Are you thinking about visiting Japan with kids but unsure how to plan your trip? Do you want to explore exciting attractions while making sure your children stay comfortable and entertained? This guide covers everything you need for a smooth and fun-filled two-week family vacation in Japan.
Before You Go: What to Plan
Book Your Activities in Advance
Many popular attractions in Japan require reservations, and spots fill up fast. Places like the Pokémon Café, Ghibli Museum, and Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan often sell out within minutes of booking opening. Planning ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on must-see experiences.
Pocket Wi-Fi or SIM Card
Having internet access is essential for using Google Maps, train schedules, and translation apps. A pocket Wi-Fi device is a great option for families since multiple devices can connect at once. You can pre-book a pocket Wi-Fi online and have it delivered to your hotel.
If you prefer not to rely on public Wi-Fi, using a VPN Chrome extension can be a simple way to protect your data while browsing. Many public networks in cafes, train stations, and hotels are unsecured, making a VPN Chrome extension a useful tool to keep your connection private when accessing sensitive information like online banking or travel bookings.
Transportation and JR Pass
Japan’s train system is efficient, but deciding whether to get a Japan Rail (JR) Pass depends on your itinerary. If you’re traveling between major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, the JR Pass might save you money. However, if you’re staying within one city, purchasing individual train tickets may be more affordable.
Pack Light and Use Luggage Transfers
Japanese trains don’t have much space for large suitcases, and many stations have lots of stairs. Instead of carrying heavy luggage, you can use the Takkyubin service to send bags between hotels. This way, you can travel light while exploring.
Week 1: Osaka and Universal Studios Japan
Day 1: Arrival in Osaka
Fly into Osaka and check into a hotel near Universal Studios Japan. If you arrive in the evening, grab dinner from a Lawson or 7-Eleven convenience store, which offers fresh and affordable meals.
Day 2: Dotonbori and Pokémon Café
Start the morning at Dotonbori, Osaka’s lively shopping and food district. Visit the famous Glico Sign and try local street food like takoyaki (octopus balls). In the afternoon, enjoy a meal at the Pokémon Café, where everything from the food to the drinks is Pokémon-themed. Reservations are required.
Day 3-4: Universal Studios Japan
Dedicate two days to Universal Studios Japan. If visiting Nintendo World, arrive early or buy an Express Pass to avoid long lines. Harry Potter World is another highlight, and purchasing a timed entry ticket will make your experience smoother.
Day 5: Osaka Castle and Umeda Sky Building
Visit Osaka Castle, one of Japan’s most famous landmarks, followed by the Umeda Sky Building, which offers panoramic views of the city.
If your kids enjoy hands-on activities, check out Legoland Discovery Center or the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, home to massive whale sharks.
Day 6: Travel to Tokyo via Shinkansen
Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Osaka to Tokyo. Pre-book seats for comfort, especially when traveling with children. The ride takes around 2.5 hours, and snacks from Ekiben (train station bento shops) make the journey more enjoyable.
Week 2: Tokyo and Disneyland
Day 7-8: Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
Spend two days at Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Disneyland is perfect for younger kids, while DisneySea has unique attractions for all ages. Book Premier Access tickets for popular rides like Beauty and the Beast and Toy Story Mania to cut down on wait times.
Day 9: Harajuku, Shibuya, and Character Street
Explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku, which is famous for its quirky fashion and colorful desserts, such as giant rainbow cotton candy.
Visit Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world, before heading to Character Street in Tokyo Station, which has Pokémon, Ghibli, and Hello Kitty stores.
Day 10: Harry Potter Café & Sumo Tournament
Have lunch at the Harry Potter Café, where the menu is inspired by the wizarding world. In the afternoon, experience sumo wrestling at Ryogoku Kokugikan if a tournament is happening during your visit.
Day 11: Free Exploration & Shopping
Use this day to revisit favorite spots or explore new areas, like Asakusa’s Sensoji Temple or TeamLab Planets, an interactive art exhibit. If you missed out on shopping, visit Don Quijote, a massive discount store with everything from souvenirs to Japanese snacks.
Day 12: Odaiba & Flight Home
Spend the last day in Odaiba, a family-friendly entertainment district. Visit DiverCity Mall to see the life-sized Gundam statue before heading to the airport for your flight home.
FAQs: Traveling to Japan with Kids
Is Japan child-friendly?
Yes! Japan is very safe and offers clean facilities, family-friendly attractions, and efficient transportation. Many restaurants provide kid-friendly meals and high chairs, and public spaces are well-maintained.
Should I bring a stroller?
If traveling with a toddler, a lightweight and foldable stroller is useful. Some train stations lack elevators, so be prepared to carry it upstairs.
Do we need to speak Japanese?
No, but Google Translate helps with menus and signs. Most tourist areas have English signage, and many locals are happy to assist.
What’s the right way to get around?
Trains are the easiest way to travel between cities. Within Tokyo and Osaka, IC cards like Suica or Pasmo make using public transport simple.
Is food an issue for picky eaters?
Japan has many familiar foods like fried chicken, rice bowls, and noodles. Convenience stores offer a variety of snacks, and Western fast-food chains are also available.
This itinerary gives you a good mix of sightseeing and downtime, making it easy for families to enjoy Japan without feeling rushed. If you plan ahead and book major attractions in advance, you’ll avoid stress and have a much smoother trip. With everything set, you can focus on making great memories with your family.
