7-Day Honeymoon Itinerary in Japan

Day 1: Friday, December 22

Begin your romantic honeymoon in Tokyo. In the morning, explore the serene Meiji Shrine, surrounded by a lush forest in the heart of the city. Afterward, visit the lively Harajuku district, known for its quirky fashion and street food. In the evening, take a relaxing stroll along the illuminated streets of Shibuya and witness the famous Shibuya Crossing.

• Meiji Shrine: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Harajuku: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Shibuya Crossing: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Day 2: Saturday, December 23

Head to Kyoto, the cultural capital of Japan. Begin the day by exploring the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. In the afternoon, immerse yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Gion district, known for its traditional tea houses and geisha culture. In the evening, take a romantic boat ride along the Hozu River and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

• Kinkaku-ji Temple: Estimated cost - ¥400 ($3.50), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Gion District: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Hozu River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - ¥4,100 ($35), Time spent - 1 hour

Day 3: Sunday, December 24

Travel to Nara, where you'll encounter friendly deer roaming freely in Nara Park. Start the day by visiting the iconic Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Isuien Garden and enjoy a peaceful walk through its meticulously designed landscapes. As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the historic streets of Naramachi.

• Todai-ji Temple: Estimated cost - ¥500 ($4.50), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Isuien Garden: Estimated cost - ¥900 ($8), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Naramachi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 4: Monday, December 25

Travel to Osaka, a city known for its vibrant street food culture. Start your day by visiting Osaka Castle, a majestic symbol of the city's history. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights and delicious local cuisine. In the evening, experience the romantic views of Osaka from the Floating Garden Observatory at Umeda Sky Building.

• Osaka Castle: Estimated cost - ¥600 ($5.50), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Dotonbori: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Umeda Sky Building: Estimated cost - ¥1,000 ($9), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 5: Tuesday, December 26

Make your way to Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history. Begin the day by visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a solemn reminder of the atomic bombing in 1945. In the afternoon, take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island and marvel at the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Enjoy a romantic sunset on the island before returning to Hiroshima for the evening.

• Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Miyajima Island: Estimated cost - Ferry - ¥360 ($3), Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Itsukushima Shrine: Estimated cost - ¥300 ($2.70), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 6: Wednesday, December 27

Head back to Tokyo and spend the day exploring the futuristic Odaiba district. Start by visiting the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, an immersive experience of art and technology. In the afternoon, enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo from the observation deck of the Tokyo Tower. End the day with a romantic dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay, taking in the dazzling views of the city skyline.

• teamLab Borderless: Estimated cost - ¥3,200 ($29), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tokyo Tower: Estimated cost - ¥1,200 ($11), Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Tokyo Bay Dinner Cruise: Estimated cost - ¥10,000 ($90), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 7: Thursday, December 28

Spend your final day in Tokyo exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Akihabara and Nakano Broadway, known for their anime and manga culture. In the afternoon, visit the Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the beloved works of Studio Ghibli. End your honeymoon on a high note by taking a romantic evening stroll in the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

• Akihabara: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Nakano Broadway: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Ghibli Museum: Estimated cost - ¥1,000 ($9), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Estimated cost - ¥500 ($4.50), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, venture to the quaint village of Shirakawa-go, known for its traditional thatched-roof houses. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site and immerse yourselves in the rural charm of Japan. Another hidden gem is the village of Kinosaki Onsen, offering traditional hot spring baths and a serene atmosphere, perfect for a honeymoon getaway.

Check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.