Highlights
- Sip tea in a lakeside teahouse amid skyscrapers in Toyko's Hama-rikyu Gardens
- Ride the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for spectacular views of Mount Fuji
- Drive a bullet train simulator at Nagoya's SCMaglev and Railway Park
- Meet the friendly and playful deer in beautiful Nara Park
- Make your own cup of noodles and woodblock prints in Osaka's intriguing museums
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Tokyo, Explore at Your Leisure | Tokyo |
| Day 2 | Highlights of Tokyo Tour | Tokyo |
| Day 3 | Tsukiji Fish Market, Sushi Making Workshop & Ninja Lesson | Tokyo |
| Day 4 | Hike the Kamakura Daibutsu Trail, Transfer to Fujikawaguchiko | Fujikawaguchiko |
| Day 5 | Explore Mount Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes Region | Fujikawaguchiko |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Karuizawa, Joshinetsu Kogen National Park Nature Tour | Karuizawa |
| Day 7 | Hiking in Karuizawa | Karuizawa |
| Day 8 | Train to Nagoya, Explore at Your Leisure | Nagoya |
| Day 9 | Science & Technology Museums in Nagoya | Nagoya |
| Day 10 | Train to Kyoto, Maiko Dinner Show | Kyoto |
| Day 11 | Best of Kyoto Tour | Kyoto |
| Day 12 | Day Trip to Nara & Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine | Kyoto |
| Day 13 | Transfer to Osaka, Tour Aquarium & Cup-Noodle Museum | Osaka |
| Day 14 | Castles, Museums & Views of Osaka | Osaka |
| Day 15 | Depart Osaka |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo, Explore at Your Leisure
Konnichiwa Japan! After you arrive at Tokyo International Airport, your driver will be waiting to whisk you into the capital. Settle into your hotel, then head out with the kids to explore glittering Tokyo, where modernity competes with centuries-old culture. Begin in Shibuya, an area known for its trendy boutiques and home to the famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crosswalk in the world. Take a stroll to Shinjuku Gyoen, one of the best gardens to see cherry blossoms in the spring, and continue to one of Tokyo's oldest parks, Shiba, for iconic views of the Tokyo Tower.
End the day by exploring the vibrant Akihabara, known as "Electric Town," Japan's pop culture capital. Here, you can immerse yourself in the world of manga, animé, and gaming. Stroll through the streets, where you'll see neon-lit ads and enthusiastic cosplayers. Stop at the multistory Animate store to buy official merchandise, play games at GiGO Akihabara Building 3, and end the night at a family-friendly themed café, where servers perform in costumes between serving your food and drinks.
Day 2: Highlights of Tokyo Tour
The day starts early as your family meets up with your guide to explore Tokyo's iconic landmarks on a full-day tour with a private driver. You'll begin at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, built in 1920 CE. Step through the towering torii (gate) into the forested grounds and see the ornate Japanese architecture. Take your first family selfie of the trip, then make your way down Omotesando Street, a broad tree-lined avenue home to the flagship stores of the world's top fashion brands.
Next, head with your guide to the ancient Asakusa district to visit Senso-ji, one of Tokyo's most significant Buddhist temples, built in the seventh century. Pass the giant lanterns on the Kaminarimon, the outer gate, then stroll along the buzzing, shop-lined Nakamise-dori. Grab a snack for the kids from one of the vendors, then continue to the end of the road. There, you'll reach the second gate, Hozomon, which leads to the temple's main hall and a five-story pagoda, where you can each pick up an omikuji (fortunes written on slips of paper).
Afterward, you and the little ones can wind down in the Hama-rikyu gardens, a green oasis surrounded by futuristic skyscrapers in the Shiodome district. These former imperial gardens opened to the public in 1946 CE and are filled with ancient trees, beautiful bridges, a tidal lake, and almost year-round blooms. Have a cup of matcha tea and some traditional Japanese sweets in the iconic teahouse in the middle of the lake, which appears to be floating, before returning to your hotel.
Day 3: Tsukiji Fish Market, Sushi Making Workshop & Ninja Lesson
Begin your morning with a guided family tour of Tsukiji Fish Market, a lively shopping spot with over 400 shops and restaurants crammed into the narrow lanes. The kids can learn about the different types of seafood used in Japanese recipes while you roam around the market together and interact with the friendly local vendors. Once you and the kids have worked up an appetite, you'll learn how to make sushi under a local chef's expert guidance.
Don an apron each and get ready to prepare healthy and delectable sushi rolls, all while picking up some pro tips from a Japanese chef. Let the kids unleash their creativity as they experience Japanese cuisine and taste different types of sushi, such as inari, sushi rice stuffed into deep-fried tofu pockets, or maki, where the classic ingredients are rolled in seaweed. Then, finish the lesson by enjoying your delicious creations for lunch.
Later today, prepare for an exciting adventure into the secret world of ninjas! You and your family can uncover the fascinating history of ninjitsu, the art of unconventional warfare and espionage practiced by these legendary warriors. Dive deep into their mysterious world with an awesome ninja training experience. With the guidance of expert instructors, you'll learn stealth techniques and combat strategies just like the ancient Japanese ninjas. It's a thrilling way to spend time together!
Day 4: Hike the Kamakura Daibutsu Trail, Transfer to Fujikawaguchiko
Escape the city on an exciting family day trip to the seaside town of Kamakura. Start your adventure by meeting your friendly guide after hotel checkout for a scenic 1.5-hour drive down the coast. Upon arrival, the kids will be amazed by the impressive 36-foot (11 m) Great Buddha (Daibutsu) statue at the renowned Kotoku-in Buddhist temple. From there, gear up for a fun and easy 60-90-minute hike along the Kamakura Daibutsu Hiking Trail. As you walk, soak in the ocean views and make some memorable stops at the pretty Genjiyama Park and Kuzuharaoka Shrine, where locals go to pray for luck and love.
End your hike at the 13th-century Hokoku-ji temple and explore the peaceful grounds with the kids before enjoying matcha tea in a traditional teahouse tucked into an enchanting bamboo forest. After the perfect family outing filled with culture, nature, and adventure, you'll visit downtown Kamakura, considered one of Japan's most beautiful towns. Sample local food and browse for souvenirs on Komachi Street, or hop on a traditional rickshaw for a fun ride along the picturesque roads before continuing with your guide to Fujikawaguchiko, where you'll check into your hotel for two nights.
Day 5: Explore Mount Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes Region
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Dress the family in warm clothes and join your expert guide for a memorable adventure to the Fuji Five Lakes. Here, you'll experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Mount Fuji, one of Japan's most iconic symbols. Kick off your day at Kawaguchi-ko, one of the five lakes, where the kids can marvel at the spectacular views of Mount Fuji as you stroll along the peaceful lakeside. For an even better perspective, and one the whole family will love, hop on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway up Mount Tenjo, offering panoramic views of the lakes and Mount Fuji.
Be sure to visit the beautiful Arakura Sengen Shrine, then continue your tour with a drive to the Fuji Visitor Center. Here, the children can enjoy interactive exhibits that provide a fascinating overview of the mountain's nature and history. From there, head up to Mount Fuji's Fifth Station, situated at an impressive elevation of 7,500 feet (2,300 m). This is the highest point on the peak that's accessible by car, with far-reaching views of Fuji Five Lakes and Lake Yamanaka. End your day by visiting the beautiful Fujisan Komitake Shrine before returning to your accommodation in Fujikawaguchiko.
Day 6: Transfer to Karuizawa, Joshinetsu Kogen National Park Nature Tour
Meet your driver this morning for a two-hour transfer to the picturesque town of Karuizawa. Enjoy the pastoral views and changing landscapes of the Japanese countryside en route, then check into a local hotel with a traditional Japanese bath before stepping out to see some of the local sights. Visit Fukushima Sekisho-ato, the old checkpoint with a museum attached, or the Kiso-Fukushima Historical Museum, which displays artifacts and an old farmhouse from Kida Village.
Then, after grabbing some lunch, head out on an exciting half-day nature tour of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park. Your knowledgeable nature guide will lead you through lush forests, where your family can discover the region's incredible biodiversity. Walking, you'll come across serene lakes, hot springs, and rushing streams, perfect spots for the family to marvel at nature's beauty. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife. The children might spot some amazing creatures like the Japanese macaque (snow monkey) in their natural habitat.
Day 7: Hiking in Karuizawa
Take to the trails with the family today and dive into Karuizawa's amazing natural world. Start with a fun, moderate guided hike along the Shinano-ji Nature Trail, which winds through the city and into the beautiful surrounding mountains. Follow your guide along the path while the kids spot fish in the rivers, waterfalls, and streams, including the famous Shiraito Falls. Stop at the falls for a family photo and a snack, then continue along the trail, which leads all the way to the top of Minenochaya, sitting at an impressive 4,610 feet (1,405 m).
