For families looking to take vacations to Japan, the country is definitely a place filled with endless charm. From the active city life of Tokyo to the serene gardens of Kyoto, Japan has a perfect balance of culture, excitement, and adventure for families of all ages. Whatever the desire to spend time in an interesting foreign environment with your kids or share tasty and healthy Japanese cuisine as a family, Japan is capable of fulfilling all the dreams.
A family trip to Japan means taking a journey packed with surprises and new wonders. This travel guide will give you a step-by-step guide on how to organize an unforgettable Japan family trip, with a well-planned 10-day itinerary that includes the finest must-see destinations in Japan. And we will also reveal the secrets to selecting the finest family travel packages and tours so that your holiday in Japan is trouble-free and fantastic.
Why Travel to Japan for Your Family Holiday
Japan’s efficient public transportation, family-safe facilities, and amiable services render Japan trips for families hassle-free. Regardless of what you do while traversing urban metropolises or taking leisure strolls in tranquil towns, you’re going to feel that reassuring security sense.
To that, the Japanese attractions are both educational and entertainment-based. Picture the lively environments at Disneyland or the interactive fun of the Ghibli Museum – kids learn through enjoyment. From watching samurai sword combat to gawking at colossal robots, and soaking in hot springs for R&R, each day is packed with surprises. The fantasy land of Studio Ghibli and the interactive museum exhibits offer constant entertainment to tours in Japan.
Last but not least, a Japan family trip is also cultural immersion. Having the tea ceremony, visiting the old shrines, and exposing yourself to Japanese daily life leaves your family in awe of this serene, reverent, and reflective country.
Best Time to Travel to Japan with Kids
l Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November):
Both these seasons weave their magic spell over Japan, with comfortable weather and just the right humidity—perfect for Japan family trip.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, covering the country in a romantic pink veil. Family picnics, or “hanami,” and leisurely walks under cherry trees become rituals to cherish. When autumn arrives, maple and ginkgo leaves color the horizon gold in a multicolored rainbow of color and fashion equally fascinating scenery. The tourists fill this route during this period as well, but crowds are comparatively scattered and less disorganized for soaking nature’s tranquility at large.
l Summer (June-August) and Winter (Dec-Feb):
Summer is hot in Japan, especially July and August, with sweltering heat and humidity that is not necessarily best for all Japan tours for families.
However, for the active and for those who await cultural events eagerly, summer’s celebratory traditional festivals and fireworks light up the season.And holidays from school allow family trip to Japan.
Winter, however, reverses the image, delighting skiers and hot spring enthusiasts. International-standard ski resorts exist in the Japanese Alps, and hot springs throughout the country provide soothing heat against the cold. While portions of the country are blanketed with snow, major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka have comparatively temperate weather, and winter illuminations create added festive atmosphere.
What to Eat in Japan with Kids
- Miso Soup:
Imagine a warm, steaming bowl of miso soup on your family trips to Japan, topped with soft tofu, green onions finely chopped, and a sprinkle of seaweed or vegetables. It’s a nutrient-dense superfood that contains protein, probiotics, antioxidants, and vitamins.
- Curry Rice:
Throughout your Japan tours, don’t forget rice smothered in a spicy, creamy curry sauce, loaded with meat and vegetables. Customize the ingredients and flavor as per your taste buds.
- Tamagoyaki Sushi:
Kids love this sweet, soft scrambled egg-covered sushi, served with vinegared rice. Its sweet, aromatic, and soft nature is highly liked by the kids. And it’s rich in good-quality protein, carbohydrates, and calcium.
- Udon:
Slurp chewy wheat flour noodles with a warm soup or dipping sauce. Children adore the chewy flavor of udon and serve it with tempura, fish cake, or green onion garnish.
Related Reading:
Where to Stay in Japan with Kids
For travel to Japan with your family, you’re not only looking for accommodations; you’re also looking for convenience and comfort.
These are some options:
- Family hotels:
Offer large rooms, kids’ club, playground, pool, and more. They are close to Fuji-Q Highland, Universal Studios Japan, Tokyo Disneyland, so it’s easy for sightseeing.
- Traditional Inns (Inn/Ryokan):
Rest on tatami mats, snuggle up in warm comforters, and feast on Kaiseki meals. Don’t miss the Japanese hot springs (Onsen) for a family experience.
- Serviced apartments:
Perfect for families in need of seclusion and independence, they are convenient and cost-effective. Independent with washing facilities, spacious, and central location near Tokyo Station and Kyoto Station.
Top Destinations & Family-friendly Things to Do in Japan
Take the Excitement of Shinkansen Train Travel at High Speed on Family Trips to Japan
Ride on Japan’s famous Shinkansen, the bullet train, which zooms along at a whopping 320 kilometers per hour, passing through some of the country’s most scenic spots. Unwind in comfort and luxury and enjoy the stunning views and the wonder of high-tech wizardry.
Visiting the Snow Monkeys in Nagano Prefecture
Travel to Nagano Prefecture, where you will see adorable snow monkeys soaking in hot waters amidst cold winter. Next visit the nearby Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest and holiest Buddhist temples, providing your Japan travel with a cultural touch.
An Experience of Sumo Wrestling Tournaments
Don’t miss the exciting sumo tournaments at the Grand Sumo Tournament. Watch seasoned sumo wrestlers fiercely battle it out in the ring-shaped arena, learn about the rules and traditions of the ancient sport, and cheer for your favorite grappler. It’s a heart-pounding experience for the whole family on your family trips to Japan.
Experiencing being with Deer in Nara Park and Itsukushima Shrine
At Nara Park or Itsukushima Shrine, say hello to friendly deer that will even bow down to you if you offer them biscuits. Besides the deer, visit the renowned temples and shrines like Todai-ji Temple and Itsukushima Shrine, adding a touch of history to your family trips in Japan.
Explore Tokyo’s Ghibli Museum
Let your fantasies run wild at Tokyo’s Ghibli Museum. Step into a world of fantasy created by Studio Ghibli, the producers of such timeless classics as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. See original sketches, screen special short films, or even ride the Cat Bus.
Experience the Thrill of Universal Studios Japan and the Wonder of Harry Potter’s World of Magic
For theme park-loving families, Universal Studios Japan is a must-visit. Get thrills with frightening roller coasters inspired by popular films. And if Harry Potter is your favorite, don’t be left behind – visit the wizard world of Harry Potter at Osaka Universal Studios. Get dressed in your wizard robes, wave your wand, and become a student of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
Recommended Japan Family Trip Itinerary:
How to Travel around Japan with Kids
- Subway:
Japan has an extremely good subway system that is readily capable of connecting urban cities and tourist destinations and thus is the best means of transportation between urban cities.
- Shinkansen:
Also called Japan’s bullet train, the Shinkansen offers a scenic and quick traveling experience between the cities. The trains are quite famous for being extremely clean, comfortable, and punctual and thus a very good trip.
- Car Rental and Autonomous:
For those families seeking flexible travel schedules, particularly those visiting rural parts of the country and national parks, car rental is a viable choice. That being said, Japan’s roads are relatively narrow, traffic can be dense, and even road signs are written in Japanese, posing a certain challenge for driving. Furthermore, car rental entails possessing an international driver’s license and having a credit card.
- Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) and Suica Card:
In order to save the cost of travel and improve efficiency, you can consider purchasing the Japan Rail Pass or a regional pass. On the other hand, the Suica Card and Pasmo Card are also good travel assistants, which can be applied to subways, buses, vending machines, and convenience stores, and refilled at any station conveniently.
How Much is a Family Trip to Japan
Housing Costs: Cities and Options for Family Holidays to Japan
In Japan, where you reside and the type of accommodation you possess can indeed determine your family trip to Japan cost. Big cities like Tokyo and Osaka are costly, while places like Kyoto and Nara, which are popular tourist attractions, can be slightly less expensive.
- Budget Hotels:
You’re referring to around 5,000 to 10,000 yen per night, perfect for cost-conscious families on family trips to Japan.
- Business Hotels:
Typically, it will be between 10,000 and 20,000 yen for a more pleasant stay.
- Family Apartments or Suites:
Perfect for groups, ranging from 15,000 to 40,000 yen per night, depending on the facilities and location.
Dining Out: What to Expect on Family Trips to Japan
- Fast Food Restaurants:
A meal would be approximately 1,000 to 2,000 yen.
