8 day itinerary
Tokyo
Itinerary
Tokyo is a fantastic city for families, filled with delicious food, fun activities, and cultural experiences. Here’s a delightful 8-day itinerary that balances exploration, food, and family-friendly fun. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Shinjuku
Morning: Arrive in Tokyo! After checking into your hotel, take a moment to freshen up. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a quick bite at a nearby convenience store—Japanese onigiri (rice balls) are a great start!
Afternoon: Head to . It’s a beautiful park where the kids can run around, and you can enjoy a picnic lunch. Grab some bento boxes from a local shop to enjoy in the park.
Evening: Explore (Memory Lane) for dinner. This narrow alleyway is filled with tiny eateries serving yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and other izakaya-style dishes. It’s a great way to introduce the family to Japanese cuisine!
Day 2:
All Day: Spend the day at ! It’s a magical place for kids and adults alike. Make sure to try the famous popcorn flavors (like curry and strawberry) and enjoy the various themed rides. Don’t forget to catch the parades and fireworks in the evening!
Day 3: Asakusa and Ueno
Morning: Start your day at in Asakusa. The approach to the temple, called Nakamise Street, is lined with shops selling traditional snacks and souvenirs. Try some ningyo-yaki (small cakes filled with red bean paste) and melon bread!
Afternoon: Head to . It’s a lovely area with museums and a zoo. The is a hit with families, and you can also visit the if you’re interested in Japanese art and history.
Evening: For dinner, explore nearby. It’s a bustling street market where you can find all sorts of street food, from takoyaki (octopus balls) to sweet treats like taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with red bean paste).
Day 4: and
Morning: Visit , the hub for anime and gaming culture. Check out the various shops, and if your kids are into video games, they’ll love the arcades! Grab a quick lunch at a themed café, like a maid café for a unique experience.
Afternoon: Head to , a futuristic island in Tokyo Bay. Visit , an interactive digital art museum that’s sure to amaze the whole family.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at , where you can see the giant Gundam statue. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants here, from sushi to ramen.
Day 5: Day Trip to
All Day: Take a day trip to , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the stunning and enjoy the beautiful nature surrounding the area. Pack a lunch or try some local specialties like yuba (tofu skin) at a local restaurant.
Day 6: and
Morning: Start your day in . Stroll down , where you can find quirky shops and delicious crepes. Don’t miss trying a rainbow cotton candy!
Afternoon: Visit , a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. It’s a lovely place for a family walk. Afterward, head to and see the famous .
Evening: For dinner, explore ’s food scene. Try some delicious ramen at a local shop or indulge in a family-friendly izakaya experience.
Day 7: and Roppongi
Morning: Visit for stunning views of the city. There’s a small aquarium and a wax museum inside, which can be fun for the kids!
Afternoon: Head to and visit the . The observation deck offers another fantastic view of Tokyo.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in Roppongi. There are many family-friendly restaurants, including those serving sushi and tempura.
Day 8: Shopping and Departure
Morning: Spend your last day shopping! Head to for some upscale shopping or for trendy fashion.
Afternoon: Grab a final lunch at a conveyor belt sushi restaurant—always a hit with families!
Evening: Depending on your flight time, you might have a little more time to explore or relax before heading to the airport.
Tips:
- Transportation: Get a Suica or Pasmo card for easy travel on public transport.
- Food: Don’t hesitate to try new things! Japanese food is diverse and delicious.
- Language: While many people speak English, learning a few basic Japanese phrases can be helpful and fun!
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Tokyo with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌟