SILK SCREENS & RICE PAPER

Tokyo has something for everyone, from the designer boutiques of Shinjuku to the Zen gardens of Hamarikyu – and with more Michelin stars than any other city in the world, foodies won’t be disappointed either. You’ll fly into the capital and spend three nights at the Andaz Tokyo, the ideal base thanks to its superb views from the floor-to-ceiling windows and location on the top floors of the city’s second tallest building. When you’re able to drag yourself away from the hotel’s rooftop bar, delve into the city’s fascinating culture. Enjoy its limitless contrasts, from the ancient temples of Asakusa and the peaceful Meiji Shrine to the skyscrapers of Shiodome and the fashion houses of Omotesando. If you want to go beyond the city, consider a day trip to nearby Kamakura, a former de facto capital of Japan which was once the largest city in the world. Now a sleepy seaside town, Kamakura is home to some fascinating historical attractions, including the 12th century Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, and a vast wooden statue of the goddess Kannon which stands at nearly ten metres tall.

Departing from Tokyo, a short romantic train journey will take you to beautiful Hakone National Park, famous for its hot springs, outdoor pursuits and the majestic Mount Fuji. Shrouded in mist and lined by old growth forest, follow the red lantern pathways to the historic Hakone Shrine and then continue downhill towards the shores of Lake Ashi. Take a colourful snap of the blue waters framed by the vibrant orange tori gate before heading back into Hakone town to visit the Open Air Museum to see its various exhibitions of indoor and outdoor sculptures. You’ll take a step back in time with a stay at Hakone-Ginyu, a traditional Japanese ryokan inn, sleeping on futon bedding on tatami mats: each of the rooms has its own private open air hot spring bath on the balcony, with a romantic view of the mountains.

From Hakone you’ll board the world famous bullet train for the journey to Kyoto, Japan’s ancient imperial capital. Home to no less than 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kyoto is overflowing with character and is the best place to get a feel for old-world Japan. Arriving at your traditional inn - the stunning Shiraume Ryokan – you’ll have three nights to roam the streets of Kyoto, spotting Geisha in Gion and Miyagawacho, wandering through the historic grounds of Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace and tasting the weird and wonderful offerings in Nishiki Market. With three nights in the ancient capital, you’ll have enough time to visit Nara, another of Japan’s former capitals, famous for the friendly deer that roam its perfectly preserved streets and ancient parks.

This is where your honeymoon takes a turn towards embracing Japan’s slower pace of life, with two blissful nights in the southern city of Kurashiki. Located in the centre of the Bikan Historical Quarter, formed by a collection of storehouses and converted museums that line the Edo Period canal, you’ll stay in the Ryokan Kurashiki where you can dine on traditional kaiseki cuisine, relax on the terrace or in the gardens and explore the picture postcard streets right on your doorstep. You can see all the essentials in a day but we recommend throwing out the must-do hit list and strolling hand in hand beneath the willow-lined avenues, taking pleasure in idle wander. If Picasso, Renoir or Monet hold any interest to you, then consider visiting the Ohara Museum of Art for its collection of classic European and American art.

Once a low-key fishing community, Naoshima is now a hub for contemporary art and architecture, with Benesse House one of the major attractions. Half museum, half hotel, Benesse House will be your base for three nights on this ‘art island’ as you explore the grounds, forests and shorelines pocketed by incredible artworks. Walk along the water’s edge to see Yayoi Kusama’s giant pumpkin, visit the museum dedicated to Raymond Benson’s Bond novel, The Man with the Red Tattoo, or simply sit on your bed and look at the contemporary art that line the walls. However, though art is its main draw, the island has stunning mountains, forests, beaches, cool clear waters and blissful coastal walks, meaning that you needn't be confined indoors to experience the island. After visiting the frenetic, high-energy cities on the mainland, the slow pace of life here - a relic of the island's sleepy fishing town past - makes it a relaxing and peaceful place to recoup, catch your breath and enjoy your honeymoon.