“Friend” Flaked last minute. Need advice on what to do.

Exploring a Solo Trip to Japan at 18: Should I Go Ahead or Cancel?

Overview
A recent plan to visit Japan this August fell apart at the last moment when a close friend backed out at the final checkout stage. With the trip off the table for a mutual adventure, I’m left weighing whether to pursue the journey solo. If I do go solo, I’d want to start from scratch—designing a fresh itinerary that focuses entirely on the experiences I’m most excited about.

Current Situation and Concerns
– Age and experience: I’m 18 and have never flown solo, never traveled abroad alone. The idea of navigating international travel independently feels daunting.
– Travel logistics anxiety: I worry about airport layovers, flight cancellations, and the language barrier in Japan.
– Parental concern: I anticipate a strong reaction from my parents about traveling halfway around the world solo, though I haven’t formally discussed it with them yet.
– Personal preferences: If I decide to travel solo, I’d prefer to craft a completely new itinerary that aligns with my interests rather than sticking to the old plan.

Questions I’m hoping to answer
– Is it feasible for an 18-year-old with little travel experience to embark on a solo international trip?
– How beginner-friendly is Japan for a first-time solo traveler?
– What steps can I take to assess risks, stay safe, and reduce stress during the trip?
– If I proceed, what should a revised, solo-focused itinerary look like for someone who wants to see a mix of culture, food, and easy navigation?
– How should I approach talking with my parents about this idea and setting up contingencies?

Seeking input from those with solo travel experience, especially first-time international trips, would be incredibly helpful. Any practical tips, reassurance, or personal stories about traveling alone at 18—and especially about Japan—are welcome.