Itinerary for 9 day trip to Japan

Japan is a fantastic destination for families, and with its blend of modern attractions and serene green spaces, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a relaxed 9-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, nature, and family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Morning:

Arrive at .
Take the Narita Express or the Airport Limousine Bus to your hotel in Tokyo.

Hotel Suggestion:

- A family-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and a great location.

Afternoon:

After checking in, head to . It’s a beautiful park with traditional Japanese gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Evening:

Dinner in the vibrant area. Try a family-friendly izakaya (Japanese pub) or a ramen shop.

Day 2: Tokyo Exploration

Morning:

Visit , where you can explore the zoo and several museums. The park is spacious and great for kids to run around.

Lunch:

Grab a bento box from a nearby convenience store or a local café.

Afternoon:

Head to to see the famous . The surrounding streets are filled with shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs.

Evening:

Dinner in , perhaps at a tempura restaurant.

Day 3: Tokyo to Hakone

Morning:

Take the Romancecar train from to Hakone (about 1.5 hours).

Hotel Suggestion:

- A family-friendly ryokan with onsen (hot springs) and beautiful views.

Afternoon:

Explore , which features sculptures and art installations in a lovely outdoor setting.

Evening:

Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at your ryokan.

Day 4: Hakone Adventures

Morning:

Take the to see stunning views of Mount Fuji. Stop at for some volcanic activity and black eggs!

Lunch:

Enjoy lunch at a café near the ropeway station.

Afternoon:

Visit . You can take a pirate ship cruise across the lake, which is super fun for kids!

Evening:

Return to your ryokan for a relaxing evening in the onsen.

Day 5: Hakone to Kyoto

Morning:

Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) from Odawara Station to Kyoto (about 2 hours).

Hotel Suggestion:

- Conveniently located above Kyoto Station, making it easy to explore.

Afternoon:

Visit Kyoto’s . It’s a magical place for a family walk, and nearby is the if you’re feeling adventurous!

Evening:

Dinner in Arashiyama. Try some local yudofu (tofu hot pot).

Day 6: Kyoto Culture

Morning:

Explore . The gardens surrounding the temple are beautiful and perfect for a family photo.

Lunch:

Enjoy a meal at a nearby café.

Afternoon:

Head to . The gardens are lovely, and the castle itself is fascinating for kids and adults alike.

Evening:

Dinner in the Gion district. You might even spot a geisha!

Day 7: Kyoto to Nara

Morning:

Take a short train ride to Nara (about 45 minutes).

Hotel Suggestion:

- A charming hotel with a historic feel.

Afternoon:

Visit , where you can feed the friendly deer. Don’t miss , home to a giant Buddha statue.

Evening:

Dinner in Nara, perhaps trying some kakinoha-zushi (sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves).

Day 8: Nara to Osaka

Morning:

Head to Osaka (about 45 minutes by train).

Hotel Suggestion:

- Centrally located and family-friendly.

Afternoon:

Visit and its surrounding park. The castle is a great spot for kids to explore.

Evening:

Dinner in , famous for its street food. Try takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).

Day 9: Departure from Osaka

Morning:

Depending on your flight time, you can visit for a fun-filled day or relax in , a shopping complex with a rooftop garden.

Lunch:

Enjoy a final meal in Osaka, perhaps at a sushi train restaurant.

Afternoon:

Head to via the Nankai Airport Line or the Haruka Express.

Travel Tips:

Japan Rail Pass: Consider getting a JR Pass for unlimited travel on JR trains, including the Shinkansen, if you plan to travel more.
IC Cards: Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on subways and buses in Tokyo and other cities.
Packing: Bring comfortable shoes for walking, as you’ll be exploring a lot!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Japan with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌸✈️