Planning a romantic vacation to Japan? We have curated some romantic date ideas in Japan for you. Check it out!
When you fall in love and are willing to spend the rest of your life with someone, you often think about how to adore your partner unlimitedly.
From friends to the internet, your searching is all about how to approach and ask for a romantic date.
But, sometimes, rather than giving you an appropriate idea, your friends get busy teasing you!!
However, the internet has no option for teasing you, and you may end up browsing this question there.
Finally!! You and I, who are far away from each other, have met here.
And, of course, I am going to help you no matter what.
In this writing, I will mention some romantic date ideas in Japan that will surely impress your bae.
Don’t forget to explore each dating idea cause you never know what you are missing ahead.
Romantic Date Ideas In Japan for Embracing Each Other
Each year hundreds of couples come to Japan to have a romantic trip.
As this country has so many dating spots, you may get confused about where to go and not.
So, I have listed down some romantic places in Japan that are worth visiting along with a few ideas on how to impress your partner, so be sure to try some out.
Anyway, you will have these date ideas depending on different city spots.
Date Ideas In Tokyo to Make Your Journey Memorable
There are plenty of romantic date spots in Tokyo that you will be mesmerized by.
I will explain each one by one, and you may choose as per your interest.
1. Ride on A Boat Together in Chidorigafuchi Moat
One of the most famous romantic places in Japan is Chidorigafuchi Park, in Chiyoda ward, Tokyo.
With twelve moats surrounding the Imperial palace, Chidorigafuchi is a beautiful scenic spot, especially during the cherry blossom seasons.
You can start your date by taking a train to this spot, and after getting off, you will have to take a short walk to this place.
From the end of March to early April, the pathway around the moat looks like a pink wonderland, with over 700 meters long trail of cherry trees.
The walkway is within a 5 minutes walking distance from Kudanshita station or Hanzomon station.
Don’t forget to hold your lover’s hand while entering this colorful and stunning alley, as it will give you the same feeling of walking down the aisle.
While strolling, how about sharing a wired earphone and listening to “Can’t help falling in love” by Elvis Presley.
Yeah, I know that most people now use wireless earbuds, but hey!! The wire can make you two get closer to each other more!!
And, the song will make your partner blush and happy at the same time.
After experiencing this magical moment, you can rent a boat to float on the Chidorigafuchi canal.
The surface of the moat gets completely covered in pink petals during spring, creating the illusion of an ethereal view.
You may see someone proposing on this place as it is also a popular destination for a marriage proposal.
So, if you are planning to get on your knees during this day out, you can do so.
But, remember that the best view will be found in the spring season. Hence you should plan your trip during this period of the year.
2. Give The Typical Dress Up Trend A Twist
Wearing matching dresses has been a trend for ages between couples.
How about giving it a new twist?
Well, I am talking about wearing the traditional Kimono dress. As you probably never wear such cloth, it will give you two new experiences.
There are various Kimono rental stores in Tokyo, such as Yae Kimono Rental Asakusa, Kimono Tokyo Harajuku, Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo Asakusa shop, etc.
You can rent Kimono dresses from these shops and bring the typical clothing trend to another level.
If your other half already loves to wear matching dresses, this idea will work out no matter what.
I hope you will capture many happy moments between you two, cause every time you see these pictures, you will remember how great this romantic date was.
I want to mention that depending on the shops, the rental price of Kimono may differ a bit.
Also, the total cost depends on whether the service includes hairstyling and accessories or not.
Yet, you can expect to pay around $10 to $30 in Tokyo.
This price contains a store assistant who will help you pick the best Kimono according to your body shape and also assist you in getting dressed up.
3. Get Crazy with The Fun Rollercoaster Ride at Tokyo Dome City
A rollercoaster ride has two different sides of adventure.
Some people close their eyes and hold on to the bars tight in fear of losing their life.
On the other hand, some people raise their hands in the air and let the wind blow through their hair and mind.
No matter which type you and your partner are, this breathtaking ride will make you two embrace each other.
