Family Friendly Itinerary in Japan for 10 Days

Tokyo Private Tours Itinerary in Japan

When you travel with (young) kids, you are probably looking for some family-friendly destinations. Unfortunately, this information is not always readily available to you in travel magazines or on the world wide web. Planning a family trip and selecting the best activities can be challenging and sometimes even stressful. But don’t worry, Japan has many family-friendly destinations and things to do. In this article, we will present you with our suggested 10-day itinerary along with several tips and options!

Suggested itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival in Japan
  • Day 2: Enjoy Tokyo
    – Shibuya Crossing, Harajuku Pop culture town, Ueno Park, Akihabara, etc
  • Day 3: Make a day trip to somewhere close to Tokyo
    – e.g. Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea, Mt. Fuji, Snow Monkey Park, etc.
  • Day 4: Free time in Tokyo
    – e.g. Shopping, day trips, other activities
  • Day 5: Take the bullet train to Kyoto and explore the Gion District
    – Maiko town and Kiyomizu temple
  • Day 6: Enjoy Kyoto in family-friendly neighborhoods
    – Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Golden Pavilion, etc
  • Day 7: Free time in Kyoto
    – e.g. Shopping, temple hopping, and other activities
  • Day 8: Day trip to Nara and Osaka
    – Free-roaming deer park, Giant Buddha, and Osaka special street food
  • Day 9: Free day in Osaka
    – e.g. Universal Studios Japan, shopping, a day trip to Hiroshima
  • Day 10: Leave Japan

Day 1: Arrive in Japan

If this is your first time traveling to Japan, you will most likely be coming to the capital that is Tokyo first. As it is the biggest city in the world and people are pretty used to foreign tourists, there is a good amount of English information available. It will be a warm welcome and a fitting introduction to Japan. Tokyo has two international airports, so it is also likely that you will fly into one of them: Narita Airport or Haneda Airport. You can check on how to get to the center of Tokyo from each airport in the articles linked above.

Also, if you are hoping to travel throughout Japan in the most cost-effective way, we recommend you purchase a JR Pass before coming. It will make travel a lot easier and save a lot of money at the same time!

Tokyo Accommodation

If you haven’t already booked your accommodation for Tokyo yet, we have some great recommendations that are perfect for a family stay. Have a look at our article here for a variety of options.

Day 2: Enjoy Tokyo

Maybe you already explored the area around your hotel yesterday, but today will be your first full day in Japan. If it is your first time in Japan, we highly recommend you book a private tour to get the hang of Japan and see everything you want in the most efficient way.

Tokyo 1-Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (Customizable, 8-Hour)
Explore the city highlights on our Tokyo private walking tour! We'll take you to the lively Tsukiji Fish Market, traditional Asakusa, historical Meiji Jingu Shr...

For those of you who decide not to book a tour in Tokyo, here is our suggested itinerary with loads of family-friendly destinations and options. Enjoy!

Morning (9am – 11am)

Option 1. Ueno Park

Ueno Park, Shinobazu Pond, Ameyoko, Family frinedly destination in Japan, Kaneiji Temple, Toshogu Shrine, Tokyo

Ueno park is a large and lively public park. Although it might be a bit crowded especially during the cherry blossom season, it is a very family friendly place in Tokyo that is easy to walk around with small kids due to its central location (within walking distance from Ueno Station) and peaceful atmosphere. Moreover, there are a lot of different ways you can enjoy the park. There are a number of museums, Japan’s oldest zoo which is very famous for pandas, old temples and shrines, and large beautiful ponds with picturesque lotus leaves. Whether you are with small kids or elderly parents, everyone will be able to enjoy the area!

Option 2. Tsukiji Fish Market

Tsukiji Fish Market, Tokyo, Family Friendly Destination in Japan, Food Tour, Tuna Cutting Show

If your family likes seafood, it is a great idea to check out and have breakfast at Tsukiji Fish Market. Also, it is the perfect opportunity to learn about Japanese food culture. There are a lot of individual vendors selling their special (local) food.

If you are curious about and want to learn more about Japanese food culture, you can never go wrong joining a food tour with one of our local guides! During the tour, your guide will show you around the market in a small group, explain more about Japanese products and cuisine, and you will have the chance to try some of the most delicious foods!

Tokyo Fish Market Tour @Tsukiji - Enjoy Local Food and Drink
Join our Tsukiji Fish Market Tour for an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine in Tokyo. Indulge in street food and savor delicious fish bowl at a local restauran...
Tokyo Sushi Making Experience+ Tsukiji Fish Market Explore Tour
Would you like to try your hand at making sushi in Tokyo? Join us on a special tour where the guide introduces you to some important elements of Japanese culina...

Afternoon & lunch time (11:30am – 1:30pm)

Option 1. Asakusa

Sensoji Asakusa

Asakusa is known as a traditional town with a huge Sensoji temple. Among Japanese people, Asakusa is also famous for its big festival in October and that makes Asakusa an enjoyable festival vibe all the time! Although there are many people coming here every day for sightseeing, you can still enjoy spending time there. There are many enjoyable activities such as rickshaw rides, goldfish scooping games, candy craft workshops, food sample making experiences, etc. Also, there are many nice Japanese restaurants around Asakusa which will be good for your lunch, too.

Recommended activities in Asakusa

Option 2. Tokyo Dome City

Tokyo Dome City, Family Friendly Destination, family Friendly Itinerary in Japan, Game Center

Less than 3 minutes from Suidobashi Station, you can find Tokyo Dome City. Besides Tokyo Dome (mainly for a baseball game or live concert), there are various shops, restaurants, and cafes, and also there is a game center and amusement park (like a small theme park), too! If your priority is making sure for your kids to have fun, Tokyo Dome City will be the best place. Also, there is a quiet traditional Japanese garden (Koishikawa garden) next to Tokyo Dome City. It is also nice to visit if you have time.

Late afternoon (2pm – 4pm)

Option 1. Harajuku

Harajuku Takeshita Street

Harajuku is known as a city for unique fashion and cool & cute pop culture. You can find various animal cafes, odd-looking sweets, eccentric “Kawaii” fashion, and so on. If you have kids, it is an ideal place for spending time enjoying.

From Harajuku, Meiji Shrine and Omotesando Street (Modern Architecture district) are within walking distance. So, after exploring Harajuku, we recommend you visit either spot if you have time. In the area you will find many cafes and restaurants selling various snacks for your kids, to have a little break!

Option 2. Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is known as the second tallest tower in the world next to Burj Khalifa in Dubai. You can enjoy the view with drinks or meals at 300 meters above the ground or the view at 451.2 meters above the ground! Also, it is a nice place to enjoy shopping because there are more than 300 shops from the 1st to 10th floors including Pokemon’s official store. You can easily find some good souvenir gifts to bring back to your home!

Tokyo Skytree
10am – 9pm
Combined ticket from ¥3,100
Tembo Galleria from ¥1,000
Tembo Deck from ¥2,100

▶Get your discounted tickets for Tokyo Skytree here

Evening (4:30 pm ~ )

Option 1. Shibuya Scramble Crossing & Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Scramble Crossing, Shibuya Sky, Family Friendly Destination, hachiko Statue, Tokyo, Japan

These days, many people think of Shibuya scramble crossing when it comes to Tokyo.
Due to the crowds from morning to midnight, Shibuya is called a “sleepless city” in Japanese. Especially in the evening, you can see large crowds of people walking on the crossing and you may come to realize and say, “Oh, I am in Tokyo!”. In 2019, a new observatory “Shibuya Sky” opened as a new trademark in Shibuya. Check out the 360 degrees of panoramic view over Tokyo from this tallest building in Shibuya!

Shibuya Sky
9am – 11pm (Last admission 10pm)
¥1,800 (online – reserved tickets for specific date & time)
¥2,000 (counter – same-day tickets)

▶Get your tickets here

Option 2. Odaiba

Odaiba is known as the man-made island in Tokyo Bay. It was developed after the year 2.000 and currently, it is a popular destination among couples or families. You can visit the Rainbow Bridge, a giant Gundam statue, big shopping malls, etc. You can even relax at the beach too. Just exploring this island is fun!

Day 3: Day Trip from Tokyo

Option 1. Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea

One of the day-trip destinations from Tokyo that all your family members can enjoy is the Tokyo Disney Resort. There are two theme parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Even if you are from the U.S. where Disney is originally from, both theme parks are very enjoyable because they are unique and different in their own ways. You will be surprised and have all your dreams come true as the staff is amazing with second-to-none hospitality.

