14 day itinerary for Japan

Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination for families, and with a 6-month-old baby, we’ll want to keep things relaxed and flexible. Here’s a 14-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, cultural experiences, and plenty of downtime. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

• Morning: Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. Take a taxi or airport shuttle to your hotel in Tokyo.
• Afternoon: Settle in and take a leisurely stroll around your hotel. If you’re near Ueno Park, it’s a lovely place to stretch your legs.
• Evening: Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at a nearby izakaya (Japanese pub) or a restaurant with a kids’ menu.

## Day 2: Explore Tokyo

• Morning: Visit the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. The area is stroller-friendly, and you can enjoy some traditional snacks from the Nakamise shopping street.
• Afternoon: Head to the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the city. There’s also a shopping mall and an aquarium nearby.
• Evening: Dinner in the Skytree area or back in Asakusa.

## Day 3: Tokyo Disneyland

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland! It’s a magical place for families, and there are plenty of attractions suitable for all ages. Bring a stroller for your little one, as there’s a lot of walking involved.
• Evening: Return to your hotel and relax after a fun-filled day.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

• Morning: Take a train to Nikko (about 2 hours). Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Toshogu Shrine.
• Afternoon: Explore the beautiful nature around Nikko, including Kegon Falls. There are accessible paths for strollers.
• Evening: Return to Tokyo and have a quiet dinner.

## Day 5: Travel to Kyoto

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and then visit the Kyoto Aquarium or the Kyoto Railway Museum, both of which are family-friendly.
• Evening: Dinner in the Gion district, where you might catch a glimpse of a geisha.

## Day 6: Kyoto Temples

• Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). The gardens are stroller-friendly, and the views are stunning!
• Afternoon: Head to Arashiyama. Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park (note: it’s a bit of a hike, so consider if it’s suitable with a baby).
• Evening: Dinner in Arashiyama or back in central Kyoto.

## Day 7: Nara Day Trip

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Nara (about 1 hour). Visit Nara Park, where you can see the famous free-roaming deer.
• Afternoon: Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue. The park is spacious and great for strollers.
• Evening: Return to Kyoto for dinner.

## Day 8: Kyoto to Osaka

• Morning: Travel to Osaka (about 30 minutes). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Osaka Castle and its surrounding park. The castle is stroller-friendly, and the park is perfect for a picnic.
• Evening: Explore Dotonbori for street food and vibrant nightlife. Try some takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

## Day 9: Universal Studios Japan

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan! There are plenty of attractions for families, and you can rent a stroller if needed.
• Evening: Return to your hotel and relax.

## Day 10: Hiroshima

• Morning: Take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. The park is spacious and stroller-friendly.
• Evening: Try Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki for dinner.

## Day 11: Miyajima Island

• Morning: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island. Visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine and see the floating torii gate.
• Afternoon: Explore the island, and if you’re up for it, take the ropeway up Mount Misen for stunning views (check accessibility for strollers).
• Evening: Return to Hiroshima for the night.

## Day 12: Back to Tokyo

• Morning: Travel back to Tokyo (about 4 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum in Odaiba. It’s a unique experience for all ages!
• Evening: Dinner in Odaiba with views of the Rainbow Bridge.

## Day 13: Tokyo Free Day

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then explore a neighborhood of your choice (Shibuya, Harajuku, or Shinjuku).
• Afternoon: Visit the Meiji Shrine, which is stroller-friendly and surrounded by a beautiful forest.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

## Day 14: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing, depending on your flight time.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Traveling with a Baby:

• Stroller: A lightweight, foldable stroller is ideal for navigating public transport and crowded areas.
• Baby Supplies: Many convenience stores and drugstores in Japan carry baby supplies, so you can stock up easily.
• Rest Time: Don’t hesitate to take breaks and find quiet spots for feeding or changing.
• Transportation: Japan’s public transport is very baby-friendly, with elevators and designated spaces for strollers.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable family adventure in Japan! Enjoy every moment! 🌸✈️