Honeymoon in Japan: Your Ultimate 10-Day Itinerary Guide

Have your honeymoon in Japan! Japan has beautiful shrines, a rich culture, and stunning landscapes that's perfect for your honeymoon.

There are so many things to do in Tokyo and Kyoto that you’ll have an unforgettable experience at every turn. It’s highly recommended by thousands of newlyweds and includes stops in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Explore this 10-day guide to have the perfect honeymoon in Japan. 

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Day 1: Sky Tree, Asakusa, and Odaiba

Our Japan honeymoon itinerary starts at the Tokyo Skytree and then takes you to the Asakusa area, the eastern part of Tokyo. Then it'll end the day at Odaiba, an artificial island in Tokyo.

Check out this Tokyo Map and Asakusa Map to see things to do, what to eat, and where to go.

Go up the Tokyo Skytree.

Let’s start the day by going to the Tokyo Skytree.

The Skytree is next door to the TOKYO Solamachi, a large shopping mall at the base. You can explore the mall before or after going up the Skytree.

For convenience, consider a Tokyo Skytree Kimono Tea Ceremony Combo, where you can visit the Tokyo Skytree with a Japanese tea ceremony. 

You can also combine the Tokyo Skytree with a Samurai Ninja Museum Experience.

Experience a PRIVATE Japanese tea ceremony in a kimono. 

After going to the Skytree, you can go to the Asakusa, and take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

All honeymoon couples in Japan recommend a private traditional tea ceremony. There's no better way to do it than by wearing a beautiful Japanese-style kimono and taking a honeymoon picture while wearing one. 

The therapeutic and meditative ceremony will give you a taste of Japan’s culture.

Take a professional photo shoot in Tokyo.

Consider doing a professional photoshoot in Tokyo! Maikoya offers various photoshoots and additional services to make your honeymoon in Japan as memorable as possible.

Many couples and newlyweds takes these professional photos before or after their tea ceremony while in their kimonos. You can even get a special lunch or dinner if you so choose. 

• Honeymoon in Tokyo Japanese Wedding Dress Photo Shoot + Special Lunch: You'll get a kaiseki lunch on top of the photo shoot. 
• Honeymoon in Tokyo Japanese Wedding Dress Photo Shoot + Special Dinner: You'll get a kaiseki dinner on top of the photo shoot.

Walk around Asakusa Sensoji Temple.

There are many things to do in Asakusa, but one of the main attractions is Sensoji Temple.

Sensoji Temple is home to Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic temple. You can see its traditional charm in Nakamise Street, Hozomon Gate, The Five-Story Pagoda, and fortune telling. 

Consider taking an Asakusa Rickshaw around to view everything, or take your time and walk around in kimono rental in Asakusa.

For more details on what to do, see this Things to Do in Asakusa map.  

Do a walking tour around Asakusa.

Not sure where to go? Take a Private Walking Tour in Asakusa!

This walking tour will just be you and your partner, and you’ll visit famous landmarks like Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise Street to learn about its history. 

You’ll also sample traditional Japanese street food, dine at local restaurants, and browse through shops filled with unique items.

Wherever you go, there are plenty of photo opportunities at key spots. 

Nearby is the Samurai Ninja Museum Tokyo experience for interactive fun.

At the Samurai Ninja Museum in Tokyo, you will learn about ninjas in Japan’s history and the types of weapons and tools they use.

From dressing in traditional ninja-style costumes to getting special ninja training and trying on samurai armor, there are plenty of photo opportunities that will capture the fun you wave.

You can even get a sword lesson at the Tokyo Samurai Ninja Museum.

Take a boat cruise to Odaiba for TeamLab Planets.

You can take a cruise from Asakusa to Odaiba. The cruise departs from Ryogoku River Center and travels down the Sumidagawa River, where it passes under Tokyo Bay's Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba.

Odaiba has many shopping malls, stores, dining, futuristic attractions, and museums. 

One of the best museums in Tokyo is TeamLab Planets. Here, you can take nice photos with your partner and immerse yourself in the art.

You can easily get a Tokyo Skytree and TeamLab Planets together for easy convenience.

Day 2: Downtown Tokyo

Our itinerary will take us to downtown Tokyo the next day, specifically Shibuya and Shinjuku.

If you want to see other things to do in Tokyo, check out this Tokyo Map for places to go and what to do in each area.

See the beautifully chaotic Shibuya crossing from a different perspective.

Let’s start the day at Shibuya Crossing. The nearby Starbucks opens at 7 AM, one of the earliest stores to open. Soak in the view with a flavored seasonal latte in hand.