We recommend getting tickets with pickup at the closest train station (Maihama) so you can skip the (long) queues. This will save you time at the entrance! Book with the link below.

Option 2. Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi

Mount Fuji Chureito Pagoda, Arakura Sengen Shrine, Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchiko, Lake Kawaguchi, Family Friendly Itinerary in Japan, Day Trip from Tokyo

When you decided you wanted to come to Japan, you probably considered going somewhere with a view of Mt. Fuji at least once. Even though it is not all that close to Tokyo, it can still be a great destination on a day trip from Tokyo. Of course, Mt. Fuji itself is incredibly beautiful, but the surrounding nature is truly stunning as well. There are a lot of photogenic spots such as Lake Kawaguchi, Arakurayama Sengen shrine, and Oshino Hakkai village among others.

The best and easiest way to get to and around the Mt. Fuji area for a day trip is by joining the bus tour from Tokyo! You can explore the highlights of the area without stressing out about transportation accompanied by a knowledgeable guide. You can learn the history and facts about the area, and enjoy delicious local specialties during the tour!

Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo
Join us on a one-day Mt. Fuji tour from Tokyo to discover the must-see highlights of Mt. Fuji. Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji while traveling com...

Option 3. Visit the Snow Monkey Park

Snow Monkey, Nagano, Jigokudani, Monkey Park, Onsen, Day trip from Tokyo, Winter Activity, Family Friendly Itinerary in Japan

You probably have seen the famous snow monkeys taking a bath in an outdoor onsen! If it is the right season to see Snow Monkey, it will also be a day-trip option from Tokyo.
How to visit Snow Monkey Park (Jigokudani)? When is the proper season for seeing Snow Monkey? You may have a lot of questions, find the answers to all your questions in the linked article!

Day 4: Free day in Tokyo

Tokyo

On your 4th day in Japan, you will have some much-deserved free time! If you’re a bit worn out, resting up for the rest of the trip is a good option, but if you still have some energy and haven’t crossed everything off your Tokyo list yet, today is the perfect day to get that done. Since Tokyo is such a massive city, chances are there are still quite a few things you want to check out. Having a free day and deciding day of what you may want to do depending on the weather or your kid’s mood might be the best option for everyone.

Day 5: Head to Kyoto

It’s time to leave Tokyo and head to your next wonderful destination, Kyoto, the center of Japanese culture & tradition. Although the most popular thing to do in Kyoto is temple hopping which can get a bit boring for the younger kids, there are plenty of fun places for kids in Kyoto too.

Kyoto 8-Hour HIGHLIGHT Private Tour [Customized]
Experience the beauty and culture of Kyoto on our Kyoto private tour! We can tailor your itinerary to meet all your preferences. Let's explore the best of Kyoto...

Morning (10:30 am)

Take the Shinkansen AKA the Bullet Train

Hikari Shinkansen Bullet train, Transfer to Kyoto, Family friendly Itinerary in Japan, Tokyo Station, Kyoto Station

In the morning, take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Kyoto Station. In Tokyo, there are two stations where bullet trains depart heading west. One is Tokyo Station and the other is Shinagawa Station. You can choose the closest station to your hotel. (For instance, from Ginza Station, Tokyo Station is super close but from Shinjuku Station, Shinagawa Station is closer). Riding the Shinkansen is a fun experience in itself. You can relax, enjoy some food and drinks and watch the amazing scenery of Japan pass you by. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Mt Fuji on the way too! Please also see the article below about fun things to do riding the bullet train.

Afternoon (1pm)

Arrive at Kyoto Station

It will take about 2.5 hours to get to Kyoto Station from Tokyo. To enjoy the rest of your time after you arrive, what you’ll need to do first is send your luggage to your hotel. In the Kyoto Station building, there is a super useful luggage delivery service called Crosta Kyoto. Through Crosta Kyoto, delivery service is available from Kyoto station to your accommodation/from your accommodation to Kyoto station/ between your accommodations/ from Kyoto station to Kansai Airport. You can drop off your luggage at Kyoto Station between 8am – 2pm.
This service is available for most hotels or ryokan in Kyoto. Find out more about this convenient service here.

Late afternoon (1pm)

After dealing with your luggage, let’s enjoy the beautiful city of Kyoto! How to enjoy and explore it is up to you of course. But here are our suggestions for a day well spent after a long train ride.

Option 1. Explore the Kyoto Station area

Kyoto-station

If you are tired after the bullet train ride, it might be best to start sightseeing close by. Exploring Kyoto Station in itself is fun! It was built in collaboration with seven famous architects and is one of the most notable modern pieces of architecture in all of Kyoto. It’s nice to visit Ramen Street on the 10th floor of the Isetan department store (as you might have guessed there are ramen restaurants from all over Japan) and also to walk the Skyway to the East Square of Kyoto Station. Also, if you still have time and energy, visit Kyoto Tower or Higashihonganji Temple which are both very close to Kyoto Station.

Option 2. Kyoto Handi Craft Center & Okazaki Park

Okazaki Park is the most peaceful park with an open feeling in Kyoto. Around the park, there are several museums, a zoo, and the Kyoto Handicraft Center. In the Handicraft Center, you can join various workshops related to traditional Japanese handicrafts. Combine your workshop at the Handicraft Center with a visit to Okazaki Park and enjoy the serene atmosphere. If you have time, you can visit Nanzenji Zen Temple to enjoy matcha green tea and see the view from the big Sanmon gate!

Option 3. Umekoji Park & Kyoto Railway Museum

Kyoto Railway Museum, Umekoji Park, Kyoto Aquarium, Train Museum, Family Friendly Destination, Kids Activity in Kyoto

Umekoji Park is just one stop from Kyoto Station by JR train (the station name is Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station). There are some playgrounds, a city aquarium, a park, unique restaurants, and the Kyoto Railway Museum.

Due to the dynamic and various exhibitions, the Kyoto Railway Museum is a fun place for kids and it is also an informative place if you have an interest in Japan’s railway system (one of the world’s most punctual and efficient railway services).

Kyoto Railway Museum
10am – 5.30pm
Admission ¥1,200 (adults), ¥200 – ¥500 (children)

Kyoto Accommodation

Kyoto is a great family-friendly destination if you are traveling with kids. But sometimes it can be difficult to decide where the best place to stay is if you want to get the most out of your trip. Let us help you out with our recommended hotels in our article here!

Day 6: Enjoy Kyoto City

Due to the access reasons, we have two suggestions to enjoy this day in Kyoto. Suggestion 1 is mainly spending the Arashiyama area (west outskirts of Kyoto city) and Kameoka (the city next to Kyoto city) to enjoy special activities around there. Suggestion 2 is mainly in the center of Kyoto city with two options (general & for kids).

Suggestion 1: Arashiyama area & Kameoka city

Tenryuji Garden

Tenryu Temple, Autumn Foliage, Arashiyama, Kyoto, Family Friendly Destination, UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tenryuji is a Zen temple with a stunning pond and garden surrounded by a mountainous landscape. On sunny days, the scenery is especially beautiful. In addition, inside the garden, there is a place where you can take photos with bamboo without any other people around!

Bamboo Forest

Bamboo Grove,  Bamboo Forest, Arashiyama, Kyoto, Family Friendly Destination

After Tenryuji Garden, the famous bamboo forest is just a 1 minute’s walk away. Due to the popularity, normally there are many people but you can still enjoy the breathtaking scenery!

Torroko Journey to Kameoka Station

About a 5-minute walk from the bamboo forest, you can find Sagano Scenic Train Station.
That is a special train to enjoy the surrounding beautiful nature. As you know, Japan is blessed with a rich natural beauty that is different every season. Be aware that the tickets sell out pretty quick if it is cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season. So we recommend you book as early as possible. From Torroko Arashiyama station, you will arrive at Torroko Kameoka station in just one stop.

Sagano Romantic Train website

Hozugawa-kudari (Hozu river boat riding)

From Torroko Kameoka station, you will arrive at Hozugawa-kudari after a 15-minute bus ride (take Torokko Mahori Line 39 run by Keihan bus to Hozugawa-kudari boarding site). From there, you can have a truly special local experience, “Hozugawa-kudari”, which is a traditional Japanese-style boat tour with a skilled rower. For more details about this 2-hour boat ride tour including departure times, see their official site here.

Togetsu Bridge

Togetsu Bridge, Autumn Foliage, Arashiyama, Hozu River, Katsura River, Kyoto, Family Friendly Itinerary in Japan
Photo by Kentagon

After Hozugawa-kudari, you will finish the tour near Togetsu Bridge, which means you are in the Arashiyama area again! Togetsu Bridge is surrounded by fantastic natural beauty.
Especially in autumn, the surrounding mountains change their colors and the landscape is incredibly beautiful. In the area around Togetsu Bridge, there are many restaurants. It is also good to have some late lunch around there.

Arashiyama Monkey Park

Walk across Togetsu Bridge to find the entrance of Monkey Park (fun fact: this is Tom Cruise’s favorite place in Japan!). Monkey Park is a peaceful place where you can enjoy meeting some monkeys and the scenic view from the top of the mountain.
You will need to climb up the mountain for about 15-20 minutes. This can be a little tough for small children, so if you think it is hard to do so with your family, we recommend visiting either the Music Box Museum or Diorama Kyoto JAPAN instead.

Suggestion 2: Exploring the central part of Kyoto

Morning option 1: Kyoto Botanical Gardens

This is not a very well-known destination and that makes it kind of a hidden spot only known by locals. The closest station is Kitayama Station and you need to take the Kyoto Municipal Subway for approximately 15 minutes from downtown Kyoto or Kyoto Station. From kids to adults, everyone can enjoy this botanical garden with over 120,000 plants from 12,000 species. Especially, from the middle of November to early December, this place is recommended to visit for the beautiful autumn foliage leaves!

Morning option 2: Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion

Kinkakuji Temple, Golden Pavilion, Kyoto, Family Friendly Destination, Japan

This may not be something all that special for kids but is simply a nice place to visit no matter who you are traveling with. The impressive shining golden color reflects on the pond surrounded by trees, making for an atmosphere like none other. To access Kinkakuji, you can take a local bus but it might be complicated if you are not used to the bus system in Japan. A taxi is also an option if you are worried about it.

Afternoon option 1: Kyoto Manga Museum

kyoto manga museum
Photo by ⓒKyoto picture

5 minutes walk from Karasuma Oike Station, you will find a cream-colored complex. Those buildings are Kyoto Manga Museum. They are mainly focused on Japanese Manga but there are also English Manga too. Also, as you can see in the photo above, there is a large lawn area that is suitable for kids to play. Of course, you can sleep or take a rest if your family needs it. Doesn’t it sound amazing that you can lie down or sit down while you are enjoying Manga? This museum is also a good place to spend time indoors on a rainy day. To get there, Kyoto Municipal Subway is the easiest way.

Afternoon option 2: Nishiki Market

Nishiki Market

The closest station to Nishiki Market is Shijo Station. From one side to the other side of Nishiki Market, you can see and enjoy more than 160 shops. In Kyoto, there are lots of high-quality vegetables, chickens, ducks, tofu products, and river fish. Since Kyoto developed some unique cuisine, you can experience the rich culinary culture in the market. There are also very kid-friendly foods such as Tofu ice cream, green tea fondue, honey fruit juice, and so on!

Kyoto Food and Drink Tour @Nishiki Street

Kyoto Food and Drink Tour @Nishiki Market
Kyoto Food Tour takes you to the Nishiki Market and will introduce you to Kyoto’s street food culture. We will also visit the places deeply rooted in the local'...

Late afternoon option 1: Kiyomizu temple

Kiyomizu dera temple

If you do not mind the long walking and various steps, Kiyomizu temple is one of the most must-visit places in Kyoto. Although Kiyomizu is a temple, it is like an ancient theme park with various attractions. So, even small kids can enjoy this place. From the terrace at the main hall of Kiyomizu temple, you can have a fantastic view of the surroundings. This place is also great to visit in autumn when the leaves turn red again!

Late afternoon option 2: Fushimi Inari Shrine

fushimi inari shrine torii

The most popular spot in Kyoto City for tourists is Fushimi Inari Shrine with thousands of red Torii gates! This is also not something special just for kids everyone can enjoy this amazing place and it is easy to walk around because there are not so many steps until the middle.

In the middle of this shrine, there is Omokaruishi, the stone telling about your wish. Let’s try to lift up the stone. If you feel it is heavy, your wish will take some time to come true but if it is very light, it will come true soon!

From the middle of the path, it is getting tougher to climb up. So, walking until the middle is an easy plan to enjoy Fushimi Inari especially if you are with kids.

Evening option 1: Gion District & Yasaka Shrine

Gion District, Kyoto, Geisha, Maiko, Kamo River, Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, Hanamikoji, Shirakawa Canal, Gion Corner, Family Friendly Itinerary in Japan

Gion is the biggest traditional Geisha town in Kyoto. Even in the daytime, this place is beautiful but between 5pm and 6 pm, there is a high possibility that you see Maiko with full makeup because it is just before their working time. Even if you cannot see them, the quaint atmosphere with traditional Kyoto townhouses is very nice. Also, you can visit Yasaka Shrine from this place on foot and that is an enjoyable place for kids.

Evening option 2: Teramachi & Shinkyogoku Shopping Street

Michael Vito, (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0), via flickr

Teramachi & Shinkyogoku Shopping Street is in downtown Kyoto, close to Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. There are many souvenir shops, restaurants, animal cafes, a very unique Samurai & Ninja museum, Manga & Anime shops, street food vendors, etc.
For a family with small kids, this is recommended to visit and enjoy Kyoto before you leave Kyoto the next day!

Day 7: Head to Osaka and enjoy the city

Morning (10:30am)

Travel to Osaka

From Kyoto, Osaka is very close. Even by a local train, it takes less than one hour. We recommend you book reserved seats if you have your luggage and you can get your reserved seats for JR Ltd. Express Haruka or bullet trains. If you travel with a large family, using a private big taxi is one of the options. You can also take a local train but it might be difficult if you have big suitcases.

Afternoon (12pm)

Arrive at Osaka Station and go to your hotel

Whichever transportation you use, you will arrive at Osaka one hour later after you leave Kyoto City. Then we suggest you first leave your luggage at your hotel.

Late afternoon (2pm – 4:30pm)

Option 1: Osaka Castle Park and Cruising Aqualiner

osaka water bus

Osaka Castle is an icon of Osaka City. You can enjoy a peaceful walk in the park and imagine what the Samurai War was like more than 400 years ago. After enjoying Osaka Castle, it is nice to have a river cruise by Aqualiner. It leaves Osaka Castle Park and will bring you to the Nakanoshima area. You can enjoy the view of Osaka City as a canal city like Amsterdam by Aqualiner.

Operating times 11am – 4pm (can vary seasonally)
Adults ¥1,740, children ¥870

Option 2: Cup Noodles Museum

Alyson Hurt, (CC BY-NC 2.0), via flickr

Taking Hankyu Takarazuka line train for about 30 minutes from Osaka Umeda Station, you will arrive at Ikeda Station. From there, the Cup Noodle Museum is within walking distance (less than 10 minutes). Although the uniqueness of the exhibition about history and variety is fun, the special and fun experience you can have is making your own original cup noodle! Also, you can enjoy some cup noodle tasting from their numerous products. The museum is open daily from 9:30am to 4:30pm and free of charge!

Evening (5pm ~ )

Dotonbori Street with Ebisu Bridge

Dotonbori, Osaka, Namba, Minami, Ebisu Bridge, Glico, Don Quijote, Takoyaki, Okonomiyaki, Family Friendly Destination, Street Food, Local Food, Japan

If you want to see something super fun, let’s visit Dotonbori! You can say it is the craziest spot in Japan, you will be overwhelmed by so many flashy, colorful, eye-catching, and strange neon signs around the area. There are so many street food shops, restaurants, animal cafes, game centers, and so on! While exploring the area, you can experience the funny and friendly Osaka culture.

Kaiyukan Aqualium

Kaiyukan is the world’s largest aquarium with huge whale sharks, jellyfish, emperor penguins, and odd-looking fishes like aliens from the seabed. Just walking around is fun, but don’t forget to check the timetable to see their events (staff feeding penguins, dolphins, or else). Among their various displays, the most overwhelming thing is to see big fish tanks for uncountable migratory fishes. Also, there is a special light-up after 5pm. It is nice to visit in the evening.

Kaiyukan
10am – 8pm (can vary seasonally)
Admission ¥2,400 (adults), ¥0 – 1,200 (children)

Best Guided Tours in Japan
We offer guided tours throughout Japan. Our friendly local guides will take you to the best spots in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and more. Discover hidden gems on our ...

