Ultimate Japan Honeymoon Guide

---

We use affiliate links on our platform. If you click and book or buy through them, we may earn a small commission – at no extra cost to you. This helps keep the lights on at Honeymoon HQ! Rest assured, our recommendations are impartial and independent; we only suggest what we love and think you’ll love too! See our full disclaimer on our policies page.

---

Typically, the best time to visit Japan for honeymoon is from March to May for cherry blossom season and from September to November as the autumn leaves change. 

Sakura season, when the cherry blossom trees come into bloom, emerges in March in the country’s south. April is the peak time as the trees bloom further north.

This is an extremely busy time of year for crowds in Japan, but it’s when the colours are vibrant and beautiful.

Golden Week is a big national holiday at the beginning of May when domestic tourists are on the move, too, making it busy and expensive.

June to August is hot and you will get more rainfall. August is another busy month for travel period as it is the school holidays.

September is a lovely time to visit, and along with October is one of the best months to visit.

It’s much cooler from November to February, and these months are low season. You’ll get snowfall in the north, ideal for skiing and winter sports.

It’s the dry season in Okinawa although from December to February the temperatures are cooler (early 20s°C /late 60s°F) in the south during winter.

This is a special fare ticket that is available to tourists only who are visiting Japan from foreign countries for sightseeing.

However, just remember the Japan Rail pass does not include all bullet trains or metros.

The Japan Rail Pass is unnecessary if you’re only taking in one or two stops, but it’s excellent value for couples touring the country on a Japan honeymoon.

Getting around on your Japan honeymoon by train is a fantastic way to make your honeymoon more sustainable. The trains are clean, safe and efficient.

You can choose from Green (upgraded) or Ordinary (standard) travel level for 7, 14 or 21 days. You can only use the pass on consecutive days.

Although Green cars are quieter, seats must be reserved, so the Ordinary car can be much quicker to travel and organise. Book your Japan Rail Pass with GetYourGuide.com.

It’s important to note you must buy your Japan Rail Pass before travel.

Except for airport trains, Japanese trains do not have lots of luggage space. Step in, Takuhaibin.

Takuhaibin is a service where your accommodation will forward your luggage to your next hotel. No scrambling through train stations with a suitcase full of souvenirs.

Get a Pasmo or Suica card for city metros. Avoid rush hour if you can (7 am to 9 am and 5 pm to 6 pm) unless you want to feel like a packed sardine.

It’s highly unusual for couples to hire a car in Japan, although of course not impossible. Traffic can be heavy in the cities.

Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns where you can experience authentic Japanese culture. A stay in a Ryokan is a must on your trip to Japan.

Ryokans are basic, with tatami-matted floors, paper sliding doors, futon bedding, and shared bathrooms. Guests must remove their shoes before entering. They often include breakfast and dinner.

Many ryokans have onsens. Onsens are hot springs. They have been part of Japanese culture for centuries and are renowned for their healing properties.

Onsens are segregated by gender usually and bathing suits are prohibited. Yes, you are completely naked in an onsen!

Couples with tattoos may not be permitted to use an onsen. It’s best to check before booking.

Shukubo is a temple lodging. These are a unique way to immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle of Buddhist monks.

Accommodation is basic, with Japanese rooms, futon bedding, and shared bathrooms. The evening meal is a Buddhist vegetarian known as Shojin.

We could ask one thousand travel writers for a take on where and what to eat in Japan and they’d all come back with unique recommendations.

You’ll find sushi bars and ramen restaurants widely available. Rice or noodles combined with fish, meat, or vegetables and flavoured with miso and soy sauce are staples.

Vegetarians, vegans and those living with coeliac disease may struggle in Japan, particularly outside of the cities.

Many Japanese dishes contain some sort of fish ingredient and/or soy sauce (which contains gluten).

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit Japan, but it is helpful to learn some Japanese phrases so that you can communicate your needs.

To plot out a Japan honeymoon eating list, we’d recommend checking out the Time Out Guide and Michelin Guide for the most up to date listings.

When planning your itinerary, remember that 2 nights will only give you 1 full day to explore/relax, 3 nights = 2 full days, 4 nights = 3 full days, and so on.

Japan, for most couples, is an adventure and cultural honeymoon with plenty of moving around. However, you’ll want some relaxing days, too.

The best way to maximise this incredible destination is to explore the multitude of beautiful locations on a tour of the country by train.

How much time you have and how much you want to travel, sightsee and relax will help you decide on where to go.

Are you more interested in history and architecture? Are you going for the scenery, or for the food or are you going for the shopping? Or a combination of everything?

