Morning: Land at Kansai International Airport, clear customs and take the direct train to Arima (≈1 hour). Check into a family‑friendly ryokan and settle in.
Afternoon: Explore the historic streets of Arima and soak in the therapeutic waters of Arima Onsen. The mixed‑gender outdoor bath offers a relaxing experience for both adults and children.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at the ryokan, featuring local Kobe beef and seasonal vegetables, then take a gentle stroll through the illuminated Arima Toyokazu Shrine.
Book a HotelMorning: Visit the Arima Railway Museum for a quick cultural stop before packing up.
Afternoon: Take the limited‑express train to Kyoto (≈2 hours). Check into a centrally located hotel near Kyoto Station.
Evening: Walk along the Pontocho Alley, sampling street‑food snacks and enjoying the lantern‑lit atmosphere.
Book a HotelMorning: Tour the glittering Kinkaku‑ji (Golden Pavilion), strolling through its serene garden.
Afternoon: Head to the Ryoan‑ji Zen Garden to marvel at the famous rock arrangement, then enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café.
Evening: Relax in the Kyoto Imperial Palace Park, letting the kids run free while you soak up the historic ambiance.
Book a HotelMorning: Climb the endless torii gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha, a fun adventure for the whole family.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Kiyomizu‑dera Temple and enjoy panoramic city views from its wooden balcony.
Evening: Wander through the atmospheric Gion District, keeping an eye out for geisha and savoring a dinner of yakitori.
Book a HotelMorning: Stroll through the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, then feed the friendly monkeys at Iwatayama Monkey Park.
Afternoon: Take a scenic boat ride on the Hozu River and explore the tranquil Tenryū‑ji Temple gardens.
Evening: Return to central Kyoto and dine at a family‑friendly izakaya near the hotel.
Book a HotelMorning: Check out of the Kyoto hotel and board the rapid train to Osaka (≈30 minutes). Drop luggage at your Osaka accommodation.
Afternoon: Visit the majestic Osaka Castle, climbing to the top for sweeping city views.
Evening: Dive into the neon lights of Dotonbori, trying takoyaki and okonomiyaki while the kids marvel at the animated signboards.
Book a HotelMorning: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan, enjoying family‑friendly rides like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Minion Park.
Afternoon: Continue exploring the park’s attractions and grab a quick lunch at one of the themed eateries.
Evening: Return to your hotel, collect luggage, and head to Kansai Airport for your flight home, reminiscing about the week’s highlights.
Book a HotelTo extend the trip, add an extra day in Kyoto to visit Nara’s friendly deer park and the UNESCO‑listed Hōryū‑ji Temple. If you need to shorten the itinerary, skip Universal Studios and spend the final day exploring Osaka’s museums or a relaxing river cruise instead.