During our last trip to Japan, we quickly realized just how amazing this country is for families!
From exploring towering temples and ancient shrines to visiting quirky themed cafés and thrilling amusement parks, there was never a dull moment. Liam was especially excited about riding the Shinkansen, discovering new Pokémon plushies and testing out his special kids’ chopsticks at every meal.
Japan is the perfect mix of culture, adventure and kid-friendly fun, making it an unforgettable destination for families. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for new ideas, here’s a guide to the best things to do in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka with kids. All based on our own experiences!
Tokyo
- Ueno Park and Zoo: Situated in the family-friendly Ueno neighbourhood, this park houses the Ueno Zoo and the National Museum of Nature and Science. Staying nearby allowed us to explore attractions like the Tokyo Skytree easily too.
- Hakuhinkan Toy Park: A multi-level toy store that captivated Liam with its vast selection. No chance of getting out of there without a new toy!
- Ghibli Museum: A must-visit for fans of Studio Ghibli’s enchanting films.
- Disney Sea and Disneyland: On our last trip we opted for Disney Sea since it’s special to Tokyo, but we do think that it caters more for older children. It still has attractions for small children.
- Pokémon Centers and Café: Liam being a Pokémon fan, was thrilled to visit various Pokémon Centers. While café reservations can be quite challenging, the Pokémon Sweets shop in Sunshine City Mall is a great alternative and it even has special plushies as well.
- Sunshine City Mall: Beyond shopping, the mall offers an aquarium, the Tenbou-Park with panoramic city views, Namjatown – a small theme park and a well-stocked Toys”R”Us/Babies”R”Us for any essentials. It was our favourite by far in terms of shopping for the kids.
- Senso-ji Temple: Our favorite temple in Tokyo, known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich history.
Osaka
- Universal Studios Japan: We found this theme park even more engaging than Tokyo’s Disney parks. Who doesn’t love a Super Nintendo World or massive Harry Potter attraction, you might think you are actually in Hogwarts.
- Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan: Home to a diverse range of marine life, it’s both educational and entertaining.
- Shinsaibashi Shopping District: Features attractions like the Pokémon Café and the Godzilla Store.
- Osaka Castle: Surrounded by expansive grounds, the castle even offers a shuttle bus service for those who prefer not to walk up to the castle. Liam insisted to take it on the way down and to be fair, it is quite a walk with how big the park is.
- Bornelund Playville Playgrounds: Located near Tennoji Park and Osaka Castle, these playgrounds provided Liam with fun playtime.
- Kids Plaza Osaka: A hands-on museum promoting learning through play, such a great experience for kids.
- Legoland Discovery Center: It’s obviously a haven for LEGO enthusiasts.
- HEP Five Ferris Wheel: Offers stunning views of Osaka from its cabins.
Kyoto
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: Famous for its thousands of torii gates. While often crowded, it’s a memorable experience and a must visit.
- Yasaka Shrine: A spacious and serene site, perfect for leisurely exploration. It also has loads of street food stalls.
- Heian Jingu Shrine: Located near Kyoto Zoo, making it convenient to combine visits. There is also a gigantic Torii gate in front of it.
- Kyoto Railway Museum: A must see if you are into trains, like Liam.
- Kyoto Aquarium: Showcases a variety of aquatic creatures native to Japan.
- Kamogawa River Walk: A peaceful stroll along the river, close to the Imperial Palace and the historic Gion district.
- Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: A picturesque bamboo forest perfect for an unforgettable family stroll.
- Tenryu-ji Temple and Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning landscapes, it’s worth paying the little entrance fee.
- Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama: Home to many monkeys but be prepared for a steep hike, it is impossible to take a stroller up there.
Embarking on a journey through Japan with kids is both rewarding and memorable. From exploring ancient shrines and bustling city streets to experiencing the magic of themed attractions and scenic landscapes, there’s something for every little adventurer to enjoy. With thoughtful planning and a mix of cultural and entertaining activities, families can create lasting memories in this captivating country.
If you’re preparing for your own family trip abroad, be sure to check out our A Parent’s Guide to Traveling Abroad with Kids for practical travel tips! From packing smart to staying connected and navigating airports with ease, it’s filled with advice to help make your next adventure stress-free and fun.
Happy travels!
