Solo traveling is a beautiful gift. I’ve been doing it for over 12 years and have learned so much about myself, met beautiful strangers, and discovered new and exciting places.
But my favorite part of the world, the one I feel the most at home, is undoubtedly Asia (which is a large area, I know).
With over 65 countries under my belt, I’ve found that the best destinations for solo female travelers are where the residents are particularly friendly and welcoming, there are shared interests, and it feels safe and easy to navigate.
From the lush green mountains of Kyrgyzstan to the secret islands of Indonesia, this list has the absolute best countries in Asia for solo female travelers:
1. Japan
Japan (read my full itinerary) ranks as the ninth most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. This is one of the many reasons why this island nation is ideal for solo female travelers. Japan also has a global reputation for its heartwarming hospitality, even if you don’t speak Japanese. Just make sure to download a translator app to help with the language barrier.
Some of my favorite spots include Tokyo, the world’s largest city with so much to do, including the must-see TeamLab Planets. Kyoto offers a more traditional experience, and the smaller towns of Kawaguchiko (pictured above) and Takayama in the Japanese Alps are so dreamy and worth seeing. For those seeking an island experience, Niijima is off the typical tourist path, and popular with surfers!
Find a complete guide to traveling solo as a woman in Japan here.
2. Thailand
Thailand is an absolute dream for adventurous solo female travelers, especially those who are open to making friends on the road. As a top backpacking destination, it is one of the easiest countries to get around and receives the most international visitors of any other nation in Southeast Asia. It’s usually pretty affordable as well.
I’ve spent a cumulative 8 months backpacking in Thailand over the past decade, and my favorite places are Koh Yao Noi (especially the Six Senses if you can swing it), Phuket (here’s an itinerary), the Golden Triangle, rural north in Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai – there’s truly so much to do.
Find your complete guide to solo female travel in Thailand here and start planning your adventure!
3. Taiwan
Taiwan is a travel destination that is often overlooked but certainly deserves mentioning. Not only does it have a vibrant gastronomic scene and a rich culture, it’s also among one of the safest countries in Asia to travel alone as a woman.
I lived in Taiwan as a language student in 2007/8, and it’s one of the safest, easiest, friendliest places I’ve ever traveled. I could easily live there again.
A great way to see more of the country is booking a five-day tour that takes you to some of the island’s best natural wonders. Tours like these are great for solo female travelers because they take the pressure off of arranging transportation and give you the chance to meet other travelers through a shared experience.
4. Vietnam
In big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the heavy motorbike traffic and overwhelming bustle can be intimidating. However, Vietnam is a captivating country with delicious food, so many different kinds of landscapes, and wonderful beaches.
Whether you’re heading to Sapa to trek through rice terraces and meet hill tribes or looking to explore the natural wonders of Halong Bay, you’ll find there is plenty to do there. Here’s my perfect Vietnam backpacking route.
Read up on Vietnam’s safety tips before you go, and enjoy eating your way through the country that makes foodies’ hearts sing.
5. Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is an outdoorsy woman’s dream come true. Often referred to as “the Patagonia of Central Asia,” this mountainous country got its nickname because of its rugged landscapes, but it maintains an identity of its own. It’s the closest country on this list to Europe, and its picturesque landscape has scenery that rivals the Alps.
As a sparsely populated nation with relatively low crime, solo female travelers will find Kyrgyzstan to be safe and accommodating. Because it’s such a breathtaking trekking destination, this is the perfect Asian destination to get some solitude and connect with nature. If this sounds just right for you, this trekking guide is a great place to start planning your trip.
6. Indonesia
I don’t have to tell you that Bali is one of the most beautiful places on earth, because chances are you’ve already drooled over the photos on social media or been there yourself. However, there’s so much more to explore in Indonesia and many locations that are just as gorgeous without being overtouristed like Bali is. In fact, the Nusa Islands are just a short boat ride from Bali, and some travelers claim that they are what Bali was 30 years ago.
So, how is Indonesia for solo female travelers? The truth is that its culture and social landscape changes vastly from one island to the next. As a whole, it’s a great destination for solo female travelers because of how much there is to do there, plus the abundance of other travelers to meet along the way.
Keep in mind that in most of Indonesia (Bali is an exception), women are expected to cover up their shoulders, knees, and heads in some places. Not doing so could make you a target for crime, plus sticking to modesty considerations is a sign of respect in Indonesia. Catcalling and scams are common in some parts of the country, especially in big cities, so be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts.
Some of my favorite spots include Lombok, Gili Air, Sumatra, East Java, Raja Ampat, especially as a diver, and Komodo.
Here’s how to choose between the Gili and Nusa islands, as well as how to pick between Thailand and Indonesia.
Find out everything you need to know about traveling solo in Indonesia, plus tips on where to go, here.
7. South Korea
South Korea is an incredible destination for solo female travelers because of how safe it is and how generally open-minded the culture is. There’s also plenty to do in South Korea; some travelers are even completely content with just sticking to Seoul, since it’s such a big city with endless activities.
Beyond the busy streets of Seoul and Busan, you’ll find that South Korea is full of natural beauty as well. Take Jeju Island, for example, where you can hike, ride horses, and enjoy incredible seaside views.
From the mouthwatering cuisine to the eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture, South Korea is certainly not a destination to skip.
8. Singapore
As one of the smallest, cleanest, and most well-organized countries in Asia, Singapore is a great spot for solo female travelers who enjoy the finer things in life. It’s generally more expensive, but if you have the cash to spend, then go for it! If you’re on a budget, there certainly are ways to make Singapore work for you, too.
The mind-blowing modern architecture and cosmopolitan vibe of Singapore is what attracts many travelers, along with the overall safety aspect, which makes it such an ideal place for solo women.
However, there’s more to do here than just explore the city. Head to the Southern Islands to check out Singapore’s beaches or spend a day trekking through the lush jungles of Pulau Ubin. However you decide to take on Singapore, you’re sure to find plenty to do to keep you busy.
9. The Maldives
When it comes to idyllic island paradises, it doesn’t get much better than the Maldives. There’s a misconception that they are completely inaccessible to travelers on a budget, but you might be surprised at how affordable they can be. And since, as a solo female traveler, you won’t be splitting costs, keeping things affordable is always a plus.
Some islands in the Maldives are entirely tourist oriented, but there are still many others that remain authentic to local customs. Either way, the Maldives is a safe destination for solo female travelers, and checking out the local islands is a great way to meet other people, locals and tourists alike.
Just remember that the Maldives is a Muslim country, and so bikinis and alcohol are not allowed on the islands.
10. Nepal
This is a destination for a solo traveler who is truly down for anything. Nepal is popular for its epic trekking , (including Mount Everest) and bustling cities, attracting adventurous travelers looking for an adrenaline rush. For a more accessible (but still challenging!) trekking experience, you can tackle the Annapurna Circuit, which you can even do without a guide.
Like many other destinations on this list, Nepal is not without its challenges when it comes to safety. Remember to avoid walking alone at night here, and follow other safety tips for solo female travelers. Keep in mind that women cover up their knees and shoulders in Nepal; doing so will help you avoid unwanted attention.
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The truth is, almost any country can be ideal for a solo female traveler. With a bit of planning, prior solo travel experience, and following the expert advice of other women who travel solo, you can really take charge of your own travel dreams and go where you please. Asia is no exception.
Where else do you think is a great place in Asia for solo female travelers?
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