- Normal Restaurants:
Dinner would be between 3,000 and 5,000 yen.
- Upscale Restaurants:
Prices skyrocket, with meals easily crossing 10,000 yen.
- Daily Meals:
Breakfast would be a convenience store or hotel quick bite, 500 to 1,500 yen.
Lunch is probably eaten on the move while sightseeing, and could be fast food or bento, and would range from 1,000 to 2,000 yen.
Transportation: Cost of Getting Around
- In the Cities: Subway and Bus:
Day or a weekly pass in Tokyo, Osaka, etc., would range between 1,500 to 3,000 yen.
- Taxis:
High, reserved for a special occasion, with a per-trip cost of 1,000 to 3,000 yen.
- Between Cities:
Shinkansen (Bullet Train) varies with destination and class selected, between 5,000 and 15,000 yen for a one-way ticket.
- Long-distance Buses:
Cheaper but slower, between 2,000 and 5,000 yen for one-way tickets.
Fun Stuff: Attraction Tickets
- Disneyland:
Adult ticket prices range from 7,000 to 10,000 yen, and children’s tickets are usually lower.
- Fuji Mountain Day Tour:
Including travel, tickets, and other costs, it’ll cost you 5,000 to 10,000 yen.
Recommended Japan Family Itinerary: 10 Day Family Trip to Japan
Days 1-4: A Family Trip of Japan Start in Tokyo
- Day 1: Asakusa kick-off. Explore Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple. Take a stroll down Nakamise Street for tasty snacks and small souvenirs. Cap off with a cruise on the Sumida River.
- Day 2: Discover Harajuku’s quirky shops and Meiji Shrine. Experience Shibuya to view the Scramble Crossing and lovely Shibuya Sky view.
- Day 3: Head to Odaiba for an adrenaline rush at the teamLab museum and Joypolis theme park. Don’t miss the ride on the giant Ferris wheel.
- Day 4: Visit the magical Ghibli Museum in Mitaka. Take it easy in Inokashira Park. Catch the Robot Restaurant show in Shinjuku for some fun.
Days 5-7: Japan Travel Heads to Kyoto
- Day 5: Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto. Check out Fushimi Inari Shrine and the nearby temples.
- Day 6: Discover Gion, former samurai and geisha district. Ascend to Kiyomizu-dera Temple for views over the city.
- Day 7: Stroll in Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and at Iwatayama Monkey Park. Delve into tea culture through an experience of traditional tea ceremony.
Days 8-10: Osaka & Nara for More Family Adventures
- Day 8: In Osaka, look out over the stunning Osaka Castle and its beautiful gardens. Visit the gigantic Osaka Aquarium. Enjoy street food at Dotonbori.
- Day 9: Take a trip to Nara and receive a greeting from friendly deer at Nara Park and Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple.
- Day 10: Come back to Osaka and spend your day at Universal Studios Japan. Take a spin on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel. Finish it all off with a hearty family dinner.
Related Reading:
Recommended Japan Family Trip Itinerary:
Must-Know Travel Tips for Japan with Kids
Save Early through Early Bookings
Book your accommodation and airfares early, especially for summer months, to get a good bargain and your choice of accommodation for your family holiday in Japan. Try booking a holiday home or a family hotel for more space and convenience.
Make Most Use of the Convenience of Public Transport
Japan boasts an excellent public transportation system. Take a JR Pass to travel by train as frequently as you desire, or use IC cards like Suica or Pasmo for easy payment. Time and money will be saved on your Japan family trip.
Amuse Kids with All Sorts of Activities
Japan is full of fun and educational activities for kids of all ages. From theme parks to monuments, there is something for everyone.
Tailor Activities to Suit Everybody’s Taste
Select a Japan family tour packages or best Japan tour companies for families. These packages or tours can include family-friendly accommodations, guides who are attuned to adults as well as kids, and flexibility to revise activities according to your family needs. Private tours offer a more personalized trip, where your family can travel at its own pace.
Useful Tips for Smooth Travel
Bring a good pair of walking shoes for all the walking around. Take light layers in case of changing weather.
Rent a Wi-Fi hotspot so that staying in touch is easy, and navigating and instant translation are effortless.
Teach your kids some elementary Japanese phrases and manners to immerse them further in local culture.
