Adventurous Family Fun in Japan: Animé, Theme Parks & Cultural Excursions - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Narita, Transfer to Tokyo, Explore the "Electric City" of Akihabara 

Welcome to Japan! Your flight lands in Narita, where you'll meet your driver for your private transfer to Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital. The city creates a seamless blend of modern and traditional, with sky-high buildings and neon lights alongside peaceful temples and gardens. Once you've checked in at your hotel and had a chance to regroup, head out with the family to see more of this fascinating urban metropolis.

For an immediate immersion into Japan's vibrant animé and manga culture, head to Akihabara, or Electric Town, a bustling district packed with themed cafés, electronics stores, arcades, and more. As you walk, you'll come across enthusiastic cosplayers in elaborate costumes and wigs, making you feel as if you've stepped right into the pages of a manga—the kids can even get some pics with their favorite characters! Learn more about the history and evolution of Japanese animation as you go, adding to the depth of your experience. 

Stop in at the multistoried Animate store, the ultimate destination for official animé merchandise. From manga and DVDs to character goods and themed food, this shop has it all. Spend some time browsing through their vast collection and let the kids pick some souvenirs to commemorate this pop culture paradise. End with some gaming fun at the GiGO Akihabara Building 3, where the whole family can test their skills at the UFO catchers. These addictive crane games are a popular pastime in Japan and offer a thrilling challenge as you attempt to snag your desired prize. 

Day 2: Animé Lovers Tour: Harajuku, Pokémon Center, Ghibli Museum & Gundam

It wouldn't be a family trip to Tokyo without Disney, and today you'll get to experience it all with a full day at Tokyo Disneyland. Start the day early as you arrive, just as the park opens, and take some photos in front of the iconic Cinderella's Castle. Then head to Fantasyland for attractions like "It's a Small World" and "Peter Pan's Flight" that transport you into beloved Disney fairy tales. Step into Adventureland and take a thrilling ride on "Pirates of the Caribbean," then break for snacks at one of the many themed restaurants. 

Once the kids have been re-energized with some food and beverages, continue to Tomorrowland. Feel the excitement as you ride "Space Mountain," an exhilarating roller coaster through outer space, or join Buzz Lightyear's intergalactic mission at "Buzz Lightyear's Astro Blasters." Next, make your way to Toontown, an area filled with whimsy and joy. Explore "Minnie's House" and meet your favorite Disney characters. Don't forget to hop on "Roger Rabbit's Car Toon Spin" for an action-packed adventure.

Day 4: Adventures in Japanese Culture: Sushi Making & Ninja Training

Begin your morning with a guided family tour of Tsukiji Fish Market, a lively shopping spot with more than 400 shops and restaurants crammed into the narrow lanes. Roam around the market as your guide discusses Japan's culinary culture, points out different kinds of fish and seafood to you and your curious kids, and explains how each is used in different dishes. Once you've all worked up an appetite, meet with a local chef for a sushi-making class. Discover the secrets of the perfect sushi roll and let the kids unleash their creativity as they experience Japanese cuisine.

Later today, take a deep dive into the secret world of ninjas with a ninja training experience. With help from experienced instructors, your family will learn the stealth techniques and combat strategies used by these ancient Japanese warriors. Do some practice sessions with each other, let the kids channel their energy into becoming true ninjas, and come away with a better understanding of Japanese history on top of some fun, confidence-building skills.

Day 6: See the Wonders of Tokyo DisneySea

It's back to the realm of Disney today with a visit to DisneySea, a theme park located right next door to Tokyo Disneyland. With water as the main attraction, you and the kids can take some wild, splashy rides, see mermaids, and cruise through ports and rivers. Start your adventure at the Mediterranean Harbor, a beautiful waterfront area at the park's entrance and a great spot for family photos.

From here, head to Mysterious Island, a volcanic island that sits in the middle of the park, where you can embark on a thrilling expedition into the heart of the Earth and take an underwater voyage on the "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" ride. See Ariel of "The Little Mermaid" fame at the Mermaid Lagoon, discover the world of "Arabian Nights" at the Arabian Coast port, and cruise through mysterious ruins and jungles at the Lost River Delta port.

You'll also come across interactive street performances and shows around the park, and at sunset, find a good spot to watch the spectacular nighttime show, "Fantasmic." This dazzling performance combines water, light, music, and fireworks to create a captivating spectacle the whole family will love.

Day 7: Train to Osaka, Visit Osaka Castle Park & Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum

Your next destination is the port city of Osaka, located on the island of Honshu. Japan's third largest city, this commercial hub is known for its sleek architecture, historic sites, and hearty street food. After breakfast and hotel check out, you'll gather up the family and head to the train station for your scenic, 2.5-hour ride. 

Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a tour of some of the city's most important landmarks. You'll start at Osaka Castle, a prominent landmark offering a wealth of information on Japan's rich history. Young historians will enjoy the dioramas that depict various battles, uniforms, and helmets, and you can all step out to the large observation deck for excellent city views. 

Continue to Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, the only museum in the world with a permanent exhibition of Kamigata Ukiyoe, or Kamigata woodblock prints. Kamigata Ukiyoe were printed and sold in Kamigata―which is what the Osaka-Kyoto region was commonly called during the Edo Period. The exhibition showcases more than 50 different pieces, which include various subjects such as the great kabuki actors of the day. After spending some time at the museum, your guide will transport you to your hotel where you can check in and relax for the rest of the day. 

Day 8: Family Tour Around Osaka: Virtual Reality & the Neon Lights of Dotonbori

Get ready for an action-packed day as you set out on a guided excursion to some of Osaka's best family hotspots. You'll meet your guide and head to Expocity, a sprawling complex located on the historic grounds of Asia's first World Fair. Visit the NIFREL Museum, home to one of the largest aquariums in the world, where the kids can check out the interactive exhibits and see the more than 2,000 animals that live here. 

Next, jump into the world of virtual reality at VS Park sports arcade. Transport the family to new dimensions as you show off your virtual skills, trying everything from basketball to soccer in friendly competitions that will leave everyone laughing and exhilarated. After working up an appetite, have lunch in central Osaka, then learn how those very realistic food displays you see at Japanese restaurants are made. Visit a laboratory that showcases the creation of what looks like mouthwatering dishes from special wax. You can even create some samples yourselves—a fun souvenir for the kids!

End your day in Dotonbori, a high-powered sensory overload of neon, modern buildings, and throngs of people. Nicknamed "Osaka's Times Square," you'll find enticing food stalls, game arcades, and plenty of shopping in this energetic district. This is a great spot for dinner, with dishes such as grilled crabs, takoyaki (balls filled with vegetables and seafood), and or kid-friendly taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries) available from the various eateries. 

Day 9: Self-Guided Visit to Universal Studios Japan

Make the most of your last day in Osaka with a visit to Universal Studios Japan. Opened in 2001, this is one of six Universal Studios parks in the world, with exciting rides, captivating performances, and, of course, the beloved characters of Universal movies and shows. Visit Hogwarts Castle in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride the "Forbidden Journey" ride, and sample a pint of the famed butterbeer. Then walk through the shops of the Hollywood-themed area and watch some of the live entertainment that takes place here.