Day 8: Day trip from Osaka

From downtown Osaka, there are many destinations for a day trip. In this itinerary, we will suggest three very accessible places you can add to a long trip with your kids. The most recommended place is Kobe city because there are lots of spots which are suitable for all family members to enjoy together! Another recommendation is Nara with a free-roaming deer park and Universal Studio in Osaka!

Option 1. Kobe

You can arrive at Kobe City by taking a local train for just 30 minutes from Osaka City. Unlike Osaka, Nara, or Kyoto, Kobe is quite a new city with just 150 years of history and is very familiar with Western culture. Also, it is well-known as a city for fashion. Nevertheless, this is one of the most enjoyable cities for families. There are many sites and attractions for both adults and kids to enjoy together. To know more about Kobe City, we recommend reading the article below.

Option 2. Nara

If you prefer Kyoto to Osaka or Tokyo, you may also like Nara City. From Osaka, it takes one hour to get there by local train. Nara is the older capital, before Kyoto even. Kyoto had functioned as a center of Japanese religion and academics for more than 1,000 years until Tokyo became the capital city.

Although the city of Nara was destroyed in a conflict in the 19th century, there are still a lot of ruins and cultural or religious remains. The deer in Nara Park is one example; people have been protecting them carefully for years as natural monuments considering they are the god helpers. That’s why Nara Park is called “Deer Park”. You can feed special crackers called shika senbei to those friendly deer.

Another highlight of your day trip to Nara will be a visit to Todaiji Giant Buddha Hall. Let’s take your family photos with deer or Giant Buddha in this historical and religious city. Read our article below if you want to know more about Nara!

Option 3. Universal Studio Japan

As you might know, Universal Studio Japan is located in Osaka City. Though the location is nearby Osaka port, not downtown. So, you need to take a train for about 30 minutes. In the park, you can enjoy the unique collaboration between Universal Studio and Japanese Anime or Manga. Universal Studios Japan is the most popular destination for the local people in Osaka and therefore often crowded with locals. Since your time is very limited, it might be smart to have Universal Express Pass, if possible, to avoid the long waiting hours to enjoy some rides and attractions.

Get your Universal Studios Japan Osaka 1-Day Studio Pass E-Tickets

Day 9: Free day in Osaka

If you want to explore Osaka City a little more, it is a good idea to do so on this day. Also, it is a good time to buy souvenir gifts in Osaka. There are a lot of big department stores around Osaka Station (the same location as the metro’s Umeda station) and Namba Station (nearby Dotonbori). Especially, Hankyu Department Store Osaka Umeda Main Store and Takashimaya Osaka Store (Namba) are the two main department stores in Osaka City.
If you have JR Pass and still have great energy, a day trip to Hiroshima is also an option.
In any case, have a nice last full day in Japan!

Recommended article:

Day 10: Fly back home

Daitokuji Temple rock garden

All good things must come to an end. Finally, it is time to fly back to your country. Depending on your flight, the way to return will be different. If it is from Haneda or Narita Airport, you need to go back to Shinagawa Station (to Haneda) or Tokyo Station (to Narita Airport) first, taking a bullet train from Shin-Osaka Station. Then, head to each airport by train or taxi. In total, the trip will take approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours.

narita airport

If your flight is from Kansai International Airport, you can take Ltd Express Haruka or a taxi. Although the airport is also in Osaka prefecture, it takes about 1 hour to get there. Please check your flight information carefully and make a plan carefully.

Private departure transfer from Osaka City to Kansai Airport

We hope your 10 days trip will be a great time for all of your family!

Japan Wonder Travel Tours 

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan. 
From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots! 
In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if yu have any questions or need some help! 

Tokyo Fish Market Tour @Tsukiji – Enjoy Local Food and Drink
Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

tsukiji tour

Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours)
There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

Asakusa Tokyo private tour

Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo
Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

mount fuji chureito pagoda

Follow us on InstagramFacebookTwitter, and TikTok for more travel inspiration. Or tag us to get featured!

Happy traveling!

Stay informed of the best travel tips to Japan, the most exciting things to do and see, and the top experiences to have with the Japan Wonder Travel Newsletter. Once every two weeks we will introduce you to our latest content.

For your family trip

タイトルとURLをコピーしました