When a 19-year-old from Canada books a 38-day solo trip to Japan as their first international journey, it represents both the fearlessness of Gen Z travel and a well-researched approach that puts many seasoned travelers to shame.
"This is my first trip in my life to another country and will also be my first time travelling alone," the teenager wrote, sharing an ambitious itinerary from March 17 to April 24.
The Japan Deep Dive
Rather than the typical week-long Tokyo-Kyoto sprint, this itinerary reflects someone who's done their homework:
• Tokyo (March 17-April 1): Two full weeks to properly explore the capital<br> • Nikko (April 1-3): Mountain town with historic temples<br> • Enoshima (April 3-5): Coastal island escape near Kamakura<br> • Overnight bus to Osaka (April 5-6): Budget travel move<br> • Osaka/Nara (April 6-9): Kansai region exploration<br> • Kanazawa (April 9-13): Underrated art and garden city<br> • Takayama (April 13-15): Timed for the spectacular spring festival<br> • Gero Onsen (April 15-16): Traditional hot spring town<br> • Back to Tokyo (April 16-24): Final week in the capital
What They're Doing Right
Slow travel pace: Unlike rushed itineraries trying to hit 10 cities in 14 days, this approach allows genuine immersion. Two weeks in Tokyo alone means exploring beyond tourist checklist sites.
Festival timing: Arriving in Takayama for the spring festival (one of Japan's most spectacular matsuri) shows research beyond basic guidebooks.
Mix of major and minor destinations: Kanazawa and Gero Onsen reflect exploration beyond the Tokyo-Kyoto corridor that many first-timers never leave.
Budget consciousness: All flights and hostels already paid for; overnight bus instead of shinkansen shows smart spending.
The Gen Z Travel Shift
This itinerary represents broader trends in young traveler behavior:
• Longer, deeper trips rather than surface-level tourism<br> • Solo travel confidence at younger ages (aided by digital connectivity)<br> • Festival/event-based planning rather than monument checklists<br> • Comfortable mixing budget and mid-range options<br> • Advance booking for cost control (months ahead, not last-minute)
The Anime Connection (And Evolution)
"I used to love anime but in the past 5 years I've stopped watching anime and just fell in love with the culture, the food and the language all together," the traveler explained.
It's a common arc: Japan interest begins with pop culture, matures into genuine cultural appreciation. By 19, they're studying language and researching traditional festivals—a far cry from the "otaku pilgrimage" stereotype.
Community Validation
When posted for feedback, experienced Japan travelers largely validated the itinerary with minor suggestions:
• Consider extending Osaka/Nara if the Kansai region resonates<br> • The two Tokyo blocks (beginning and end) work well for jet lag recovery and last-minute activities<br> • Spring timing (cherry blossoms) means crowds but spectacular scenery
Budget Reality Check
"Travelling with a bit of a smaller budget but all flights/hostels are paid for already," they noted.
With accommodation secured, budget ~$50-75/day for food, local transport, and activities—very doable in Japan with convenience store meals, free temples/gardens, and strategic splurges.
The best travel isn't about the destination—it's about what you learn along the way. At 19, this Canadian is learning that adventure requires less money and more courage than most people think.
