Plan on this being a full travel day. Your Air Canada or WestJet itinerary will typically require a connection, most often through Toronto, Montréal, or another Canadian hub, so check whether your bags are tagged all the way to Calgary International Airport. Arrive at Gander International Airport at least two hours before departure; with a child and a connection, it is worth allowing extra time for winter or early-spring weather disruptions. Keep snacks, chargers, medication, and one change of clothes in your carry-on, as a missed connection or delayed bag is much easier to manage that way.
After landing at Calgary International Airport, collect your luggage and follow the signs for the arrivals level. Arrange your family pickup or hotel transfer in advance; the airport is roughly 20–30 minutes from central Calgary, depending on traffic. If you need a rental car, the rental desks are in the Rental Car Centre, connected to the terminal by the airport shuttle system. Don’t plan sightseeing today—after the flight and time-zone change, a straightforward transfer and an early meal will make tomorrow much more enjoyable.
For a convenient casual dinner, meet your family near your accommodation rather than crossing the city. The Canadian Brewhouse locations are family-friendly and usually offer burgers, chicken, salads, and children’s meals, with a typical cost of about CAD $20–40 per person before drinks and gratuity. If you are staying downtown, Stephen Avenue and the nearby 17th Avenue SW corridor have plenty of easy options; if you are staying near the airport, choose a restaurant in McKnight-Westwinds or Sunridge to avoid unnecessary evening traffic. After dinner, pick up breakfast supplies if needed and aim for an early night—Calgary is two-and-a-half hours behind Gander, so the first evening can feel surprisingly long.
Since today is family time rather than a sightseeing-heavy day, start slowly at Prince’s Island Park, a pleasant downtown escape along the Bow River. Allow about 1½ hours for an easy loop, with plenty of time for your son to enjoy the open space and river views. In early March, paths can be icy or wet, so wear waterproof footwear and bring layers; some sections may be snow-covered. The park itself is free, and nearby downtown parking is generally paid—arriving around 9:30 a.m. makes finding a space easier.
Walk south toward the distinctive Peace Bridge, one of Calgary’s most recognizable pieces of modern architecture. It is roughly a 15–20-minute walk from the park, depending on your route and conditions. Spend about 30 minutes taking photos and watching cyclists and river traffic; the bridge is free and open year-round. If everyone needs warming up, use one of the cafés in the nearby Kensington area before returning toward downtown.
Continue to the Calgary Tower for the clearest all-around look at the city and, on a good day, the foothills to the west. It is about a 20-minute walk from the Peace Bridge area, or a short drive if the weather is poor. Plan around 1½ hours, including time on the observation deck and the glass floor. Tickets are typically around CAD $25–35 for adults and less for children, with prices and opening hours varying by season; check the official website before setting out. Midday usually offers the best visibility, while late afternoon can be busier with school and family groups.
Afterward, head to The CORE Shopping Centre on Stephen Avenue for a warm, relaxed break. It is a short walk from the tower and has shops, cafés, seating areas, and the indoor Devonian Gardens, which are especially welcome when March weather turns cold. Allow about 1½ hours here rather than treating it as a shopping mission—this is a useful place to warm up, use the washrooms, and let your son browse without adding another major attraction.
For dinner, stay downtown so you avoid another cross-city trip. The Old Spaghetti Factory on Stephen Avenue is a dependable family option with generous portions and a lively setting, while The Beltliner on 12 Avenue SW works well if the adults would prefer a more contemporary Calgary menu. Budget approximately CAD $20–40 per person before drinks and tip. Reservations are sensible for an early dinner around 5:30–6:00 p.m., particularly if you are dining at a popular downtown restaurant. Afterward, keep the evening unhurried—tomorrow is still a family day, and the Banff transfer begins the following morning.
Start at the Calgary Zoo when it opens, ideally around 9:00 a.m., and allow three to four hours. The Penguin Plunge, Canadian Wilds, and indoor TransAlta Rainforest are especially good in March, when outdoor conditions can be chilly and some paths may be icy. Admission is roughly CAD $35–45 for adults and CAD $25–35 for children, with family pricing sometimes available; check the zoo’s 2027 calendar before going. The zoo is easiest to reach by car or CTrain—take the Red Line to Zoo Station—and parking is paid, so arriving early helps.
