Originally Posted by wideman
If there's anyone back home that you chat with regularly, give that person a phone call. Sure, it'll cost you a few bucks, but it would be fun for both you and him/her just to say hello. If the hotel you're staying at has a nice lounge or bar, you might want to have a drink there and chat up someone who's there, especially someone who wouldn't take it as some sort of come-on. It wouldn't be surprising at all if another Western solo traveler would appreciate a chance to gab for a while.
Hear hear. The "Lost in Translation" approach. Actually, I'd recommend putting on some clean presentable duds, going to the Park Hyatt in Shinjuku, and just splurging on the cover charge and a drink. Sit at the bar, and just lay low for a couple of hours. You will find many a kindred spirit in the same boat, and it might even end up paying off if you play your cards right.