Itinerary

Japan is a fantastic destination for families, and there are plenty of toddler-friendly activities to keep your little one entertained while you soak in the culture. Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, playtime, and relaxation. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Morning:

• Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport. After clearing customs, take a family-friendly airport shuttle or taxi to your hotel in Tokyo.
• Check into a family-friendly hotel (look for ones with cribs and play areas).

Afternoon:

• Head to Ueno Park. It’s spacious and has a lovely zoo that your toddler will adore. The Ueno Zoo is home to giant pandas, which are always a hit with kids!

Evening:

• Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby family-friendly restaurant. Try some ramen or sushi (many places have kid-friendly options).
• If your toddler isn’t too tired, take a stroll around the park to see the cherry blossoms (if in season) or the beautiful lanterns.

## Day 2: Tokyo Disneyland

All ## Day:

• Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland! It’s incredibly toddler-friendly with rides suitable for little ones, like “It’s a Small World” and “Pooh’s Hunny Hunt.”
• Don’t forget to take breaks! There are plenty of shaded areas and baby care centers for diaper changes and feeding.

Evening:

• Have dinner in the park or head back to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Your toddler will likely be exhausted after a fun-filled day!

## Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone

Morning:

• After breakfast, take the Romancecar train to Hakone (about 1.5 hours). The train ride is scenic and exciting for kids!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum. It’s a beautiful outdoor space with sculptures and art installations. There’s also a fantastic playground that your toddler will love!

Evening:

• Check into a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) with onsen (hot springs). Many ryokans are family-friendly and have private baths. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner while your little one enjoys some playtime.

## Day 4: Hakone to Kyoto

Morning:

• After breakfast, take the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views of Mount Fuji. Your toddler will enjoy the ride!

Afternoon:

• Head to Kyoto via the Shinkansen (bullet train). It’s a quick and comfortable ride (about 2 hours).
• Check into your hotel and have lunch.

Evening:

• Visit Nijo Castle. The gardens are lovely for a stroll, and the castle itself is fascinating. It’s a great place for your toddler to explore!

## Day 5: Kyoto Exploration

Morning:

• Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The towering bamboo stalks are magical! There’s also a nearby monkey park if you’re up for a little hike.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Kyoto Railway Museum. It’s interactive and has lots of trains to see, which is sure to delight your little one!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can share small plates.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Nara

Morning:

• Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes). Visit Nara Park, where your toddler can see and feed the friendly deer roaming freely.

Afternoon:

• Explore Todai-ji Temple, home to a giant Buddha statue. The temple grounds are spacious, perfect for little legs to run around.

Evening:

• Return to Kyoto for dinner. Consider a casual meal at a local udon shop.

## Day 7: Kyoto to Osaka and Departure

Morning:

• Head to Osaka (just a short train ride away). Visit Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest aquariums in the world. Your toddler will be mesmerized by the colorful fish and sea creatures!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at Dotonbori, famous for its street food. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) – both are usually a hit with kids!

Evening:

• Depending on your flight time, you can either head to the airport or spend a little more time exploring Osaka. If you have time, visit Universal CityWalk for some last-minute fun before your departure.

Tips for Traveling with a Toddler:

• Strollers: Bring a lightweight stroller for easy navigation. Japan is quite stroller-friendly, but some places may have stairs.
• Snacks: Always have snacks and water on hand. Convenience stores in Japan have a great selection of kid-friendly snacks.
• Rest Time: Don’t forget to schedule downtime. Toddlers can get overwhelmed, so a little rest goes a long way!

I hope this itinerary helps you plan a memorable trip to Japan with your little one! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌸✈️