Planning a trip to Japan with kids? You’re in for the adventure of a lifetime! From neon-lit cities to serene temples, quirky cafes to ancient castles, travelling through Japan with kids is both exciting and surprisingly easy. Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms, soaking in hot springs, or eating your body weight in ramen, there’s something magical about discovering Japan with kids by your side. This family-friendly guide will help you explore the best destinations, routes, and hidden gems to make your experience of Japan with kids unforgettable. So if you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to travel around Japan with kids, keep reading—we’ve got all the tips and tricks to make your trip smooth, fun, and totally stress-free!
Affiliate disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through one of these links. Thanks for supporting our family travels!
Why Visit Japan with Kids?
Japan is one of those dream destinations that ticks all the boxes for families: it’s safe, clean, culturally rich, insanely fun for kids, and surprisingly easy to travel around. From ancient temples to futuristic tech, kid-friendly theme parks to tranquil beaches—Japan with kids is everything you didn’t know your family needed.
Whether you’re travelling with toddlers or tweens, Japan caters to every age with ease (hello, heated toilet seats and spotless trains!). Plus, the Japanese adore children, and you’ll often find people going out of their way to help families.
When is the Best Time to Visit Japan with Kids?
- Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms in full bloom—gorgeous but crowded.
- Summer (June–August): Hot and humid, but great for beachy Okinawa and festivals.
- Autumn (September–November): Cooler weather and stunning foliage—perfect for hiking and exploring.
- Winter (December–February): Snowy fun in places like Hokkaido or Nagano, ideal for skiing with kids.
Tip: Try to avoid Golden Week (late April–early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year’s for lower prices and fewer crowds.
How Long Should You Spend in Japan with Kids?
This totally depends on your travel style and how much ground you want to cover, but here are some rough guides:
- 7 Days: Tokyo + Day trips
- 10 Days: Tokyo + Kyoto + Nara or Osaka
- 14 Days: Tokyo + Kyoto + Hiroshima + Okinawa
- 3 Weeks: The ultimate Japan itinerary – Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Hiroshima, and Okinawa
Scroll down for sample itineraries!
Is Japan Easy to Travel Around with Children?
Absolutely. Japan is hands down one of the easiest countries to explore as a family:
- Public transport is excellent – The trains run like clockwork, and the Shinkansen (bullet train) is a ride in itself!
- Kid-friendly facilities – Changing rooms, clean toilets, nursing spaces, and lifts everywhere.
- Convenience stores are life – 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson sell everything from nappies to hot meals.
- Accommodation – From family rooms in hotels to kid-friendly ryokans, Japan gets it right.
Sample Itineraries for Japan with Kids
One-Week Itinerary in Japan
Day 1–4: Tokyo
- Explore Ueno Zoo, TeamLab Planets, Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea
- Eat at sushi trains, ramen bars with kid stools, and quirky cafés
- Don’t miss: Odaiba, Shibuya Crossing, and a stroll through Harajuku
Day 5: Day Trip to Hakone
- Ride the pirate ship on Lake Ashi, soak in a family-friendly onsen
Day 6–7: Kyoto or Osaka
- See the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle (Kyoto)
- OR explore Osaka’s Dotonbori, Cup Noodles Museum, and Aquarium
10-Day Itinerary in Japan
Days 1–3: Tokyo
- Add a day trip to Yokohama or the Ghibli Museum
Days 4–5: Hakone
- Stay in a ryokan, try the Hakone Open Air Museum, ropeway views of Mount Fuji
Days 6–8: Kyoto + Nara
- Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Fushimi Inari, feed the deer at Nara Park
Days 9–10: Osaka
- Universal Studios Japan, ride the Tempozan Ferris Wheel
14-Day Itinerary in Japan (Full Immersion)
Tokyo (4 Days) → Hakone (2 Days) → Kyoto (3 Days) → Hiroshima (2 Days) → Okinawa (3 Days)
- Add the Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima Island near Hiroshima
- Fly from Hiroshima to Okinawa for sun, sand, and relaxed vibes
Okinawa: Japan’s Best Beach Getaway with Kids
Craving some tropical down time?
Why Okinawa is a Must for Families:
- White sandy beaches, shallow water, coral reefs = perfect for paddling and snorkelling
- Loads of family resorts with pools and kids clubs
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium is one of the best in the world
Top Family-Friendly Beaches:
- Emerald Beach (next to the aquarium)
- Naminoue Beach (near Naha)
- Furuzamami Beach (Zamami Island, accessible by ferry)
Top Things to Do in Each Place in Japan (Kid-Approved!)
Tokyo with Kids
- TeamLab Planets – Immersive digital art installation that blows little minds (and grown-up ones too).
- Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea – The ultimate family day out. DisneySea is more unique to Japan, but Disneyland is more toddler-friendly.
- Ueno Zoo & Park – Ride a swan boat, visit the zoo, and check out the Tokyo National Museum—perfect picnic spot too.
Hakone with Kids
- Hakone Ropeway – Ride a gondola over steaming volcanic vents with epic views of Mount Fuji.
- Pirate Ship on Lake Ashi – Sounds gimmicky, but it’s a total win with little pirates!
- Hakone Open Air Museum – Huge outdoor sculptures and a colourful Picasso pavilion—bonus: a fun foot spa for tired toes.
Kyoto with Kids
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Monkey Park – Walk through towering bamboo then hike up to see monkeys and a fab city view.
- Fushimi Inari Shrine – Iconic red torii gates—go early to avoid the crowds and take photos.
