Overview
Do you know which neighborhoods in Tokyo Japanese couples like to visit for a lovely day off together? A typical tour desk would probably recommend Ginza for a “shopping date.” Ginza is like a giant treasure chest—one of Japan’s premier entertainment districts, where luxurious shopping streets coexist with long-established stores boasting over 300 years of history. However, if you’d prefer a more relaxed shopping experience, Odaiba is highly recommended. Right next to the glittering waters of Tokyo Bay, you’ll find a commercial complex with over 300 shops. After relaxing at stylish cafés, you can enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beach, and in the evening, savor a romantic dinner accompanied by stunning night views. Did your search suggest Shinjuku for an evening stroll through the city? But if you want to explore Tokyo’s “urban dungeon,” Shinbashi is a must-visit. The area beneath the railway tracks in Shinbashi is known as a “bar-hopping mecca,” lined with clusters of inexpensive, delicious izakaya steeped in retro Showa-era charm, alongside stylish and sophisticated bars. When it comes to panoramic views of Tokyo at night, Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower are famous and crowded with tourists from all over the world. However, far fewer people know that there are also wonderful observation decks at Sunshine City 60 in Ikebukuro and at Carrot Tower in Ochanomizu. In this article, a Japanese writer introduces these wonderful hidden gems to couples who want to spend a relaxing holiday in Japan.
Odaiba is home to shopping complexes such as DiverCity Tokyo, Aqua City, and DECKS Tokyo Beach, making it an ideal area for a relaxed shopping date.
DECKS Tokyo Beach faces Tokyo Bay, and you can walk down to the beach in just a few steps.Its nighttime illumination creates a lovely atmosphere that can be enjoyed throughout the year.
How to Get There
We recommend choosing Haneda Airport whenever possible, as it offers easier access to central Tokyo. Narita Airport handles a large number of international flights, but traveling from there to Tokyo takes more time. From either airport, airport limousine buses are a convenient option for reaching accommodations in central Tokyo, as they allow you to store your luggage. These buses run directly to major areas such as Shinjuku and Tokyo Station, making them a relaxed and comfortable choice for couples. Trains are a more economical way to get around, but navigating Tokyo’s complex rail system while carrying large luggage can be challenging. If you prefer a more comfortable arrival, consider using a private transfer service. In a private space shared only by the two of you, you can set a romantic tone from the very beginning of your trip. When checking in or transferring, be sure to keep your passport and reservation confirmations easily accessible. By purchasing a mobile battery pack and a prepaid SIM card at the airport, you’ll be able to get around Tokyo without stress. For smooth travel on trains and buses, buy a transportation IC card such as PASMO or SUICA at the station. SUICA can also be downloaded in advance as a mobile app and linked to a credit card for easy payments.
Things to Do
What should couples prioritize when visiting Tokyo for the first time? We recommend creating lasting memories by balancing iconic landmarks with lesser-known romantic spots. Instead of a heavy hotel breakfast, consider heading to Tsukiji Outer Market for a morning stroll and street food tasting. Hamarikyu Gardens and Shinjuku Gyoen are especially beautiful in spring and autumn and are perfect for leisurely walks. On weekdays, they are quieter and ideal for a peaceful stroll. One drawback of observation decks at Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree is that, for example, when you’re on Tokyo Tower’s deck, you can’t actually see Tokyo Tower itself. If you want to view both at the same time, Shibuya Sky is highly recommended. Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset, avoid the worst crowds, and then have dinner nearby. Nakamise Street in Asakusa is the main approach leading to Senso-ji Temple, lined with souvenir shops set against a historic streetscape. Enjoy a townscape where culture and charm come together. It’s best to avoid weekends and visit early in the morning. By joining a private tour with a local guide, you’ll gain a deeper experience through hidden spots and meaningful encounters with local people. Omoide Yokocho in Shinjuku is a tucked-away area filled with nostalgic food stalls. For a taste of Tokyo’s nightlife, be sure to visit Golden Gai in Kabukicho as well. Enjoy a romantic half-day itinerary: start in Ginza in the evening, strolling through streets where glittering skyscrapers coexist with cutting-edge trends and long-established shops. Then head on foot or by train to the area beneath the railway tracks in Shinbashi, where you can unwind with drinks at cozy, intimate bars. This selection is designed to offer a little of everything—nature, iconic sights, local cuisine, and intimate moments perfect for two—making your first trip both vibrant and relaxing.
