Japan, and I have never been anywhere where it is so easy to be alone. (Note from Editor, “you are not normal though”).

The younger, female presenter was more positive, saying 一人温泉いいな HITORI-ONSEN II NA ( Hot spring bathing alone sounds nice ).

It seems travelling or dining alone is no longer the cultural taboo it used to be in Japan.

In fact, Tsukiyama seems to believe that travel can be enjoyed all the more because you are alone. The guest on the show introducing the book used the expression 一人だから楽しめる　HITORI DAKARA TANOSHIMERU (You can enjoy it because you’re by yourself )

The presenters also discussed a modern expression: 一人上手 HITORI-JOUZU which literally means ‘good at being alone’. In the world we live in, HITORI-JOUZU could be an invaluable skill.

The discussion then moved onto a recent phenomenon in Japan popularised by comedian, Hiroshi: 一人キャンプ HITORI-KYANPU (camping alone). That was something I didn’t particularly enjoy when I cycled around Japan, particularly the need for 熊対策 KUMA TAISAKU (Counter-measures against bears).　My favoured counter-measure was staying on the 12th floor of a hotel.

The older presenter finally warmed to the idea of single travel. He said, in some situations 一人のほうが いい かもしれません HITORI NO HOU GA II KAMO SHIREMASEN (It might be better to be alone). The might element of the sentence is expressed through KAMO SHIREMASEN. In other words, it’s possible being alone is better.

Anyway, whether you travel alone or in a group, 気をつけて KI O TSUKETE (Take care).