Chureito Pagoda with Mount Fuji and Autumn foliage in Japan

Planning a Japan Honeymoon or Holiday

Karen Pugh on 18 Apr 2026

Japan is one of the most talked-about travel destinations in the world right now, and it's easy to see why! Thinking about planning a Japan honeymoon or Japan holiday? Let's go!

Why Choose Japan?

You probably don't need much convincing from me to choose a Japan honeymoon or holiday! I know that it's the ultimate bucket list destination for so many - Japan isn’t one thing, and that’s exactly the appeal. Its phenomenal popularity means I regularly book not just Japan honeymoons and couples trips but also Japan family holidays and solo trips to Japan, too.

From neon-lit streets and tiny ramen bars to quiet temples and mountain towns all connected by the incredible Shinkansen train network - Japan is fast-moving, but at the same time incredibly calm and considered. You’ve got:

  • unique and iconic cities
  • food that ranges from €5 bowls of ramen to beautifully presented Michelin star multi-course meals
  • trains that run to the minute
  • a culture so different that the detail really matters

Japan is certainly not a 'lie-on-a-beach-and-switch off' kind of trip. It’s one you come home from feeling like you’ve really seen somewhere.


Japan for Honeymoons/ Couples:

A Japan honeymoon suits couples who want more than just a beach. It’s about contrast, quiet temple mornings, incredible food, and special stays like ryokans.

Japan for Solo Travellers:

Japan is one of the easiest places to travel solo. It’s incredibly safe, well organised, and you can explore at your own pace without ever feeling out of place. Plus I have access to different styles of tours if you prefer to travel with a likeminded group.

Japan Holidays for Families:

Japan works really well for adventure seeking families. It’s safe, easy to get around, and there’s a great mix of culture and fun, from bullet trains and street food to dressing in kimono to places like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios.


Where To Go in Japan


Tokyo

Most Japan trips start here, and it’s a lot, in the best possible way. Whether it's the instafamous Shibuya Crossing at rush hour, exploring late-night food spots tucked down side streets, seeing a sumo wrestling match,  or viewpoints looking out over the city skyline - each neighbourhood is like it's own city but once you get your bearings, it’s easy to navigate.


Kyoto

Kyoto is the ultimate Japan destination. Early mornings work best here, before the crowds arrive. That’s when places like bamboo groves, temples and traditional streets actually feel as serene as they look online. Explore the wooden houses and narrow lanes, tea houses and quieter corners if you time it right.


Osaka

Osaka is less about sights and more about atmosphere. For my foodie clients it's an absolute must street food, casual dining, proper local spots a bit more laid-back night or two before you come home.


Other Japan destinations

For me - a true picture of Japan means getting outside of the urban areas is essential!

  • Hakone or Lake Kawaguchi - for Mount Fuji views, onsen and a ryokan stay
  • Hiroshima & Miyajima - for a very different perspective on Japan
  • Kanazawa or Takayama – for smaller traditional towns that can feel less crowded

are all easy additions to the main cities. And, I can arrange more hidden gems and off the beaten track spots. Think escaping the crowds in Iya Valley, smaller rural towns like Joge, Naoshima art island or visiting places like Matsumoto with its original samurai-era castle.


When To Go To Japan

Japan changes a lot with the seasons

  • Spring (March–April) - cherry blossom, but very busy and needs to be booked earlier
  • Autumn (October–November) - cooler weather and incredible colours

Winter can also be a great time to visit but for most Irish people, summer in Japan will probably feel very hot and sticky!


Where To Combine With Japan

A Japan honeymoon or holiday has so much to do that it is more often than not a standalone trip but if you have more time you can add pretty much anywhere in Asia! These are some destinations I regularly book with Japan:


Planning Your Japan Honeymoon or Holiday

Too much and Japan can feel rushed. Too little and you miss the variety that makes it special. I can help you decide:

  • how many stops to include
  • how to move between them
  • where to base yourself in each city
  • how much you try to fit in
  • deciding on must do excursions

I can create the perfect Japan itinerary and here at Travel Counsellors we work with a range of trusted tour operators and other local partners to put together the perfect Japan honeymoon or holiday for you.

When you book with me, I’ll take care of everything you need, from flights and hotels to transport and the finer details, so your trip feels easy from start to finish.


Ready to start planning your Japan honeymoon or holiday?

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