Honeymoon in Japan: curated guide and itinerary
Japan is a country like no other. A place where traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modernity. Where tranquil zen temples are just around the corner from stimulating neon streets. Such unique fusion makes of Japan such an exciting and unparalleled honeymoon destination, offering an array of experiences to suit every couple’s tastes. From savoring exquisite cuisine and immersing in rich cultural heritage, to discovering serene natural landscapes and indulging in wellness experiences, Japan has it all. There’re even pristine beaches, can you believe it? This guide you’ll uncover the best experiences and places to visit on a honeymoon in Japan. Start by exploring the summary below:
Best things to do on a honeymoon in Japan
There’s so much to see in Japan, from classic destinations to hidden gens. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at a first glance, but don’t worry, I got your back. Below, you’ll find a curated list of best experiences for your honeymoon in Japan. While some are essential highlights for any traveler visiting Japan, others are romantic and tailored to honeymooners.
1) Lakeshore picnic with Mount Fuji views
I know Mount Fuji may sound like a commonplace, but some clichés are clichés for a reason and believe me when I say this is one of them. The sacred mountain of Japan has an ethereal aura that’s hard to describe and is a must-visit destination in Japan for honeymooners. It certainly gets crowded, but there are ways to savor a more intimate and relaxed experience, as you can see in this post. Our impromptu picnic by the tranquil shores of Lake Kawaguchiko remains a cherished memory from our Japan journey, and it’s an experience I wholeheartedly recommend sharing with the love of your life.
While it’s feasible to visit Fujikawaguchiko as a day trip from Tokyo, I’d recommend staying for at least a night to make the most of the destination. Book a hotel with private onsens and Mount Fuji views. Kaneyamaen and Mizno Hotel are honeymoon worthy hotels, but you can find other great options here!
2) Celebrate Hanami during cherry blossom season
Before delving into the specifics of the best seasons to visit Japan, I want to share a crucial piece of advice upfront. If possible, try o time your honeymoon in Japan with cherry blossom season. Despite being a busy period, it offers an unparalleled romantic experience and is the best time to visit Japan as a couple. As Sakura blossom paint the country in hues of pink, Japan comes alive with vibrant spring festivals and the most beautiful landscapes. It’s a bucket list experience to enjoy loved one!
Cherry blossom season isn’t just about romance, tough. It’s also a profoundly cultural and symbolic time in Japan. A season to honor the fleeting nature of life and the importance enjoying the here and now. That’s the essence of hanami, a Japanese tradition that brings couples, families and friends under cherry trees in full bloom to picnic and have a great time. The sounds of laughter were infections and I’m convinced this is the happiest time to visit Japan. We absolutely loved exploring Japan during Sakura season and I’m sure you’ll love it too!
3) Relax at an ryokan onsen
If you’re a lover of wellness experiences like us, you’re in for a treat. Japan is home to more than 25,000 hot spring sources and there’s a whole culture around them. If the concept of “onsen” is new to you, allow me to explain – onsens are bathing facilities where you can soak in geothermally heated water and absorb their healing and purifying properties. Although the experience resembles going to a spa, there’s more to it. Usually, there’s a bathing protocol to follow and guests are separated by gender, since onsens are to be enjoyed naked. Most establishments don’t allow visitors with tattoos, and this is one of the reasons I recommend booking a ryokan with private onsens to enjoy as a honeymooner couple. Some great options are the wonderful Takaragawa Onsen Ousenkaku in Lake Kawaguchico or Aman in Kyoto!
4) Feast in traditional food and drinks
I may be biased because Japanese cuisine is my favorite, but I must admit that in Japan I had the most unforgettable meals of my life. Japan’s culinary scene is renowned for its refinement and diversity, and I’m not the only one who considers the country a true foodie’s paradise. If you and your partner enjoy exploring new flavors and having unique dining experiences, Japan will be a playground for you!
From steaming bowls of ramen to meticulously crafted sushi and an array of traditional delicacies, Japan offers a culinary adventure like no other. During your honeymoon, aim to strike a balance between dining at Michelin-starred restaurants and discovering hidden “hole-in-the-wall” gems. This will provide you with a multifaceted insight into Japan’s culinary craftsmanship and expand your palate. And don’t miss the opportunity to sample local sakes and Umeshu, a delightful plum wine that ranks high on my list of favorite beverages!
5) Spend a night at a Shukubo
Shukubo translates directly to “sleeping with the monks” and refers to an accommodation experience within a buddhist temple. These accommodations not only provide a place to stay but also offer a range of enriching experiences such as meditation classes, morning prayers with monks, and traditional Buddhist meals. They are known as Shojin Ryori and consist of meticulously prepared dishes following the principles of compassion and harmony with nature.
