DIY Travel: Solo in Tokyo on a Budget

With 61% of Malaysians already choosing to travel solo, why not make Tokyo your next adventure? Tokyo is the perfect playground for solo adventurers. Whether you’re strolling through the buzzing streets of Shibuya, hunting down quirky souvenirs in Harajuku, or just sitting quietly with a bowl of steaming hot ramen at a cozy ramen bar, you get to do it all at your own pace.

Tokyo is a city that buzzes with energy yet stays perfectly calm and organised. If Japan has been on your bucket list but you are worried about the cost, this guide shows you how to enjoy Tokyo your own way for under RM5,000 with flights, accommodation, meals and attraction tickets all included.

Must-Visit Attractions for Solo Travellers
Tokyo offers endless attractions to explore. See the iconic Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue, enjoy the traditional charm of Asakusa, stroll through Ueno Park, and experience the tech paradise of Akihabara. Harajuku is perfect for fashion and sweets, while Tokyo Skytree and TeamLab Planets promise unforgettable views and art. Set aside a budget for tickets and transport to enjoy them all.
Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue (Free)

Stand in the middle of the world’s busiest crossing and feel the buzz of Tokyo all around you. Snap a photo with the loyal Hachiko Statue nearby, a symbol of friendship and patience, perfect for a reflective solo moment.
Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple (Free)

Step back in time at Tokyo’s oldest temple, Senso-ji. The vibrant Nakamise Street leading to the temple is lined with souvenir shops and street snacks, making it the perfect place to explore at your own pace.
Akihabara (RM30 for arcade tokens)

This is heaven for anime, manga and gaming fans. Even if you are not a gamer, the neon-lit streets and themed cafés are a fun solo adventure. Spend a little on arcade tokens and challenge yourself to win a prize!
Harajuku & Takeshita Street (Free)


Immerse yourself in Tokyo’s quirky youth culture. From colourful fashion to cute dessert cafés, Harajuku is the perfect place for solo travellers to wander, people-watch and treat themselves.
Tokyo Skytree (RM60–100)

Take in the most breathtaking views of Tokyo from one of the tallest towers in the world. It is especially stunning at sunset or at night, a serene moment to soak in the city lights on your own.
TeamLab Planets (RM130)

Step into a world of immersive digital art where you can walk through glowing water rooms and mirrored spaces. It is a highly Instagrammable experience and a must for solo travellers who enjoy art and photography.
Tokyo DisneySea or Disneyland (RM350)

For solo travellers who love theme parks, Tokyo DisneySea is often rated the best Disney park in the world. Go at your own pace, try unique rides, and enjoy seasonal treats without waiting for anyone else.

Food and Halal Options
Good news for Muslim travellers. Tokyo now offers plenty of halal and Muslim friendly dining options. Warm up with a bowl of halal chicken ramen at Ayam YA in Ueno, enjoy sizzling halal yakiniku at Gyumon in Shibuya, or grab a tasty bento at Naritaya in Asakusa. For quick bites, convenience stores are a budget friendly lifesaver with rice balls, egg sandwiches and yoghurt drinks. Just be sure to check the ingredients before buying.

Best Time to Visit Tokyo
Aim for late February to March when airfares are lower and early cherry blossoms start to bloom. Or visit in October to November for cool weather and gorgeous autumn leaves. If you love a quieter trip, mid-December is ideal with dazzling winter illuminations and fewer crowds before the Christmas rush.




Solo travel in Tokyo is a liberating experience – you set your own pace, visit the places that interest you most, and enjoy the freedom to explore without compromise. With under RM5,000, you can cover flights, accommodation, transport, halal meals, and tickets to world-famous attractions while still having a budget for shopping and souvenirs. Plan ahead, purchase attraction tickets online where possible, and allow for some spontaneous exploration.
