If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends timeless tradition, natural beauty, and modern luxury, a destination wedding in Japan might be the perfect match. From tranquil Shinto shrines and scenic cherry blossoms to modern rooftops in Tokyo and snowy wonderlands in Hokkaido, Japan offers something unforgettable for every couple.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best destination wedding spots in Japan, sample wedding packages, key perks, and essential planning tips to help you say “I do” in this unique and beautiful country.
Why Choose Japan for Your Destination Wedding?
Japan is not just a country—it’s an experience. With its mix of sacred rituals, striking landscapes, and impeccable hospitality (known as omotenashi), it provides the ideal backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
Here’s why couples choose Japan:
- Cultural richness: Combine your wedding with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony or shrine blessing.
- Four seasons beauty: Cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant maple leaves in fall, and snow-covered mountains in winter.
- Incredible venues: From temples and gardens to luxury hotels and mountaintop resorts.
- World-class cuisine: Sushi, kaiseki meals, sake pairings, and more.
- Honeymoon heaven: Stay and explore Kyoto, Osaka, Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, or Okinawa—all without leaving the country.
Top Japan Wedding Destinations
1. Kyoto – Traditional & Romantic
Known for its ancient temples, Zen gardens, and geisha culture, Kyoto is perfect for couples who love tradition and elegance.
Popular venues:
- Kiyomizu-dera Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views.
- Gion District venues: For a wedding with historic flair and kimono-clad photo ops.
- The Sodoh Higashiyama Kyoto: A stylish blend of modern design and Japanese heritage.
Best time to wed: Spring (March–April) for cherry blossoms or Fall (October–November) for maple leaves.
2. Tokyo – Modern Glamour Meets Tradition
For urban chic lovers, Tokyo offers a mix of skyline views, rooftop ceremonies, luxury hotels, and even shrine weddings in the heart of the city.
Popular venues:
- Meiji Jingu Shrine: Host a traditional Shinto ceremony in a sacred forest.
- Andaz Tokyo Rooftop Studio: Sky-high celebrations with views of Tokyo Tower.
- Happo-en Gardens: A private garden venue with 400-year-old bonsai trees and koi ponds.
Best time to wed: Year-round, thanks to Tokyo’s mild winters and beautiful seasonal contrasts.
3. Okinawa – Beachfront Bliss
Dreaming of a tropical wedding in Japan? Okinawa is your island paradise. With crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and luxury resorts, it’s Japan’s answer to Hawaii.
Popular venues:
- The Ritz-Carlton Okinawa
- Kariyushi Beach Resort Ocean Spa
- Chapel de Soleil: Overlooking the sea with white-sand backdrops.
Best time to wed: March–May or October–November (to avoid typhoon season).
4. Hakone & Mount Fuji – Iconic & Scenic
Just outside Tokyo, Hakone offers hot springs, lakeside views, and Fuji as your wedding backdrop.
Popular venues:
- Lake Ashi Ceremony Boat
- The Prince Hakone Lake Ashinoko
- Fuji View Hotel: Panoramic mountain views with serene gardens.
Best time to wed: Autumn or Spring. Winter weddings offer snowcapped Fuji views.
5. Hokkaido – Snowy Winter Wonderland
For a fairytale winter wedding, Hokkaido is breathtaking with snow festivals, ice chapels, and romantic ski resorts.
Popular venues:
- Tomamu Ice Chapel (only in winter)
- Rusutsu Resort Chapel
- Niseko luxury chalets
Best time to wed: December–February (winter season)
Sample Japan Destination Wedding Packages
Here are sample wedding packages from popular planners and venues to give you an idea of pricing and inclusions:
1. Kyoto Traditional Wedding Package – From $7,500 USD
Offered by Kyoto Wedding Co.