We had the privilege of spending a night at a Shukubo in Mount Koya, renowned as the most spiritual place in Japan. The experience was truly remarkable, and I definitely recommend including a visit to Koyasan to your honeymoon in Japan plans. In case you’re wondering, the rooms are quite comfortable, typically following the traditional ryokan style. Staying at a shukubo like Koyasan Syukubo Ekoin Temple is a once in a lifetime opportunity and a memory you’ll never forget. Read our complete guide to Koyasan here!
6) Take part in festivals and events
Japan boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, vividly displayed through its numerous festivals and events held throughout the year. Among the most captivating are Omizutori in Nara, Sanja Matsuri in Asakusa Tokyo, and Aio Matsuri in Kyoto. If you’re interested in cultural experiences, I highly recommend consulting the calendar when planning your honeymoon in Japan to ensure you can partake in as many of these celebrations as possible!
We attended to an original Sumo competition in Osaka, and it was one of the most fascinating experiences we’ve ever had. Surrounded by locals in a bustling arena, we witnessed Sumo wrestlers engage in matches steeped in millennia-old traditions—it was truly epic, and we felt fortunate to have secured tickets. Additionally, in Kyoto, we were treated to a mesmerizing Miyako Odori performance, showcasing traditional dances by geisha and maikos at Kamishichiken Kabukai. It was a simply fantastic experience, and I couldn’t believe my eyes when I noticed real-life geishas watching the spectacle right beside us. Such a genuine and recommended performance!
7) Do a Sake tasting
Sake, a beverage made from fermented rice, is one of the most celebrated drinks from Japan. It’s rooted in millenary traditions and come in different flavors and carbonation levels. Since each region in Japan boasts its own ways of making sake, I recommend trying different labels as you explore the country. This quintessential Japanese drink perfectly complements most traditional dishes, enhancing your culinary experiences. You’ll find them everywhere!
If you’re interested in the fermented drinks in general, consider joining a sake brewery tour. You’ll delve into the intricate process of sake production and savor a sampling of various sake varieties at the conclusion of the tour. Explore some of the most renowned sake breweries here and indulge in this enriching activity that seamlessly blends drinks with cultural traditions and is ideal for couples seeking a unique and immersive experience.
8) Shop for your new home
Even if you’ve been living together for some time, returning from your honeymoon will bring a sense of fresh start. While exploring Japan on your honeymoon, take advantage of the opportunity to acquire unique pieces to embellish your home. Having items that reflect Japanese craftsmanship at home will serve as delightful reminders of your honeymoon days.
Some pieces I’d recommend buying in Japan are:
- Handmade knives and ceramics, which are considered the best in the world
- Sweets and matcha powder
- Original handmade decorations such as Maneki Neko, geishas or buddhist figures
- Personalized Hashi sticks to use at special order-in sushi nights
- Sake, Japanese Whiskey and Umeshu (plum wine) to sip at home while reminiscing about your honeymoon in Japan
- High quality incenses
9) Swim in crystal clear waters
Did you know Japan is home to sandy, crystal-clear blue beaches, similar to other classic honeymoon destinations such as Maldives and French Polynesia? I was really surprised to discover the paradisiacal Okinawa islands last year. Boasting luxury romantic hotels and stunning beaches, this may be a great addition to your itinerary in Japan. It’ll bring a more tropical and relaxed feel to your honeymoon!
With a short domestic flight you can leave behind the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and reach Okinawa. The archipelago is comprised of over 160 small and pristine islands and the most beautiful of them are Ishigaki, Taketomi, Tokashiki, Miyako and Zamami. However, all of them unveil unique charm and offer endless opportunities for romance and adventure. Check this dreamy hotel if you’re not fully convinced!
10) Visit temples and gardens
Japan is home to countless temples and shrines. They come in different shapes and forms and are basically everywhere. Some are small and others gigantic, like Senso Ji in Tokyo. Some are rustic and others are the epitome of refinement and luxury, such as of Kinkaku-ji in Kyoto. But all of them boast the same serene and ethereal atmosphere that makes everyone fall in love with Japan’s heritage.
Experience the tranquility of zen not only within temples but also in traditional Japanese gardens, where timeless beauty and the essence of Japanese aesthetics converge. Among the most stunning gardens in Japan are three that epitomize the six sublime qualities of a perfect garden. We visited Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa and were enchanted by its serene ambiance and exquisite scenery. It’s an absolute must-visit for couples seeking a romantic and immersive experience in Japan.
