Romantic things to do in Tokyo: Date ideas for couples

Tokyo is an ideal destination for couples as this energetic and diverse city has many romantic things to do. The city has more Michelin Star restaurants than Paris, so the cuisine is always spectacular. After you grab a bite, you can choose from an endless array of romantic things to do in and around the city: you can enjoy a romantic boat ride along the Chidorigafuchi Moat and see the Imperial Castle from a new perspective or visit the Enoshima Shrine to pray for love together. This guide will cover an extensive list of the best things to do in Tokyo for couples.

Discover Tokyo’s romantic side

Showstopping romantic activities for special occasions: Visit as the cherry blossoms bloom at Inokashira Park, go on a kimono date in the city, or visit the Enoshima Shrine.
Romantic neighborhoods to explore on date night: Explore and dine in the Roppongi Hills, enjoy the seaside on Odaiba Island, or enjoy the nightlife in Shibuya.
Secret spots for romantic moments: Dig through some antiques, clothes, and records together in Shimokitazawa, take a boat cruise on the Sumida River, or unwind on a spa date at an onsen.

1. Have a classic date with fantastic views

Tokyo SkyTree is a popular destination for panoramic views of Tokyo and its surrounding areas: you can see Mount Fuji, the gorgeous horizon, and the dreamy city below. Skytree is the tallest building in Tokyo and the second tallest building in the world. It’s no wonder it is known as one of the best viewing points in the city and one of the best spots for proposing.

Hot tip

The best time to visit Tokyo SkyTree is at night when you can see the city’s twinkling lights below. There are so many restaurants to kick start your date, so grab a bite and head to one of Tokyo’s all-time favorite romantic spots.

Address

1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045. Opens daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.

2. Explore and dine in the famous Tsukiji Fish Market

Fish is the last thing to cross your mind when you think of romantic ideas. But when you visit the Tsukiji Fish Market and try the freshly caught fish, you’ll understand that the way to someone’s heart is through the stomach with the food in Tokyo. The market has many restaurants, perfect for cozy date nights or special occasions. If you and yours love to try food, Tsukiji Fish Market is a must-go.

Hot tip

Try to go early in the morning to taste the freshest catch. Many specialty stalls and restaurants go beyond seafood, including classic snack stalls like the sea urchin bun, the Maguroyaki pancake, and the tamagoyaki egg omelet (or omelet on a stick!).

Address

Japan, 〒104-0045 Tokyo, Chuo City, Tsukiji, 4 Chome, 及び６丁目一部. Opens Monday–Tuesday and Thursday–Saturday, 5:00 AM–2:00 PM; Wednesday and Sunday, 10:00 AM–2:00 PM.

3. Explore a city within the city together

Roppongi Hills offers some of Tokyo’s best shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. At the heart of the area is the Mori Tower, a must-visit because it is home to the Sky Deck, an open-air rooftop that is a perfect date spot with fantastic city views. Enjoy a romantic day together exploring a district full of fancy shops and fine dining, and don’t forget to stop by the world-renowned Mori Art Museum.

Hot tip

Roppongi Hills lights up at night with bustling bars, popular clubs, and the hottest restaurants. For couples who love bar hopping and feeling the vibrant energy of a metropolis, Roppongi Hills is the place to experience Tokyo nightlife.

4. Float along the Chidorigafuchi Moat

The Chidorigafuchi Moat is northwest of the Imperial Palace, and a long tunnel of cherry trees is lined along its shores. During the Chiyoda Sakura Festival in the spring, the moat is tinted pink from the reflection of the pink flowers. Later in the season, the ground and water are covered with pink petals, exceptional scenery, and the perfect backdrop for couples to visit and take pictures. For a romantic activity on a honeymoon or date, rent out a boat and row gently downstream surrounded by pink.

Hot tip

Cherry blossom season is from the end of March to early April, and this is the best time to visit the Chidorigafuchi Moat. The trees light up when the sun comes down, providing an absolutely magical backdrop to any lovers’ trip. It’s no wonder this experience is one of the best things to do at night in Tokyo.

Address

2 Sanbancho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo 102-0091. The boat pier is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM.

5. Go on a date wearing kimonos

Asakusa is the center of the city’s shitamachi (or ‘low city’), meaning it preserves and captures the atmosphere of Tokyo in the past decades. It is an area easily explored on foot, with ancient shrines and temples like the Kaminarimon, Sensoji Temple, and Dempoin Temple being popular spots to visit. A fun couples activity is to dress up in kimonos and explore the historic district in full traditional garb. It is a fantastic way to experience Japanese culture and an excellent opportunity to look stunning as a couple.

Hot tip

Be sure to check out Nakamise Street, a famous spot for purchasing traditional crafts, beautiful kimonos, and traditional Japanese sweets like fried manju buns or mochi skewers. Surprise your partner with a thoughtful gift here so they have a souvenir to remember your romantic time spent in Asakusa together.

6. Wander along the Meguro River during sakura season

Meguro River is the best way to experience the sakura cherry blossoms, as 800 sakura trees line the banks of the river in the Nakameguro neighborhood. Enjoy the walk amidst the pink floral accents, find a nice date spot to picnic, and enjoy each other’s company under the scenic cherry blossoms.

Hot tip

If you stick around past nightfall, you will find the trees illuminated with decorative lights. This is truly a feast for your eyes and a romantic backdrop for all couples. Festive foods and drinks are also sold along the river all night, so feel free to eat a delicious traditional snack to celebrate the festivities and each other.

7. Take a bike ride in Showa Kinen National Park

Showa Kinen is a favorite amongst Tokyoites, one of the best national parks in Tokyo, and a welcomed oasis outside the city core. The massive park has lush, expansive lawns, perfect for a weekend picnic date, and woodland trails. A great activity for couples is to go on a bike ride in the park, exploring the park in style. The most romantic time to visit is during the cherry blossom season in the spring or autumn when the ginkgo leaves turn brown and the cosmos bloom.

Hot tip

Remember to visit the Japanese garden when you’re visiting. The traditional Japanese landscaping is ideal for any season, and the teahouse nearby is an excellent little date spot where you can enjoy a cup of green tea in sukiya-style.

8. Visit the Statue of Liberty in Tokyo

Odaiba Seaside Park is a man-made beach on the edge of Tokyo Bay, where you can find a picturesque view of the city from Rainbow Bridge to Tokyo Tower and the rest of the skyline. Enjoy long walks on the sandy beach, lie down and relax on the grassy lawns, or visit a miniature Statue of Liberty—Odaiba is a fun and humorous area for vacationers.

Hot tip

Although swimming is not allowed in the waters, adventurous and active couples will find activities such as windsurfing and paddle boarding fun for a date and a unique way to experience Tokyo by the water.

9. Escape the city and go on a date in Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park is a classic meeting spot for locals going on a date, and it’s very clear why: the massive greenspace provides a calm in the middle of a metropolis, and there’s just so much to do here! Many charming coffee shops around the park are perfect venues for dates. The Inokashira Pond is ideal for romantic boat rides. There are also shrines, museums, and even a zoo close by!

Hot tip

Inokashira is home to around 500 cherry blossom trees, and when they bloom in spring, the park becomes a fantastic place for couples to visit. It’s best to come early on weekends to save a spot or visit on a weekday for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Address and opening hours

1 Chome-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0005.

10. Take a day trip to Enoshima

Enoshima is a charming island in the Kanagawa Prefecture, a short train ride from Tokyo. The island enshrines the Naked Goddess, the Japanese deity of entertainment and matchmaking, the perfect backstory for a romantic getaway. There are many date opportunities here: the hot springs baths and spas make for a relaxing couple activity. Don’t forget to ring the Love Bell together and leave your names on the locks to ensure your love is eternal.

Hot tip

The best time to visit Enoshima Island is in the summer when you can fully enjoy an ocean swim or coffee outdoors on the beachside. Visit the shrines and pray for love and good luck.

Address and opening hours

Enoshima, Fujisawa, Kanagawa 251-0036.

FAQs

What are some unusual romantic things to do in Tokyo?

Visit Odaiba Seaside Park on a date and take pictures with the Statue of Liberty in Tokyo! While there, you can enjoy the sandy beach and the magnificent views of the Tokyo skyline. Another unusual date idea is a dinner cruise on Tokyo Bay. Having dinner while seeing Tokyo from the water is memorable, unique, and romantic.

What are the most romantic spots to watch the sunset in Tokyo?

Head to the Meguro City neighborhood and visit Sky Garden to see the superb views west of Setagaya. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Fuji. Saigoyama Park is another excellent way to bask in the sunset on a romantic date away from the bustling city.

What are some romantic day trips from Tokyo?

Inokashira Park is a massive green space away from the city, with many charming date spots and activities to do on a date. Take a boat out in the water and enjoy each other’s company in the calm park outside the city center. Enoshima is another fine day trip for a romantic getaway. The romantic backstory of the region is immortalized by its shrines. Ring the Love Bell together as a way to profess your eternal love.

What are the best places to take romantic photos in Tokyo?

Chidorigafuchi Moat is a perfect spot for romantic photos, especially during the Sakura season in the spring when the pink flower petals paint the entire area pink, an ideal backdrop for a romantic photo to remember your date forever. Asakusa is a beautiful area in Tokyo that cherishes its traditional past. Dressing up in kimonos is a popular thing to do while visiting, and taking pictures while checking out the shrines and attractions in the region while in traditional garb makes for cute photos together.