Looking for Nature Spots in Japan? Here Are My Favorite Secluded Nature Locations

One question I hear time and again from couples planning their proposal or engagement session is: "Thierry, we love nature, but we want somewhere more private. Can you recommend locations that feel more intimate and secluded?"

The short answer? Absolutely! And I have some incredible spots that will take your breath away.

My Top Nature Recommendations for Private Moments

Mt. Fuji Area (Kawaguchiko)

This region is in my heart. Combining Japan's iconic mountains with pristine lakes creates a dramatic and romantic backdrop. What I love most about Kawaguchiko is how it offers multiple vantage points, from lakeside spots perfect for intimate moments to elevated areas where Mt. Fuji becomes your witness. The changing light throughout the day creates completely different moods and the golden hour here is magical.

Hakone's Hidden Corners

While many tourists flock to the popular spots, I know the quieter paths in Hakone that offer stunning natural beauty without the crowds. The interplay of mountains, hot springs, and traditional Japanese landscapes creates those cinematic frames I'm always chasing. If you're planning a multi-day experience, Hakone offers beautiful ryokan accommodations that can add another layer to your story.

Showa Kinen Park

Located just outside central Tokyo's hustle and bustle, this expansive park is one of my best-kept secrets for couples seeking nature without traveling too far. The park opens at 9:30 AM, which gives us that perfect morning light for softer, more romantic photos. This location's seasonal transformations make it special – from cherry blossom fields in spring to vibrant autumn colors that create natural frames around your love story.

Kamikochi, Nagano

If you plan to explore areas like Nagano, Kamikochi deserves serious consideration. This location offers some of the most pristine natural beauty I've encountered in Japan. The mountain reflections in crystal-clear waters and the dramatic peaks create photographs that feel like they belong in a gallery. It's more remote, but for couples who want something truly unique, this location delivers unforgettable results.

Hokkaido’s Untouched Landscapes

If you’re dreaming of wide-open spaces and raw natural beauty, Hokkaido is a treasure. In summer, you’ll find sprawling flower fields that feel like they stretch to the horizon, while winter transforms the region into a snow-dusted wonderland. The quiet lakes, rolling hills, and endless skies create an atmosphere of intimacy and adventure—perfect for couples who want their photos to feel both cinematic and deeply personal.

One of my favorite spots here is Matsumae Park, home to thousands of cherry blossom trees set against the backdrop of a historic castle. In spring, this location feels straight out of a fairytale.

Shiga

Shiga often surprises couples because it feels so peaceful yet rich with scenery. From quiet mountain trails to serene lakeside views and cultural landmarks tucked within nature, Shiga offers a slower pace and fewer crowds than many popular spots. It’s an ideal choice if you want your session to feel grounded, authentic, and deeply connected to Japan’s natural rhythms.

Here's where things get really exciting. I've discovered private venues that feature traditional elements like Torii gates nestled within beautifully maintained gardens. These locations offer the perfect blend of nature and Japanese culture, creating opportunities for photos that tell a deeper story about your time in Japan.

The availability and pricing for these exclusive locations vary, so I always check directly with the venues when planning your session. When we can secure these spots, the results are extraordinary.

Making Your Nature Session Perfect

What I love most about nature photography is how each season in Japan offers completely different possibilities.

When planning a nature session, I always consider not just the visual beauty of a location, but how it feels emotionally. Some couples are drawn to the grandeur of Mt. Fuji, while others prefer the intimate feel of a secluded garden path. There's no right or wrong choice , only what resonates with your story.

If you're dreaming of a proposal, engagement session, or elopement surrounded by Japan's natural beauty, let's start planning your perfect location. I'd love to hear what kind of natural setting speaks to your hearts!