Franklin Dean
Japan is a bucket-list honeymoon destination for many couples, offering a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. From the vibrant cities of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto to the serene beauty of cherry blossom season, Japan provides a wealth of romantic experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or relaxation, Japan has something for everyone. Planning a trip to this fascinating country can be daunting, so here's a guide to help you navigate the best places to visit and things to do on your honeymoon in Japan.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best time to visit | Spring and autumn for moderate weather; winter for snow sports and fewer crowds |
| Peak tourist season | March to May (cherry blossom season) |
| Cheaper time to visit | November |
| Dangerous season | June to August (tsunami season) |
| Top destinations | Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nagasaki, Shibuya, Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Roppongi Hills, Mori Garden and Art Museum |
| Other destinations | Chureito Pagoda, Osaka Castle, Tohoku, Hokkaido, Nara, Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park |
| Activities | Traditional Japanese tea ceremony, private sushi-making class, visiting ancient shrines and temples, hot springs, bamboo forests, Mount Fuji, sake brewery tour |
| Transport | Japan Rail (JR) Pass for unlimited access to trains, buses, and ferries |
| Accommodation | Intimate boutique properties, luxurious hotels |
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What You'll Learn
Exploring ancient cities and UNESCO World Heritage sites
Japan is home to many ancient cities and UNESCO World Heritage sites, which are perfect for exploring on your honeymoon. Kyoto, the country's capital for over 1,000 years, is a must-visit destination. Known as the "Capital of Culture", it boasts over 2,000 temples and shrines, beautifully preserved wooden buildings from the Edo Period, and traditional ryokans. The temples of Kiyomizudera and Todaiji, as well as the Kasuga Taisha and Kofukuji shrines, are particularly notable. Kyoto is also a culinary hotspot, offering Kaiseki Ryori (refined multi-course meals) and Shojin Ryori (Buddhist-inspired vegetarian cuisine). The city is easily accessible by shinkansen from Tokyo and is located next to Nara.
Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, is another ancient city worth exploring. Known as the place where "Japan begins", it is filled with rolling hills, ancient temples, and deer roaming its streets. It is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites and cultural treasures, including the Todaiji Temple, which houses one of the country's largest bronze statues of Buddha. Nara also offers a unique culinary experience, with specialties such as Miwa Somen (soft and chewy noodles) and Chagayu (rice porridge cooked in fragrant tea).
In addition to Kyoto and Nara, there are other ancient cities and towns in Japan that are worth considering for your honeymoon itinerary. The historic port town of Nagasaki, located on the island of Kyushu, has been described as one of the most romantic places to visit in the country. It offers stunning night views and a charming townscape. Miyama, a rural town north of Kyoto, is another option, featuring over 200 thatched-roof houses in a picturesque countryside setting.
For those interested in exploring merchant districts, Takayama and Kurashiki are excellent choices. Takayama's old town features narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, shops, and sake breweries, while Kurashiki offers a well-preserved former merchant district with warehouses converted into museums, stores, and cafes. Hagi, with its former samurai district, and Kakunodate, known for its beautifully preserved samurai residences, are also worth considering for their historical charm.
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Taking part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
Japan is a popular honeymoon destination, offering a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. From the bustling cities of Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto to the tranquil beauty of cherry blossom season, there is much to explore and experience.
One such experience is the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, a ritual steeped in history and a great way to gain insight into Japan's culture. This ceremony, also called Chanoyu, Sado or Ocha, is not just about drinking tea but also about presentation, aesthetics and connecting with guests on a spiritual level.
Preparing for the Tea Ceremony
The host of the tea ceremony will send out formal invitations several weeks in advance. During this time, they will also select the tea bowl, utensils, order wagashi (Japanese sweets) and prepare the decor. The tea room, or Chashitsu, is traditionally surrounded by a garden, providing a tranquil setting for the ceremony.
The Ceremony Itself
On the day of the ceremony, the host will ensure the room is clean and that all the tools are properly laid out. Guests will wait to be invited into the tea room, and upon entering, they will remove their shoes and wash their hands as a symbolic gesture of purification. The seating arrangement is important, with more experienced guests being served first.
Once the guests are seated, the host will acknowledge each guest and serve the wagashi sweets. The host will then bring in the tea set and ritually cleanse each tool, including the tea bowl and whisk.
For the tea, matcha powder is used, which was first brought to Japan from China by a Buddhist monk in the 12th century. The host will scoop two large scoops of matcha powder into the tea bowl, adding hot water and whisking for about 30 seconds to create a frothy tea. The host will then serve the tea to the guests, who will drink and place the bowl on the opposite side of the tatami mat.
What to Wear
Traditionally, guests wear kimonos during the tea ceremony, adding to the elegance and cultural authenticity of the experience.
Where to Attend
Tea ceremonies are held in various locations across Japan, including Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. You can also find them in more unexpected honeymoon destinations like Nagasaki, which offers a stunning "10 Million Dollar Night View".
When to Go
The timing of your visit will depend on your preferences. Spring is a popular choice, as it coincides with cherry blossom season, but it can be risky as the blooms are unpredictable. Winter, particularly after the first week of January, can be a good time to avoid crowds while still enjoying the snow.
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Visiting cherry blossoms and other natural wonders
Japan is a country rich in natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. The country is famous for celebrating each distinct season. If you're planning a honeymoon to Japan, here are some natural wonders to consider visiting.
Cherry Blossoms
Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are a natural wonder in Japan. Each spring, cherry blossom trees across Japan come into full bloom, creating a breathtaking sea of pink and white flowers that attract visitors from all over the world. The cherry blossom season, also known as "Sakura", is a time of celebration marked by cherry blossom festivals, picnics, and cherry blossom viewing (Hanami). Planning a honeymoon around cherry blossoms can be risky as the timing of the blooms is not an exact science, but if you're travelling in late March, you're likely to catch at least some of the blossoms in major cities.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan, standing at an elevation of 3,776 meters (12,388 feet). It is an active volcano that last erupted in 1707 and is considered a sacred symbol of Japan. Mount Fuji is located on the border of Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures and is a popular destination for hikers who can climb to the summit during the summer months.
Takachiho Gorge
Located in Miyazaki prefecture, Takachiho Gorge is a scenic canyon carved out of volcanic rock by the Gokase River. The gorge is known for its lush vegetation, waterfalls, and stunning rock formations, and is considered one of the most beautiful and picturesque gorges in Japan. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the surrounding vegetation is at its most lush.
Kyoto's Gardens and Temples
Kyoto is known as the "Capital of Culture" and is one of the quintessential honeymoon destinations in Japan. The city offers tranquil gardens and over 2000 temples and shrines dotted throughout. Wander through bamboo groves, drink a bowl of matcha tea, and take part in cultural experiences such as the Japanese tea ceremony and Zen meditation.
Tokyo's Parks and Shrines
Tokyo has many parks and shrines to offer, such as Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and Meiji Jingu Shrine. These provide entertainment, stunning atmospheres and sights, and romantic strolls for couples.
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Relaxing in a private onsen (hot spring)
Japan is famous for celebrating each distinct season, and honeymooning in the country is a great way to experience its culture, history, and romance. With over 3,000 "onsen" (hot springs) across the country, there are plenty of options for a relaxing and intimate experience.
Onsens are an integral part of Japanese culture, with water heated naturally underground and piped into "ryokans" (traditional Japanese inns). Many ryokans offer large indoor onsens, some with wall-length windows overlooking gardens, rivers, or other natural settings. For a more rustic experience, there are also outdoor onsens called "rotenburo", often found near ryokans and open all night.
If you're looking for privacy, some luxurious ryokans offer private onsens in their rooms, perfect for a romantic honeymoon experience. One such place is Hakone, a mountain town just an hour from Tokyo by train, which offers luxurious ryokans with private "hinoki" baths. Another option is Kurokawa Onsen, a picturesque hot spring town near Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, where you can purchase a pass for access to three different baths.
For a seaside escape, the city of Atami, just outside Tokyo, boasts more onsens than sandy beaches. With a high salt content due to its proximity to the sea, Atami's onsens are believed to have skin-soothing properties.
With so many options, honeymooning couples can easily find a private onsen experience to relax and rejuvenate while immersing themselves in Japan's bathing culture and enjoying the natural health benefits of volcanic spring water.
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Enjoying the vibrant cities and culinary experiences
Japan is a country of contrasts, with its mix of ancient and modern cities, serene nature, and rich cultural experiences. The country boasts a variety of climates, and its seasons are particularly beautiful, with cherry blossoms in spring and gradient auburn leaves in autumn.
Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are the most popular cities for honeymooners, offering a blend of city life and cultural experiences. Tokyo is known for its dining and entertainment, with some of the country's best sushi, teppanyaki, and tempura. The city is also home to luxury hotels and boutique hostels, as well as a wonderful transportation system that makes getting around a breeze. Osaka is another great option for foodies, with its fresh sushi and teppanyaki. Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is known as the "Capital of Culture" and offers a different experience with its wooden buildings from the Edo Period and geisha culture. The city is also home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including stunning temples.
For a more low-key experience, consider visiting the cultural capitals of Kyoto and Nara. Here, you can drink matcha tea in tranquil gardens, wander through bamboo groves, and take part in cultural experiences such as the Japanese tea ceremony and Zen meditation. Nara Park, with its curious deer, is also a must-see. If you're looking for a romantic escape, Nagasaki has been described as one of the most romantic places in Japan, with its "10 Million Dollar Night View".
Tokyo has a lot to offer honeymooners, from the traditional to the modern. You can take part in a private traditional tea ceremony, dress up in a kimono, and take part in a professional photoshoot. The city also boasts entertainment hotspots like Yoyogi Park, where you can enjoy free performances, and Meiji Jingu Shrine, where you can make a wish on ema (wooden plates). For foodies, Tokyo offers a range of culinary delights, from the freshest sushi at Imayoshi Sushi in Otemachi to yakitori skewers and drinks at Omoide Yokocho. You can also take a food tour of Tsukiji Market or go on a "ramen safari".
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Frequently asked questions
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for moderate weather, but spring is also peak tourist season due to the cherry blossoms, so expect higher prices and more crowds. If you're into snow sports and want to avoid the crowds, the winter months (December to February) are best. June to August is considered tsunami season, so it is best to avoid these months.
There are many romantic things to do in Japan, such as visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, strolling through Yoyogi Park in Tokyo, and taking part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in Asakusa. You could also visit the Shinjuku Robot Restaurant in Tokyo, which offers a unique, high-energy experience with multi-coloured laser lights, dancers, and robots.
Kyoto is known as the "Capital of Culture" and has over 2000 temples and shrines. Tokyo is another great option, with its vibrant city lights and attractions like the Skytree and the Asakusa neighbourhood. Osaka and Nagasaki are also popular choices, offering some of the best dining and entertainment in the country.
Japan offers many unique experiences for honeymooners, such as visiting a sake brewery, taking a day trip to Nikko from Tokyo, and participating in a private onsen (hot spring) in the mountains. You could also consider a photoshoot in a traditional Japanese kimono or a couples massage and spa experience.
English is not widely spoken in Japan, even in Tokyo, so it is helpful to have a translation app on your phone. The JR (Japan Rail) Pass provides unlimited access to trains, buses, and some airport transfers, making it a practical and economical way to get around the country. Japan is known for its safety, efficiency, and low crime rates.
