Clear immigration and customs at Haneda or Narita and take the airport train or limousine bus to central Tokyo; check into your family-friendly hotel and drop luggage.
Walk the riverside for views of Tokyo Skytree; the Skytree observation decks usually operate roughly 8:00–22:00 if you prefer panoramic views (pre-book recommended).
Enjoy fresh seafood bowls, tamagoyaki and market snacks; many stalls open very early and the outer market is lively until the early afternoon (~14:00).
Stroll the peaceful Meiji Shrine (grounds open 24/7) then wander Takeshita Street for colourful shops and crepes—great for children who enjoy quirky treats.
Head to Odaiba for immersive digital art at teamLab Planets (usually 10:00–19:00, pre-book timed tickets) or the Miraikan science museum (often 10:00–17:00). Pre-book to avoid queues.
Take a highway bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (~2–2.5 hours) or the train via Otsuki; buses are direct and family-friendly—leave early to catch clear Mt Fuji views.
Short climb to the Chureito Pagoda for the classic Mt Fuji & pagoda photo; steps involved so take it at a gentle pace with children. Shrine area open year-round.
Take the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for panoramic views and visit Oishi Park for shoreline vistas of Mt Fuji; ropeway hours are usually ~9:00–17:00 but check seasonal times.
Enjoy a ryokan dinner or nearby family restaurant—many accommodations offer child-friendly meals or set courses; early dining recommended for families.
Take the Fujikyu Railway to Otsuki (≈55 minutes), then JR Chuo Line or limited express to Shinjuku (≈60 minutes). This route connects you back to the shinkansen network efficiently.
From Shinjuku/Shinagawa/Tokyo board the Tokaido Shinkansen (Nozomi ~1h40m; Hikari ~1h50m). Reserve family seats for comfort; JR Pass holders use Hikari services.
Arrive in Nagoya, check into your hotel or leave bags, and have lunch—try hitsumabushi (eel) if the family is adventurous or opt for a set meal near the station.
Visit Nagoya Castle and grounds for open space and history, or head to the SCMAGLEV & Railway Park if your family loves trains—check museum hours (often ~9:30–17:00).
Have breakfast at the hotel and take local transit to Aichi Expo Park (Aichikyūhaku-kinen-kōen station). Confirm transit connections and allow time for transfers.
Spend the day exploring Ghibli Park's themed areas and exhibits; tickets are date-and-time specific and sell out quickly, so pre-book as early as possible.
Stroll Nishiki Market for small bites such as grilled skewers, mochi and seasonal treats; stalls are usually open from about 9:00 until late afternoon.
Visit Kiyomizu-dera (check seasonal opening times; usually early morning to late afternoon) and wander the historic streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.
Visit Arashiyama early to avoid crowds; the bamboo grove is accessible 24/7 and Tenryu-ji generally opens around 9:00—both make beautiful family photo opportunities.
Have breakfast and take a short JR or private line to Osaka (approx 15–30 minutes); store luggage at your Osaka hotel if early check-in isn't available.
Spend a full day at USJ — a highlight for families with Wizarding World, Minion Park and character shows; buy park tickets and Express passes in advance to reduce queue times. Park hours vary (often ~9:00–19:00).
Take the Haruka Express or airport limousine bus to Kansai Airport; allow 1–1.5 hours travel time and arrive at least 2–3 hours before your international flight.