Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and it's a time where many of us want to do something special with our significant other to celebrate. If you're looking for some ideas on how to spend Valentine's Day in Tokyo – or not too far afield – this guide has five suggestions.

Enjoy some illuminations

Unlike Christmas lights in many other countries, Japan's illumination events often stretch throughout winter and well into spring. This is great if you're looking for a romantic way to spend Valentine's Day, and one spot to check out in Tokyo is the Yomiuriland Jewellumination event. It runs right up until early April, so even if you can't make a Valentine's Day trip you've got plenty of time to still stop by.

Twinkling illuminations set a romantic scene
Twinkling illuminations set a romantic scene (Photo: zengame / CC BY 2.0)

Try a Valentine's themed high tea

Japan has plenty of high tea events on offer at luxury hotels, and many pop up at this time of year with a Valentine's theme. This one not far from Tokyo at the Yokohama Bay Hotel Tokyu looks like a great option to enjoy with your sweetheart.

Enjoy sweets with your sweetheart!
Enjoy sweets with your sweetheart! (Photo: Tokyu Hotels / Public Domain)

Appreciate seasonal flowers together

As your love blooms, why not appreciate some of nature's blooms? The Bunkyo Plum Festival at Yushima Tenjin is one of Tokyo's best flower events, and it typically runs from early February to early March – perfect timing for a little Valentine's Day strolling!

Plum blossoms are one pretty flower that is usually in bloom around Valentine's Day
Plum blossoms are one pretty flower that is usually in bloom around Valentine's Day (Photo: mrhayata / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Take in the city from above

In a similar vein to illumination events, there's something beautiful about watching twinkling city lights from above, and there are plenty of places to get a view out over the sprawling Tokyo metropolis. This great article covers 10 of Tokyo's top observation decks if you're looking for some inspiration!

A romantic view of the Tokyo skyline from Tokyo Skytree
A romantic view of the Tokyo skyline from Tokyo Skytree (Photo: JD / CC BY 2.0)

Head away for a night

Tokyoites have plenty of great options for getaways in easy proximity from the city, so if you've got some time up your sleeve how about doing an overnight trip? From the onsen paradise of Hakone to the cultural hub of Nikko, getting away can allow you to explore a new place and create some memories to last a lifetime.

If you've got more time, an overnight getaway is a great option!
If you've got more time, an overnight getaway is a great option! (Photo: Shawn Harquail / CC BY-NC 2.0)

Added bonus:

The cover photo is of Shinjuku's Love Sculpture, which can be found at the front of the Shinjuku i-LAND building. It's the perfect spot for a sweet selfie!