11) Make the most of Japan’s nature
Make the most of Japan’s stunning and diverse natural landscapes during your honeymoon. If you’re an active couple consider hiking to the summit of Mount Fuji or exploring the picturesque trails of the Mount Yari region, offering breathtaking alpine views. Also check the stunning Nachi Falls and the bamboo groves of Arashiyama. Whether you’re drawn to towering mountains, serene beaches, or enchanting bamboo forests, Japan offers a plethora of natural wonders waiting to be discovered.
Best honeymoon hotels in Japan
Experience your dream honeymoon in Japan by staying at some of the most romantic and serene hotels in the country. With a diverse portfolio of accommodations, Japan caters to every honeymooner’s preference. Whether you’re seeking luxury in Tokyo, tranquility in Kyoto, or epic wellness facilities with Mount Fuji view in Fujikawaguchiko, there’s a perfect hotel awaiting you. Get ready to immerse yourselves in luxury, relaxation, and Japanese hospitality. It’s not like anything you’ve experienced before, so make sure to indulge in an unforgettable stay and these handpicked hotels across the country!
Best honeymoon hotels in Tokyo
Best honeymoon hotels in Kyoto
Best honeymoon hotels in Lake Kawaguchiko
Best honeymoon hotels in Osaka
Best honeymoon hotels in Mount Koya
Best honeymoon hotels in Kanazawa
Best places to visit on your honeymoon in Japan
Visiting Japan and not exploring Tokyo and Kyoto is a travel heresy. Although highly popular, these cities reveal quintessential Japanese facets and are simply must-visit destinations to any honeymoon in Japan. Together with Osaka, they make up for a classic travel itinerary in Japan in less than 10 days. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the gastronomic scene of Osaka, this is what I call “the basics” of Japan.
If you’re tight on time and need to cut one of the “basic destinations”, let go of Osaka and make sure to visit Tokyo and Kyoto!
In addition to this classic itinerary, you could consider visiting Lake Kawaguchiko and Kanazawa, which are extremely romantic destinations in Japan. Plan for 2 days in each of these destinations. Lovers of winter sports could consider visiting Niseko and Hokkaido, which are great ski resorts destinations. Sakura enthusiast should definitely visit Mount Yoshinoyama, where cherry blossoms paint the mountains in shades of whites and pinks. And beach lovers should definitely consider visiting Okinawa for some days of blissful rest by the sea.
Perfect 2-week itinerary for a honeymoon in Japan
Now that you’ve discovered the most romantic experiences and destinations for a honeymoon in Japan, it’s time to weave them together into a seamless itinerary. To inspire and facilitate your travel planning, I’ve crafted a perfect 2-week itinerary tailored specifically for honeymooners. Get in touch if you’d like to get a bespoke itinerary designed just for you and hotels picked based on your preferences and budget. I’d love to turn honeymoon dreams into reality!
- 3 days Tokyo
- 3 days Kyoto
- 3 days in Osaka with day trip to Nara
- 2 days in Mount Koya
- 2 days in Kanazawa
- 2 days in Lake Kawaguchiko
Fancy a proper lazy honeymoon by the beach? No problem – book some nights at a resort in Okinawa at the end of your itinerary in Japan. This will give you the opportunity to rest after some intense days of exploration!
Japan and beyond: combine with another country
Why limit yourself to just one country when you can combine your honeymoon in Japan with a romantic visit to South Korea? Picture-perfect landscapes, tantalizing cuisine, and a rich tapestry of culture await you in the neighboring country across the Sea of Japan. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the serene beauty of Jeju Island, South Korea offers a seamless blend of modernity and tradition, making it the perfect complement to your romantic itinerary in Japan. With convenient flight connections and a myriad of unforgettable experiences awaiting you, why not make the most of your visit to Asia?
Honeymoon in Japan: a practical travel guide
Now let’s talk about practical aspects. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive travel guide for honeymooning in Japan, filled with useful and updated information on the destination. Click on the plus sign to read the info.
I consider Japan one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. From the tranquil serenity of its ancient temples to the vibrant energy of its bustling cities, Japan offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity that will captivate the hearts of curious honeymooners. Whether you’re indulging in a serene lakeside picnic with views of Mount Fuji, immersing yourself in the beauty of cherry blossom season, or savoring the exquisite flavors of its world-renowned cuisine, every moment spent in Japan is a celebration of love and adventure. If you are considering other options, check our honeymoon inspiration resources here. And if you’d like to have a bespoke itinerary crafted just for you, please get in touch!
