I Rediscovered Myself Through a Solo Trip — and It Changed Everything
I rediscovered myself through a solo trip to Sapporo — something I didn’t expect when I first booked my spring getaway. At the time, I just knew I needed a break. I was exhausted from juggling work at two schools, handling evening part-time jobs, and barely having a moment to breathe. What started as a much-needed escape turned into something much deeper.
Solitude while living abroad already teaches you a lot. But there’s something different about choosing to travel alone — stepping into a city where no one knows you, and giving yourself the gift of space. Looking back, I see now that this solo trip wasn’t just about exploring Sapporo.
It was how I found my way back to myself.
Why I Needed a Solo Trip More Than I Realized
Sapporo had been on my travel dream list since moving to Japan. The snow, the slower pace, the chance to wander without a checklist — it all called to me. So during spring break, I gave myself permission to go. And I planned just enough to feel prepared. I checked the weather and made a loose itinerary using this Japan Guide for Sapporo, which gave me ideas on what to expect.
I wasn’t running away from anything — I was running toward rest. Toward clarity. Toward myself.
I rediscovered myself through a solo trip because I let myself hit pause and breathe.
Arriving in Sapporo: Alone, but Empowered
As my train pulled out of CTS Airport, the snow-covered fields slid past my window and I felt something shift. That simple ride on JR Hokkaido was already calming, and I hadn’t even arrived yet.
Traveling alone used to scare me — but not this time. I was ready for the silence. Ready to wander. Ready to feel small in a beautiful way.
That’s the gift of solo travel:
You start listening to yourself again. And in that listening, you begin to hear the parts of you that got lost in all the noise.
Solitude While Living Abroad: More Than Just Quiet
Being alone while living abroad is different from being alone at home. It’s deeper. You can’t rely on your language, your habits, or your comfort zone. Even simple things — like asking for directions or ordering food — require effort. That’s what makes it meaningful.
According to Psychology Today, solo travel can improve clarity, confidence, and emotional regulation. And I felt all of that slowly unfolding during my trip.
I rediscovered myself through a solo trip not through grand gestures — but through small, brave steps each day.
Getting Lost — and Loving It
I had a few places saved, but some of the most memorable parts weren’t planned at all. For example, when Mt. Moiwa was closed, a local recommended visiting Okurayama Ski Jump Stadium instead. It turned out to be a beautiful detour — one that reminded me that changing course isn’t failure. It’s flexibility.
When I visited Maruyama Park and saw it fully blanketed in snow, I didn’t know where to go. So I followed my curiosity — and a few tourists ahead of me — and just walked. I didn’t need a destination. I was already exactly where I needed to be.
The Quiet Strength I Brought Home
When I returned to my everyday life in Fukuoka, something in me felt stronger. Not in a loud way, but a grounded way.
I rediscovered myself through a solo trip — and I brought that calm and confidence back with me.
Since then, I’ve started saying yes to more solo experiences. I even booked a trip to Kyoto this summer (yes, I know it’s hot, but I want to experience it anyway).
Now I know I don’t need company to enjoy something. I just need presence.
Advice for Your First Solo Trip
If you’re scared to travel alone — that’s normal. But you don’t have to go far right away. Try a nearby town first. Plan your routes and a few spots to explore. Keep backup options in case things change.
These solo travel tips from Nomadic Matt are also super helpful.
And remember:
You don’t have to wait until you’re “ready.”
Just start.
You might rediscover yourself through a solo trip, too.
Want to Keep Reading?
Read: Finding Home Abroad: A Heartfelt Journey to Belonging
New day. New story. Nosredz.