While writing, one line from the song Perfect comes to my mind instantly.
“Fighting against all odds, I know we’ll be alright this time, Darling just hold my hand, be my girl, and I will be your man.”
Anyway, you can take your bae to the Tokyo Dome City and ride the Thunder Dolphin Roller Coaster to get this thrilling adventure.
Within 1.5 hours from Tokyo, there is another theme park called Fuji-Q Highland, and you may consider this one too.
However, note that this park has some of the scariest rides in the world that go from 0 to 172km/hour in 1.8 seconds, With 121° drops.
Moreover, there is a haunted house that takes around 1 hour to escape.
So, what do you say? Can you escape it?
It may sound scary, but imagine you two holding each other and running for your life, and at the end, you guys make it to the exit.
This experience will remind you that, no matter what situation, you will protect your partner and cross the hardship of life.
4. Chill Out at a Flower-Themed Cafe
In case you are planning an indoor date to spend a relaxing day, you can go to Aoyama Flower Market.
It is both a flower shop and a tea cafe too. They sell seasonal fresh flower bouquets, while the teahouse serves different food, teas, and dessert.
As the cafe is decorated with plenty of flowers, you will feel like sitting in a heavenly garden.
You can take some cute couple photos while enjoying a cup of tea together.
In Tokyo, you will find three outlets of this shop, and they are located in Aoyama, Kichijoji, and Akasaka.
Each shop offers a slightly different menu with something special.
If you go to the Aoyama outlet, you will find a Tea House Special Omurice which costs around $13.60. The Kichijoji branch serves Flower Parfait specials at nearly $7.70.
And the Akasaka one offers seasonal flower French toast at around $9.10 with fruits and edible flower toppings.
This flower market is so popular among locals and tourists that you may have to queue in a line for 30 to 40 minutes, especially on weekend days.
Please note that only the Akasaka outlet accepts reservations and only for dinner hours.
And, the other two branches don’t take pre-booking yet.
5. Go To Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja AndTie Your Fate Together
Have you ever wished for true love, just like what happens in the storybook?
Or, you wanna wish for both of your togetherness till death.
Well, Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja can make your wish come true!
It’s a Japanese Shinto Shrine located in the historical Kawagoe City, which is one hour away from Tokyo by train.
This shrine is about 1,500 years old and a famous en-musubi (tying of bonds) place.
Each year, plenty of couples come here with the hope of a strong relationship blessed by the gods.
A cool thing to do here is fishing for Omikuji (random fortune written on paper).
The Omikuji predicts a person’s probability of wishes coming true, finding a great match, or other general matters like health, fortune, etc.
These fortune papers are kept in a red snapper doll that you can fish for around $2.70, and you can keep them as a lucky charm.
Don’t forget to pick up the red pencil from the shrine’s gift shop.
It’s specially designed to symbolize a red string that will connect you and your lover in an unbreakable relationship.
The more you will use the pencil, the closer you two will come.
You know what, I think you shouldn’t miss this opportunity, cause who knows, maybe what you wished for will come true!!
The best time to make a visit to this shrine is during the Wind Chime Festival, which is held between July and September.
At this feast, over 2,00 Edo-style wind chimes are hung up to clink in the breeze.
You and your significant one can write down wishes on strips of wood and then hang them up on the chimes.
I hope you won’t miss this couple activity if you plan your trip during this celebration.
6. Arrange a Special Dinner Date in a Fine Japanese Restaurant
“The way to a person’s heart is through the stomach.”
So, what do you think?
Isn’t making your bae’s tummy happy a great shortcut to the heart?
Tokyo is a city with endless dining options, from affordable Michelin star restaurants to super cheap ramen eating stalls.
If you are on a budget, you can consider going to Tsurutontan, Jimbocho Den, Ume no Hana Aoyama, Kobe Beef Kaiseki 511, New York Grill, Manten Sushi, etc.
The food of these restaurants has fine qualities when the cost is affordable.
Personally, I like the New York Grill, as it has a romantic aura with the city view.
Sky Restaurant 634 (Musashi) also has a similar view and vibe to make your dinner date special and memorable.
While enjoying the delicious dishes, you two can share future plans, chit-chat about past lives, laugh at each other’s childishness.
So, arranging a dinner date after doing the other couple’s activities in Tokyo can put a happy ending to your long dating day out.
7. Paddle Around Together in A Swan Boat in Shinobazu Pond
The Shinobazu Pond is one of the perfect romantic spots for dating in Taito City, Tokyo.
This lake is filled with stunning lotus and is located in the heart of Ueno Park.
If you want to spend some quality time with your partner on a quiet morning or in the evening, you may come to this spot.
Anyway, the lake has three sections, a duck pond which is inhabited by ducks and other local waterbirds, a boat pond, and a lotus pond.
And, there is a spot between lotus and boat pond where you can rent paddle boats from.
You will find three types of boats available for lease: rowboats, swan boats, and cycling boats.
The rowboats have no shelter and provide an open view of the lake, but it requires some skill to paddle it.
If you ask for my opinion, I suggest you rent the swan boat as it has a shelter that will give you two more privacy.
In addition, this boat is easy to paddle, so rather than focusing on controlling the boat, you can concentrate on your private time together.
As the lotus flowers hit full bloom in July and August, I recommend you go there during this period.
Since it’s a popular dating place, it would be better if you chose the morning time because the pond is less crowded at this time compared to other hours.
Another noteworthy thing is the boat rental facility operating hours changes monthly. So, make sure to check out these informations before visiting there.
8. Go Ice Skating
The two of you probably don’t know how to skate, but trying to learn by holding each other in arms can create a similar romantic skating date scene from the movie “Happy Gilmore.”
Even Japanese couples find this kind of activity cute and fun, making them come closer to each other.
Sweet & Romantic!! Don’t you agree?
Anyway, there are loads of ice skating rinks in Tokyo including, Urban Dock Lalaport Toyosu, Akasaka Sacas, Tokyo Skytree Town Ice Skating Park, Futako Tamagawa Rise, and Tokyo Midtown.
Since ice skating is a winter activity, it would be a perfect treat if you are already looking for things to do during Japan’s cold season.
Ohh, I forgot to tell you that most of my mentioned rinks also offer other fun activities, so you can consider those things if you are not comfortable with skating.
Also, you can enjoy winter illumination that takes place from December to March in most parts of Japan.
9. Strolling Around The Hamarikyu Garden
Hama Rikyu is such an attractive landscaped garden with seawater ponds that changes level with tides.
It also features a teahouse on an island where you two can take a rest and adore the picturesque scenery.
Not all couples love to do crazy things, and if you agree with this saying, spending an evening here can be your type of having fun.
As gardens are considered one of the most romantic spots among couples of all ages, I couldn’t resist mentioning one.
If you are young, seeing the old couples in a park can make you believe that true love does exist.
You can realize that every couple can have issues, but you can make it to the end by understanding and appreciating each other.
By the way, Hama Rikyu looks delightful in every season. It offers many maples, ginkgo, and other trees that show their elegant colors between late November and early December.
Moreover, late February brings plum blossoms while spring presents cherry blossoms.
Several other flowers bloom in spring, like fields of peony and canola blossoms.
Hence, no matter which season you come here, you will find a romantic nature that can captivate your lover’s heart.
In case you are short on money after shopping and other expense and looking for cheap date ideas in Tokyo, you can come here.
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10. Enjoy A Dolphin Show at Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa
Maxell Aqua Park is an indoor aquarium located in Shinagawa Prince Hotel.
This place is well-known for its spectacular dolphin show with lighting effects.
To experience a dream-like night show, you shouldn’t miss it anyway.
Besides this, it features a wide variety of sea creatures, around 25,000 fish of 350 different species, including jellyfish, colorful tropical fish, manta rays, penguins, seals, and many more.
This theme park is not only popular among families but also couples.
What’s more interesting is that you can relish a candle night event called “WHITE CHAPEL Christmas Candle” and other things in this hotel.
