Working as a receptionist in a luxury hotel in Kyoto opened my eyes to how popular Japan is as a honeymoon destination for newlyweds.
Well, truthfully, I didn’t need to work in a luxury hotel to know that Japan was a beloved destination for couples and newlyweds, though it was an eye-opener to see the extent to which this was true. At times, it felt as though every second check-in guest was a honeymoon couple, and they’d often leave reviews about how the zen and tranquil serenity of Kyoto had completely enchanted them and made for the perfect romantic escape from their hectic lives back home.
A Country Built For Couples
One thing I’ve noticed about Japan compared to other countries is their adoration for all things “kawaii.” Whether it’s Tokyo’s pet cafe craze or Sapporo’s lavender gardens, there is an appreciation for pretty things. Such concepts tend to promote romantic love and attract couples from high school teens to elderly grandparents. It’s common to see photo spots decorated in love hearts and roses in popular destinations such as the Umeda Sky Building in Osaka, encouraging couples to take cute photos together and get their names engraved on heart lockets.
Romantic Christmas Winters
Despite being a secular nation, Japan embraces the Christmas spirit more intensely than many Christian countries! This is because of their love for festivities and, as mentioned earlier, all things kawaii. From pretty lights to Christmas trees to decorative ornaments, cute reindeer, and generous snowfall (especially in Sapporo!), Japan has the whole Xmas package going on! Again, the atmosphere is truly enchanting for couples and newlyweds, and if you attend an event like the Blue Light Illumination at Yoyogi Park during this season, you’re in real magical honeymoon territory!
Embracing Japanese Culture Together
Japan is a country abundant in food streets and quaint, narrow walking paths. As the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto is a popular destination for couples who just want to stroll together and enjoy the lively atmosphere of energetic food stall workers, cultural souvenir stores, and beautiful traditional architecture. To really embrace the culture, you could rent out some fashionable kimono outfits and book yourselves in a private tea ceremony.
Memorable Ryokan Stays
While there is an abundance of hotel accommodations to choose from for your honeymoon in Japan, I would absolutely include a ryokan stay for part of, if not the entire trip. Ryokans are traditional Japanese inns that are designed to replicate the house structures of ancient Japan while also providing traditional Japanese hospitality. They are often located in scenic places, such as near Mt. Fuji, and will have services and facilities like set breakfasts and dinners, onsen (hot spring baths), and massage therapy.
Romantic Getaways
With the incredible natural scenery on offer all across Japan, it’s no wonder people are booking their honeymoon stays well in advance. Beautiful seaside views and mountainous wonders are just some of the many breathtaking landscapes you’ll find in this island nation. Taking the chair lift up Amanohashidate or strolling along Matsushima Bay are some of the most scenic experiences you’ll ever have, so why not do it with your significant other? Indeed, Japan’s huge variety of romantic getaway destinations makes it one of the most in-demand honeymoon destinations on Earth, so don’t delay your post-wedding preparations and get your itinerary in order now!
To learn more about life in Japan, check out my book: The Japanese Pursuit of Perfection. This book features my most profound observations of Japanese culture and society as a foreign resident. Available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Grab your copy today!