Congratulations, newlyweds! You’ve just tied the knot, and now comes the awe-inspiring task of planning your honeymoon. For some travelers, that will look like a beach basking in the sun or the timelessness of Europe. What if we told you there was somewhere even more meaningful, more inspirational, and more unforgettable? With our Expertly curated Japan Tour Packages we are ready to take you to Japan – A world where nature meets the big city buzz, where ancient customs meet new-age traditions, where beautiful landscapes meet epic skylines, and your honeymoon adventure will feel like a beautiful dream.
Picture walking through incredible bamboo groves enveloped in golden light, soaking in the peaceful quiet of a ryokan with a private onsen, or simply gazing at a perfect peak with the sun setting behind it. Japan is not just a place; a destination; it is an experience to awaken all your senses to connectedness. It is a place of incomparable beauty, creative and historical culinary delights, and a unique juxtaposition on tranquillity and stimulation that makes the perfect backdrop for your honeymoon as a newlywed couple!
At Fliptripholidays we feel you should have a honeymoon that is as unique and special as your love story. So, get ready to be whisked away because we have uncovered the 10 most romantic honeymoon destinations in Japan, we share invaluable tips and advice to assist you in creating the experience of a lifetime.
Is Japan a Good Option for Honeymoon?
Of course, Japan is a great option for a honeymoon, and makes it a very memorable one! Japan offers a combination of experiences that many couples enjoy.
Here are some reasons why Japan is a great honeymoon option and what to consider:
- Awesome Variety: Neon-lit drinks and partying in Tokyo, temples and gardens in Kyoto, and hot springs in Hakone? Japan is a mix of excitement, and tradition, and always has beautiful surroundings.
- Different Cultures: Couples can experience unique customs, including tea ceremonies, castles, and renting kimonos to stroll.
- Food: It’s a food-lovers place, whether you want to eat a Michelin meal, or street food, it will be a fun memory to share with your partner.
- Convenience & Safety: They have a super-efficient bullet train system and an image of safety, making travel easy.
- Beautiful Backdrop for Romance: Whether magical cherry blossoms in spring, breathtaking colors of autumn leaves, or cozy peaceful snowy landscapes in winter, Japan has stunning scenery in every season.
10 Best Honeymoon Destinations In Japan
Are you interested in starting your forever in a place where cherry blossoms, ancient temples, and romantic onsens intertwine? Japan is the beautiful, traditional and intimate mix that makes it such a popular destination for honeymooners. Japan’s honeymoon destinations range from snowy mountains to idyllic beaches. Here are 10 stunning honeymoon places in Japan that will create lasting memories with your special someone.
1. Kyoto: The Heart of Traditional Romance
If your idea of romance is a sense of timeless beauty, peaceful temples, and graceful geisha districts, then Kyoto is the perfect honeymoon haven for you. As capital of Japan’s imperial history, Kyoto has an histrionic, grace about it that cannot be found anywhere else in Japan. Every corner you walk around is like walking into a postcard.
Why it is special: Kyoto presents an opportunity for authenticity of traditional Japan in both the physical elements of the temples and zen gardens, and the experience of a more traditional society with romance in the Gion district.
Romantic Highlights
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Stroll hand-in-hand through the towering bamboo stalks, they are especially ethereal in the early morning light.
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Experience stunning panoramic sites of Kyoto, the sunset is particularly magical.
- Gion District: Go for an evening stroll and hope to spot a geisha or maiko gracefully making her way to an engagement. Enjoy a traditional dinner in a machiya townhouse.
- Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine: Hike through thousands of vibrant orange torii gates. This experience is iconic and photogenic!
- Tea Ceremony: Attend a private traditional tea ceremony for two. A moment of peaceful contemplation.
Fliptrip Tip: A unique and authentic experience would be to stay in a ryokan (Japanese inn) while in Kyoto, the ryokan will include kaiseki (multi-course traditional dinner) and futons.
2. Hakone: Mount Fuji’s Romantic Embrace
If you’re after natural beauty, hot springs and potentially the most famous view of Mount Fuji, then Hakone is a must-visit! Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and is an easy trip away from Tokyo to relax and appreciate the scenery.
Why it’s special: Hakone boasts amazing views of Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi, and also has hot springs (onsen) to discover together.
Romantic Highlights
- Lake Ashi Cruise: Enjoy a romantic boat cruise across beautiful Lake Ashi, possibly with a view of majestic Mt Fuji.
- Hakone Open Air Museum: Visit a magical outdoor sculpture park in nature, great for art-loving couples.
- Hakone Ropeway: Fly high in the air to get amazing views of the volcanic Ōwakudani valley and Mt Fuji.
- Private Onsen: Find a ryokan with a private outdoor onsen (hot spring bath) to share with your partner.
- Walking trails: Wind your way through the peaceful walking trails in the forests and around the lake.
Fliptrip Tip: Get the Hakone Free Pass for unlimited access to local transport (bus, train, ropeway, boat) – Super easy to get around and saves money!
3. Tokyo: Neon Lights and Intimate Moments
Tokyo can seem a little overwhelming at first, but underneath its colorful, cutting-edge appearance, is a strong romantic vibe. With stunning skyscrapers, Michelin starred cuisine, quiet gardens, and secret side streets, Tokyo can provide an exciting and varied honeymoon for any modern couple.
Why it’s special: Tokyo combines a phenomenal energy with surprising tranquility to provide endless options for dining, entertainment and different cultural experiences for all couples.
Romantic Highlights
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This spacious and lavishly landscaped park is the perfect respite from the typical urban bustle of Tokyo and an ideal place to stroll in a violent spring or fall hurricane.
- Tokyo Skytree/Tokyo Tower: Take it to thetop of the world! Tokyo’s Skytree (and the Tokyo Tower but it is easier to get to the Skytree) provides not only dizzyingly-high views of the city, but also some of the most spectacular sunsets and nighttime views of our lifetime.
- Odaiba: Odaiba is Tokyo’s extreme neon-futuristic entertainment precinct. Be sure to watch the Rainbow Bridge light up as you go for a stroll down the bay side and share a romantic ride on the Ferris Wheel.
- Rooftop Bars: Sit at a high-end rooftop bar in Shinjuku or Ginza, sipping on cocktails while watching the glittering Tokyo cityscape around you.
- TeamLab Planets/Borderless: TeamLab produces an interactive, dreamlike, digital-art experience that seems to always amaze everyone in attendance.
- DisneySea: If ever there was a magical place for people of all ages–an adults Disneyland, DisneySea certainly qualifies. A few hours in DisneySea is a fun break from technical and cultural excursions in Tokyo.
Fliptrip Tips:Don’t be too afraid to lose yourself in small neighborhoods such as Yanaka or Shimokitazawa–you will find amazing cafes, boutiques and side-street shops, and some of the more local and intimate experiences in the city.
4. Nara: Deer, Temples, and Tranquility
A short train ride from Kyoto or Osaka, Nara is a quaint and different experience- with its cute, free-roaming deer. The former capital of Japan will be a great choice for couples who want to enjoy a slower pace; animal interactions; and beautiful historic sites.
What is unique: Nara’s deer offer a lovely, gentle charm mixed with impressive historical temples and a calmer setting than the nearby metropolitan cities like Osaka and Kyoto.
Romantic Highlights
- Nara Park: Spend a long time overlooking the bowing deer (they are deemed sacred messengers).
- Todai-ji Temple: Encounter the Great Buddha in one of the largest wooden structures in the world.
- Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Go for a walk through the extraordinarily atmospheric pathways of thousands of old stone and bronze lanterns.
- Isui-en Garden: A preserved traditional Japanese garden that is perfect for reflexivity and contemplation.
Fliptrip Tip: Buy “deer crackers” (shika senbei) to feed the deer, but be prepared for them to be kind of aggressive!
5. Miyajima Island: The Floating Torii Gate
A short ferry ride (less than 30 minutes) from Hiroshima, Miyajima Island is a stunning and spiritually filled destination. The island’s most famous site is the “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Miyajima Island reveals its stunning coastline, enveloped in lush forests and a peaceful ambiance; it makes for a romantic getaway.
Why it’s special: The “floating” torii gate is undoubtedly a spectacular sight especially during high tide, and its surrounding pristine natural beauty can create a truly romantic atmosphere.
Romantic Highlights
- Itsukushima Shrine: A standout sight, the vermilion gate, looks as if it is floating in water at high tide – so beautiful!
- Mount Misen: The ropeway offers fabulous views out into the Seto Inland Sea and the island.
- Deer: Similar to Nara, the island has its own relative of the Nara deer, also roaming freely!
- Maple Leaf Valley (Momijidani Park): This valley is especially beautiful during autumn months when the colours of the leaves are vibrant, with lovely trails to walk.
- Tidal Oysters: The island has access to fresh niwa oysters, it is definitely worth having a seafood dinner together.
Fliptrip Tip: Be sure to schedule a visit to the island at both high and low tide, so you can see the torii gate not only float at high tide; but also walk right up to its base when the tide is low. An overnight trip to this destination will provide romance in a serene atmosphere.
6. Takayama: Alpine Charm and Old-World Beauty
Located in the Japanese Alps, Takayama is a charming escape into the past. This charmingly preserved Edo-period town is filled with traditional wooden houses, sake brewers, and morning markets. Takayama is a charming contrast to Japan’s busy cities, providing a quiet and authentic experience of Japanese culture.
Why it’s the best: It is challenging not to love Takayama – the historic district gives a sense of traditional Japan, with artisan crafts and local food against a stunning mountain backdrop.
Romantic Highlights
- Sanmachi Suji District: Stroll through the historic town, with preserved old wooden merchant houses, sake breweries, and crafts shops.
- Morning Markets: Walk along the river at Jinya-mae or Miyagawa morning markets, taste the local produce, and browse the crafts.
- Hida Folk Village: Walk through a collection of traditional thatched houses moved from homes in the Hida region.
- Sake Tasting: Go to a local sake brewery for a tasting, and warm your heart for two.
- Gifu Kiso Valley (nearby): hike together along the ancient post-town walking trail, Nakasendo Trail, and explore ancient little towns such as Magome and Tsumago.
Fliptrip Tip: If you and your partner are food enthusiasts, then surely try out the local cuisine , a delicious treat for your romantic dinner.
7. Hokkaido: Lavender Fields and Winter Wonderland
Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island, and it boasts a huge expanse of wild landscape, making it a different kind of romantic getaway. In summer, the rolling hills are full of colourful flower fields, especially lavender fields in Furano. In winter, Hokkaido becomes a magical winter wonderland with plenty of snow for skiing, snowboarding, and snuggling.
Why is it special: Hokkaido has endless natural scenic beauty from breathtaking flower fields in the summer to some of the best powder snow in the winter. Couples that are active and love nature will be drawn to a lot in Hokkaido.
Romantic Highlights (Summer)
- Farm Tomita (Furano): A massive, colorful lavender field and other flowers await you. A sensory experience not to be missed.
- Shikisai no Oka (Biei): Panoramic views from flower gardens with mountains in the background. Views of the Tokachi range.
- Blue Pond (Biei): A bizarre, amazing turquoise pond.
Romantic Highlights (Winter)
- Skiing/Snowboarding: You can find untouched powder snow at resorts, such as Niseko, Rusutsu, or Furano.
- Sapporo Snow Festival: Traveling in February… witness incredible snow and ice sculptures.
- Onsen: After a day of playing in the snow, relax in Hokkaido’s natural hot springs.
Fliptrip Tip: Rent a car while in Hokkaido. Explore vast areas. Also, discover spots you wouldn’t otherwise find by walking. Take a Road trip together!
8. Kanazawa: Gardens, Geisha, and Gold Leaf
Sometimes referred to as “Little Kyoto,” Kanazawa has the refined traditional arts, gardens, and historic districts of Kyoto but with fewer crowds. Kanazawa is a city steeped in culture and is a perfect destination for traveling couples who love art, culture, and peace and quiet.
What makes it special: Kanazawa is a refined experience of traditional Japan with the added benefit of less crowd. Kanazawa has one of the most beautiful gardens in the country, historic geisha districts, and a variety of original local crafts.
Romantic Highlights
- Kenrokuen Garden: Come see one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens,” a remarkable achievement in landscape construction, that will delight you in every season.
- Nagamachi Samurai District: Walk along the narrow, cobbles streets of the well-preserved samurai residences.
- Higashi Chaya District: Experience the charmof this pleasant gersha district with wooden teahouses and maybe a cup of tea.
- 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art: A modern marvel of a museum with captivating interactive exhibits.
- Gold Leaf Crafts: Kanazawa is also known for producing gold leaf; even try applying gold leaf to a small item.
Fliptrip Tip: Indulge in some of Kanazawa’s signature cuisine with fresh seafood, particularly sushi which is always fresh given the proximity to the Sea of Japan.
9. Hakone or Kinosaki Onsen: A Deep Dive into Relaxation
Although Hakone was highlighted for its exceptional views of Mount Fuji, it is also an exceptionally popular onsen (hot spring) destination all in its own. If you really want to commit and indulge in a private hot spring experience, stay overnight at a ryokan in a onsen town. Beyond Hakone, another great option is Kinosaki Onsen, known for its scenic and lovely “Seven Public Onsen experience.”
Why it is unique: Onsen towns provide the opportunity for ultimate relaxation and healing together, along with a taste of traditional hospitality.
Romantic Highlights
- Private Onsen Baths: Many ryokans have rooms which will offer private outdoor onsen for ultimate intimacy.
- Yukata Strolls: You can stroll around the onsen town in traditional yukata (light cotton kimono) after you are completed with your bath.
- Kaiseki Dinner: Enjoy an exquisite, multi-course traditional Japanese dinner served to you in your room or a special dining area.
- Spa Treatments: Enjoy you and your partner’s wellness treatments, including couple’s massages available from the ryokan.
- Exploring Onsen Towns: Stroll charming streets, local shops, and delicious food locations.
Fliptrip Tip: Don’t forget the onsen etiquette! wash thoroughly before entering the hot spring. No swimsuits in public baths (this doesn’t apply to a private bath). It is part of the tradition!
10. Okinawa: Tropical Paradise with Island Charm
For couples dreaming of a tropical getaway, the islands of Okinawa are a remarkable and surprising destination. Okinawa is exotic and beautiful with white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise water, and has a culture that is distinctively Ryukyuan and uniquely Japanese, yet warm and relaxed.
Why it’s special: You can experience a beautiful beach honeymoon with a combination of unique local culture, Japanese culture, incredible cuisine and an island atmosphere.
Romantic Highlights
- Beautiful Beaches: Relax on stunning beaches such as Emerald Beach or Kondoi Beach (Taketomi Island) that are perfect for sun bathing and swimming.
- Snorkelling & Diving: Discover beautiful coral reefs and underwater wildlife in warm waters.
- Shuri Castle (Naha): Visit the traditional heart of the Ryukyu Kingdom (check if it’s under reconstruction after the recent fire).
- Churaumi Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world that houses whale sharks and manta rays.
- Traditional Ryukyuan Culture: Discover unique music, dance and crafts that are different from ‘the mainland’ (Japan).
- Island Hopping: Of course, please take the ferries to the smaller, equally beautiful islands of Ishigaki or Taketomi for a more secluded island journey.
Fliptrip Tip: Be sure to try the local Okinawan cuisine with unique ingredients and flavours, using mainly pork and seafood (raw or cooked). Try Goya Champuru (stir-fried bitter melon) or Okinawan Soba
Romantic Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss in Japan
Your honeymoon is about experiences you share. Japan is a wonderful place for intimate experiences together:
- Private Onsen Experience: As we have talked about before, many ryokans have private baths available among the hot spring baths – this is the best way to relax and for intimate experiences.
- Couples Kimono Rental: You can dress up in a traditional kimono, or even a yukata and stroll down historic areas like Gion in Kyoto, or Kanazawa. It is lots of fun, and makes for incredible photo opportunities.
- Traditional Cooking Class: You get to learn how to make sushi, ramen or other traditional Japanese dishes together. It is a fun hands-on experience that you can connect over, and take a skill home with you too.
- Sake Brewery Tour & Tasting: You get to understand how sake is made, and have a tasting of various types afterwards.
- Participate in a Japanese Tea Ceremony: You get to take part in this meditative and beautiful ritual, and a wonderful experience to take a moment to reflect peacefully.
- Themed Cafe Experience: You could visit a cat cafe, an owl cafe your choice, or even take a ride to Tokyo and go to a robot restaurant together (if that’s your thing!).
- Hot Air Balloon Ride: Up and over places like Hokkaido or the Japanese Alps to see beautiful sunrises !
- Stargazing: Hunt for an empty and dark area in the mountains or even countryside and you will experience some of the best night skies imaginable.
Culinary Delights to Experience in Your Honeymoon Trip to Japan
Everything from sushi on a rooftop in Tokyo, to a warm ramen shop in Kyoto, Japan creates authentic experiences through food that becomes romantic memories. Savor the flavours of your honeymoon that will always be as memorable as the ‘moments.’
- Sushi and Sashimi: Enjoy the fresh, delicately crafted sushi wherever you can – in a glamorous restaurant or a fun kaieten (conveyor belt) sushi joint.
- Ramen: Slurp up those comforting bowls of ramen ranging from rich tonkotsu to light shio.
- Tempura: Revel in light crispy seafood and vegetable tempura for a lovely deep-fried experience.
- Izakaya dining: Experience the ambience of a Japanese pub. Order a range of small dishes to share with drinks and feel at home.