You can opt for a self-guided rail tour or, if you’re short on time, consider a small group adventure tour with a company like G Adventures.

If you’ve more time, it’s worth exploring other parts like Kyushu, Hokkaido and the beaches of Okinawa.

We’ve got our favourite Japan honeymoon destinations below for a first time visit.

Tokyo is the largest city in the world (by population). Look down at it all from the Tokyo Skytree, which has incredible panoramic views of the city.

Take a tour of the Tokyo city’s sights. Meiji Shrine is a must-see, with its impressive wooden Torii gate, the largest in the world.

If you’re interested in learning about the history of Japan’s Emperor, then the Imperial Palace is a great place to visit.

Visit the ancient Buddhist temple, Senso-ji. For a unique perspective on your honeymoon in Tokyo, take a ride on a water bus and see the city from a different angle.

Meander though Shibamata’s old centre and enjoy the historic atmosphere. The Tokyo National Museum is definitely worth a stop, too.

Spend a day at Tokyo Disney Resort. See a sumo wrestling match in Ryogoku Kokugikan.

Art lovers will adore Tokyo. Explore the innovative art installations and multi sensory experiences by TeamLab. Visit Yayoi Kusama museum (book tickets early!).

If you visit during cherry blossom, nature’s art can be found at the picturesque, Nakameguro neighbourhood as the powdery pink flowers hang over the canal.

Tokyo is all about the food, though. We’d need to write a book rather than one article to cover the culinary highlights of Tokyo!

Visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market. Take a tour in the morning and try Yakitori and Wagyu Beef. The vibrant atmosphere is an assault on the senses.

Explore the street culture and people watch. Enjoy the neon lights and dive bars of Shinjuku’s Golden Gai and tiny restaurants of Omoide Yokocho. Take a sushi making class and go on a ramen tasting tour.

Go bar hopping in Shibuya and drink Japanese craft beers and sake cocktails. Don’t forget to walk the world’s busiest crossing road intersection, the Shibuya Crossing, a rite of passage for Tokyo visitors.

The views from Shibuya Sky observation deck and incredible and the escalator you’ve probably seen all over social media!

Take a romantic stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Even outside of cherry blossom season, it’s beautiful.

The Lake Kawaguchi area is one of the most beautiful areas to see Mt Fuji. On a still, clear day, you can see a perfect mirror image reflected in the lake.

One must-visit spot in the area is the Arakurayama Sengen Park, which has stunning views and the famous Chureito Pagoda. This is one of the most photographed spots in Japan.

Oishi Park is another beautiful spot to visit, with its flower gardens and spectacular views of the lake and mountain.

Visit the thatched-roof houses and experience life as it was in old Japan at Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba.

Another must-do is the charming mountainous town of Hakone. The Hakone Shrine, a Shinto shrine with a red “torii” gate overlooking Lake Ashi, which can be toured by boat. 

While you can take a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo, we’d recommend spending a day or two exploring the beautiful and romantic scenery from the many onsen in Hakone.

Soak in the therapeutic waters of the traditional baths, the perfect place to unwind after exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Owakudani Valley.

Visit Matsumoto Castle, one of the few remaining original castles in Japan, and marvel at its impressive architecture and history. The castle is one of the most picturesque in Japan, with its black and white exterior and striking views of the surrounding mountains. 

Takayama is another charming town giving you a glimpse into traditional Japanese life. Explore the quaint streets of this historic town.

Take a quick trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Shirakawago and see the unique thatched-roof houses.

These traditional houses, known as gassho-zukuri, are a unique example of traditional Japanese architecture, and are a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.

From April to November, hike the trails around crystal-clear rivers, soaring peaks, and lush forests in Kamikochi.

Try local specialties, such as Hida beef and sake made from pure mountain water. Take to the hills on the Magome-Tsumago Trail, part of the Nakasendo trail that connected Tokyo with Kyoto in ancient times.

Take a tour and discover where geishas and samurais once lived, and traditional tea houses still operate. The surrounding area is known for onsens, too.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the city’s museums, which include the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Kanazawa, and the D.T. Suzuki Museum.

Meanwhile, foodies will enjoy the local cuisine, which features fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan, Kaga vegetables, and locally produced sake.

Start your journey with a visit to the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine, known for its thousands of torii gates.

Take a hike through the gates and enjoy the beautiful view from the top of the mountain.

For a chance to spot Geisha, take a stroll around the traditional neighborhoods of Gion. If you get to spot some, you can admire their beautiful kimono and traditional makeup as they hurry to their appointments.

You may have seen reports about a ban on tourists the Geisha district but it is mostly in the smaller residential streets. Unfortunately some humans are unable to behave and the Geisha and Maiko (apprentice Geisha) have been harassed by disrespectful tourists.