Includes:
- Venue rental (temple or shrine)
- Shinto priest ceremony
- Full kimono rental for bride and groom
- Hair & makeup
- Professional photographer (3-hour shoot)
- Wedding certificate
- Interpreter and planner services
- Floral arrangements
Add-ons: Kaiseki dinner reception, tea ceremony, kimono dressing for guests
2. Tokyo Luxury Rooftop Wedding – From $12,000 USD
Offered by Tokyo Luxe Events
Includes:
- Ceremony at a rooftop venue (Andaz or Conrad Tokyo)
- Western or modern-style ceremony officiant
- Floral arch and custom design
- Full wedding coordination
- Hair & makeup for bride
- 4-hour photography and video package
- Wedding reception (25 guests) with plated menu
Add-ons: Fireworks, live musicians, kimono photoshoot in Asakusa
3. Okinawa Beach Wedding Package – From $9,800 USD
Offered by Beach Wedding Japan
Includes:
- Ceremony at beachside chapel
- Hotel suite (2 nights)
- Japanese-Western fusion reception dinner
- Wedding gown and tuxedo rental
- Makeup and hairstyling
- Photographer + edited wedding album
- Bouquet and boutonniere
- English-speaking coordinator
Add-ons: Scuba diving tour, beach bonfire party, Okinawan folk music band
4. Hokkaido Snow Wedding – From $10,500 USD
Offered by Hokkaido Snow Weddings
Includes:
- Ice Chapel ceremony or mountain venue
- Hot spring ryokan accommodation for 2 nights
- Traditional wedding kimono or western attire
- Snow photoshoot session
- Onsen welcome dinner
- Sake toast & snow lantern lighting
- Wedding cake and small reception
Add-ons: Dog sledding, private ski lessons, fireworks
Perks of a Japan Destination Wedding
- Incredible Photography Opportunities
From bamboo groves in Arashiyama to Mt. Fuji at sunrise, every corner is picture-perfect. - Authentic Cultural Touches
Include a sake-sharing ritual, calligraphy name tags, or origami wedding favors. - Honeymoon Built-In
Explore Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, or take the bullet train to snowy Hokkaido or sunny Okinawa. - Intimate Guest Lists
Destination weddings in Japan typically range from 10–50 guests, creating a more personal, meaningful experience. - High-Quality Service
Japan is known for detail-oriented planning, immaculate venues, and flawless hospitality.
Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremonies
Most couples opt for symbolic ceremonies in Japan and complete the legal paperwork in their home country. Japan’s legal wedding process for foreigners is possible but can be complicated and time-consuming due to translation, embassy visits, and document verification.
Solution: Have a civil wedding at home and a symbolic or spiritual ceremony in Japan.
Language Barrier
Hire a bilingual planner or interpreter. Many high-end venues and wedding companies offer English-speaking services for international clients.
Best Time of Year
- Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather
- Fall (October–November): Autumn foliage and golden light
- Winter (December–February): Snowy scenes, perfect for Hokkaido
- Summer (June–September): Warm but humid and typhoon-prone in some areas
Budgeting
Estimated cost: $7,000–$20,000 USD
Japan is not cheap, but you get tremendous value—especially when you consider photography, service, cuisine, and venue uniqueness.
Travel Tips for Guests
- Book flights to Tokyo Haneda/Narita or Kansai (Osaka) based on your wedding location.
- Encourage guests to purchase a Japan Rail Pass for easy, scenic travel.
- Share a cultural etiquette guide and dress suggestions for shrine weddings or kimono rentals.
Final Thoughts
A destination wedding in Japan is more than just a ceremony—it’s a beautifully orchestrated journey of love, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re tying the knot beneath blooming sakura trees, exchanging vows before Mount Fuji, or saying “I do” by the sea in Okinawa, Japan delivers weddings with heart, soul, and a touch of magic.
Luxury Vacations Consulting is here to help plan every moment of magic. With thoughtful planning and the right wedding team, your Japanese destination wedding will be a breathtaking beginning to your lifelong adventure.
BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION WITH US
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