After landing in Tokyo this evening, take the best airport transfer depending on arrival airport: from Narita use Narita Express (N'EX) to Tokyo Station (≈1h); from Haneda use Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsuchō or Keikyu Line to Shinagawa (≈20–30m). These are the easiest with luggage and a small child.
Choose a family-friendly izakaya or ramen near your hotel for a simple meal and early night — many eateries are open late in Tokyo; check closing times of your neighborhood.
Start with an easy hotel breakfast or a child-friendly café such as Eggs 'n Things (Harajuku) or a local baker; these open around 8:00am and are stroller-friendly.
A calm morning walk through Meiji Shrine's wide gravel paths (shrine grounds typically open ~5:00–18:00) and Yoyogi Park — great for letting a 3‑year‑old run around.
Historic, atmospheric temple precinct — grounds are open daylong (shops along Nakamise open roughly 9:00–18:00) and easy to navigate with a stroller for short sections.
Book timed tickets in advance — these immersive digital art museums fascinate children but can be sensory-heavy; typical hours 10:00–19:00, confirm before booking.
Nikko Tōshō-gū is an elaborate UNESCO World Heritage shrine (typical hours 8:00–17:00); the ornate carvings and colorful buildings are memorable and the wide grounds are stroller-accessible in parts.
Gentle walks among ancient cedar trees and temple grounds — peaceful for families and good photo opportunities; many areas are outdoors and accessible.
Take the Tobu bus up toward Lake Chūzenji (about 40–60 min) and visit Kegon Falls observation area (elevator to viewing platform usually open ~8:30–17:00). Scenic but chilly in December.
Return on the Tobu Limited Express 'SPACIA' to Asakusa (~1h50). Arrive back in Tokyo in the evening and check into Tokyo hotel (or keep in Tokyo before heading to Kyoto).
Famous torii gate trail is stroller-friendly at the base and open 24 hours; walk the lower shrine area and early sections of the torii path for iconic photos without a long, steep hike.
The monkey park is fun but involves a steep walk up — consider skipping with a toddler or using a baby carrier; opens ~9:00–16:30. Alternative: visit Arashiyama indoor play areas.
Explore the palace and gardens (hours typically 8:45–17:00; last entry ~16:00) offering a peek at shogunal architecture that’s interesting for all ages.
Take the JR Special Rapid service from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station (about 30 minutes), frequent and cheap — ideal for a day trip with luggage left at hotel in Kyoto.
Ginza for comfortable strolling and department store kids floors; Ikebukuro Sunshine City has indoor play and aquarium options if you want more child-oriented activities (Sunshine Aquarium hours vary).
From central Tokyo to Haneda use Tokyo Monorail/Keikyu Line (~20–30m) or to Narita use Narita Express (~60–90m) or airport limousine bus. Allow extra time for check-in with a child.