Alternatively, you can join the scramble with your partner by your side and experience one of the most quintessential things to do in Japan. 

But there are many things to do near Shibuya, so take a look and walk around in the morning. 

Take a stroll for free at Yoyogi Park.

Make your way up north by walking to take the train to Yoyogi Park.

There's free entertainment for your Japan honeymoon. The park is loaded with talented and entertaining performers, from stuntmen and magicians to a rock-and-roll dancing troupe. Plus, the atmosphere and sights are stunning, making it a romantic stroll for couples on their Japan honeymoon.

Write your wishes on EMA in Meiji Jingu Shrine.

Right next to Yoyogi Park is  Meiji Jingu Shrine. Built a century ago, this historic shrine is one of the must-see attractions in Tokyo for all types of travelers.

Aside from its gorgeous and large torii gate, visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine lets you make a wish on ema (wooden plates) with a small donation. And, who knows? Maybe one of your newlywed wishes with your partner will come true.

Enjoy a romantic picnic at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

About 10 minutes away from Meiji Jingu Shrine, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is here for a relaxing afternoon and evening. 

You can shop for food and unique treats at a Japanese convenience store and enjoy a lazy and relaxing picnic here.

It’s an expansive park boasting traditional Japanese and English landscaping and French formal gardens.

Eat out at Omoide Yokocho.

At the end of your first honeymoon day in Japan, you can indulge in a hearty dinner and a few drinks at Omoide Yokocho. 

For your dinner date, visit one of its 60 small restaurants and bars for tasty barbecued skewers (yakitori) and other savory drinks. You can also take an Omoide Yokocho Food Tour to try the best eats.

Known in English as "memory lane," this alley looks futuristic and may remind you of scenes from Blade Runner.

Discover all the top sights in Tokyo by using the Things to Do in Tokyo Map.

Day 3: Day away from central Tokyo

Option 1: Spend a day full of thrills at Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea.

While just outside of Tokyo, spending the whole day here is a magical place for your honeymoon in Japan.

They don’t call Tokyo Disneyland the happiest place on earth for nothing. With its incredibly hospitable Disney-themed characters and exciting rides, this park will put you in a state of pure bliss on your Japan honeymoon. It will even unleash the kid inside of you and will make your romantic trip a little adventurous.

Option 2: Take a day trip to Mt. Fuji.

If you want to escape Tokyo's hustle and bustle, consider taking a day trip to Mt. Fuji.

Most of the time, you’d need to rent a car to see this mountain. But you can take a Tokyo Mount Fuji Bus Tour, where you’ll also see Lake Ashi and Hakone Ropeway. 

You can also get a Private Tokyo Mount Fuji Bus Tour, where you can customize the itinerary to suit your own interests.

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Day 1-3 Tokyo Itinerary Guide

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Looking for a place to stay in Tokyo?

For an ultimate Japan experience, we highly recommend booking a ryokan! There's a list for every budget, from cheap stays to luxurious hotel-like experiences; Tokyo is home to several unique places. Here are some of our recommendations:

Hoshinoya Tokyo

Hoshinoya Tokyo offers one of the most relaxing ryokan experiences in Japan. With polished wooden interiors and tatami flooring throughout the establishment, the whole inn welcomes an ambiance of serenity in the midst of a busy city.

It was also awarded a spot in the World’s Best Awards 2020 Top Hotels in Tokyo by the Meredith Corporation.

Andon Ryokan

Andon Ryokan prides itself as Tokyo’s first designer ryokan–a modern take on the traditional Japanese inn made to welcome and introduce foreigners to Japanese culture. With a quaint interior decorated with antiques and accessories that bring a homey feel, guests are sure to feel comfortable.

Need some help with your booking? Contact us at info@mai-ko.com.

Planning your trip? Use our Things to Do in Asakusa Map to navigate the area and our Things to Do in Tokyo Map for a complete guide to the city's top attractions.

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Day 4: Romantic Getaway-Hakone 

Spend a romantic day in Hakone.

Beloved for its parks, stunning mountain views, and relaxing onsens, Hakone is a wondrous mountain resort town perfect for every Japan honeymoon itinerary. Check out this Onsen Map around Japan for more information.

Thanks to its relaxing onsen and exciting activities, it’s been known as a great day trip and a perfect couple’s getaway for years.

Spend the whole day soaking in one of the many private onsens in Hakone, such as Gora and Yumoto. Or, explore the area on a bike with your partner to experience its beauty and charm.