Where to Stay
By choosing a base that balances a romantic atmosphere, convenient transportation, and quality hotel services, couples can enjoy a stress-free and comfortable trip. Areas such as Ikebukuro, Shinjuku, and Shibuya offer excellent transportation access and are surrounded by vibrant neon-lit districts, making them ideal for couples who want to enjoy lively nights out. The areas around Shinagawa Station and Tokyo Station are major hubs for the Shinkansen, making them especially suitable for travelers planning to explore a wider range of destinations across Japan over several days. Ueno is a more off-the-beaten-path area where deep-rooted downtown culture coexists with tranquil parks. With easy access to Asakusa—a treasure trove of Japanese culture and history—it’s perfect for couples seeking a richer cultural experience. Ebisu, located right next to Shibuya, is known for its stylish cafés and calm daytime atmosphere. At night, however, the hidden bar-hopping haven of Ebisu Yokocho comes alive, making it an appealing option that combines sophistication, relaxation, and hidden gems. When choosing a hotel, prioritize convenient transportation access and hotel services. Luggage storage services are especially useful for day trips. During peak seasons (March, April, September, and October), be sure to secure your room in advance. For example, if transportation convenience is your priority, Hotel Metropolitan Marunouchi, Tokyo Station Hotel, and Shinagawa Prince Hotel are highly recommended. Hilton Tokyo Odaiba, with its excellent views, is also a worthwhile option to consider.
Culture and Local Flavor
How about starting with a moment of calm and relaxation? Enjoy a cup of matcha in a cozy tearoom. As a quiet conversation begins in the gentle morning light, your hearts will be lifted and you’ll be able to savor the soul of Japanese culture on a deeper level. Couples can enrich their “just the two of us” experience in Tokyo through a few simple choices. Joining a traditional tea ceremony and fully appreciating the ritual and flavor of matcha is a wonderful option. It’s a subtle, sensory way to connect more deeply with Japanese culture. Do you know the difference between Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples? The mystery of the Japanese spirit, woven over thousands of years, awaits you. Cleanse yourself at these sacred spaces and maintain respect and inner calm. Active couples might want to experience the excitement of a sumo match. Few people realize that sumo is not merely a combat sport, but a ritual dedicated to the gods. Gaining this deeper cultural understanding feels like sharing a special secret known only to the two of you. You might also dive into the jungle of anime, games, and pop culture in Akihabara. Shared interests make every adventure even more enjoyable. At local izakaya, sharing dishes is the norm. Japan’s bar-hopping culture involves ordering several small plates and moving from one izakaya or bar to another. Sharing food naturally deepens intimacy and conversation, creating memories you’ll cherish long after your trip ends. With each stop on your bar-hopping journey, your closeness grows as well. While most izakaya and bars accept credit cards, it’s recommended to carry some cash if you plan to venture into more traditional, long-established local spots.
Ginza Corridor Street is lined with stylish bars stretching into the neighboring district, inviting visitors into a captivating night scene.
Deeper beyond Ginza Corridor Street lies Ura-Corridor Street, inviting you on a more immersive and niche bar-hopping journey.
Some local izakaya allow you to cook your own okonomiyaki or monjayaki at the table. It’s sure to become a memorable dinner experience for the two of you.
Curated Experiences
Curated experiences for couples often refer to private or semi-private activities designed to create intimate moments, such as personalized tours or special evening events. Rather than trying to cover every tourist attraction, these experiences focus on sharing meaningful time together in thoughtfully chosen settings. Four particularly noteworthy curated experiences include private guided tours that offer personalized insights and flexibility, evening river cruises that are perfect for enjoying city lights and a romantic atmosphere, traditional tea ceremonies that provide deep cultural exchange, and gourmet tours centered on sharing and savoring local flavors together. Alternatively, you might consider venturing a bit farther and spending more time at one of Japan’s most iconic destinations. When people think of Japan, many immediately picture Mount Fuji. For those who find navigating multiple train transfers to reach such destinations a bit daunting, private vehicle tours are also an excellent option, adding an extra touch of elegance and comfort to your vacation. When choosing between group tours and private tours, couples should weigh privacy against opportunities for social interaction. Private tours tend to be quiet and more intimate, ideal for spending time just the two of you, while group tours offer a livelier atmosphere and the chance to enjoy the chemistry that comes from meeting and interacting with others.
Nature in Japan
Japan’s cherry blossoms are world-famous, but March and April—the peak blooming season—also bring heavy crowds to most major tourist attractions. However, cherry blossoms don’t bloom only at famous sightseeing spots. You’ll find them in small neighborhood parks, on ordinary bridges, and along quiet backstreets as well. Why not go in search of your own private cherry blossom spot, just for the two of you?
Even within the urban landscape of Tokyo, you can find Japanese gardens that preserve a sense of majestic nature. The Japanese have long incorporated harmony with nature into their architecture and culture. In Japanese gardens, you can experience the changing expressions of nature across all four seasons.
For couples seeking a quiet, relaxing time
Seasonal recommendations
Local tips
- Cars drive on the left side of the road, and pedestrians also generally keep to the left. - Some indoor spaces require you to remove your shoes, so choose footwear that is easy to put on and take off. - Free Wi-Fi is available at hotels and cafés, but purchasing a prepaid SIM card at the airport is more convenient. - When walking around, you’ll notice there are very few public trash bins, so look for one at a train station or take your trash back to your hotel for disposal. - Use transportation IC cards for public transportation. - Be mindful of train etiquette. In some cases, large luggage such as suitcases may not be allowed (on the Shinkansen, oversized luggage often requires an additional fee). - Carry at least a small amount of cash with you.