- Kaiseki Ryori: This is multi-course haute cuisine, which is often served in a ryokan. A style of dining that can only be described as an art form in itself. A real treat.
- Street Food: Experience the local street food by visiting bustling markets like Nishiki Market in Kyoto or Dotonbori in Osaka. Great variety and delicious, if not a little cheaper snack options!
- Matcha Green Tea: Help yourself to the taste sensation of ceremonial matcha, but particularly in Kyoto.
- Sake and Japanese Whisky: Relax and try some traditional sake or better yet, some of the worlds finest Japanese whiskies.
Essential Tips for Your Perfect Honeymoon trip to Japan
Organizing your honeymoon in Japan? Let love guide you — and these simple tips will help your trip come together even better. From planning the right time to travel to packing like a pro, here’s how to make your visit to Japan the perfect romantic getaway.
- Walking Shoes: You will do lots of walking, especially around the cities and temples.
- Appropriate Seasonal Clothing: According to the climate in your trip (light clothing for summer; heavy coat for winter)
- Small Backpack/Day Bag: For daily walks, carrying water, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Portable Wi-Fi Device or eSIM: It is important for navigation and connection.
- Power Bank: To keep your phones charged for pictures!
- Travel Adapter: Japan is Type A and B plugs (like North America)
- Light Scarf or Shawl: Useful for temples (covering shoulders), covering up, cool, or sun protection.
- Small Gifts (Omiyage): If you plan to meet any locals or if you are staying in a family run ryokan, a small gift (souvenir) from your home country is a nice gesture.
Conclusion
Japan is much more than a vacation, it is an experience, one that will strengthen your relationship and provide a lifetime of memories. The gardens in Kyoto, the energy of Tokyo, the hot springs in Hakone, the tropical oasis of Okinawa, we can assure you there is something uniquely romantic around every corner in this wonderful country.
Imagine the stories you will share, the deer bowing in Nara, the gold-leaf covered sweets in Kanazawa, the blissful wandering of your own “floating” torii gate on Miyajima, or the snowy onsens of Hokkaido while wrapped up cozily with your partner. You are choosing to begin this next stage of your life in a destination that combines the magic of travel, an abundance of tradition, and an exceptional adventure.
At Fliptrip Holidays, we specialize in providing a fully tailored experience to suit your hearts content. Allow us to take care of the details and planning, so your honeymoon in Japan is as memorable and as your love story.
Most Asked Queries
1. When should I book my honeymoon in Japan?
The ideal time for a romantic honeymoon in Japan really depends on your experience desires. Spring is one of the most well-known times to travel to Japan, (March – May) because of the beautiful cherry blossoms and fair weather, ideally suited for couples. Autumn (September – November) also provides great beauty in the changing colors of the trees and cooler weather to explore, while winter (December – February) can be a cozy honeymoon with you both cuddled up in a snow-covered onsen town. If you are more of a beach couple, summer (June – August) is best to discover more places like Okinawa.
2. Is Japan a great honeymoon destination?
Absolutely! Japan is a country that has so much to offer and in terms of a honeymoon, you can relax in a private hot spring, then walk together through an ancient temple, and finally stay in a luxury hotel in Tokyo, all in one trip! Japan is a great honeymoon destination for couples looking for romance, an ancient culture with traditional features still visible and adventure.
3. What are the top cities in Japan for a romantic experience?
Kyoto is ideal for timeless romance, Hakone offers hot springs and views of Mt. Fuji, and Okinawa gives you the tropical blue ocean scene. Karuizawa and Takayama represent quiet luxury. Miyajima and Nikko offer a combination of nature and spiritual tranquility. Each place has its special romantic twist — and with FlipTripHolidays you can tumble unique romantic experiences.
4. Are there honeymoon-friendly places to stay or romantic themed resorts in Japan?
Yes! Japan is full of romantic ryokans that come with private onsens, mountain lodges with beautiful views, or oceanfront resorts in Okinawa. You could sit and sip tea overlooking a garden in Kyoto or book a honeymoon suite with Mt. Fuji views. There is something for everyone!
5. Do I need to know any Japanese to enjoy our honeymoon in Japan?
Absolutely not! Knowing a few key phrases can help (and be appreciated), but Japan is very tourist-friendly. Most signage in urban areas and transport hubs has English, and a lot of restaurants will have picture menus or English options. Translation apps like Google Translate can transfer perfectly well for everyday situations. If you use FlipTripHolidays to book your honeymoon, we will also provide destination guides and support to ensure your honeymoon is seamless and stress-free, regardless of language barrier.