Japan offers incredible experiences for families, combining cultural adventures, modern attractions, and natural wonders.
Known for its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and child-friendly environment, Japan is an ideal destination for family travel.
This guide provides comprehensive information to help you make the most of your Japanese adventure.
Pre-Trip Preparation
Best Seasons to Visit
Japan can be enjoyed year-round, though spring (late March to May) and autumn (late September to November) are particularly ideal for families with children due to their mild temperatures and perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Spring (late March to May): Mild temperatures, iconic cherry blossoms, and perfect conditions for outdoor activities.
Summer (June to August) offers exciting festivals, fireworks displays, and beach activities, though be prepared for humidity and occasional rain.
Summer (June to August): Exciting festivals, fireworks displays, and beach activities, though be prepared for humidity and occasional rain
Winter (December to February) transforms Japan into a wonderland with world-class skiing in Hokkaido and Nagano, illumination displays, and the unique experience of relaxing in outdoor hot springs surrounded by snow.
Each season in Japan provides distinctive experiences, so planning your visit according to your family’s interests can make your trip truly memorable.
Required Documents
- Passports (valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay)
- Visas (if required for your nationality)
- Children’s identification documents (birth certificates, etc.)
- Travel insurance documentation
Packing List
For All Ages
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Children’s regular medications (with English prescriptions if applicable)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain gear (compact umbrella or lightweight raincoat)
- Portable battery charger
- Your child’s favorite snacks and items for long journeys
For Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years)
- Diapers (available in Japan, but bring your preferred brand if necessary)
- Compact, lightweight stroller (airport rental is also an option)
- Baby food (if you need specific brands)
For Children (4+ years)
- Small backpack (for them to carry their own items)
- Entertainment for travel time (books, tablets, small games)
- ID information (with parent contact details)
Mobile and Internet
- Rent a pocket WiFi or SIM card (available at airports | JAL ABC・ANA)
- Major cities have many free WiFi spots, but coverage is limited in rural areas
- Download useful apps like Google Maps and translation apps
Recommended Advance Bookings
- Popular attractions and experiences (Ghibli Museum, Tokyo Disney Resort, etc.)
- Family-friendly accommodations
- Long-distance transportation (Shinkansen/bullet train)
Family-Friendly Tourist Spots
Hokkaido & Tohoku Region
Shiroi Koibito Park: This chocolate factory park offers interactive experience events where children can make their own sweets and learn about chocolate production.
Mt. Usu Ropeway: Take a scenic ropeway ride up this active volcano for breathtaking views of Lake Toya and the surrounding landscape.
Rusutsu Resort: A comprehensive resort offering seasonal activities including skiing in winter and adventure parks in summer.
Otaru Canal and Music Box Museum: This historic port town features charming canals and the famous Otaru Music Box Museum where children can explore over 38,000 music boxes. Hands-on workshops allow kids to create their own musical souvenirs.
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu: A complete resort complex with unique seasonal experiences including the Unkai Terrace (“Sea of Clouds”) in summer and magical Ice Village in winter. The resort offers numerous child-friendly activities throughout the year.
FARM TOMITA:Stunning lavender fields and flower gardens in Furano that offer a sensory experience for children with colorful flower fields, herb gardens, and lavender-flavored treats.
Kanto Region
- Tokyo Disney Resort: Experience Japanese versions of Disneyland and DisneySea, with unique attractions not found at other Disney parks worldwide.
- National Museum of Nature and Science: Features fascinating dinosaur exhibits and interactive hands-on displays that educate while entertaining.
- Yomiuriland: Popular amusement park with various rides and seasonal illuminations.
- Tokyo Skytree (Solamachi & Pokemon Center): The tallest tower in Japan offers spectacular views, while the adjacent shopping complex includes the popular Pokemon Center.
- teamLab Planets Tokyo: Immersive digital art museum where children can interact with constantly changing artworks.
- Ghibli Museum (Mitaka): Celebrating the works of Studio Ghibli, this whimsical museum brings animated favorites to life through interactive exhibits.
- Hakone Hot Springs (Private Baths & Forest Adventure): Family-friendly hot spring resorts with private bath options and nearby forest adventure courses.
- Shiki Theater Company (Ages 3+): Professional theatrical productions suitable for children.
- Pokemon Cafe: Themed dining experience featuring Pokemon characters.
- BLOOM SQUISHY:Popular shop in Harajuku featuring kawaii (cute) squishy toys where children can touch, squeeze and play with a variety of adorable, soft, stress-relieving toys in colorful designs.
Chubu Region
- Fuji-Q Highland (near Mt. Fuji): Exciting amusement park with views of Mt. Fuji, offering rides for all ages.
- Ghibli Park: Newly opened theme park bringing the world of Studio Ghibli animations to life.
- Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum: One of the world’s premier dinosaur museums with impressive fossils and interactive displays.
- Suzuka Circuit (Mie Prefecture): Combination amusement park and motorsports facility offering racing-themed attractions.
- Legoland Japan: Theme park dedicated to the popular building blocks with rides and interactive areas.
- SCMAGLEV and Railway Park: Museum showcasing Japan’s railway history including the futuristic maglev trains.
- Gero Onsen: Family-friendly hot spring town with accessible public baths and ryokan accommodations.
Kansai Region
- Universal Studios Japan: Home to Super Nintendo World and other popular attractions including Harry Potter and Minion-themed areas.
- STUDIO KOKORO ARASHIYAMA: Cultural experience facility in the scenic Arashiyama district.
- Kyoto International Manga Museum: Explore Japan’s comic culture with thousands of manga available to read.
- Ebisuya Kyoto Higashiyama (Rickshaw Experience): Experience traditional transportation with guided rickshaw tours.
- Kyoto Railway Museum: Interactive museum perfect for train enthusiasts of all ages.
- Adventure World (Wakayama): Combination safari park, aquarium, and amusement park featuring the popular panda family and many other animals.
- Nara Park (World Heritage Site): Feed friendly deer and visit world famous temples.
- Shirahama Onsen: Coastal hot spring resort with family-friendly beaches.
Chugoku & Shikoku Region
- Dogo Onsen: One of Japan’s oldest hot springs, featured in the Ghibli film “Spirited Away.”
Kyushu & Okinawa Region
- Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: Features one of the world’s largest tanks with impressive whale sharks and manta rays.
- Aso Milk Farm: Ranch experience with animal interactions and dairy products.
- Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki: Theme park recreating a Dutch townscape with seasonal flower displays and attractions.
- Beppu Onsen: Famous hot spring areas with unique “hells” (colored hot springs) and family-friendly bath facilities.
Transportation
Public Transportation
- Airplanes: Domestic flights connect major cities and distant regions like Okinawa; many airlines offer family discounts
- Railways: Make use of the JR Pass (discount pass exclusively for foreign tourists)
- Subways: Extensive coverage in major cities, most stations equipped with elevators
- Shinkansen (Bullet trains): Fast and comfortable for long-distance travel
- Buses: Convenient for accessing regional areas
- Taxis: Available in all cities and towns; some taxis offer child seats upon request
Tips for Traveling with Children
- Avoid peak hours in major cities(7:30-9:00 am, 5:30-7:00 pm)
- Check stroller-accessible routes in advance
- Use delivery services to send large luggage to your next accommodation
Rental Cars
- International driving permit required
- Child seats must be reserved in advance
- Drive on the left side of the road
Accommodation
Family-Friendly Hotels
- “Welcome Baby” certified accommodations
- Urban Family Rooms: Many large hotel chains offer family rooms
- Ryokan: Traditional Japanese inns, many welcoming to families
- Official Disney Resort Hotels: Comfortable stays near the parks
Hot Spring Inns
- Increasing number of onsen inns welcoming families with children
- Choose places with family baths (private rental baths)
- Check for child-friendly activities and meal options
Dining with Children
Japanese Foods Popular with Children
- Soba/Udon: Noodle dishes with simple flavors
- Tempura: Lightly battered and fried foods
- Kaiseki ryori: Traditional multi-course meals
- Okonomiyaki & Takoyaki: Fun to watch being prepared
- Ramen: Many shops offer kids’ portions
- Conveyor Belt Sushi: Interactive experience at reasonable prices
- Donburi: Simple one-bowl meals Yakiniku: Japanese-style BBQ Sukiyaki: Sweet simmered beef and vegetables
- Yakiniku: Japanese-style BBQ where families can grill their own meat at the table
- Yakitori: Skewered grilled chicken in various styles; the open-grill cooking process is entertaining for children to watch
- Curry Rice: Sweet variations appealing to children
Dining Considerations
- Allergy information (especially in English) may be limited
- High chairs are common but check in advance
- Hot water for baby food preparation is usually available upon request
Safety and Healthcare
Medical Facilities
- International Hospitals: English-speaking medical facilities in major cities
- Pharmacies: Basic medications available at Yakkyoku
- Emergency Contacts: 119 (ambulance/fire), 110 (police)
Safety Precautions
- Check information about natural disasters (earthquakes, typhoons)
- Heat stroke prevention (summer season)
- Lost child prevention (in crowded places)
Facilities for Babies and Young Children
- Nursing Rooms: Widely available in department stores, stations, and public facilities
- Diaper Changing Tables: Available in many public restrooms
- Stroller Accessibility: Check for ramps and elevators
Cultural Considerations
Manners and Etiquette
- Understanding where to remove shoes (ryokan, some restaurants, inside shrines and temples)
- Garbage sorting and carrying your trash with you
- Polite behavior in public places (especially on trains)
Understanding for Family Travelers
- Most of Japanese people are generally kind to children
- Comprehensive services for children are available
- Stroller use is common in urban areas
Useful Phrases
Basic Phrases
- こんにちは (Konnichiwa) – Hello
- ありがとうございます (Arigatou gozaimasu) – Thank you
- すみません (Sumimasen) – Excuse me/I’m sorry
- トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?) – Where is the toilet?
- 助けてください (Tasukete kudasai) – Please help me
Useful Phrases for Family Travel
- 子供用メニューはありますか？ (kids menu wa arimasu ka?) – Do you have a children’s menu?
- 授乳室はどこですか？ (Junyuushitsu wa doko desu ka?) – Where is the nursing room?
- おむつ交換台はありますか？ (Omutsu koukan-dai wa arimasu ka?) – Do you have a diaper changing table?
- アレルギーがあります (Arerugii ga arimasu) – I/My child has allergies
Conclusion
Traveling to Japan with children can be an incredibly rewarding experience with proper preparation and flexible planning.
Japan’s safety, cleanliness, and warm culture toward children provide an ideal environment for family travel.
Use this “Mum’s Guide to Japan” to help you and your children create wonderful memories of your Japanese adventure!