You can also have a relaxing overnight stay at Hakone at some of the best-rated ryokans in the area! You can always take the bullet train to Kyoto Station on Day 5.

Looking for a place to stay in Hakone?

Gora Kadan

Gora Kadan in Hakone Gora is a 4-star ryokan located on the grounds of the former summer villa that was once owned by a member of the Imperial Family.

Gora Kadan features a fusion of tradition and modernity. The former Imperial estate is considered one of the National Park’s most coveted jewels and was once a favorite retreat of the Kaninnomiya Family.

Hakone Suishoen

Hakone Suishoen was built as a second home for the aristocratic Mitsui Family in the Taisho Era, right at the beginning of the 20th century. Today, it is a 5-star stay that preserves its legacy and history, as a registered tangible cultural asset.

Want to know more? Check out our Luxury Ryokans list and the Best Budget-Friendly Stays in Tokyo!

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Day 5: Kyoto

On the fifth day, we're in Kyoto!

For a complete guide to Kyoto's must-visit locations, click here to see the Things to Do in Kyoto Map.

After Tokyo, Kyoto is the second-well-visited location in Japan. So you can't skip Kyoto on your Japan honeymoon itinerary. With its timeless appeal and romantic ambiance, Kyoto will add an extra element of romance to your Japan honeymoon vacation.

Be amazed by the Kinkakuji Temple.

Kick off the 5^th day of your Japan honeymoon trip on a high note by visiting the awe-inspiring Golden Pavilion.

Take a Kinkakuji Walking Tour to feel its wonderfully serene ambiance and snap a photo of the pavilion with its reflection in the still pond. And don't forget to hold your partner's hand while you explore the area.

Get a Japanese honeymoon wedding photoshoot in Kyoto.

Once you’re done with your Geisha encounter, you and your partner can dress up in traditional Japanese wedding attire and take your photos professionally. You may have your shots taken inside or in any of Kyoto’s verdant and remarkable parks.

If you want a friendly option, opt for a professional kimono shoot. The staff can still take beautiful pictures with a high-resolution camera, and you'll receive the picture in a photo frame—a perfect souvenir! 

Meet and greet with a real-life geisha at Maikoya.

It's hard to see, let alone meet, a real professional geisha in Japan.

However, by booking an appointment with a geisha in Kyoto, you can get a real-life performance by a maiko (geisha) and a wondrous Japanese tea ceremony by them. This cultural tradition is a beautiful introduction to the timeless Japanese tradition and its associated rituals. Moreover, it includes a sample of traditional green matcha tea and other Japanese-styled sweets.

A PRIVATE Geisha (Maiko) Tea Ceremony and Performance in Kyoto is a unique and romantic Japanese honeymoon experience.

You can consider booking a geisha experience in Kyoto with a samurai experience, covering your first afternoon and evening in Kyoto.

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Day 6: Kyoto 

Hike to see monkeys at Monkey Park Iwatayama in the morning.

You can start the morning with a nice, easy hike to Iwatayama to go to the monkey park. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the top.

Please note that it does cost about 800 yen to enter. Despite this price, you’ll get an amazing view of Kyoto city. Plus, you’ll see all the monkeys around. 

Head to the house where you can buy a small snack to feed them. 

Explore the wondrous attractions of Arashiyama.

Spend at least a couple of hours exploring Arashiyama on your Japan honeymoon. From the ethereal Bamboo forest to its hidden temples, Arashiyama teems with wonders that will leave you speechless and in awe.

Consider a Bamboo Walking Tour that will also take you to nearby locations. Amazingly, the area also exudes a romantic vibe, making it a must-visit on your Japan honeymoon.

Take the romantic Sagano Bamboo Train.

In Arashiyama, don't forget to take the romantic Sagano train ride, an open-air train that takes place during the summer months. This is definitely a unique sightseeing activity, though it may not be ideal in the wintertime. For 25 minutes, the ride will show the city’s beauty in any season, such as the changing leaves in autumn and spring’s cherry blossoms.

The train ride starts at Saga Torokko station and ends at Kameoka Torokko station, following the picture-perfect Hozukyo Ravine.

See a romantic sunset near the Kamogawa River.

After the romantic train ride, head back to the city to go to the Kamogawa River.

If the water is low, challenge one another to cross the Kamogawa River on the lovely turtle-shaped stones. Afterward, head to a balcony overlooking the river, grab a drink, and watch the sunset beautifully. 

With its tranquil feel, it's a great spot to escape city life and enjoy a romantic stroll with your partner.

Get wonderfully lost in the early evening in Gion.

