Planning your wedding day is no small feat. You want it to be memorable, beautiful, and a true reflection of who you are as a couple. But for those who care about the planet, it’s also important that your wedding doesn’t come at the expense of the environment. Luckily, Japan is home to some of the most stunning and sustainable wedding venues where you can say “I do” while respecting nature. Whether you’re dreaming of a garden wedding, a beach ceremony, or something uniquely Japanese, the eco-friendly venues in Japan offer a beautiful balance of elegance and environmental responsibility.
So, why not celebrate your love while also celebrating the planet? Here are some of the top eco-friendly wedding venues in Japan that will not only make your day unforgettable but also help reduce your carbon footprint.
Why Choose an Eco-Friendly Wedding?
Weddings can often be wasteful. Think of all the single-use plastics, over-the-top decor, and massive amounts of food waste that come with the average celebration. But today, couples are becoming more aware of their environmental impact and are looking for ways to minimize waste and opt for sustainable choices in every aspect of their wedding.
An eco-friendly wedding venue is one that is committed to sustainability in areas like energy use, waste reduction, local food sourcing, and sustainable decor. These venues will allow you to have the wedding of your dreams without harming the environment. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate your love in a meaningful, planet-positive way, Japan offers several options for a sustainable, stylish wedding.
Best Eco-Friendly Wedding Venues in Japan
Japan is a country that deeply respects nature, and its eco-friendly wedding venues reflect this philosophy. Here are a few stunning places where you can tie the knot in a sustainable and eco-conscious way:
1. The Tottori Sand Dunes Conan (Tottori)
If you’re dreaming of a wedding surrounded by nature, The Tottori Sand Dunes Conan is the venue for you. Located near the spectacular sand dunes of Tottori, this venue offers panoramic views of the Sea of Japan and a serene setting that can’t be beaten. Tottori Sand Dunes Conan is committed to sustainable practices, from using locally sourced materials to minimizing water and energy consumption. You’ll feel the warm ocean breeze as you exchange vows on the sandy shore—this is truly a wedding experience you’ll never forget.
For more information, visit Tottori Sand Dunes Conan.
2. Kyoto Garden (Kyoto)
Ah, Kyoto—home to beautiful temples, traditional tea houses, and breathtaking gardens. Kyoto Garden is the perfect blend of nature and Japanese culture, offering couples a chance to tie the knot in a peaceful and eco-friendly environment. This venue emphasizes sustainability by using organic, locally sourced food, minimizing waste, and maintaining its lush gardens with sustainable landscaping practices. Whether you say your vows under a cherry blossom tree or in a quiet garden surrounded by koi ponds, Kyoto Garden provides an intimate setting that celebrates both love and the environment.
Learn more about Kyoto Garden here.
3. Gora Kadan (Hakone)
Nestled in the stunning Hakone region, Gora Kadan is a luxurious ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that combines elegance with eco-consciousness. With Mount Fuji as a backdrop, this venue is a dream for couples who want both a traditional and sustainable wedding experience. Gora Kadan is committed to sustainability through its use of geothermal heating, solar power, and locally sourced ingredients for its renowned wedding feasts. The venue’s unique blend of modern luxury and environmental mindfulness makes it a fantastic choice for those who want a beautiful, green wedding in one of Japan’s most picturesque settings.
Find out more about Gora Kadan here.
4. Shizuoka Eco Park (Shizuoka)
If you want a wedding surrounded by nature and dedicated to sustainability, Shizuoka Eco Park is the perfect venue. Located in the lush hills of Shizuoka, the venue utilizes sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, including solar panels and water-saving techniques. A wedding at Shizuoka Eco Park allows you to embrace the beauty of nature while supporting eco-friendly practices. You’ll enjoy a ceremony in a breathtaking natural environment with the added bonus of knowing your celebration is reducing its environmental impact.
Learn more about Shizuoka Eco Park here.
5. The Hoshinoya Kyoto (Kyoto)
Another gem in Kyoto, The Hoshinoya Kyoto is located along the serene Katsura River and offers a tranquil setting for your wedding. The venue prides itself on its commitment to sustainability, from the use of solar energy to eco-friendly waste management. It’s a perfect place for couples looking for an intimate, luxurious wedding experience surrounded by nature. Whether you choose to exchange vows by the river or in the gardens, Hoshinoya Kyoto offers a peaceful and eco-conscious environment for your wedding day.
For further details, visit The Hoshinoya Kyoto.
Tips for Planning an Eco-Friendly Wedding in Japan
-
Choose Seasonal and Local Food: Japanese cuisine is rich in seasonal ingredients, so take advantage of this by opting for organic, locally sourced dishes. This reduces the environmental impact of transportation and supports local farmers.
-
Go Minimal with Decor: Instead of using disposable decorations, opt for reusable items like bamboo lanterns or fabric flowers. You can also incorporate traditional Japanese decor like paper cranes or bonsai trees, which are both beautiful and sustainable.
-
Green Transportation: If your venue is located in a remote area, consider offering shuttle buses to your guests or encouraging carpooling. This reduces carbon emissions while ensuring everyone arrives safely and comfortably.
-
Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors: Instead of the usual plastic trinkets, consider giving guests a plant in a small pot, or a locally made, eco-friendly item. These thoughtful favors not only reduce waste but also offer your guests something they can cherish long after your wedding day.
-
Zero-Waste Wedding: Many eco-friendly venues have zero-waste policies, but you can also help by choosing compostable plates, cups, and utensils. It’s all about reducing waste while making sure your celebration remains elegant and stylish.
Why Choose Me for Your Eco-Friendly Wedding Photography?
Capturing the beauty of your eco-friendly wedding is just as important as the sustainable choices you make for your big day. As a destination wedding photographer, I’m passionate about making sure your memories are captured beautifully while remaining mindful of the planet. Whether you’re celebrating in Kyoto’s gardens or on a beach in Okinawa, I’ll ensure your photos reflect not only the love between you and your partner but also the incredible eco-conscious venue you’ve chosen.
Explore my portfolio and find inspiration for your own eco-friendly wedding at Your Happy Moments Blog. I offer a variety of photography packages to suit your needs—check out my Investment page. Ready to start planning your dream wedding? Let’s connect—reach out to me via my Contact page.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding is one of the most significant days of your life, and choosing to celebrate it in an eco-friendly way is a beautiful, meaningful choice. By selecting one of Japan’s stunning eco-conscious venues, you can create lasting memories while also reducing your environmental impact. Whether you’re exchanging vows in a serene garden, a modern ryokan, or on the sandy shores of Tottori, Japan has the perfect green wedding venue for you. Start planning today, and make your wedding as unforgettable as the planet you’re working to protect.
