Discovering Japan with Kids

By: Lisa Jonsson

Trying to decide on a vacation spot as a family can be challenging. Kids want to be entertained, teens looking for excitement, and parents for some relaxation. Let’s face it, we want vacation to be fun, interesting and easy. Perhaps, not an obvious choice, but Japan ticks all of those boxes. Traveling through Japan as a family unveils a myriad of experiences that cater to both discerning parents and their kids. The country is safe, clean, and relatively easy to navigate due to the robust public transportation system and abundant signs in English. Riding a bullet train is an attraction in itself. From the vibrant cityscapes of Tokyo to the serene countryside of Kyoto, Japan is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. 

Where to go

My ideal itinerary for eleven days with kids is Tokyo for four nights, Hakone for two nights, and Kyoto for five nights. I try to slow things down when travelling with kids. These cities offer a wide variety of easy to reach daytrips, which means moving hotels less. If you have older kids and teens, you may opt for a packed schedule that includes Hiroshima, Osaka, or Okinawa. Tip: When for traveling with kids (anywhere, not just Japan) try to limit your time at museums and monuments and mix in interactive experiences and park time.  

Tokyo 

Tokyo blends cultural experiences, technological wonders, and diverse attractions. Parents will love the array of gastronomic experience, luxury hotels, shopping and whisky-tasting opportunities. If you have a Pokémon or Nintendo lover in your family Tokyo is a must visit. Kids will love visiting the Pokemon café. Tip: Make your reservation early (it’s harder to get into than your favorite Michelin star restaurant). There are mind-blowing arcades and immersive digital experiences - like TeamLab Planets that even hard-to-impress teenagers will find cool. Don’t miss the chance to step into the life of a samurai warrior as you dress in traditional attire and master the Kenbu sword dance. Shop for the modern man’s samurai sword – a chef’s knife. Japan metallurgy is world-renowned. A finely crafted chef knife is a perfect souvenir.  Try a traditional Japanese Taiko drumming class. 

Hakone

After the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, head to Hakone to see another side of Japan. Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Take a thrilling ride on the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Taste a local delicacy like black eggs cooked in natural hot springs. No visit to Hakone is complete without relaxing in natural hot springs. Stay in a “ryokan” – a traditional Japanese inn. Tip: Book accommodation with an “onsen” or bathhouse.

Kyoto

Kick off your stay with a visit to the Instagram-worthy Fushimi Inari Taisha – one of the city’s top attractions. Note that it is a lot of uphill walking. If you’re look for a place to stretch your legs and let the kids run, check out Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Indulge in some elaborate pretend play with your kids at one of Kyoto's interactive Ninja Experiences where you step back in time to feudal Japan. Kids can try on traditional costumes and explore an ancient ninja village. Tip: Take a daytrip Nara Park, where kids can handfeed the deer and visit historic landmarks like Tōdai-ji Temple.

What to eat

When traveling someplace new, I highly recommend kicking off your trip with a gastronomic tour. Your guide acts as a food-interrupter and can help orientate you to reading a menu so you know what to look for when you are on your own. If you are worried about what your kids will eat, fear not – there are many delicious dishes that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. My daughter loves Edamame (steamed soybeans) and vegetable tempura. Other go-to’s for our family are ramen noodles and savory fluffy pancakes. Do not miss a traditional tea ceremony, where you can learn the art of Matcha preparation and enjoy traditional sweets.

Japan offers a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavors that captivate the imagination of every family member. Tip: Be prepared to do a lot of walking! Comfortable, active footwear is a necessity. Don’t let blisters ruin your trip.

Happy Travels!

Lisa Jonsson 

Lisa Jonsson is an area resident and expert travel planner.
For help with your next trip, visit: www.luxescouttravel.com