While you can end the night early, visit Gion, the city’s largest geisha district. Check out this Gion Walking Tour Map to discover key locations.

It feels like a step back in time, with its historic alleys and tea houses in the soft and beautiful evening glow. You can see Geishas here or take a romantic walk by historic alleys and houses. Cap off your exploration with a comfortable ride in a rickshaw. 

For a sure-fire way to meet a Geisha in this area, learn about the Gion District and Geisha, book a memorable geisha show or a tour here.

Stay at a cozy and atmospheric Kyoto ryokan

Book at least a night’s stay at a highly-rated Kyoto ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn that usually features a hot spring private bath. It’s a romantic experience with a delectable dinner banquet of the freshest seasonal ingredients. And did we mention that the accommodations and services are second to none?

Did you know that the best ryokans are in Kyoto? Check out some of them below!

Hoshinoya Kyoto

Hoshinoya Kyoto is located a short distance from the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and is praised for its picturesque atmosphere, surrounded by sakura and a captivating walkway covered in moss that leads guests around the property. The traditional Japanese inn takes great pride in their kaiseki dinners, which are prepared by their Michelin Star Chef using local and seasonal ingredients.

Tawaraya

Tawaraya Ryokan is considered one of the finest, if not the finest, in Kyoto and perhaps all of Japan. The 300-year-old Japanese inn is the oldest in Kyoto and has since been frequented by people of prominence--one of which was Steve Jobs.

Tawaraya has a reputation for its high quality, attentive, and personalized service that has stemmed from accommodating aristocrats back in the Edo Period, leaving no space for compromise in their services and dining experience.

Hiiragiya Ryokan

Hiiragiya Ryokan is one of the oldest and most beloved inns in Japan. The traditional inn has been hosting prominent personalities--writers, artists, and politicians, as well as members of the Imperial Family, since its establishment in 1818.

Notably, Nobel Prize-winning novelist Yasunari Kawabata, and noted author Junichiro Tanizaki, consider Hiiragiya as their “home away from home”, as well as celebrities such as Charlie Chaplin and Elizabeth Taylor.

Gion Hatanaka

Located right in the heart of a district that treasures geisha culture, Gion Hatanaka stands out as it offers maiko evenings and regular geisha entertainment where guests can observe the traditional dances and performances. If you’re a fan, this is the place for you to play maiko drinking games first hand, and learn about the samurai and sword dancing.

Looking for more? Check out our lists of the best ryokans in Kyoto!

• 10 Best Ryokans in Kyoto
• 4 Budget-Friendly Ryokans in Kyoto
• 5 Luxury Ryokans in Kyoto

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Day 7: Kyoto

Continuing our Kyoto honeymoon, we stayed Nishiki Market in the morning, then headed towards west for the famous temple and shrines. 

For a more complete Kyoto guide, check out this Kyoto Map to discover all the must-see locations.

 Indulge in a tasty fresh breakfast at Nishiki Market.

A fantastic way to start the 7^th day of your Japan honeymoon is to visit the tantalizing Nishiki Market. It’s home to a ton of aromatic and savory street food as well as fresh cooking ingredients.

A Nishiki Market Walking Tour is the best way to eat through this area. Eat as much as possible, so you and your partner will have plenty of energy throughout the day.

Lined by over 100 shops and stalls, this 5- block shopping street, known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," is the best spot in the city to score seasonal specialties and food, like sushi, dried seafood, pickles, and Japanese sweets. Built in 1310, this market is also a historic spot that should be on your Japan honeymoon itinerary. 

Become samurai and ninja as a couple at the Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum.

Around the corner of the Nishiki Market, you will find Kyoto's most popular museum and experience venue: Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum. Ever wanted to become a warrior? Make your dream of becoming a brave warrior a reality by joining the samurai test-cutting experience at the Kyoto Samurai & Ninja Museum.

You’ll wear a real samurai warrior, use authentic samurai swords to slice tatami mat, and learn Tameshigiri—a centuries-old samurai practice.

This is a great way to teach yourself and your partner some tricks in self-defense. And, besides, it's a cool and unique date you won't experience back home. As a couple, you can become a ninja, learn sword fighting, or simply take the history tour and watch a samurai show.

Explore the amorous Kiyomizudera.

Be mesmerized by the Instagram-worthy grounds of Kiyomizudera. While inside the area, wash your hands using the sacred water for good health and longevity. From there, look for the love stones at the nearby Jishu Temple and observe how locals pray for true love.

Also, spend some time on a Kiyomizudera Walking Tour to admire the architecture and natural backdrop of the area.

Hike the red sacred gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha.

Before nighttime, hold your partner’s hand, and make it a goal to hike up and down the whole length of the visually appealing red tori gates.

You can try to take a Fushimi Inari Shrine Walking Tour to get an introduction to Shintoism, meanings, and symbols, and go to the significant and famous areas of the shrine.

It’s definitely one of the most romantic things to do on your Japan honeymoon getaway. The path may seem endless, but it's nonetheless a great way to have an optimistic conversation about your future plans with your partner.

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Day 5-7 Kyoto Itinerary Guide

Looking for more places to stay in Kyoto?

Check out our list for the Best Places to Stay in Kyoto so you can figure out which neighborhood would suit you best!

Arashiyama Benkei

Arashiyama Benkei is a traditional Japanese ryokan located along the banks of Katsura River, in western Kyoto. It’s the perfect walking distance from the main tourist attractions in Arashiyama, making it a great stay for those who wish to explore the town. 

Arashiyama Benkei has been recognized for its exceptional service and has been awarded multiple accolades including the Traveler’s Choice Award by TripAdvisor from 2017 to 2019, and was listed in the Top 25 Japanese Ryokan/B&B accommodation.

Seikoro Ryokan

The cozy Japanese ryokan is known for its exceptional hospitality and attentive service. The guest rooms have since been refurbished to incorporate more modern elements and comforts, with a sitting area that offers views into its delightful garden.

That staff’s attention to detail during a stay is sure to impress along with the multi-course kaiseki dinner. Seikoro Ryokan is also ideally located near historical sites like Kiyomizu, a temple that has been declared as a World Heritage Site. Seikoro Ryokan is also pet-friendly!

If you're looking for more ryokans, we recommend reading our list for 10 Best Ryokans in Kyoto and 5 Luxury Ryokans in Kyoto.

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Day 8: Romantic day trip in Nara

Take a day trip to the lovely Nara.

From Osaka, go to Nara and check out the world-famous deer park. Spend some time there feeding the friendly animals with special deer biscuits. The creatures there are surprisingly friendly and will even show their appreciation after giving them some treats. Then, explore the districts and iconic temples that make Nara a must-see on your Japan honeymoon.

Afterwards, you can head to Osaka!

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Day 8: Romantic Getaway-Osaka

A visit to Osaka is an absolute must on your Japan honeymoon. For years, Osaka has been known for its tasty cuisine and romantic attractions, making it a great destination for those who are on their Japan honeymoon.

Learn how to cook Japanese food in Osaka.

Learn of the art of Japanese cooking while wearing a kimono at Maikoya Osaka. Here, a friendly English-speaking instructor will teach you how to cook an array of Japanese staples in the heart of Japan's culinary capital, including Miso Soup, Tamagoyaki, and a whole lot more.

Of course, it will also teach you how to be an expert in making sushi.

Experience the sights and sounds of Dotonbori.

Dotonbori is a beloved canal with an all-around buzzing ambiance, restaurants, street food, shops, and catchy neon signs, such as the Glico Man. Even if you’re a big-time spender, you’ll want to include this pit stop in your Japan honeymoon itinerary.

There are many things to do in Osaka at night, but a Dotonbori Food & Fun Walking Tour is highly recommended. You’ll get a Glico Man selfie, eat fresh seafood, enjoy a river cruise, and sample a variety of Osakan street food.

And, despite its electric ambiance, a stroll here will still feel romantic.

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Day 10: Last Day in Japan: Osaka

Thrill your senses at Universal Studios Japan.

Universal Studios is like Disneyland on steroids, with rides 10 times more thrilling than its Disney counterparts. Explore the Wizarding World or enter the anime universe of fan favorites, such as Sailor Moon, Death Note, and Attack on Titan. Of course, the theme park is loaded with awesome sights as well.

Day 8-10 Osaka and Nara itinerary guide

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the most romantic honeymoon in Japan?

Japan offers a variety of locations for honeymooners: Bustling Tokyo, traditional Kyoto, and romantic locations like Hakone and Nara. The list can go on and on.

How long is a honeymoon in Japan?

Depending on your budget, a honeymoon in Japan can last a week or two. A two-week honeymoon allows for a more relaxed travel schedule.

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Location for Maikoya Tokyo

Location for Maikoya Kyoto

Location for Maikoyo Osaka

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- Click here to see Things to Do in Kyoto Map -

- Click here to see GION Walking Tour Map - 

- Click here to see Things to Do in Tokyo Map -

- Click here to see Things to Do in Asakusa Map -

-Click here to see for an Onsen Map around Japan-