7 of the best honeymoon destinations in Japan
by Guest author
Honeymoons in Japan offer newlyweds some truly unique romantic experiences that go beyond the usual post-wedding beach bliss. From the charm of blossom picnics in sakura season and snuggling up in a private onsen, to the thrill of a Mount Fuji climb, to the ultra-luxury of Kyoto’s top hotels, the best honeymoon destinations in Japan have maximum wow factor.
Cherry blossom in Hakone
If you’re planning a Spring honeymoon in Japan, taking in the spectacular cherry blossom displays has got to be top of the experience list for starry-eyed romance. Beginning in February in the far south, ending in late May in the north, Japan’s landscape gradually transforms into a flurry of snowy, pink blossom which you can wander through, picnic beneath and take memorable photos of as it gently flutters down.
Find a cosy hotel and settle in for crisp walks through the blossom followed by cherry bon-bons and pink fizz! We love the Gora Kadan deluxe ryokan in Hakone for its spectacular views over the national park surroundings, and private onsen-style pools
Secluded onsen spas
On the subject of onsen, cosying up in warm spa waters is a pretty blissful prospect, and many hotels now have private pools or baths within the suites where you can unwind together in seclusion. Tobira Onsen Myojinkan near Matsumoto offers forest views from the in-room pools, with traditional Japanese decor, and sophisticated kaiseki dining; while The Lake View Nonokaze Resort in Hokkaido has open air baths for calming, lakeside soaks, with occasional firework displays to light up the night sky.
Amanemu combines this world-class brand’s signature spa luxury with classic ryokan-style details, creating contemporary havens for couples who want to get away from it all. There are onsen-style resorts throughout many parts of Japan, so ask your destination specialist for their favourite hot spring hotel in your chosen destination.
Electric Tokyo nights
Wandering hand in hand through the bright lights of Asia’s most famous metropolis, visiting some of the world’s quirkiest restaurants, and looking out over the neon landscape from a skybar: honeymoons in Tokyo are never your average, out-of-the-box experience. While Tokyo Disney can be romantic for cute couples, it can get crowded, so for a quieter young-at-heart experience head to the wonderful Ghibli museum.
Take selfies with Totoro, and keep your eyes peeled for soot sprites! Enjoy some of the best sushi on the planet in the cuisine’s birthplace, treating yourself to a celebratory meal with a Michelin star or two; choose your favourite top class hotel to enjoy breakfast in bed as you watch the sunrise over Tokyo; spend the days exploring the breathless streets; and finish with a whiskey sundowner at the famous Park Hyatt bar..
Tea and indulgence in Kyoto
Your honeymoon is a wonderful excuse to treat yourselves to a level of luxury that’s a cut above the ordinary, and several of Kyoto’s finest hotels tick all the boxes. Spend your Kyoto honeymoon strolling through the dappled shade of a bamboo forest, feeling blessed by the gods of love at Jishu shrine, climbing the steep “Koi no Michi” steps (which translates as “path of love”) at Kifune, before returning to your hotel for some serious pampering.
Sip sunset sake in the Four Seasons Kyoto’s garden teahouse; relax into a Ryokucha Serenity Ritual at the chic Ritz Carlton, and take part in the precise beauty of a traditional tea ceremony with an expert instructor in a traditional Kyoto machiya.
Meander towards Kyushu in old-school style
Travelling by train can bring mystery and romance to even the most ordinary of journeys, so when it’s aboard a classic luxury sleeper, coasting through Kyushu’s lush subtropical landscape, there’s real magic in the mix. The Seven Stars train across Kyushu is no high-speed Shinkansen, travelling instead at a leisurely speed where you can sit back and enjoy the view. Crafted in sumptuous detail reminiscent of the Orient Express, with a dress code to match, every corner exudes old-school charm - perfect for relaxing together in style. Celebrate with champagne in the Blue Moon lounge, enjoy an intimate meal in the dining car and settle down to doze to the gentle rumble of the wheels on the tracks.
Exhilaration in the great outdoors
Breathe in the cool, fresh air; find serenity away from urban noise; push yourselves to complete a new challenge together: if you love the great outdoors, bring that into your Japan honeymoon, and celebrate the start of married life surrounded by nature’s wonders. Follow spiritual paths through south-central Honshu on the ancient Kumano Kodo Trails, stopping at hidden woodland shrines as the earthy scents fill your head, and soaking weary muscles in a private onsen at sundown. If you’re taking your honeymoon between July and September, and feel a little more intrepid, climb Japan’s most iconic natural landmark, Mount Fuji, to enjoy the heady views from the summit.
Seclusion and immersive art in Shikoku
For couples who like to do things a bit differently, Japan’s ‘forgotten’ island, Shikoku, is the honeymoon destination to head for. South of Honshu, this sleepy, rural island is the perfect getaway for newlyweds who want a secluded, romantic escape that combines art, culture, wild beauty and chic, simple luxury. Hike through the mountainous landscape of the famous 88 Temple Pilgrimage route, taking in some of the island’s diverse and beautiful shrines; see energetic yosakoi dancing in Kochi; soak up the poetic inspiration at Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs; and spend a night or two on the unique Naoshima island immersed in contemporary art and sculpture.
Planning a romantic escape? Talk to one of our Japan Specialists on +44 (0)1273 670 001, or send us your enquiry.
by Guest author on 13th February 2019