With its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, Asia offers a plethora of incredible destinations to choose from. But with all of these amazing choices, narrowing down your options can be a daunting task. Luckily, the H4C team have put their 28 years of travelling to some of the dreamiest locales in Asia to good use and curated a list of the top 10 Asian honeymoon locations guaranteed to provide a romantic and unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, these destinations have it all. Get ready to embark on a journey of love and discovery in some of the most beautiful and enchanting places in Asia. From glamorous cities to destinations that re remote and rugged, we’ve handpicked 10 Asian honeymoon destinations for the perfect post-wedding getaway.
Best for wildlife…
Langkawi, Malaysia
A wilderness of mountains, waterfalls, secluded sandy bays and rainforest, Langkawi overflows with greenery and with it, a menagerie of spectacular wildlife. Venturing into the jungle-clad hills provides the ultimate back-to-nature getaway experience; you will find yourself surrounded by the calls of hidden creatures, and just might stumble across giant red flying squirrels, wreathed hornbills or dusky leaf monkeys. There are plenty of organised wildlife tours to excite eco-warrior couples – from kayaking through crab-riddled mangroves to feeding white-bellied sea eagles in isolated lagoons, or exploring the marine life of the neighbouring islands.
If all that sounds far too energetic, don’t worry – you don’t have to venture far from your daybed to enjoy a slice of the wildlife action. Nestled in amongst the unspoiled natural landscape that stretches from mountain to coast, is the luxurious getaway of The Datai. Here you’ll find wood-crafted buildings sprinkled among the rainforest and connected by rugged jungle paths. Sunbathing here is often enjoyed in the company of long-tailed macaques; sunset cocktails at the beachside bar are sipped to the sound of nesting hornbills; and even the spa is open to the elements, with the surroundings creating their own relaxation soundtrack of jungle sounds.
Inspired? Start planning your dream Malaysian honeymoon here with our Honeymoon Guide to Langkawi
Best for adventure…
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Thailand’s second-largest city is the perfect honeymoon escape for adventure-loving couples. Tumbling from the mountains, the Mae Tang River provides exciting white-water rafting opportunities, while all-terrain vehicle rides, mountain biking and rock climbing are spectacular on-land adventures on offer.
For hardcore thrill-seekers, there’s zip-lining companies that will help newlyweds swing through trees, fly along zip-wires and crash into cargo nets at high speed. If you do one thing here though, visit Chiang Mai’s Elephant Nature Park. An elephant rescue and rehabilitation centre, this breathtaking place is where you can see and feed the majestic creatures in a setting that’s respectful to them.
One of the most popular drawcards of the area is the remote hilltribe villages that are scattered throughout the mountainous terrain. Organised treks deep into the tropical vegetation often include an overnight stay with these unique and colourful ethnic minority groups, giving the opportunity to learn about their subsistence lifestyle – a truly unforgettable experience.
Thinking of escaping to Chiang Mai? We’ve put together a guide to discovering the best of adventure, luxury and culture in Chiang Mai here.
Best for beaches…
Palawan, Philippines
For couples looking for an exotic destination, a honeymoon in the Philippines’ Palawan offers stretches of secluded white powdery beaches, tracts of tropical rainforest and huge expanse of marine wilderness, are hard to beat.
Known as the Philippines’ Last Frontier, this little slice of paradise was also the location of the 1997 James Bond thriller Tomorrow Never Dies.
At the north-western tip of Palawan, the municipality of El Nido is where you’ll discover a stunning cluster of 45 islands and islets. Here, soaring limestone cliffs stand guard over crystal-clear turquoise waters, and forests protect more than 100 species of birds. With over 100 sun-drenched beaches, island-hopping by sea kayak is a popular activity, and there are also enough secluded lagoons (accessible via hidden caves) here for fulfilling any castaway beach fantasy. Scuba divers are also well catered for, with a range of dive sites in the area.
Dreaming of honeymooning in the Palawan and El Nido? Check out our guide here. // Check out our guide to the Best Beaches in Asia here.
Best for culture and cuisine…
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan with many of the country’s unique traditions originating in the ancient capital. It’s known for its famous geisha and World Heritage-listed temples, but Kyoto is a paradise for foodies. The city caused quite a stir at the end of 2009 when its first Michelin Guide awarded 87 of its restaurants with a total of 110 Michelin stars, proving that Kyoto really is a gourmet force to be reckoned with.
The first stop for food-loving newlyweds should be the Nishiki market. Affectionately known as ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’, this 400m-long covered arcade is lined with nearly 130 stalls and shops, selling the weird and wonderful.
When the sun goes down, there’s one place to head – Ponto-cho. This narrow cobbled street is crowded with cosy little izakayas (bars) and restaurants, dishing up servings of traditional favourites such as sushi, sukiyaki, and kushikatsu.
For a unique Kyoto experience, check into a ryokan (traditional Japanese guest house) and treat yourselves to an elaborate kaiseki banquet – a multi-course extravaganza of seasonal local flavours. Hiiragiya Ryokan – with its wooden corridors, bamboo screens and lacquered bathrooms – is a renowned ryokan and has played host to several visiting celebrities.
Be sure to also take a trip out to the leafy mountain of Mount Kurama, about 30 minutes from the centre of Kyoto. Here lies Hyoue – a picture-perfect spot where you can try amazing Japanese cuisine on a platform over a rushing waterfall.
Crushing on Kyoto? We’ve got plenty of tips on what to do and see on your Kyoto honeymoon here // Related: A Zen-Calm Walking Tour in Kyoto (The Philosopher’s Walk)
Best for nightlife, shopping and dining …
Singapore
If you’re planning a honeymoon in Singapore, there are plenty of attractions and experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. Start by visiting Gardens by the Bay, a beautiful garden filled with stunning flowers and futuristic structures. Another must-visit spot is Sentosa Island, where you can relax on pristine beaches or enjoy thrilling activities like zip-lining and cable car rides.
For a romantic evening, head to the iconic Marina Bay Sands Skypark for breathtaking city skyline views. For a unique experience, consider taking a sunset cruise on a traditional bumboat. Sip on champagne while enjoying stunning views of the city. And of course, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in Singapore’s delicious local cuisine at hawker centres and upscale restaurants.
Related: If you’ve never been to Singapore, you need this first-timer’s travel guide!
While Singapore is known for its iconic attractions, there are also hidden gems to discover. Explore the charming Tiong Bahru neighbourhood with its art deco architecture and trendy cafes. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the local atmosphere. Another hidden gem is Pulau Ubin island, just a short bumboat ride away. This tranquil island is a nature lover’s paradise, with lush forests, scenic trails, and traditional kampong houses. Rent a bicycle and explore the island at your own pace.
Read more about planning a honeymoon to Singapore with our guide here.
Best for luxury hotels and beach activities…
Phuket, Thailand
Thailand is almost as famous for its golf courses as it is for its beaches, and Phuket is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown, attracting fair-weather golfers from around the globe. With new courses sprouting up all the time, Blue Canyon remains the most famous, with two award-winning championship golf courses that wind their way through a landscape of lakes and canyons.
Beyond the greens and fairways, numerous world-class dive sites pull the sun-worshipping couples off the beaches and out into the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman sea. For honeymooners who prefer to remain above the ocean’s surface, sea kayaking on the glistening turquoise waves amongst the staggering limestone outcrops of nearby Ao Phang-Nga is a popular diversion, as is sailing around the islands.
We’ve compiled a comprehensive honeymoon guide for Phuket, ensuring you have all the information you need.
Honeymooning in Thailand? Check out the best honeymoon hotels in Thailand here.
Best for island-luxe…
Maldives
The Maldives is a dream destination for honeymooners seeking a romantic and unforgettable getaway. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts, it offers the perfect setting for couples to create lifelong memories. Explore the stunning underwater world hand in hand through private snorkelling or diving excursions, where you’ll encounter vibrant coral reefs, colourful fish, and even majestic manta rays. For a truly romantic experience, embark on a sunset cruise and witness the sky transform into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant colours.
Indulge in couples’ spa treatments and unwind together in a tranquil setting. Take leisurely walks along the beach, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and simply bask in the beauty of your surroundings. Don’t forget to savour the cuisine, which offers a delightful fusion of flavours from around the world. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Maldives offers endless opportunities for romance and creating cherished memories with your loved one.
Read our comprehensive guide to planning a Maldives honeymoon here.
Best for pampering…
Bali
Bali, otherwise known as the ‘Island of the Gods’, has topped the tourism popularity polls for decades and is now one of the world’s most popular honeymoon destinations. A few years ago its name may have been synonymous with the beach bums and backpackers of Kuta Beach, but with the arrival of several new glamorous bars, restaurants and resorts in the more upmarket areas of Ubud and Seminyak, Bali is now hot on the style radar.
Alongside the island’s transformation from shabby to chic, has been its emergence as the spa capital of Asia. Almost every Bali hotel, villa and guest house has a spa attached, with massages, scrubs, reflexology and facials all on the menu to help calm the body, mind and spirit. Traditional Balinese techniques are often utilised, and local ingredients such as lemongrass, coconut, aloe vera and ginger are incorporated to heavenly effect. There are endless options for luxurious accommodation in Bali, ensuring any honeymooners’ romantic dreams are well catered for.
Dreaming of a honeymoon in Bali? Start planning with our fabulous collection of romantic accommodation here. We’ve also put together a travel guide to Bali, written especially for couples.
Best for scenery…
Guilin, China
According to a popular Chinese saying, “Guilin’s scenery is best among all under heaven”, and it’s hard to disagree. Just a one-hour flight from Hong Kong’s bustling streets, Guilin’s dramatic backdrop of imposing limestone crags, deep caves and lush paddy fields has been the inspiration for Chinese poets and artists for generations.
A romantic cruise down the Li River takes you past rural scenes of water buffalo and farmers tending their crops, to the even more spectacular setting of Yangshuo. Here you can explore on foot, by bike or by boat to discover picturesque ancient villages, scenic lakes and limestone pinnacles.
Sprawling across 47 very private acres, Club Med Guilin is a scenic hideaway for honeymooners. Fringed by Guilin’s renowned mountains, the luxury resort features two buildings: the original chateau-style Hotel of Modern Art and the newer Courtyard Hotel. Both sumptuous options, the HOMA building is somewhat of a local icon itself, with its unique design, artistic furnishings and zen garden dotted with sculptures.
Best for adventure, discovery and delicious cuisine …
Vietnam
Vietnam’s long, thin shape and extensive network of buses, trains and planes makes it ideal for touring – either from north to south or vice versa. From the terraced rice paddies of the mountainous Sapa region to the sleepy backwaters of the Mekong Delta; from the cool plateau of the Central Highlands to the staggering limestone crags of Halong Bay, a tour through this incredible country dishes up a panorama of ever-changing spectacular scenery.
Its two major cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, are the perfect start and end points, both being rich with high-end hotels and restaurants, fascinating museums and cultural diversions.
If being on the move loses its appeal, there are endless miles of coastline and an array of resorts ideal for luxury-seeking couples to kick back in (check out Vietnam’s best beach resorts here).
Hoi An is a popular getaway destination, known for its quaint village atmosphere complete with art galleries, cheap tailors and numerous bars and restaurants. Or, head to Southern Vietnam and discover a region of beautiful beaches, bustling cities and luxurious resorts seemingly created for two.
Thinking of escaping to Vietnam? Your Vietnam Honeymoon Adventure begins here.
Want more? Discover 18 of the Best Honeymoon Islands in The World.