- Kyoto Railway Museum – Full of interactive exhibits, train simulators, and a giant model railway—train lovers rejoice!
Nara with Kids
- Nara Park & Deer – Feed friendly deer (with official crackers only!) and wander the gorgeous temple-filled park.
- Todai-ji Temple – Home to a massive Buddha statue and a “crawl-through” pillar that’s great for giggles.
- Isuien Garden – Peaceful, stroller-friendly, and right near the temples—beautiful in cherry blossom or autumn leaf season.
Osaka with Kids
- Universal Studios Japan – Super Nintendo World is a must for Mario fans (book timed entry in advance).
- Lego Discovery Center – A Lego kids dream, multi section adventure with rides and more.
- Dotonbori – Colourful lights, street food galore, and the Glico Man sign—it’s like a kid-friendly Las Vegas.
Hiroshima with Kids
- Peace Memorial Park & Museum – Powerful and thought-provoking, best for older kids (ages 6+).
- Miyajima Island – Ride a ferry, spot deer, and visit the floating torii gate—like stepping into a fairytale.
- Okonomiyaki Village – Watch these savoury pancakes being cooked right in front of you (kids love the sizzle and toppings).
Okinawa with Kids
- Botanical Gardens – We loved a day here, exploring the grounds, feeding capybaras and as it was summer enjoying the waterslide!
- Okinawa World – Culture and fun rolled into one—explore limestone caves, try glass-blowing, and watch traditional drumming.
- Beach Day at Emerald Beach – Clear, shallow water, shaded picnic spots, and easy swimming for even the littlest ones.
Where Should You Fly Into and Out Of in Japan?
Most families fly into Tokyo (Narita or Haneda Airport) and out of Osaka (Kansai International Airport) if doing a multi-city itinerary.
If you’re including Okinawa, consider flying back to Tokyo for your return flight or look for international flights from Naha Airport (usually via Tokyo, Seoul, or Taipei).
Getting Around Japan with Kids
- Trains: The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is gold for long journeys—get the 7, 14, or 21-day version depending on your route.
- IC Cards: Get a Suica or Pasmo card for local trains and buses.
- Taxis: Safe and spotless but pricey—use in a pinch.
- Strollers: Lightweight ones are handy in stations and cities. For countryside or temples? A carrier is better.
Where to Stay in Japan with Kids
🛌 Tokyo
- Budget: Hotel Gracery Asakusa
- Mid-Range: Mimaru Tokyo (family-sized apartments!)
- Splurge: The Peninsula Tokyo
🛌 Kyoto
- Budget: Sakura Terrace
- Mid-Range: Rinn Hotel Kyoto
- Splurge: Hoshinoya Kyoto (luxury ryokan)
🛌 Okinawa
- Budget: Mr. Kinjo Hotel
- Mid-Range: Vessel Hotel Campana
- Splurge: Halekulani Okinawa (pure bliss)
Hidden Gems in Japan for Families
- Yokohama Anpanman Museum – Little ones will LOVE this!
- Kyoto Railway Museum – Train-mad toddlers, assemble.
- Ninja Museum of Igaryu – A quirky detour near Nara
- Kawagoe – A mini Edo-period town outside Tokyo
- Kinosaki Onsen – Traditional village with family-friendly bathhouses
What to Pack for Japan with Kids
- Slip-on shoes (you’ll be taking them off a lot)
- Layers – Japan’s weather can be unpredictable
- Wet wipes, snacks, and a lightweight pram
- A phrasebook or app like Google Translate
- Entertainment for trains (stickers, tablets, books)
Is Japan Safe for Kids?
Yes, yes, YES. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is low, streets are clean, and locals are friendly and respectful.
Just keep an eye on little ones in busy places like train stations or festivals. And always check hot spring rules if visiting an onsen—some don’t allow young kids or swimmers with tattoos.
FAQs About Visiting Japan with Kids
Is Japan stroller-friendly?
In cities like Tokyo and Osaka, yes. But be ready to fold it on public transport and carry it upstairs sometimes.
Do kids need their own JR Pass?
Children aged 6–11 pay half price. Under 6s ride free if they don’t occupy a seat.
Is there baby food and formula in Japan?
Yes—available at supermarkets, convenience stores, and pharmacies.
Are high chairs and kids’ menus common?
Not always. Bring a travel booster seat if needed and don’t expect kids’ menus everywhere.
Can picky eaters survive in Japan?
Definitely. There’s always rice, noodles, fruit, plain grilled meats—and don’t forget konbini snacks.
Are there English-speaking doctors if needed?
Yes. Japan has excellent healthcare and tourist support lines that help with translation.
Is Japan Good with kids
Travelling through Japan with kids is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you’ll never forget—and neither will they. From the buzzing streets of Tokyo to the peaceful shores of Okinawa, every stop offers something unique, magical, and totally kid-approved. With the right planning and a spirit of adventure, exploring Japan with kids can be easy, enriching, and full of unforgettable moments. Whether you’ve got a week or a month, there’s no shortage of things to see and do across Japan with kids. So pack your bags, bring the snacks, and get ready to create incredible memories—because Japan with kids is just as amazing as it sounds.
Stay Connected for More Family Adventures!
Follow me on social media for more family-friendly travel tips, hidden gems, and staycation ideas across the UK and beyond.
🎥 TikTok – behind the scenes of our full time travel
📸 Instagram – for real-time travel inspo
📌 Pinterest – pin your next family adventure
👍 Facebook – join our community of travel-loving families
