There’s no more romantic Valentine’s gesture than to take your partner away for a couple’s getaway. If you’re looking for something a little more unusual than the usual beach resorts and European destinations, why not consider Japan?
February is an excellent time to escape the gloom of the UK and head out on an adventure. The weather in February in Japan is cool, crisp, and sunny; and as it’s one of the quieter times of the year, you’ll be able to enjoy popular sightseeing spots without the crowds.
Where to Go?
The temperature during February ranges from an average of 0 degrees Celsius in Sapporo in the north to 10 degrees Celsius in the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo (you’ll find much higher temperatures, if you want them on the southern island of Okinawa). It’s the ideal weather for cuddling up in front of the fire or indulging in a natural hot spring “onsen” bath. Northern parts of the country receive a high snowfall at this time of year, creating a beautiful and romantic landscape and the opportunity of lots of different winter activities.
Many people would agree that traveling by train is the most romantic form of transportation and you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to rail travel in Japan with a wide network that covers almost the whole country and world-famous punctuality and service. You can purchase Japan Rail Pass in the UK before you leave and this will enable you to travel all over the country with unlimited trips for a set fee.
The exciting city of Tokyo is a must on any Japan travel itinerary with its multitude of shopping and entertainment opportunities. Even if you’re not one for big cities, Tokyo also has plenty of green spaces to offer in the form of large public parks and beautiful temple complexes.
Further south, Kyoto is famous for its thousands of Shinto shrines, immaculate traditional gardens and traditional teahouses frequented by the beautiful and mysterious Geisha.
If you’re looking for a romantic snowy experience, travel north to the island of Hokkaido, which offers breath-taking mountain scenery and numerous snow sports and activities in winter.
In fact, there are so many places worth visiting in Japan, it can be difficult deciding. If you need some help planning your trip, Japan Journeys can tailor make a trip just for you.
ROMANTIC SIGHTS AND ACTIVITIES IN JAPAN
The Sapporo Snow Festival is held just before Valentine’s Day, from the 6th to the 12th of February in 2017. The popular festival includes impressively large snow and ice sculptures, activities such as snow slides, and various concerts and other entertainment. You can also checkout the nearby Otaru Snow Light Path Festival with its romantic twinkling snow lanterns.
If you’re staying in the Tokyo area, it’s well worth following Japan’s “Romantic Road” to the small mountain town of Nikko, for an amazing day trip. Nikko is home to some beautiful temples and is surrounded by impressive snow-topped mountains.
The Romantic Road itself is a picturesque road winding through the “Japanese Alps” to the north of Tokyo. There are various hot spring resorts and quaint towns along the way, making it a relaxed and enjoyable road trip if you have a few days to spare. For day-trippers, the train is more convenient and takes only two hours from central Tokyo.
Hot spring resorts, or onsens, are also a popular getaway for Japanese honeymooners and there are hundreds to choose from. Many onsens are transformed with beautiful snowy landscapes in the winter, and you can enjoy the therapeutic effects of the natural outdoor hot springs while you take in the scenery.
These are just a few examples of the many memorable experiences in Japan you can enjoy together with your loved one. Other ideas to consider include:
- a romantic meal at Tokyo’s rotating Ginza Sky Lounge, with panoramic views of the city
- a night cruise in Tokyo Bay
- exploring the magical bamboo groves on the outskirts of Kyoto
- hiking Mount Fuji at sunrise
Whatever you choose to do during your stay in Japan, the experience is sure to be one you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
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