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The Ultimate Japan Honeymoon Guide 2024

It comes as no surprise to us that Japan is one of the top honeymoon destinations. The ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ is home to majestic shrines, dramatic scenery, refined culture, lush gardens, mouth-watering food, and advanced technology. Japan presents a plethora of exciting things to do and beautiful places to see during your Japan honeymoon. From the vibrant capital city of Tokyo to scenic Hokkaido to laidback Okinawa, beauty, and adventure is in every corner of Japan. Japan will magically reel you in with its ancient temples, tranquil ceremonies, exciting festivals and relaxing hot springs. Whether you are looking for culture, romance, adventure, nature or something spiritual, Japan is bound to excite you. In our Japan honeymoon guide, let us share the Top Things to Do in Japan, along with essential Japan travel tips and where to stay in Japan. After reading this post, be sure to head to our Japan Travel Page to start planning your trip. 



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Table of Contents

This article was updated on 15 January 2024.

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Essential Japan Travel Resources

  • If you are planning to explore Japan’s other cities or towns, make sure to get the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass). It will save you both time and money. It pays off once you take a round trip from Tokyo to Kyoto, which you likely will! Book your JR Rail Pass in advance via Klook.
  • Japan has a wide range of accommodation to offer, both Japanese (Ryokan and Minshuku) and Western styles (hotels and hostels). We usually book our stays via Booking.com or Agoda. For more unique stays, we will turn to Airbnb. You can use our referral link to get up to $67 off your stay.
  • Klook is by far our favourite travel app and we use it for our trips whenever possible. You can purchase tickets ahead of time, skipping queues and get to enjoy discounts and free cancellations*.
  • While Japan is a safe country to travel, always make sure to buy travel insurance. I got injured on a trip 3 years ago, and since then I have made it a point to always buy travel insurance. A couple of dollars will go a long way in an unlikely event of an accident. It also protects you in case you fall sick, lose your luggage or if your flight gets delayed or cancelled. We always use Singsaver to find a suitable travel insurance plan before our trip. 
  • Stay connected during your trip. You can get a 4G SIM Card or a 4G WiFi router with unlimited data (this is for 7GB) and pick it up from Japan airport when you land. You can also opt for SG Pick up or SG Delivery as it is cheaper.
  • Not sure what to pack for your Japan trip? Simply follow our honeymoon packing checklist. I would suggest packing light when traveling to Japan, for taking public transport with heavy luggage might be a hassle. If you prefer to travel by car from the airport, I suggest pre-booking a private transfer from Narita Airport or Haneda Airport. Taxis are very pricey in Japan!  
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When is the Best Time to Visit Japan?

Japan has four distinct seasons, and each region may have varying climates. For good weather, in general, the best time to visit Japan would be in late spring (March to May) and late autumn (September to November). During this period, there is little rainfall, clear skies, and mild temperatures. You will get to see beautiful cherry blossoms (Hanami) in spring and red maple leaves (Koyo) in autumn. But this period falls in the high season. I suggest visiting Japan during the shoulder season of summer (June to September). You get good weather and cheaper prices. The winter months of (December to February) are cold, but as it is the least-visited season for tourists, you get the lowest prices. There are plenty of winter activities in Japan for you to enjoy. 

Getting Around Japan (get the JR Pass!)

Getting around Tokyo itself is really easy as the train network is well connected. One thing to note is that taxis in Japan is extremely expensive. I took a 15-minute ride in Tokyo from my hotel to the airport and it cost us over S$100! If you are in a group and for any reason, you need to travel by car, you can book a private charter to take you around Tokyo’s attractions and even bring you to Mount Fuji.   If you are planning to get out of Tokyo, getting around Japan itself is relatively easy and there are various options, like the shinkansen (bullet train), local train, public bus, plane, ferry. You can even rent a car, though I’d advise against doing so in the city for it is expensive and roads are tricky. But for places like Hokkaido or the countryside, a road-trip is definitely an option to consider.  The best way to get around Japan depends on how long your trip is. If you only have a week in Japan, getting around quickly is key and the bullet train is the quickest way. Be sure to get a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) and take the train everywhere you go. The JR Pass is a cost-effective rail pass for long-distance travel in Japan and is exclusive only to tourists because it is more economical and time-saving. It pays off once you take a round trip between Tokyo and Kyoto. 

Get your Japan Rail Pass here >

First time in Japan? Where should I visit? 

If it is your first time visiting Japan, I would say Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka is the usual circuit most take. Most travellers head to West Japan where the Kansai and Chugoku regions are (Osaka, Kyoto, Hyogo, and Hiroshima). See Top things to do in West Japan. For your second visit to Japan, you can visit the Okinawa islands in South or go to Hokkaido and North Japan. North Japan has many off the beaten path experiences for you. Here is a great itinerary for second-timers by Tokyo Creative.

Which are Top Destinations in Japan to visit?

Japan has many destinations for you to explore, each with its own unique style. If you do not wish to head to the usual tourist spots during your Japan honeymoon, below is our list of top Japan honeymoon destinations to visit, depending on what you like. 

Tokyo

If you are a city lover, and you appreciate the busy, crowded streets with tons of stimuli, head to Tokyo. It is a feast for the senses and great for city thrills, skyscrapers, malls, trending spots, entertainment, and shopping. Neighborhoods like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku are frequent spots. See Top things to do in Tokyo | See Where to Stay in Tokyo

Kyoto

If you are a culture-lover, Kyoto is the place for you. Kyoto was originally the capital of Japan, and today is the cultural and historical heart of Japan. It is a great place to discover temples and shrines, as well as dining traditions and see geishas. See Top things to do in Kyoto | See Where to stay in Kyoto

Osaka

If you like both the city and want to experience Japanese culture at the same time, Osaka is your pick on where to visit in Japan. Osaka has been rated to be one of the most livable cities in the world. It is an urban area with lively character and charm. It is home to one of the world’s largest public aquariums and Universal Studios Japan. Visit the entertainment district of Dotonbori, yet don’t miss out on Osaka Castle, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine and Bunraku puppet shows for a dose of culture. See Top things to do in Osaka | See Where to stay in Osaka

Nara

If you like both culture and nature, Nara is the place to visit in Japan. Nara is Japan’s very first capital and a treasure trove of culture as well as natural beauty. The ‘Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara”, UNESCO heritage site is made up of 6 temples and ruins and the Kasugayama Primeval Forest. Nara is well known for its wild deer that roam the city freely. Nara Park is the place to get acquainted with these lovely doe-eyed animals. You can easily take a day trip to Nara from Osaka or Kyoto. If you plan to stay a night in Nara, see Where to stay in Nara

Sapporo (Hokkaido)

If you love winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, Hokkaido is great during the winter season. It is also well known for fresh seafood, produces and dairy products. The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the largest winter events happening here. Don’t miss out on Shiroi Koibito Park, which is a cookie factory, the Sapporo factory for shopping and entertainment as well as the seafood markets. See Top things to do in Hokkaido | See Where to stay in Hokkaido 

Nagoya (Aichi)

If you want to check out the latest technology, Nagoya is well known for its transportation and technology advancements. It is the centre of Japan’s automotive and aviation manufacturing, as well as a growing hub for robotics. It has also recently hosted the World Cosplay Summit. See Top things to do in Nagoya| See Where to stay in Nagoya

Kobe (Hyogo)

If you are a foodie, Kobe is well known for its marbled steak and sake breweries. Bordering the Mount Rokko mountain range, Kobe is also a great place for nature hikes and is also home to one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, Arima Onsen. See Top things to do in Kobe | See Where to stay in Kobe

Yokohama (Kanagawa)

If you like the city buzz but want to be close to the sea, Yokohama is the place for you. You can enjoy a scenic harbor view while soaking in the city’s vibes. There are museums, shopping and sightseeing here you can do. Here is a one day enjoy pass to see Yokohama. If you plan to stay a night in Yokohama, see Where to stay in Yokohama

Hiroshima

For history buffs and peace-lovers, head to Hiroshima. Also known as the ‘City of Peace’, Hiroshima is the site where the first atomic bomb was dropped in 1945. Today, it is a resilient city that has been reconstructed, but with many places serving as peaceful reminders of the tragedy. Also, worthwhile visiting is the Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden. See Top things to do in Hiroshima | See Where to stay in Hiroshima

Okinawa

If you like beachside relaxation, or if you are into water activities like diving, snorkeling or watersports, Okinawa is your island paradise. Made up of 160 islands, it is known for its subtropical climate home to many rare species of plants and animals. See Top things to do in Okinawa| See Where to stay in Okinawa

Best Places to Stay in Japan

1. FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto

Fauchon Hotel Kyoto - Best Hotel Suites in Japan

Explore the best of Kyoto while staying in a luxurious Prestige suite

Discover the heart of Kyoto with a stay at FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto, strategically situated along the picturesque Kamo River (often likened to “Kyoto’s Seine River”) and within a 10-minute stroll of Kyoto’s iconic tourist destinations such as Gion, Higashiyama, and Kiyomizu-Dera Temple. The hotel’s prime position allows easy access to Kyoto’s charm, complemented by convenient bus stops nearby for seamless city exploration.

What sets FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto apart is the lovely fusion of French sophistication and Japanese grace evident in every part of the hotel. The stylish and modern pink hotel suites, reflect a high level of Japanese hospitality. From luxurious gastronomic offerings that embody both French and Japanese cultures to the main highlight of the stay—the exclusive Gourmet Bar exclusive to FAUCHON, providing complimentary sweets and pastries within the comfort of your room—FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto offers a wealth of luxurious experiences

FAUCHON Gourmet experience in the heart of Japan

The top-floor oasis, Grand Cafe FAUCHON, not only serves a delectable breakfast but also provides an enchanting panoramic view of Kamo River and Higashiyama Mountain. As night falls, the ambience transforms into a magical haven adorned with city lights, elegant decor, and the allure of casual French cuisine. Perfect for romantic date nights with your partner!

Fauchon Hotel Kyoto - French cuisine

For a touch of Parisian elegance, Salon de Thé offers a refined afternoon tea experience within an exquisite space featuring the sophisticated design synonymous with the FAUCHON style. Immerse yourself in the charm of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, adding a unique cultural dimension to your indulgence. There is also the Patisserie and Boutique FAUCHON that transports you straight into Paris with its special FAUCHON pastries and tasty treats. To cap off your day, Le Bar FAUCHON provides the perfect setting to unwind, offering signature tea cocktails, La Delicieuse beer, fine wines, and the effervescent celebration of FAUCHON Champagne. Who knew that you could experience the wonders of the City of Love without leaving Asia? 

Read our full review here >
Check out FAUCHON L’Hotel Kyoto >

📍 406 Namba-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture 600-8027
📞 +81(0)75-751-7711
✉️ Contact Form
📲 Facebook | Instagram

2. Genji Kyoto

Genji Kyoto - Sky Forest Garden

A serene honeymoon in the sanctuary of Japanese beauty

Couples seeking a serene and intimate honeymoon experience will find their haven at Genji Kyoto. Located in a charming and quiet neighbourhood alongside the Kamo River, this boutique hotel allows you to have the most peaceful honeymoon with your loved one, but at the same time, puts you close to Kyoto’s top hotspots like Nishiki Market, Gion, and Pontocho Alley.

Genji Kyoto is actually inspired by the popular Japanese novel, The Tale of Genji, and the spirit and aesthetics of this literary masterpiece breathe life into the hotel’s gardens, furnishings, and captivating paintings adorning the walls—an exquisite showcase of the creative brilliance of young Kyoto artists. You would see the very essence of Kyoto in every part of the hotel. And yes, the hotel consists of gardens that add to a serene stay, including a lovely Sky Forest Garden that allows you to have a drink, meal, and cherished conversations while savouring a mesmerising panoramic view of the Kamo River and Higoshiya Mountain. 

Stay in spacious rooms with views and Japanese ambience 

Apart from nine balcony room with river views, most guestrooms at Genji Kyoto also have pocket gardens within them, known as tsubo,  setting the stage for an inherently tranquil and relaxing stay. Just imagine the serenity of looking out at these gardens; the very thought is already calming. Genji Kyoto presents the charm of a traditional Japanese home, adorned with Tatami mats, tsubo gardens, and panoramic views of the river and city, seamlessly blending with modern luxury. They will even provide you with yukatas or Japanese cotton robes for your utmost comfort! Paired with an authentic Japanese breakfast as soon as you wake up, Genji Kyoto truly gets you ready for a lovely stay.

Genji Kyoto - delightful breakfast spread

However, what truly sets Genji Kyoto apart is the personalised touch infused into their service, surpassing the expectations of boutique hotels and rivalling even the finest luxury accommodations. With a bilingual team at your service, the staff consistently goes above and beyond, incorporating special touches like flowers and handwritten letters on special occasions. 

Read our full review here >
Check out Genji Kyoto >

📍 Hashidono-cho 362-3, Shimogyo-ku Kyoto, Japan 600 8113
📞 +81 75 365 3001
✉️ info@genjikyoto.com
📲 Facebook | Instagram

3. Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel 

Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel - The Ultimate Japan Honeymoon Guide

An artful retreat in the middle of a convenient location

A visit to Tokyo is almost synonymous with a visit to the world-famous Tokyo Disney Resorts. And you do not have to be a kid either just to do so! If you want to visit the most magical place on Earth,  you can book a room at the nearby Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel, which is not only ideal for being extremely convenient with easy access to sightseeing areas, but also as a perfect destination to unwind and enjoy your Tokyo stay. At this hotel, your five senses will be sharpened by the vivid and energetic art.

From the vibrant art that greets you in the lobby and hallways, Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel is a sensory delight. Modern comforts seamlessly intertwine with aesthetic appeal, as room amenities like a Nespresso machine, Bluetooth speakers, and internet TV enhance your stay. Beyond the plush Simmons beds and chic Hollywood mirrors, each room boasts captivating wall art, mirroring the artistic essence that defines the entire hotel. In essence, Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel transcends the typical hotel experience, resembling more of an art gallery where every corner tells a unique visual story.

Guarantees a romantic and relaxing stay

Another highlight of Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel is its unique public open bath. Here, you can immerse yourself in relaxation amidst beautiful paintings by Katsushika Hokusai and Monet adorning the bathhouse walls. It is an experience like no other! For an added touch of comfort, the public bath includes a sauna, creating a welcoming haven for all. The men’s bath features a Lory sauna and cold bath, while the women’s bath offers a steam sauna, ensuring a tranquil escape for every guest.

For a honeymoon experience that transcends the ordinary, consider a thrilling helicopter ride over Tokyo, made conveniently accessible with a private shuttle from the hotel. Soar above the bustling cityscape, capturing breathtaking views of Tokyo Tower, the Imperial Palace, Tokyo Skytree, and Rainbow Bridge from a unique vantage point. Following this exhilarating journey, indulge in a romantic evening at the hotel’s restaurant, blending French and Japanese cuisine. Toast to the extraordinary sights with a glass of sparkling wine and savour a dinner course with dessert, creating lasting memories in an atmosphere inspired by cultural fusion.

Read our full review here >
Check out Tokyo Bay Shiomi Prince Hotel  >

📍 2 Chome-8-16 Shiomi, Koto City, Tokyo 135-0052, Japan
📞+81 3-6660-3222
✉️ shiomi-rsv@princehotels.co.jp | Contact form
📲 Facebook | Instagram

4. Mandarin Oriental Tokyo

Located in the historic Nihonbashi area, stay in the heart of Tokyo. Mandarin Oriental Tokyo captures the heart of Japanese style and design. It offers divine dining, a chic lifestyle and beautiful views of the city.
 

Check prices for your stay >

5. Suiran, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Kyoto​

Set along the peaceful Hozu River, And nestled next to the Arashiyama hills, the Suiran is an intimate 39-room property that presents a relaxing heaven with open-air hot springs.

Check prices for your stay >

6. Zaborin, Hokkaido Japan

Experience authentic ryokan traditions by unwinding within the serenity of nature, absorbing the minerals of a natural spring onsen, and indulging in exquisite Japanese haute-cuisine in this luxury ryokan in Hokkaido, Japan.

Check prices for your stay >

7. The St. Regis Osaka

Located along the famed street of Midosuji, the St. Regis is the ideal luxury abode for discerning travellers. Enjoy their signature butler service and exquisite decor with touches of nature.

Check prices for your stay >

Top 13 Things to do on your Japan Honeymoon

1. Marvel at the beauty of Mount Fuji

Japan Honeymoon - Mount Fuji - Imgur

Japan’s famous Mt. Fuji is an active volcano that is the country’s tallest peak. Located near Tokyo and standing at 3,776 meters, it is considered as one of Japan’s 3 sacred mountains. Summit hikes here are a popular activity, though you can also enjoy it on a tour. 

Click here for a Mount Fuji tour >

2. Visit the epic Robot Restaurant in Tokyo

This show is uniquely Japanese and is absolute bonkers. This themed restaurant features a raucous pop-culture show with robotic monsters, dancers & lasers that have been watched by many who visit Tokyo. It’s nothing like you have seen before, and many say that even at full price, it is absolutely worth it! That being said, you can get a discounted ticket here via Klook

Click here to get your tickets to the Robot Restaurant >

3. Take a serene walk at Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto

Not far from the center of Kyoto lies the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Forest that you have probably seen on Instagram plenty. Beautiful all year round, these giant groves of swaying bamboo trees emit a serene environment for a nice & calm morning walk.  

Click here for tickets to Arashiyama > 

4. Visit the popular Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto

When thinking of Kyoto, photos of bright orange torii gates will likely come to mind. Fushimi Inari is the most popular and important Shinto shrine in Kyoto. Fushimi Inari is dedicated to the Shinto God of rice. As foxes are believed to be Inari’s messengers, you will see many statues of them around the site. Despite the crowds, it is a worth visit as there is a trail that leads to the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari. A return hike journey to the summit will take you about 2-3 hours. 

Click here for tickets to Fushimi Inari >

5. Go on a Kimono Photoshoot in Kyoto

Wearing a kimono is a great way to bask in Japan’s tradition and the beauty of their culture. Go on a kimono photoshoot in Kyoto and have your photos taken amid beautiful scenery and scenic temples. 

Click here to rent your kimono >

Recommended Photographer in Kyoto:

Hugh’s Hue

Hugh's Hue - The Ultimate Japan Honeymoon Guide

A photographer of love based in Kyoto

Hubert of Hugh’s Hue is not your typical wedding photographer. Rather, he is a photographer of love, capturing stories of how couples fall and stay in love. He was first inspired by a couple he met during an 8-month backpacking trip to capture light and life in South America. Since then, Hubert has remained unwavering in his quest to showcase compelling love stories and the extraordinary couples behind them. His camera serves as a vessel, preserving the unique tales he uncovers, making him the ideal choice for documenting your unforgettable honeymoon in Japan.

Also, what we love the most about Hugh’s Hue is his deep appreciation for the tranquil Japanese aesthetics of wabi-sabi, which defines his unique approach to fine art photography. Celebrating the beauty of imperfection and impermanence, this guiding philosophy inspires him to seek out fleeting, imperfect moments often overlooked, finding beauty in subtle nuances and the raw authenticity of love and relationships. Embracing the elegance and timelessness of fine art photography, Hugh’s Hue captures images that transcend time, creating a visual narrative that preserves your love for generations to come. 

Check out Hugh’s Hue >

6. Experience a Kaiseki Dinner & Geisha dance

Bask in Japan’s tradition by indulging in a kaiseki dinner, which is a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, and also enjoy the geisha performance that showcases Japan’s tradition of art, dance, and singing. 

Click here for tickets to One Night in Tokyo >

7. Ride the Shinkansen Bullet Train 

Before I visited Japan, many told me a ride on the shinkansen (bullet train) is a must to experience when in Japan. Indeed, it is one of the best and fastest ways to travel around to explore Japan. If you are planning to explore Japan (outside of Tokyo), I’d suggest getting a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) for you save money and time. It pays back once you take a round trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. Though you can buy the JR Pass in Japan (this is only until 31 March 2021) but do note that it is more expensive to do so. Do purchase your JR Pass ahead of time via Klook to save both money and time. You can have it delivered to your home address or an address of your choosing in Japan. You not only avoid queuing, but you get the peace of mind knowing that you have your JR Pass arranged. 

Click here for the Japan Rail Pass >

8. See the city panorama from Tokyo’s tall structures

Tokyo Skytree

Standing at 634 meters, the Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan. Apart from a beautiful view from the observation decks, you will also find a large shopping complex and aquarium to visit. 

Click here for tickets to Tokyo Skytree >

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo tower, at 333 meters high, used to be the tallest until Tokyo Skytree surpassed it in 2012. Nonetheless, it still offers an interesting view of the city. You will also find a souvenir shop and cafe to enjoy refreshments. Directly below the tower stands the “Foot Town” building, where you will find the One Piece Tower, an indoor amusement park that is dedicated to the popular manga. You can get a combo ticket to the observatory deck and park

Click here for tickets to Tokyo Tower >

9. See the Snow Monkeys in Nagano 

At the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park in Nagano lies a unique experience where you can see wild monkeys bathing in a natural hot spring. Commonly known as snow monkeys, watch these Japanese Macaques play in their natural habitat. This park is near the onsen towns of Shibu and Yudanaka. 

Click here for tickets to the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park >

10. Dine & Drink at Sapporo Beer Garden in Hokkaido

When in Japan, there is no way you will miss seeing Sapporo beer, the oldest and most popular beer brands in the country. Hokkaido is the birthplace of beer in Japan, and the Sapporo Beer Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of beer and the process of beer making in Japan. Next to it, you will find Sapporo Beer Garden which consists of a few restaurants and atmospheric beer halls where you can have an all-you-can-drink beer and all-you-can-eat mutton Ghengis Khan (grilled lamb).

Click here for a Sapporo Beer Garden beer, crab and lamb buffet >

11. Soak in an onsen in Hakone

Onsen is a natural hot spring bath and is one of the most popular things to do in Japan to relax both body and mind. As Japan is a volcanic area, there are plenty of onsens scattered across the country. Hakone is a hot springs resort town on the shores of Lake Ashi. If there is a place to try onsen, it would be here. 

Click here for tickets to Hakone Onsen >

12) Get pumped at Universal Studios Osaka

Source

Universal Studios in Osaka is where you can immerse yourself in the Harry Potter world. Here you can wander the cobbled streets of the towns, stroll through Hogwarts, drink butterbeer, and even get your own wand! Get the express pass online to save time and escape the queues.

Click here for USS Osaka tickets >

13. Admire Japan’s cherry blossoms

Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms (Hanami). Generally, they blossom during spring which is from March to May, but each area might differ slightly. In the colder areas of Northern Japan, the cherry blossom season is usually later. Do check the forecast when planning your Japan honeymoon. About 2-3 hours from Tokyo is a popular scenic spot Kawazu-Sakura where you can see the cherry blossoms. Here, you will see rows of cherry blossom trees lining the riverbank, making for an absolutely gorgeous sight. Other popular spots to see the cherry blossoms would be Moerenuma Park (Sapporo), Goryokaku Tower (Hakodate), Asahiganoka Park (Furano), Mt. Tengu (Otaru) and Asahikawa Park.

Click here for a tour to Kawazu-zakura Joren Falls >
For more Top things to do in Japan, read our Ultimate Japan Bucket List, with over 100+ Things to Do in Japan, sorted by destination.

Japan Travel FAQ

Q: How do I get to Japan from Singapore? Do I need a Visa?

Tokyo is the capital city and gateway to japan. There are two major airports Tokyo Narita (NRT) and Tokyo Haneda (HND). Direct flights are available from Singapore to Okinawa, Nagoya, Osaka, Tokyo and Hiroshima, Sapporo (Hokkaido). 

Full-fledged airlines that fly direct to Japan include Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines, Nippon Airways (ANA), British Airways and Delta. Budget airlines Jetstar and Scoot do fly to Japan, though do check if they have a transit stop. Singapore Citizens (holders of Singapore passport) who intend to stay in Japan as tourists for a period of up to 3 months do not need a visa. More Visa information here.

From Narita Airport, you can reach downtown Tokyo in 40+ minutes by Skyliner Train. Alternatively, you can take this airport limousine bus transfer with free wifi onboard. Check out this full guide by Klook on how to go to Tokyo from Haneda Airport or Narita International Airport.

Q: How much are flights to Japan? How to get cheaper flights?

Flight prices to Tokyo average at ~$500 – $600. If you find flights at $300 – $400, that is a good deal and you can proceed to buy without waiting too long. Prices can quickly double during high season. 

The cheapest month for tickets to Japan would be November. The high season in Japan in May and June, but if you book early enough you might be able to get good deals. Subscribe to price alert on Skyscanner so you get notified when the price drops to your budget. Book at least 3 weeks before departure. 

Q: How long is the flight from Singapore to Japan? 

The flight duration from Singapore to Tokyo, Japan is about 6 hours 30 minutes to 7 hours. The flight duration to Okinawa is slightly shorter at 5 hours.

Q: How long should I visit Japan? 

If you are planning to visit just Tokyo and Kyoto, cater at least 7 – 10 days for a comfortable pace. If you are planning to make a few stops, 2 weeks would be better and you can add in Osaka, Hiroshima, as well as day trips to Mt Fuji, Nara, Miyajima. That being said, Japan has so many places for you to explore that even a 3-weeks itinerary would be packed. 

If it is your first time in Japan, I would suggest this 2-week itinerary:

  • Day 1 – 5: Tokyo (including a day trip to Mount Fuji)
  • Day 6 – 10: Kyoto 
  • Day 10 – 12: Hiroshima (including a day trip to Miyajima) 
  • Day 12 – 14: Osaka (including a day trip to Nara) 
  • Day 15: Transit to Tokyo and fly back to Singapore

If you are planning on visiting Okinawa, it takes about 3 to 5 days to see the sights on one island, so depending on the number of islands you plan to visit, cater accordingly. You can travel between the islands by ferry or plane. 

Q: Is Japan safe? 

Japan is very safe for travellers. In fact, it is one of the safest countries in the world and is ranked the 9th safest country in the world. Though the crime rate in Japan is low, always travel with common sense, and look after your belongings as nowhere is immune from crime. 

I was initially worried about traveling to Japan because of the fear of radiation (due to the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011), but after reading this, I did feel more assured to visit there, and the short answer is yes, it is safe. 

Japan being on tectonic lines is at risk of earthquakes, but it should not deter you from visiting the country. Instead, be prepared for them. Read up on how to stay safe in case of an emergency

I cannot emphasize how important it is to always get travel insurance for your trip. The insurance only costs you tens of dollars, but this keeps you safely covered. In the unlikely (but still possible) event you fall sick, get into an accident or have to deal with lost luggage, this insurance will be a lifesaver. I have been in that position before when I got injured in Vietnam, so I strongly encourage you to get at least a basic travel insurance plan before you leave. Our friends at Singsaver compared the best travel insurance policies here so you can choose the one that suits you best. It’s very easy to use!

Q: What to expect in Japan?