Sample the culinary wares in Nishiki Market. Witness the variety of cherry blossoms at Maruyama Park.

Visit Kinkakuji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, and marvel at the spectacular reflection of the temple on the pond. 

Experience the serene tranquility of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Grove. Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto is breathtaking panoramic views and the temple’s Jishu Shrine is a sacred spot where couples can pray for luck in love by walking blindfolded between two stones.

Many airlines fly to Osaka, too, so it’s a good entry point to the country.

Take a foodie tour of Shinsekai district. Explore Dotonbori, famous for its flashy neon signs and bustling atmosphere with delicious street food.

Go shopping and clubbing in Amerikamura. Visit the impressive Osaka Castle which was built in the 16th century.

Osaka is also a fantastic jump off point to some Japan honeymoon highlights. Take a day trip to tranquil Nara, just a short train ride away from Osaka.

Go on a bike tour of the picturesque town is famous for its ancient temples and friendly sika deer, which roam freely around the city’s parks and streets.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Todaiji Temple, which is home to a giant bronze statue of Buddha and is one of the most important cultural sites in Japan.

Another popular day trip from Osaka is Himeji Castle, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful castles in Japan.

This impressive fortress, known for its white walls and elegant architecture, is a popular destination for history buffs and photographers.

While you can take a day tour, we recommend staying overnight in a temple lodging (shukubo), at Koyasan (Mount Koya). It’s the centre of a small temple to of Shingon Buddhism and a sacred and fascinating place to visit.

Both are a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the events leading up to the atomic bombing and its devastating aftermath. The museum features exhibits on the history of nuclear weapons, personal accounts of the survivors, and artefacts from the bombing.

Explore the reconstructed Hiroshima Castle. Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island is just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima and a simple day trip. Known for its beautiful scenery, including the iconic Torii gate in the water.

Nagasaki should be your go-to on the island. This city is, of course, famous for its tragic history when the United States government dropped an atomic bomb on the city during WW2.

These days you’ll find a charming city with a picturesque harbour and laid-back atmosphere. The poignant and heart wrenching Atomic Bomb museum, a sobering reminder of the catastrophic devastation caused by war.

For those seeking adventure, add on Kumamoto with its famous castle and beautiful landscaped gardens.

But what really sets this area apart is its hiking trails and hot springs, from the delightful hot springs town of Kurokawa Onsen to the playful pleasures of Beppu on the east coast.

And while the mountain village of Takachiho may require a detour, this area brings Japan’s ancient gods to life with its striking gorge and waterfall.

Heading further south, you’ll encounter Kyūshū’s volcanic wonders and breathtaking scenery.

The majestic Sakurajima, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, towers over the city of Kagoshima, while the lush island of Yakushima, roughly 100km south of Kyūshū, with towering, thousand-year-old cedar trees.

Kyushu is also home to some of Japan’s most luxurious honeymoon train rides, Seven Stars in Kyushu, Japan and the Jr Kyushu / Aru Ressha Sweet Train.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, hot-spring enthusiast or train lover, Kyūshū’s districts have you covered.

There are three main island groups: the Okinawa Islands surrounding Okinawa Honto, the Miyako Islands surrounding Miyako Island, and the Yaeyama Islands surrounding Ishigaki Island.

Okinawa has a subtropical climate, so even in winter, temperatures don’t drop below 15°C/60°F.

You’ll find beautiful coral reefs and abundant marine life. It’s a haven for snorkelling and scuba diving popular activities and perfect for an island hopping honeymoon.

We love Ishigaki Island, which is known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs, plus hikes with beautiful waterfalls. It’s also one of our favourite destinations in the world for stargazing.

Consider Taketomi Island, which is a small and peaceful island with traditional Ryukyu houses and lovely scenery. Miyako Island is home to some of Japan’s best beaches.

Don’t miss Naha, home to the most famous cultural site of the region, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shuri Castle.

Okinawa’s location in the south of Japan means it is quite far from Tokyo, but it is easily accessible by plane.

Flights from Tokyo or Osaka to Okinawa take around 2 hours, depending on the island you travel to.

It’s covered in forest, mountains, lakes and hot springs. In summer, hikers and cyclists will love the national parks like Shiretoko National Park and Daisetsuzan National Park.

In winter, Hokkaido is a world class skiing and snowboarding destination. Explore the slopes of Niseko and Rusutsu, which attract visitors from around the world.

It’s a great way to get a taste of Japan and often they will travel onwards to destinations like Korea, Hong Kong, Vietnam, The Philippines and Singapore.

Discover some of our favourites with cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean.