10-Day Romantic Itinerary: Tokyo → Hakone → Kyoto → Osaka

Introduction

Japan offers couples a unique kind of romance, where neon cityscapes meet quiet temples and onsen retreats. This 10-day romantic itinerary is designed for pairs who want variety: modern luxury in Tokyo, slow moments in Hakone’s hot springs, Kyoto’s temple trails, and Osaka’s playful nightlife.

Every stop combines culture, comfort, and connection — ideal for couples celebrating milestones or simply enjoying time together. Japan’s efficiency makes travel easy, while its charm makes every day feel cinematic.

Quick Itinerary Overview

Destination Breakdown by Stop

Tokyo - 2 Nights

Tokyo is the perfect opener — electric energy by day, quiet elegance by night.

What to Do

• Shibuya Sky for sunset views and citywide photo spots
  

• Asakusa & Sumida River cruise for lantern-lit bridges and calm river scenery
  

• Odaiba at night for Ferris wheel rides and oceanfront dining
  

• Tokyo Tower or Skytree for classic evening views over Tokyo
  

• Meguro River in spring for glowing cherry blossoms above the water

Where to Stay

Choose a romantic stay at The Peninsula Tokyo for luxury service and skyline views near the Imperial Palace. Find more similar hotel options in Tokyo on JapanDen.

Where to Eat

• New York Grill - Park Hyatt Tokyo for fine dining
  

• Aoyama Flower Market Tea House for daytime dates
  

• Ebisu Yokocho for casual shared plates

For smooth travel to your next stops, use the JR Pass or Regional Pass.

Hakone - 2 Nights

The mountains of Hakone invite couples to slow down.

What to Do

• Lake Ashi Cruise for misty lake scenery and torii reflections
  

• Hakone Open-Air Museum for outdoor art and gentle walking paths
  

• Owakudani Valley for volcanic views and the famous black eggs
  

• Private onsen stays for mineral-rich baths overlooking the forest
  

• Hakone Ropeway for wide mountain views and easy, scenic travel

Where to Stay

Stay in a ryokan near Hakone’s scenic lake and mountains. For example, Hotel de Yama offers a relaxing lakeside setting and thermal hot spring baths in a restored classic resort. You can find more Hakone accommodations on JapanDen.

Where to Eat

Kaiseki dinners served in ryokans are an integral part of the experience — multi-course, seasonal, and beautifully presented.

Kyoto - 3 Nights

Kyoto’s timeless beauty makes it one of the most romantic places in Japan.

What to Do

• Fushimi Inari Shrine for quiet sunrise walks through the torii gates
  
  

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for calm bamboo paths and gentle river views
  
  

• Gion District for kimono strolls and traditional tea ceremonies
  
  

• Pontocho Alley for riverside dining under evening lanterns
  
  

• Nishiki Market for matcha sweets and Kyoto pickles along the stalls

Where to Stay

Choose a traditional Kyoto stay in a historic ryokan, such as Sumiya Ryokan, which offers authentic architecture and an elegant atmosphere in central Kyoto. You can explore more Kyoto ryokan options on JapanDen.

Where to Eat

• Yudofu Sagano (for tofu hotpot near temples)
  

• Gion Kappa (for casual izakaya meals)
  

• Hyotei (for a Michelin-starred experience in a serene setting)

Osaka - 3 Nights

Fun, lively, and full of shared flavors — Osaka adds playfulness to your trip.

What to Do

• Dotonbori Canal for neon reflections and nighttime photo spots
  
  

• Osaka Castle for peaceful gardens and classic castle views
  
  

• Kuromon Market for fresh sushi and easy-to-share local snacks
  
  

• Umeda Sky Building for sunset views from the rooftop deck
  
  

• Nara Day Trip for friendly deer and a visit to Todai-ji Temple

Where to Stay

Stay in central districts with strong transit connections, with options such as the InterContinental Hotel Osaka, located in the heart of Umeda near JR Osaka Station. Browse more Osaka hotel options on JapanDen.

Where to Eat

• Dotonbori street stalls for takoyaki and okonomiyaki

• Hajime for haute cuisine

• Kuromon Ichiba Market for fresh seafood bowls and local snacks

Is 10 Days in Japan Enough for Couples?

Ten days offer enough time to enjoy Japan romantic places along with modern cities, historic districts, and natural scenery at a relaxed pace. With two nights in each region, the trip balances sightseeing and downtime. For a slower pace, skip a city and stay longer in Tokyo or Kyoto.

How Much Will a Romantic Japan Trip Cost?

Accommodation Range

Expect ¥15,000–¥30,000 per night for mid- to high-range romantic hotels or ryokans.

Meals

Casual izakaya dinners average ¥3,000 per person; fine dining can range up to ¥15,000 for two.

Transport

A 7- or 14-day JR Pass costs around ¥50,000–¥80,000 per person, covering major routes. Regional Passes are cheaper if staying in one area.

Activities/Attractions

Budget ¥1,000–¥3,000 for temples, cruises, and museums; onsen or cultural experiences around ¥5,000–¥10,000. Since you’ll be navigating between multiple attractions each day, stay connected with a Pocket Wi-Fi or eSIM — both can be booked at checkout with the JR Pass.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Trip

Travel Logistics

Many travelers arrive through Tokyo’s Haneda (HND) or Narita (NRT) airports, while Kansai International Airport (KIX) is the most convenient option for departures from the Osaka area. Meet & Greet services simplify arrivals, especially for first-timers or honeymooners.

How to Move Between Cities Efficiently

Japan’s bullet trains make long-distance travel fast and simple. Transfer between 10 AM and 2 PM to avoid peak crowds, and pack light to move easily through stations. 

Pro Tips

Choose scenic transfer times so you can enjoy views together on the train rather than rushing through crowds. Book experiences in advance—like private onsens or special dinners—to keep your trip relaxed and memorable.

Connectivity

• Pocket Wi-Fi vs. eSIM
  Pocket Wi-Fi is ideal for couples since you can share one device for maps, photos, and messaging. An eSIM works well if each person prefers independent data access on their own phone.

Top Sights You Can’t Miss in This Itinerary

• Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto for quiet sunrise serenity

• Lake Ashi in Hakone for reflections of Mount Fuji

• Meguro River in Tokyo for blossoms and night lights

• Umeda Sky Building in Osaka for a panoramic sunset deck

• Osaka Castle in Osaka for its iconic tower and spacious park

• Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto (pictured above) for its hillside terrace and sweeping views

Final Thoughts

Japan offers endless ways to reconnect — from quiet shrine walks to lively food streets. Every moment, whether shared laughter in Osaka or a tranquil onsen evening in Hakone, adds to the story.

This 10-day romantic Japan itinerary blends culture, nature, and modern comfort so you can focus on what matters most: time together.

FAQs About Romantic Spots in Japan

What is the most romantic place in Japan?
Kyoto is the top choice, with Hakone close behind.

When is the best time to visit Japan for couples?
Spring and autumn offer the best weather and scenery.

Do couples need to book private onsens in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended, especially on weekends.

Are public displays of affection acceptable in Japan?
Mild affection is fine, but keep it subtle in temples and rural areas.

Is Japan good for anniversaries or vow renewals?
Yes, many hotels and shrines offer simple private options.

Is it easy to get couple photos taken in Japan?
Yes, popular spots and local photographers make it simple.

What are the best romantic things to do in Japan for first-time couples?
Sunsets, lake cruises, and blossom walks are great choices.

Are romantic restaurants expensive in Japan?
Not always; options range from casual cafes to fine dining.

Can couples rent kimonos together?
Yes, rental shops in major cities offer matching sets.