14 day itinerary
Japan
Itinerary
Japan is a fantastic destination for families, especially during the winter season when you can enjoy the snow and festive atmosphere. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 14-day itinerary that includes 5 nights at a ski resort, a trip to Hokkaido, and plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Morning: Arrive at Narita or . Take the Narita Express or Limousine Bus to your hotel in Tokyo.
- Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Head to to see the famous and grab lunch at a family-friendly restaurant.
- Evening: Explore and visit for quirky shops and delicious crepes. Dinner at a local izakaya (Japanese pub) that welcomes families.
Day 2: Tokyo Sightseeing
- Morning: Visit and the . The kids will love seeing the pandas!
- Afternoon: Head to to visit . Enjoy some traditional snacks from the stalls along .
- Evening: Take a river cruise on the to see Tokyo illuminated at night. Dinner in with views of the .
Day 3: Tokyo to Hokkaido ()
- Morning: Fly from Tokyo to (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
- Afternoon: Visit the site (if it’s set up early) or explore .
- Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local ramen shop. Try the famous miso ramen!
Day 4: Exploration
- Morning: Visit the and for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Head to , a unique park designed by artist Isamu Noguchi, where kids can run around and play.
- Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly izakaya. Try some local seafood!
Day 5: Day Trip to
- Morning: Take a train to (about 30 minutes). Explore the picturesque canal area and visit the .
- Afternoon: Enjoy some fresh sushi for lunch and visit the .
- Evening: Return to and have a cozy dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Day 6: to Ski Resort ()
- Morning: Take a bus or train to (about 2-3 hours). Check into your ski resort.
- Afternoon: Get settled and rent ski equipment. Enjoy some beginner lessons if your family is new to skiing.
- Evening: Relax at the resort and enjoy a family dinner at one of the on-site restaurants.
Day 7-11: Skiing in
- Days 7-11: Spend these days skiing and enjoying the winter wonderland!
- Morning: Hit the slopes for skiing or snowboarding. There are plenty of family-friendly runs.
- Afternoon: Take breaks for lunch at the mountain lodges. Try snowshoeing or sledding for a change of pace.
- Evening: Enjoy hot springs (onsen) at your resort, followed by dinner. Don’t miss the chance to try some local Hokkaido specialties like seafood and dairy products!
Day 12: to Tokyo
- Morning: Enjoy a final morning on the slopes or relax at the resort.
- Afternoon: Travel back to and fly to Tokyo. Check into your hotel.
- Evening: Explore for some fun shopping and dinner. Check out the themed cafes for a unique experience!
Day 13: or DisneySea
- All Day: Spend the day at or . Both parks are incredibly family-friendly and offer a magical experience for all ages. Make sure to check the schedule for any special holiday events!
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in the park or at a nearby restaurant.
Day 14: Departure
- Morning: Last-minute shopping in or . Pick up some souvenirs!
- Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure flight.
Tips:
- Transportation: Consider getting a Japan Rail Pass for convenient travel between cities.
- Weather: Be prepared for cold weather, especially in Hokkaido. Layering is key!
- Dining: Many restaurants in Japan are family-friendly, but it’s always good to check if they have high chairs or kids’ menus.
This itinerary balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, making it perfect for a family trip. Enjoy your time in Japan, and let the snow and festive spirit create unforgettable memories! Safe travels!