After your fun-packed outdoor adventure, head back to Karuizawa and relax in the local baths, which are perfect for unwinding and recovering from your hike.
Day 8: Train to Nagoya, Explore at Your Leisure
Get the family up early this morning and check out of your hotel before heading to the station to board a train from Karuizawa to Nagoya. Enjoy an onboard breakfast while taking in the ever-changing Japanese countryside on the approximately four-hour journey. Once you reach Nagoya Station, marvel at the world's largest railway station, then transfer to your hotel and have some lunch before heading out to explore this hidden gem. Visit the famed Nagoya Castle, home to Japan's largest castle keep, the venerated Shinto Shrine, and the impressive Nagoya Twin Tower.
Day 9: Science & Technology Museums in Nagoya
Today, meet your guide and driver for a full-day tour exploring Nagoya's renowned industrial and tech heritage, beginning with a visit to the Toyota Commemorative Museum of Industry and Technology. Delve into the world of cars with fascinating exhibitions of over 120 automobiles from all eras of the motoring age, including Porsche, Subaru, and Rolls-Royce. Let the kids loose in the Waku Waku Experience Corner, where they can build their own pull-back cars or keychains while the whole family discovers the history and cultural significance of one of the region's most influential companies.
Stop for lunch, then rejoin your driver for a 30-minute trip to SCMaglev and Railway Park, where your family can explore the extensive train collection, including an old steam locomotive, high-speed bullet trains, and the most recent "magnetic levitating" train called Maglev. When you arrive, sign the kids up immediately for the popular train simulators. They'll get the thrill of "driving" various trains, including a bullet train, as well as opening and closing train doors like a train conductor. Toot toot!
After this, if you have a science and astronomy buff in the family, make your way with your guide to the Nagoya City Science Museum. Here, you'll enter an enormous silver globe for a captivating and informative show within the largest planetarium in the world. The kids will marvel at the stars projected onto the vast spherical screen. After the show, you'll have the evening free to discover some of the city's other attractions and indulge in local cuisine. Nagoya is famous for its miso, which flavors many sweet and savory dishes.
Day 10: Train to Kyoto, Maiko Dinner Show
Check out of your hotel this morning and meet your driver for a quick trip to the train station. There, you'll catch a half-hour bullet train to the cultural capital of Japan, the mesmerizing Kyoto. Kyoto is alive with history and is home to numerous shrines, temples, palaces, and gardens. Once checked in at your hotel, set out with the family to explore the Gion neighborhood. Admire the traditional wooden houses and observe colorful, kimono-clad geisha as you wander through its streets to find many shops selling sweets and Japanese crafts.
In the evening, you're all in for a treat. Enjoy a maiko show (which includes singing, musical, and dance performances) with dinner in a tatami room of a traditional teahouse designed in Japanese style and lined with mats. Immerse yourself in the world of geisha (female Japanese performing artists) and maiko (geisha in training) while tucking into a multicourse kaiseki dinner, which usually includes a fish course, a rice course, and a local dessert. Please keep in mind that children under the age of seven are not permitted in the teahouse. Afterward, return to your Kyoto hotel, where you'll spend three nights.
Day 11: Best of Kyoto Tour
Spend the day exploring some of Kyoto's most iconic sites with your family on a full-day guided tour via the excellent local bus system. Join your local guide and hop on a bus to the UNESCO-listed Kinkaku-ji, better known as the Golden Pavilion. Stroll through the gardens together and marvel at the gold-leaf-covered structure reflected in the surrounding ponds.
After the temple, history lovers in the family will relish visiting Nijo Castle, home to the Edo period's first shogun. Explore the castle grounds, then enter Ninomaru Palace to see the walls adorned with intricate nature and folklore paintings. From here, follow your guide to the 400-year-old Nishiki Ichiba Market. Walk among the 100 stalls crammed into this bustling narrow street, where you can try some of Kyoto's signature dishes, such as yu dofu (boiled tofu), nishin soba (noodles with dried herring), or delicious soy milk doughnuts for the kids.
Later in the day, head to Kiyomizu-dera (Pure Water Temple), another UNESCO-listed site and one of Japan's most celebrated temples, constructed on the site of the Otowa Waterfall. Enjoy splendid views of the numerous cherry and maple trees, plus Kyoto below. End your day at Sanjusangendo, a temple featuring a central hall which is the longest wooden structure in Japan. The children will be entranced by the 1,001 gold-leaf-encrusted statues of Kannon (the goddess of mercy) lining the hall.
Day 12: Family Day Trip to Nara & Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine
This morning, travel with a private driver to Nara, a quaint city renowned for its picturesque parks, ancient temples, and free-roaming deer. Once there, meet your guide and set off on a memorable adventure for the whole family. Begin your full-day tour of the town at Kofuku-ji, a Buddhist temple built in 669 CE. Admire the five-storied pagoda, offering a glimpse into Nara's traditional architectural style, and explore the sprawling temple complex encompassing multiple halls and structures.
Continue to Nara Park to discover another Buddhist temple, Todai-ji. Constructed in 752 CE, this is one of Japan's most historically significant temples, known for the giant bronze Buddha statue sitting in the main hall that will amaze and inspire the kids. They'll also enjoy the nearby UNESCO-listed Kasuga-Taisha, an intricately detailed Shinto shrine surrounded by the Kasugayama Primeval Forest. As you wander the grounds of Nara Park, look out for the playful deer who bow in exchange for food. Your guide will highlight the deer's importance in Japanese folklore, while the children hand-feed them.
Afterward, stop for a saké tasting at a local brewery before driving to the famous Fushimi Inari-Taisha for an enchanting hike through the shrine's 10,000 red torii gates. Follow the torii-lined route up to the observation deck atop the mountain for panoramic views of the gates and the surrounding forest. On the walk back through the forest, the kids can spot smaller shrines, moss-covered animal statues, and ancient stone tablets before returning to your hotel in Kyoto for your final night in the city.
Day 13: Transfer to Osaka, Tour Aquarium & Cup-Noodle Museum
Today, after breakfast, it's time to set off for the last leg of your Japan adventure. The bullet train from Kyoto to Osaka takes 13 minutes, which leaves you and the family just enough time to adjust to the change of pace in one of the world's largest cities! Check into your hotel before heading out to explore two of the city's best spots for kids.
First up is the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the largest in the world. It features over 30,000 marine species from the Pacific Rim to the Great Barrier Reef. Alongside whale sharks, manta rays, and schools of colorful fish, the children will love seeing the adorable penguins and sea otters. With plenty of interactive displays and demonstrations, they'll come away with a deeper understanding of marine life and conservation and a fascination with the underwater world beneath the oceans.
If tummies are rumbling after this morning's tour, then this afternoon's visit to the Cup-Noodle Museum offers the perfect combination of an interactive deep dive into the history of the ubiquitous instant noodle and a fun lunch. The kids will have a blast designing and decorating their own noodle cups, and then choosing the soup base and toppings for their tasty meal. The museum also offers workshops where your young noodle enthusiasts can experience the noodle-making process firsthand, from kneading to steaming and packaging into sealed bags.
Day 14: Castles, Museums & Views of Osaka
Continue your exploration of Osaka, which many consider Tokyo's younger (and cooler) sibling. Gather up the family and meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a full-day tour of Osaka's most famous sights, such as the beautiful Osaka Castle and its picturesque grounds. Delve deep into Osaka's history at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living, a detailed recreation of the townscape throughout history. The children will enjoy wandering through the exhibits while your guide provides insights into the city's culture and lifestyle.
Then, head to Dotonbori, a high-powered sensory overload of neon, modern buildings, and throngs of people. Nicknamed "Osaka's Times Square," you'll find endless food stalls where you can try iconic street food, including takoyaki (octopus dumplings) or kid-friendly taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries) from the various eateries. A few minutes away, discover the Kamigata Ukiyoe Museum, where you can admire famous 18th-century Japanese prints while the children have a go at making their own woodblock prints.
At the end of the day, take the elevator up to the Kuchu Teien Observatory on the rooftop of the Umeda Sky Building, a landmark duo of 40-story towers linked by an atrium-like walkway known as the Floating Garden Observatory. Take in the spectacular views of the city before heading back to your hotel.
Day 15: Depart Osaka
Your family journey through Japan ends today. Enjoy your last day with an early morning start to spot the sunrise over Osaka. Then, meet your driver for a transfer to Kansai International Airport. Have a safe journey home or to your next destination!
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