29/10/2026
We love Japan. We love love. So naturally, this is one of our favourite questions to answer 💍
Here’s where our Japan specialists say you should pop the question...
This area experiences some pretty spectacular sunsets, so if timed right, this promises to be a pretty idyllic visual backdrop for that special moment.
Meoto Iwa is an achievable day trip from Kyoto and can be combined with a visit to the Ise Grand Shrine – the most important and sacred Shinto shrine in Japan – earlier in the day.
After the proposal itself, travel expert Sam recommends renting one of the three beautiful private open air hot spring baths at Nishimuraya Shogetsutei, where they provide sparkling w**e to accentuate the celebration. ��Looking out over the bamboo forest, you can relax together in the springs and hot rock sauna. If your partner is the type who enjoys a spot of R&R, this could be just the ticket.
Since this is a tourist hotspot, the queues are usually pretty lengthy. However, here at Inside Japan we can make a reservation at ‘Sky Restaurant 634’, which allows you to skip the queue, admire the view, propose and then celebrate with a wonderful French-Japanese fusion meal whilst admiring magnificent views. A stylish choice recommended by Mark!
The grounds are surrounded by forest, dotted with striking vermilion wooden buildings and quaint bridges over babbling streams – all very serene. Most importantly, along with Jishu Jinja, it’s known as one of Kyoto’s love shrines; dedicated to the Shinto God of Good Marriage and Engagement (another sign – Japan’s full of them!). ��In traditional Japanese culture, people visit these shrines to pray for good fortune in luck, health and love, so if you’re into symbolism, what better place to start your married life?
Planning a cherry blossom proposal in Japan? Be warned: sakura season is incredibly popular, and Tokyo and Kyoto’s best-known spots get seriously busy.
Our Tokyo-born expert Yuki recommends a stroll along the Meguro River from Ohashi to Shimomeguro instead, where cherry trees line both banks for around 4km. It won’t be crowd-free, especially at weekends, but it makes a pretty special backdrop.
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InsideJapan Tours
