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Best Wedding Venues in Japan: Top Picks
by Region

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BEST GUIDE FOR A PERFECT WEDDING DAY IN JAPAN

BY ERIC RENE PENOY

Best Locations & Experiences to Plan Your Dream Wedding & Elopement in JAPAN

Japan is a country that blends rich traditions with breathtaking landscapes, making it a perfect destination for a wedding. Whether you dream of saying your vows under cherry blossoms in Kyoto, against the futuristic skyline of Tokyo, or on the pristine beaches of Okinawa, Japan offers an array of spectacular venues. The country is known for its unparalleled hospitality, exquisite cuisine, and stunning backdrops, making it a top choice for couples looking to tie the knot in a unique and unforgettable setting.

For couples planning a wedding in Japan, choosing the right venue can be overwhelming. With so many options, from traditional Shinto shrines to modern luxury hotels, understanding the regional highlights can help narrow down the best choice. This guide explores the top wedding venues in Japan by region, offering insight into the most scenic and meaningful locations for your special day. Whether you seek an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, Japan has the perfect spot for your dream wedding.

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HOW TO PLAN YOUR DREAM WEDDING?

Wedding Venue Checklist

1. Budget Consideration – Determine your budget to narrow down suitable venue options.

2. Guest List Size – Choose a venue that can accommodate your guest count comfortably.

3. Season & Weather – Consider cherry blossom season, summer beaches, or winter resorts for your preferred aesthetic.

4. Traditional or Modern Setting – Decide between a historical temple, castle, or luxury hotel based on your style.

5. Accessibility & Transportation – Ensure easy access for guests, including public transport and airport proximity.

6. Venue Packages – Check if the venue offers wedding planning services, catering, and décor.

7. Legal Requirements – Research necessary paperwork for foreign couples marrying in Japan.

8. Cultural & Religious Elements – Decide if you want a Shinto, Christian, or secular ceremony.

9. Photography Opportunities – Pick a venue with scenic backdrops for breathtaking wedding photos.

10. Accommodation Options – Consider hotels or ryokans nearby for guests staying overnight.

With careful planning and the right choice of venue, your wedding in Japan will be a beautiful and unforgettable experience.

Top Wedding Venues in Japan by Region

Hokkaido

1. Furano Lavender Fields – Ideal for summer weddings, this venue offers a picturesque landscape with endless purple hues and a fragrant atmosphere. 2. Sapporo Grand Hotel – A luxurious venue with elegant banquet halls and impeccable service, perfect for a grand wedding. 3. Lake Toya Resort – A stunning lakeside setting with hot springs and breathtaking views, ideal for a romantic outdoor ceremony.

Tohoku

4. Zao Onsen Resort (Yamagata) – A charming venue surrounded by snowy mountains, offering a cozy and intimate setting. 5. Matsushima Bay (Miyagi) – A scenic coastal location with floating islands, making it a unique and picturesque wedding spot. 6. Aizu Wakamatsu Castle (Fukushima) – A historical venue with traditional samurai culture, perfect for a unique Japanese wedding experience.

Kanto (Tokyo & Surroundings)

7. Meiji Jingu Shrine (Tokyo) – A prestigious Shinto shrine offering an elegant and authentic Japanese ceremony. 8. The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo – A luxurious venue with a stunning skyline view, ideal for an upscale wedding. 9. Ashikaga Flower Park (Tochigi) – A breathtaking garden venue, famous for its romantic wisteria flowers in spring.

Chubu

10. Shirakawa-go (Gifu) – A charming UNESCO World Heritage village, offering a traditional and rustic wedding experience. 11. Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel – A stylish and centrally located wedding venue with excellent hospitality. 12. Mount Fuji Lakeside (Yamanashi) – A dreamlike location with the iconic mountain as your wedding backdrop.

Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara)

13. Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kyoto) – A stunning historical temple with panoramic city views, perfect for a traditional wedding. 14. Osaka Castle Garden – A historic venue with lush gardens and an impressive castle backdrop. 15. Nara Hotel – A romantic, century-old hotel with elegant architecture and a serene atmosphere.

Chugoku

16. Itsukushima Shrine (Hiroshima) – A UNESCO-listed floating shrine offering a unique wedding experience. 17. Okayama Korakuen Garden – One of Japan’s top three gardens, providing a peaceful and scenic wedding setting. 18. Matsue Castle – A well-preserved samurai-era castle, perfect for couples looking for a historical venue.

Shikoku

19. Ritsurin Garden (Kagawa) – A beautifully landscaped garden offering an intimate and picturesque ceremony. 20. Dogo Onsen (Ehime) – One of Japan’s oldest hot springs, ideal for a traditional and relaxing wedding experience. 21. Naruto Whirlpools (Tokushima) – A unique coastal venue with dramatic ocean views and natural wonders.

Kyushu

22. Beppu Hot Springs (Oita) – A spa resort with a mix of modern luxury and traditional onsen charm. 23. Kumamoto Castle – A historical castle with grand architecture, offering a majestic wedding backdrop. 24. Yakushima Island (Kagoshima) – A mystical forested island, ideal for an intimate nature-inspired wedding.

Okinawa

25. Naha Beachfront Resorts – Luxurious beach resorts with stunning sunset views and turquoise waters. 26. Cape Manzamo – A breathtaking coastal cliffside perfect for a sunset wedding. 27. Ishigaki Island – A tropical paradise with white sandy beaches, ideal for a laid-back island wedding.

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CONCLUSION

Planning a wedding in Japan is an exciting adventure filled with stunning locations and unique cultural experiences. Each region offers something special, from traditional temples to modern luxury resorts, ensuring couples can find a venue that aligns with their dream wedding vision. Whether you prefer a cherry blossom garden, a castle steeped in history, or a beachfront ceremony, Japan provides endless possibilities.

Japan’s renowned hospitality ensures that your special day will be meticulously planned and flawlessly executed. The combination of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and world-class venues makes Japan a top-tier wedding destination. By choosing a location that resonates with your love story, you can create an unforgettable experience that you and your guests will cherish forever.