13 day itinerary
Japan
Personalized with:Make it family friendly From 10 to 65 years
Itinerary
Japan is a fantastic destination for families, with a rich blend of culture, history, and modern attractions. Here’s a fun and engaging 13-day itinerary that caters to all ages, from the little ones to the wise and wonderful seniors in your group. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at . Take the Narita Express or Limousine Bus to your hotel in Tokyo.
- Afternoon: Settle in and explore your neighborhood. If you’re near Shinjuku, visit the for a relaxing stroll.
- Evening: Head to the famous in Shinjuku for a dazzling show (note: it can be loud, so check if it’s suitable for younger kids).
Day 2: Tokyo - The Classics
- Morning: Visit the historic . Explore and try some traditional snacks at .
- Afternoon: Head to . Visit the (great for kids) and the for a bit of culture.
- Evening: Dinner in , where you can explore the vibrant otaku culture. Check out themed cafes that might interest the kids!
Day 3: Tokyo - Modern Marvels
- Morning: Visit the for breathtaking views of the city. There’s also a shopping mall and aquarium nearby.
- Afternoon: Explore , where you can visit (an interactive art museum) and enjoy the seaside park.
- Evening: Have dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in , like the famous Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop for dessert!
Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko
- All Day: Take a day trip to Nikko (about 2 hours from Tokyo). Visit the stunning , enjoy the natural beauty of , and see . Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park!
Day 5: Travel to Kyoto
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours). It’s an experience in itself!
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then visit the , famous for its thousands of red torii gates. It’s a bit of a hike, but the views are worth it!
- Evening: Dinner in , where you might spot a geisha. Try a traditional kaiseki meal for a unique dining experience.
Day 6: Kyoto - Temples and Culture
- Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and stroll through its beautiful gardens.
- Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the (kids will love the monkeys!).
- Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) that welcomes families.
Day 7: Kyoto - More Exploration
- Morning: Explore the historic district of . Visit and enjoy the views of the city.
- Afternoon: Take a rickshaw ride through the streets, which is a fun experience for everyone!
- Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore local shops for souvenirs.
Day 8: Day Trip to Nara
- All Day: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit , where you can feed the friendly deer. Don’t miss , home to a giant Buddha statue.
- Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner. Try some local ramen!
Day 9: Travel to Hiroshima
- Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 2 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the . It’s a poignant experience, but important for understanding history.
- Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner, a delicious savory pancake that everyone will enjoy!
Day 10: Day Trip to Miyajima
- All Day: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the iconic and see the floating torii gate. Hike or take the cable car up for stunning views.
- Evening: Return to Hiroshima for a relaxing evening.
Day 11: Travel to Osaka
- Morning: Head to Osaka (about 1.5 hours by train).
- Afternoon: Visit and its beautiful park.
- Evening: Explore , famous for its neon lights and street food. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and kushikatsu (fried skewers) – a hit with the whole family!
Day 12:
- All Day: Spend the day at ! There are attractions for all ages, from Harry Potter to Minions. Make sure to check out the rides and shows!
- Evening: Have dinner at CityWalk, the entertainment district outside the park.
Day 13: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping in Osaka or visit the if time allows.
- Afternoon: Head to Kansai International Airport for your flight home.
Tips for Traveling in Japan with Family:
- Transportation: Get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains, which is great for families.
- Food: Japan is very family-friendly when it comes to food. Most restaurants have kid-friendly options, and convenience stores offer a variety of snacks.
- Etiquette: Teach the kids a few basic Japanese phrases and manners, like saying “arigato” (thank you) and bowing slightly when greeting.
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Japan! Enjoy your adventure! 🌸✈️