A Few of the Most Romantic Places in Japan
by Laura Studarus
Looking for something special? you've come to the right country.
It’s February, so we suspect that love might be on your mind. Maybe you enjoy Valentine’s Day in all its hearts, cards, and candy glory. Or perhaps for you, romance is more of a year-around vibe. Either way, it probably won’t surprise you to learn that Japan has you covered. From sacred temples with love-inspired backstories, to otherworldly environments that you’ll have to see to believe, there are plenty of places scattered throughout the country that will leave you swooning. Whether you’re planning a special Valentine’s date with your significant other, or just looking to treat yourself right, read on to learn more about a few of our favorite romantic spots across Japan.
Kiyomizu-Dera, Eastern Kyoto
Kiyomizu-Dera is where the phrase “take the plunge” originated, as seekers would visit this temple during the Edo period in order to make their wish come true after leaping from a 43-foot platform. While that practice has (thankfully) been outlawed, today visitors can seek prosperity by drinking from one of three streams of the Otowa Waterfall, which is believed to grant you either longevity, success in school, or a strong love life. Drinking from all three is considered greedy—so choose wisely, especially if you visit with your partner.
Meoto Iwa, Mie Prefecture
Meoto Iwa, or the ‘Wedded Rocks,’ is a romantic landmark in the Mie Prefecture. According to the Shinto religion, the rocks embody linked deities, Izanagi and Izanami. Today, the site is used as a symbolic prayer for marital bliss and security. For the ultimate romantic stroll, schedule your visit for daybreak between May and July, when the sun rises directly between the two rocks.
Okinawa
If your idea of romance starts with sand between your toes, then make Okinawa your first stop. The prefecture is comprised over 150 islands—so beach real estate is plentiful. Hit the water and snorkel through the blue cave, a tunnel-like opening in the rock (and popular photo spot) that can only be reached through the ocean. Or go exploring on Kourijima Island, also known as Love Island (yes, really!), in part due to its heart shape rocks on Teenu Beach, which some believe represent the Okinawan Adam and Eve. Finally, if you’re ready to go all-in and make the big commitment, it’s worth noting that Okinawa is home to Coralvita Chapel, a sleek glass chapel with a view facing the water that shouts, “I do.”
Hotel Chinzanso, Tokyo
Whether you’re booking a visit in one of its lux 260 rooms, a treatment in Yu The Spa, or just going for a stroll in its gardens, Tokyo’s Hotel Chinzanso is the perfect romantic urban oasis. For six centuries, the property has been known for its wild camellias, a sense of wonder and opulence that’s still captured in its modern gardens. Visit throughout the day to witness their “sea of clouds,” an art installation that blows mist across the gardens to highlight its otherworldly beauty. Be sure to pay a special visit to the three-story pagoda, a structure that’s overseen various locations in Japan since 1420.
Nonomiya Shrine, Kyoto
Japan is filled with love shrines, tiny sacred spots that are believed to knit lovers together forever. Located in the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest of Kyoto, Nonomiya, dedicated to the Goddess of the sun, offers protection for marriage and childbirth. To make your dreams and wishes come true within a year, just rub the turtle stone and watch your future unfold.
Nara Deer Park
Maybe your idea of romance doesn’t involve a significant other—but rather having the opportunity to romanticize your life. Regardless of whether you visit alone or in pairs, Nara Deer Park the perfect place to step out of the ordinary. The area is home to 1,200 of the most famous deer in the world, and is considered to be holy. For the ultimate photo op, or the opportunity to feed the deer rice crackers (sold around the park for ¥150 per bundle), visit in the morning when it’ll be likely that more deer will be present. And if you simply must extend your visit, try booking a stay at one of the Ryokans that line the park. Hotels like New Wakasa, Kotono yado Musashino, and Tsukihitei offer a tradition-steeped accompaniment to your magical day.
Take the Romance Train
Yes, really! The Sagano Romance Train offers a 25-minute ride from the Saga Torokko station to Kameoka Torokko Station in Kyoto. Along the way, you’ll enjoy some of the area’s lushest nature from the comfort of a luxurious, old-fashioned train. You can take the train round-trip, but you can also score a few extra romance points with your partner by paring the experience with a leisurely Hozugawa river cruise.
Meiji Naruhodo Factory
On Valentine’s day in Japan, it’s the women who give chocolate to men—not the other way around. But regardless of who is doing the candy gifting in your relationship, everyone will enjoy a trip to the Meiji Naruhodo factory. Located half way between Kyoto and Osaka (just look for the wall of chocolate which can be spotted from the train!), Meiji produces the lion’s share of the country’s favorite sweet. Their signature milk chocolate is far and away a national favorite—keep an eye out for the ubiquitous label in every convenience store and candy shop.
Please note: Tours cannot be booked overseas. If you’re in the country, you can phone ahead for day of reservations.
Anywhere During Sakura Season
We’re not going to shock you by saying this, but, seeing Japan dusted in a sea of light pink blossoms is deeply romantic. Since the bloom hits different parts of the country at different times, it’s worth keeping an eye on the blossom tracker before making plans to avoid disappointment. But once you’ve locked in your location, go wild! Book the Seven Stars train to be transported across five of Kyushu’s prefectures, dressed in their technicolor blossom glory. Wander around Tokyo’s Meguro River, where trees create a perfect arch above and venders sell everything from pink champagne to cheese toast. Picnic under the blooms in Kyoto’s Yodogawa Riverside Park. Or literally just walk down the street wherever you are. This is the ultimate choose your own romantic adventure, and when it comes to sakura, there are no wrong answers.