For each piece of information, you may visit this site.
Well, along with Tokyo, there are many other romantic spots in Japan.
Now, I will talk about what you can do in Kyoto, a city with rich culture and various world heritage sites.
Romantic Things To Do For Couples in Kyoto
Kyoto is not only a city of festivity and elegance but also a cheap place to live in.
I said cheap because you only need to pay around $32 to $50 per night (average quality resort) in Kyoto.
Okay, let’s see what type of romantic date you can arrange here for your other half.
11. A Rickshaw Tour on The Picturesque Road
Explore the beauty of Kyoto like never before, by rickshaw!!
With an authentic Japanese rickshaw, you can wander around the endless bamboo forest at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
At the same time, you can cherish the wonderful view of Arashiyama’s mountain and its river.
You also have other options like visiting the shrines of the Arashiyama district, exploring the wooden buildings and alleys in Higashiyama district with the rickshaw.
So, you can pick any site as per your preferences.
If you get lucky, you may spot a geisha along the way.
Therefore, take your eyes from your sweetheart’s face and focus on the street sometime!!
I know it’s hard, but if you are not interested in a geisha, you can keep looking at your lover!!
However, at least don’t forget to take some pretty pictures occasionally because who knows when you can have such a romantic ride again.
12. Spend a Peaceful Time Beside Kamogawa River
Kamogawa riverside is especially famous among couples as a romantic dating area.
You will see lots of pairs coming here to have a peaceful time together.
In the evening, the river is illuminated by the nearby restaurants, and you will surely love the view.
You may listen to the song “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” while admiring the moment of togetherness.
Some turtle-shaped stepping stones are placed to cross the river in the Demachiyanagi section, where you two can act childish by trying to hop on the rocks.
I am sure that your date will be filled with lots of memory, emotion, care, and love.
13. Visit The Himeji Castle
You may have seen a picture of Himeji Castle on the internet, but you will be stunned by the scene if you visit there in person.
How come a picture comes to life, only this question will come out from your mouth.
It’s the first two sites in Japan that were added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1993 along with Horyu-ji Temple in Nara.
Himeji Castle is also known as White Heron Castle because of its white and elegant appearance.
You can learn about its rich history from a local guide and explore the castle with your partner hand in hand.
After roaming around, you may enjoy a lunch buffet with Japanese and Western dishes at a nearby restaurant.
Be noted that it is a highly famous cherry blossom spot, so you should expect a lot of crowds during this time.
14. A Tour to Kyoto Imperial Palace
Live like a King & Queen for a day at Kyoto Imperial Palace!!
Although you can’t be the real emperor of this royal residence, at least you can imagine yourself as one.
A guided tour will take you across the accessible areas of the palace, from Imperial Library to the Empress quarters and the throne room.
You can also visit the nearby park that is filled with lush flora and cherry blossom trees.
Moreover, arranging an afternoon picnic at the park is not a bad idea at all, which will give you guys quality time to relax.
15. Sagano Romantic Train Journey
When the train’s name itself carries the word “Romantic”, you can imagine how your journey will be with it.
Sagano Romantic train has five carriages, the opened one’s called “The Rich” which offers the best view of the outside.
The operating time of this train is from March 1 to December 29, so choose in which season you wanna enjoy your ride.
If you decide to come in spring, you will be mesmerized by the cherry blossom, while summer provides a scene of green leaves and autumn changes the color of leaves, especially the Japanese Maples.
And, finally, the winter offers a snow-white landscape.
Romantic Date Ideas in Hokkaido: Take A Chill Pill
Suppose an argument happened between the two of you, and you want to make up for that.
In that case, taking your partner to a cold place like Hokkaido can cool down the situation!!
I am just saying it because it is one of the coldest places in Japan during the winter season.
But, no matter what period of year you choose to travel to this city, you will be able to set a romantic date with your significant other here.
16. Star Gazing on Your Partner’s Lap at Lake Mashu
Can you tell me when you last caught a glimpse of a starry night?
Maybe you don’t even remember because it’s so hard to find them among the blinding city lights.
However, going to Lake Mashu can grant your long-awaited wish of catching a star.
Lake Mashu is situated in Akan Mashu National Park, Hokkaido.
You can appreciate the panoramic scene of a starry night in the warm embrace of your babe.
From the observation deck, exploring the picturesque view of the lake will give you an unforgettable experience.
You may finally realize how it feels living like the lyrics of Rihanna’s Diamond song.
“You are a shooting star I see, a vision of ecstasy when you hold me,
I am alive, we are like diamonds in the sky.”
17. Follow The Moon By Ridding The Mount Moiwa Ropeway
When the night is still young, how about chasing after the moon together!!
Yes, if you don’t want to miss the magical sight of Japan’s splendid night, you should immediately pack your bag to take off to Mount Moiwa.
This mountain is situated only 30 minutes away from Hokkaido’s city center.
There you can take Sapporo Mt. Moiwa Ropeway and catch the blinking night city view from above.
Riding it with your sweetheart will create a mystical moment when the moon will guard you along the way at night.
Other Romantic Things to Do in Japan
Till now, I categorized the spots according to major cities in Japan.
It’s time to learn about some special romantic places which are situated in different cities.
18. Walk Through The Colorful Flower of Hitachi Seaside Park
When you want to lose yourself amidst a flower paradise, Hitachi Seaside Park is the place where you should head to.
This park is famous for its blue nemophila and kochia. Around 4.5 million nemophila starts to bloom fully in late April.
On the other hand, kochia and cosmos begin to flourish at the beginning of October.
Hitachi Seaside Park is located in Ibaraki Prefecture.
Couples often come here to spend a romantic day out and walk through the garden’s blue, red and purple flowers.
Another such garden is called Hitsujiyama Park in Saitama Prefecture, which is popular for its sea of pink and purple Moss Phlox flowers.
So, you can choose either park for a date according to your travel convenience.
19. Camping Around The Fuji’s Five Lake
Get closer to nature, forgetting the hassle of city life!!
A camping day around Fuji’s Five Lake with your partner is a way to unwind together.
This lake is also known as Fujigoko in Japanese, lying at the northern base of Mount Fuji.
When you go camping together in this heavenly place, the magnificent view will give you inner peace.
Well, during the camping, how about fishing together?
It sounds like a great idea. Right?
Moreover, before heading back to the hotel room, make sure to take a relaxing bath from nearby hot springs.
It will be worth going to wash away any trace of sweat and dirt.
20. Cruising on Yokohama Bay at Night
The cool night air with sparkling light of the city can create a perfect background for a romantic dinner.
You can turn this moment more intense by choosing to dance arm in arm with your lover.
A cruise on Tokyo Bay is ideal for relishing this kind of moment.
If you are staying in Tokyo, you can take a one-hour ride to Yokohama’s Minato Mirai, where most boats and cruises debark.
It will be even better if you book a cruise on a Yakatabune.
Yakatabune is a traditional Japanese wooden restaurant boat decorated with colorful lights and lanterns.
This type of boat will give not only a romantic atmosphere but also a unique cultural experience.
You may visit this site to book a cruise from Yokohama port.
And, if you are eager to tour in a Yakatabune, check out the website of Yakatabune Fukagawa Fujimi or Shinagawa Yakatabune Funasei.
Go Strawberry Picking Together
Booking an all-you-can-eat fruit picking session is the perfect way to savor Japan’s delectable seasonal fruits and do something romantic with a special someone. Depending on which fruit is in season, you can go fruit picking year round. But if you’re going to be in Japan for spring then I highly recommend you go strawberry picking.
My favorite spot for strawberry picking in Japan is Fuchu Ichigogarien in Tokyo. If you’re in Chiba prefecture then you can go to the Keisei Rose Garden. Kamakura Kanko Strawberry Farm in the Kanagawa prefecture is also an amazing place for picking strawberries.
You will get between 30 and 60 minutes to pick strawberries at the vine and consume as much as you want when strawberry picking. In Japan, strawberries are always served with condensed milk as a dessert. So at the farm, you’ll be offered a cup of condensed milk to dip your strawberries in.
Go to a Love Shrine
Other than the normal Japanese shrines and temples, Japan is also home to some beautiful love shrines. While Japan is not a country that’s known for its romantic spots like France or Italy, Japan still has some spots that are truly romantic.
Couple cultures are huge in Japan. Everywhere you go, you’ll notice that everybody is with someone holding hands and getting mushy-mushy. Though Japanese don’t get married early they still do date in their 20s and 30s.
Love charms are a great way to express love to your partner. You can buy these love charms from pretty much any shrine or temple in Japan, but it’s preferable to visit one that focuses on love blessings if you want to receive the full blessing of the love gods.
There, you can exchange ema messages, purchase matching charms, and pray for your relationship to be successful. I’ll even be honest and say that I bought a love charm in Japan!
Conclusion
Finally, our long discussion comes to an end.
Here, I have given you 20 romantic date ideas in Japan. Each one has its own type of charm and excitement.
Now, it’s time for you to pick which ones you will go for.
Lastly, I wanna give you an idea.
Try to say “Aishitemasu” to your sweetheart, which means “I Love You” in Japanese.
Romantic Things To Do For Couples In Japan: FAQs
What to do in Tokyo for couples?
Here are some romantic activities for couples in Tokyo:
- Explore beautiful gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen or Hamarikyu Gardens.
- Visit Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea for a magical experience.
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at a fine dining restaurant or local izakayas.
- Take a scenic cruise on Tokyo Bay.
- Admire the city views from observation decks like Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower.
- Explore historic neighborhoods such as Asakusa or Yanaka.
- Relax in a Japanese onsen (hot spring).
- Attend a traditional kabuki show or theatrical performance.
- Take a romantic stroll through the city streets.
These activities offer a mix of cultural immersion, scenic beauty, and memorable experiences for couples in Tokyo.
Is Tokyo a romantic city?
Yes, Tokyo can be a romantic city for couples. While it is known for its bustling cityscape and fast-paced lifestyle, Tokyo offers a range of romantic experiences and attractions that make it an ideal destination for couples. From serene gardens and scenic parks to intimate dining experiences and stunning city views, Tokyo provides opportunities for couples to create romantic memories together.
Whether it’s enjoying a romantic dinner, taking a leisurely stroll through traditional neighborhoods, or admiring the city lights from observation decks, Tokyo offers a blend of modernity and traditional charm that can set the stage for a romantic getaway.
Is Japan a good honeymoon spot?
Japan is indeed a great honeymoon destination as this country has majestic shrines, romantic weather, refined culture, spectacular scenery, lavish gardens, and mouth-watering dishes.
Two of the best honeymoon places are Tokyo and Kyoto, where you can plan to stay and cherish every spot and activity with your newly married.
As these two cities have luxurious hotels with advanced service, you don’t even need to worry about comfortable accommodation.
Also, Hokkaido is a great place for a winter honeymoon destination with loads of fun activities, and the natural beauty will stun you too.
Each place in Japan has a picture-perfect view, and you can capture lots of cute and loving pictures with your bae.
Is Tokyo a city of love?
Despite being one of the busy cities in the world, Tokyo has a romantic side with lots of dating spots dedicated to couples.
Inokashira Park, Tokyo Tower, Odaiba Seaside Park, Konica Minolta Planetarium, Harumi waterfront Park, Tokyo Skytree, and Sumida Aquarium are famous places where couples like to spend some quality time.
So, Tokyo is undoubtedly a city of love and romance.
Do Japanese couples hug?
Like some Western countries, Japanese people don’t show physical affection at the beginning of dating.
When the relationship grows and trust builds up between couples, they show love and care through hugs and holding hands.
Although hugging each other in public is considered rude in the old generation, some young couples nowadays hug each other in public.
Yet, this sight is not seen as frequently as in the west.