Looking to surprise your partner with a romantic getaway trip to Japan? 🥰 This is everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip for your anniversary/ honeymoon in Japan!

Lucky you, with our help, your ideas can become a reality, and your couple retreat will not be another mission impossible. Indeed, this blog post is here to assist you with organising your fairy-tale vacation❣️

Whether an anniversary celebration or honeymoon, masterminding a romantic getaway trip is not a simple task. Choosing the destination is key to helping you set the tone for your holiday. Believe it or not, Japan is one of the world’s best honeymoon and anniversary destinations. You will find that love is in the air, and cupid is ready to strike another arrow, no matter the season in Japan.

The Land of the Rising Sun is home to various natural wonders, city adventures, unique cultural experiences, and charming date spots with picture-perfect sights. In other words, Japan’s rich culture, and centuries-old traditions, alongside its majestic shrines and temples, and breathtaking wilderness, are just a fraction of what the country has to offer. 

Here you will find all your heart desires; you can take a relaxing trip to the countryside, explore one of Japan’s major cities like Tokyo, or do a combination of both! The options here are infinite, with something for all tastes and preferences. There are exclusive events and cultural festivals, vibrant nightlife scenes, fashionable districts, serene shrines and temples, and awe-inspiring nature retreats where you will find emerald-green forests, epic mountains overlooking turquoise lakes, not to mention picturesque coasts blessing your holiday with rose-gold sunsets. To put it simply, there are a variety of marvellous activities and events for you to experience as a couple. Whether in Japan’s far north city of Hokkaido, a winter wonderland with all-inclusive ski resorts, or at the island’s southernmost town of Okinawa with soft sand beaches and crystal clear water, you will definitely find something that appeals to you and your partner.

It would be best to start organising your holiday 2-3 months in advance to reduce stress and anxiety if there are any last-minute changes or cancellations. For the optimal journey to Japan, we recommend learning a few phrases in the native language and reading up on social etiquette and customs.

This blog will tell you all you need to know and think about when planning an idyllic voyage to Japan.

Japan 101 👩🏻‍🏫 📚

First and foremost, there are a few things you need to know prior to travelling to Japan.

If you are anxious about the language barrier, know that while Japanese is the most generally spoken language, prominent tourist destinations and landmarks will have English guides and directions. Not only that, but you can navigate about utilising the Google Translate app, which includes live translation and support. If you don’t understand what’s printed on a menu at a typical Japanese restaurant, focus your phone camera on the page, and it will automatically translate it; the same applies to street signs or maps. A remarkable aspect of Japan is that despite the language and cultural barriers, many Japanese people will make genuine efforts to help you and make you feel welcome in their home country. You can also collect helpful information from well-known websites, including Japan Guide, or contact us at Flip Japan Guide. Our team has lived in Japan for several years, travelling across the country and gathering extensive knowledge, skills, and expertise in local tourism. If you have any queries or need help designing an itinerary, notify us via any of our social media outlets, and we would be happy to assist you!

Another vital aspect to remember is that Japan is still primarily a cash-based society, with few places accepting credit cards. However, this is slowly changing, especially after the Tokyo Olympics, which brought many reforms. You can find money exchange services in popular areas such as Shinjuku or withdraw cash from convenience stores, especially 7-Elevens, which have ATMs that accept international credit cards. Just be sure to contact your bank and authorise overseas usage!

📝 Noted everything down? Let’s get to planning! 

Step 1: What is your purpose? 🎯

One of the first things to focus on is the purpose of your romantic holiday. That includes thinking about your and your partner’s preferences and things you most want to experience and prioritise during your trip. You may want to come to the Land of the Rising Sun for the mouth-watering local cuisine, awe-inspiring castles and historical monuments, traditional ceremonies, seasonal festivals, spirited nightlife, or therapeutic “onsens” (hot springs), among other incentives.

Dining and drinking in Japan is a significant reason for you to visit the country. Did you know that Tokyo, Japan’s capital, has the most Michelin-starred restaurants on earth? That should give you an inkling of how wonderful the local cuisine and beverages are here. Not only can you find diners serving authentic homemade Japanese food but also multiple international eateries, from French bistros and Middle-Eastern specialties to Brazilian “Churrasco” with an endless buffet. There are also many affordable and equally delicious options, including all-you-can-eat/drink menus. 

Pro tip: If you wish to alleviate costs on food and beverages, dine at or order your meal via applications such as “ubereats” or “wolt” focusing on local restaurants serving Japanese delicacies. Alternatively, take a walk around your area and browse your nearest convenience store for low-cost meals and quirky snacks. 

Another possible reason to visit Japan is its vibrant nightlife. In big, dynamic cities such as Tokyo and Osaka, you will encounter various bars and izakayas with unique themes and atmospheres. These cities also offer exciting nightlife adventures; you can find hidden bars and restaurants with secret doors 🤫 Here at Flip, we provide exclusive bar-hopping and nightlife tours, promising you a memorable night in Tokyo! You can view our tours and offers here.

If you and your partner are a kid at heart, you must make a pit stop at Tokyo’s Disney Sea park and Osaka’s Universal Studios boasting exclusive attractions which will surely cast a smile or laugh on your face and blow your mind. On the other hand, Fuji Q theme park in Tokyo will be a favourite for thrill seekers. Offering wild roller coaster rides and interactive games, this place has got what it takes to keep you on your toes.

Apart from being one of the most secure countries in the world, with the dynamic capital of Tokyo being both a gastronomic paradise and fashion hub, Japanese culture and traditions span thousands of years and are truly one-of-a-kind. Besides ancient temples and shrines, and innovative museums, you can also join in other traditional cultural activities such as seasonal festivals, attending a tea ceremony, learning to make sushi, witnessing a sumo battle or baseball game, and more. Through all these activities, you’ll learn more about Japan’s rich history and renowned philosophies!

Determining your purpose will allow you to know your trip’s direction and what you need to focus on without feeling overwhelmed. Everytime you and your partner come across an exciting attraction or idea for the trip, make sure to share it and discuss your travels regularly (unless this is a big surprise, of course).

Step 2: Budget 💰

This is a significant step that will shape your entire trip. Microsoft Excel, Google sheets, or a simple notepad with a pen will be your new best mate. It would be best to break down all your expenses, including flight tickets, accommodation, food and drinks, tours, shopping, events you want to attend, and transportation costs. Here at Flip, we can alleviate the stress of organising your trip through our travel planning service. We also provide a customizable Japan starter pack covering all the essentials, such as a SIM card, tour guide booklets, and transportation card. 

Step 3: How long can you stay in Japan? 🤔

The next step is to decide the duration of your trip to Japan, referring back to your budget and purpose. You need to check your schedule and the availability of the people you will be travelling with, as some may only be able to during long weekends or public holidays. The amount of time you will stay in Japan will depend on what you want to do, how many cities you want to visit, and of course, your budget and flexibility. 

Suppose you plan on staying in Japan for a short weekend trip. In that case, we recommend you explore one of Japan’s major cities, such as Tokyo, and enjoy some romantic sightseeing, rent a kimono for a couple’s photoshoot, indulge in delicious Japanese food, and finish your daily adventures with a moonlit stroll in the restless city, soaking in the vibrant nightlife. However, if you have the chance to visit Japan for a week, then make sure to check out our perfect itinerary here. 

Travelling for the first time in Japan can be overwhelming and stressful to organise as everything will be new and unfamiliar. That is why we advise you to explore one city, including all its wonders and hidden gems, and the next time you visit the country, you can expand your horizons and travel to other nearby destinations. For example, you can see the futuristic city of Tokyo on your first-time trip, and the next time, or if you plan to stay for an extended time, you can go to neighbouring cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara, which have famous landmarks, culinary delights, and untapped treasures to discover.

Step 4: Figure out the best city/cities for you 🏙️ 🗼

Another factor to consider is which prefecture and cities/city best fit your interests and bucket-list activities. Distinguished cities like Tokyo and Osaka will be the best bet if you want a place with a wide range of entertainment options and lively nightlife. On the other hand, if you wish to have a peaceful retreat away and escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities, you might want to explore Japan’s serene countryside or the historic city of Kyoto. 

However, as you might have already guessed, the options don’t stop there. If you travel to the north of Japan in Hokkaido, you will be in a winter wonderland, perfect for winter sports and ski resorts, not to mention a lovely snow festival held every year in wintertime. Cosy up with some piping-hot drinks and stroll around this festival, showcasing majestic ice sculptures. 

On the opposite end of the spectrum, if you want to get some Vitamin D and catch a tan, head to one of Japan’s southern islands, such as Okinawa. Imagine floating in warm, clear blue waters next to sandy beaches, forgetting all your worries while sipping on a pina colada and soaking up the magnificent coastal scenery; what more could you ask for? The island also entertains, such as magical marine adventures and romantic boat rides out to sea.

Coastal port cities are just as romantic. Just a train ride away from the bustling city of Tokyo is Yokohama. With sublime ocean views, a lush green park, world-famous Chinatown with glorious street food, and restaurants, not to mention cute shopping districts, this town will sweep you off your feet. As the sun goes down, the city is illuminated by fairy lights, and its majestic Ferris wheel is surrounded by a colourful theme park, promising you a cheerful and vibrant nightlife.

If you want a combination of big cities and countryside retreats, getting a JR pass might be worthwhile, allowing you to save on your travels from city to city. If you need further information and are interested in purchasing this pass, Flip can have it all organised for you, ensuring you a stress-free journey.

Step 5: Activities and places to be visited 🗺️

Shared experiences make the heart grow fonder; therefore, one of the most critical aspects of planning a trip is establishing what you will do and where you will visit. Remember that your plans may change once you reach Japan, depending on weather conditions and jet lag, among other factors. For example, you might want to postpone your adventures in Universal Studios if the day you planned to go forecasts heavy rain all day. 

Besides going to the city’s most “touristy” spots, you might wish to do fun local activities such as karaoke or explore hidden gems. When people think of Japan, things such as temples and shrines usually come to mind, but in reality, Japan has so much more to offer. For instance, Japan’s nature is a wonder in itself. Several cultural traditions are linked to celebrating the different seasons, such as “hanami,” where people gather around cherry blossom trees for a picnic. If you enjoy trekking and the great outdoors, Japan will not disappoint you with its vast mountains, nature trails, and escapades into the wilderness. 

Likewise, staying at traditional Japanese hotels, or “ryokans,” is a perfect way to experience the local culture. Some properties boast therapeutic hot springs and usually serve authentic Japanese meals with rich and flavourful ingredients. In springtime, you can promenade around one of Japan’s many glorious parks and enjoy a romantic picnic with cherry blossom leaves cascading down by the brush of the wind. 

The adventure does not end there. Introducing the world’s first personalised chatbot tour guide, Flip offers an innovative and entertaining way for you to explore Tokyo city in a game-like format. One of our most recent launches was inspired by Japan’s stunning sakura season. Within 2 minutes, you can get your ticket directly inside Facebook Messenger. After acquiring your ticket, chat with your virtual tour guide; choose your path and let your chatbot know what you want throughout the tour, and enjoy a personalised romantic escapade! You can find all you need to know about the following themes and available tours here.

Step 6: Logistics ⚙️

As the last step, it is time to conclude everything and focus on ✨logistics✨

There are numerous activities you can do in Japan, as previously discussed; it will all depend on the purpose of your trip and your preferences. 

As for accommodation, Japan has several types of stays for you to choose from. For a traditional and authentic experience, you can stay at a “ryokan.” Every city will have a unique Japanese hotel waiting for you, and we can help you make reservations as most will only speak the native language. If you want to save on accommodation, check out the hostel or capsule hotel options in your chosen destination. Reserving an Airbnb is also an excellent option for all budgets and tastes. You can find some intriguing BnBs with an original atmosphere or architecture. Lastly, if you want to treat yourself, big cities like Tokyo have fabulous luxury hotels offering world-class service and incredible dining options. 

Okay, so now that accommodation is out of the way, you might be wondering, what to wear and pack for Japan? The short answer is: that it depends on what season you plan to come to and what region you will visit. Suppose you plan to go during summertime, don’t. Just kidding, despite the scorching heat, monsoon rains, and constant humidity, summer in Japan has its perks and seasonal treasures, including its annual traditional festivals and celebrations with fun games and street food, entertaining events, as well as gorgeous nature and scenic views throughout the country. The key is to dress light and wear flowy, airy, and comfortable clothes. 

In autumn, the weather is stunning; with a cool breeze and sunlight, you will be mesmerised by the changing leaves, cascading in red, orange, and yellow tones to the ground. For this season, pack both short and long sleeve shirts and blouses, sneakers, pants, and light jackets. As winter approaches, you will need much warmer clothes and layers, including heavy coats and scarves, especially if you plan to visit northern Japan or stay at a ski resort. Lastly, springtime in Japan has fantastic weather, which is not too cold or warm. You will get by with long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, or T-shirts with a jacket or cardigan over them. For a more detailed clothes itinerary, feel free to reach out to us at Flip; we consider all of these details in our travel services.

One of the must-have items, when you arrive in Japan, is a transportation card. That will allow you to easily travel from place to place just like a local. Visitors tend to have either a Pasmo card or a Suica card, which you can buy at any big station in Tokyo or upon arrival at the airport. For certain countries, topped-up transportation cards can be delivered to your home before travelling for an extra fee.

Just like transportation cards, you can order your SIM card from companies such as Mobil before arriving in Japan and pick it up at the airport upon arrival. Alternatively, you can have it delivered to your place before your trip. The rates and expenses differ from company to company, so do a little investigation before picking your commuter pass. 

Lastly, there is always a lot of confusion about the JR Pass. Is it worth it to get one? The answer is that it depends; if you plan to explore different cities in a couple of weeks, the JR pass might be worthwhile. However, if you stay in a town for the entire trip, it would not be a fitting choice. 

Having covered all the essentials, if you have any other questions or wish to book one of our services or tours, experience our interactive games, or receive a Japan starter pack, feel free to reach out to us on any of our social media platforms, and we will be happy to help! 

See you soon in Japan! 🇯🇵 ❤