  • Language: The national language of Japan is Japanese. During my trip, I found that not many people in Japan speak English (if they do, it is usually the younger generation). Be prepared by having a language book or app with you to allow you to communicate and ask for directions. Also, many signs are in Japanese, so use the Google Translate app to help you know what is said.
  • Currency: The official currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). At this point of writing (Oct 2019), 1 SGD = 79.56 JPY.
  • Credit Cards & ATMs: There is little problem in using your credit card when in big cities like Tokyo and Osaka. It is advised to carry cash for entrance fees to tourist attractions, and also if you are planning to explore out of the city. ATMs are commonly found in cities.
  • Plugs: The plugs in Japan are different from Singapore. They type A and B, whereas Singapore is type G. The standard voltage and frequency are the same at 100 V and 50 / 60 Hz. Do remember to bring a universal adapter (with surge protection) with you.

Q: Tell me more about Japan!

Landscape

Located along East Asia’s Pacific coast, Japan is an island country that is located on the edge of several tectonic plates. Its landscape comprises of islands, mountains, valleys, active volcanoes, and tectonic landscapes. You will find calderas, fuketsu (cave) and geothermal areas where there are hot springs. Japan’s terrain is mostly mountainous (70%) and forested. 

The 5 main islands of Japan are Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, and Okinawa. Japan has over 6,000 remote islands. Japan being an archipelago has the sixth-longest coastline. Many people reside in the coastal areas, and its sandy beaches and coral reefs are home to many species of birds and fishes.

Culture

Early Japanese culture was heavily influenced by China. Today, Japan has Western influences evident in many aspects including art, lifestyle, and food. Shinto and Buddhism are the two main religions in Japan. 

Language

The national language is Japanese, which is primarily spoken around the country. Japan is pronounced as “Nippon” or “Nihon” in Japanese. Old Japanese (“Kanbun”) originated from China, and the earliest Japanese text (“Kojiki”) was written in the 8th Century- this is why you will notice familiar Chinese characters on signboards. English is not very widely spoken in Japan, so you may face some difficulties getting directions. Try to have a translate app or a language handbook with you to help you communicate. 

Cuisine

Japanese are primarily fish eaters and Japan is the number one fish importer in the world. The Japanese diet commonly includes rice, fresh seafood, and pickled vegetables. Their healthy diet is believed to correlate to their longevity. You will remember Japan for sushi, ramen, tempura & more. 

Nature

Though Japan is heavily urbanized, there is so much nature in Japan. Famous for its cherry blossoms, you will see gorgeous sakura flowers blossom all over the island over the year. Japan has many national parks and marshlands for you to trek, gorges to hike, waterfalls to see, caves to explore, beaches to swim, and mountains for scenic views. It is absolutely stunning.

Don’t forget these:

1) Pick up wifi before you go

Stay connected during your trip. Get a 4G Sim Card that you can pick up when you arrive in Japan. To connect more devices, or if you are travelling in a group, here is a 4G 7GB WiFi (Japan Pickup)  or get one with unlimited data. If you prefer to get everything prior to your trip, here is a 4G Wifi that you can pick up in Singapore, or get it delivered to your home before you depart (it’s cheaper!) 

2) Travel Insurance

While New Zealand is a safe country to travel, always make sure to get travel insurance for your trip. Ever since I got injured on a trip in Vietnam 3 years ago and tore my ACL, I made it a point to always buy travel insurance. A couple of dollars goes a long way in the unlikely event of an accident. Travel insurance also protects you if you fall sick, lose your luggage, and in the event of a flight delay or cancellation. We always use Singsaver to find a suitable travel insurance plan before our trip. 

3) Packing List

Not sure what to pack? Simply get our honeymoon packing checklist.

We hope you enjoyed reading our Japan Honeymoon Guide. If you found it useful, please share this with your family and friends. Also, do not miss our wedding guide and honeymoon guide. If you need any help in planning your Japan honeymoon, drop us a note or reach us at contact@theweddingvowsg.com. I would love to help!

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