After lunch near the zoo, drive or take the CTrain to TELUS Spark Science Centre in East Village; allow about 10–15 minutes by car, or roughly 25–35 minutes by transit. Spend around 2½ hours with the hands-on galleries, interactive physics displays, and planetarium programming. This is a good place to let your son set the pace, and the indoor setting makes it a useful backup if the weather turns wintry. General admission is commonly around CAD $25–35 per person, with planetarium or special exhibitions sometimes costing extra. Check showtimes and reserve popular timed programs online.
For dinner, head to River Café in Prince’s Island Park, reached from East Village in about 10–15 minutes by car or taxi, depending on traffic. The restaurant is tucked into the park beside the Bow River, so allow a little extra time for the short walk from the entrance and dress warmly if the paths are snowy. Expect approximately CAD $35–60 per person before drinks and gratuity; the menu emphasizes seasonal Canadian ingredients, and the setting is the main attraction. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for a family dinner, and it is worth checking the restaurant’s opening hours because schedules can vary in early spring.
Leave Calgary around 8:00–9:00 a.m. via the Trans-Canada Highway, allowing 1½–2 hours for the drive and extra time for March snow, icy sections, and mountain traffic. A rental car is simplest for your family and luggage; if using the Banff Airporter, reserve in advance and confirm where it will drop you near your accommodation. You’ll need a Banff National Park park pass if driving—buy one online or at the park gates—and winter tires are essential. After checking in or leaving bags with your hotel, walk straight into the compact downtown core.
Spend about an hour strolling Banff Avenue, browsing the outdoor shops and warming up with a drink at Whitebark Café or Evelyn’s Coffee Bar. The central section is easy with a child, and you can pick up gloves, snacks, or any forgotten ski items before the afternoon’s mountain visit. From downtown, take the Roam Transit Route 1 bus toward the Banff Gondola—the ride is roughly 10–15 minutes—or drive and use the gondola parking area. Check the operating schedule and book a timed ticket ahead; family admission commonly totals around CAD $150–200, depending on the date and promotions.
Allow about two hours at the Banff Gondola, including the ride up Sulphur Mountain and the accessible summit boardwalk. March can be very cold and windy at the top, so dress in ski layers even if downtown feels comfortable. Return to town, then take a short drive or approximately 20-minute walk toward Bow Falls for a 30–45-minute riverside stop. The falls are close to the road, but paths can be icy; sturdy footwear and caution around snowbanks are worthwhile. If everyone is tired, this is an easy place to keep brief before heading back to your hotel.
Have an early, relaxed dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory, a dependable family choice with generous pasta portions and a lively setting; budget approximately CAD $20–35 per person before drinks and tip. Reservations are useful during ski season, particularly for a family of three around 5:30–6:00 p.m. Keep the evening low-key after the transfer—tomorrow’s first ski day will go much more smoothly if you pick up rental gear tonight and confirm your morning shuttle or resort transport.
Take the SkiBig3 shuttle from Banff to Mt. Norquay, aiming to arrive around 8:30–9:00 a.m. so you have time for rentals, lift tickets, and your son’s lesson before the slopes get busy. The drive is only about 15 minutes, but confirm the day’s shuttle timetable and reserve seats in advance; schedules can be limited in spring. If driving, parking at the resort is generally straightforward, though arrive early for the best spaces and allow extra time if snow is falling.
Spend roughly five to six hours at Mt. Norquay, which is a particularly manageable choice for a family because the base area, rentals, lessons, and beginner terrain are close together. A half-day or full-day children’s lesson is worthwhile if your 9-year-old is still building confidence. Take a proper lunch break at the Cliffhouse Bistro or the Lone Pine Kitchen, rather than trying to ski continuously; mountain conditions can change quickly, and March sunshine can make the afternoon feel warmer than it is. Budget approximately CAD $200–350 for the three of you if you need lift tickets, rentals, and a child’s lesson, with exact prices varying by booking date.
Return to Banff and continue up Sulphur Mountain to the Banff Upper Hot Springs for about 1½ hours. Go straight from the resort if possible, as the pools are a much nicer reward before everyone gets too tired. Bring swimsuits, sandals, and a small towel or plan to rent towels onsite; lockers are available, but keep valuables to a minimum. The hot springs usually operate into the evening, though hours and admission can change seasonally, so check the official schedule before leaving Mt. Norquay. Admission is typically around CAD $17 per adult and less for children. In March, the outdoor pool can be wonderfully snowy around the edges, so have warm clothes ready for the walk back to the car or shuttle.
Head back down to Banff Avenue for dinner at Eddie Burger + Bar, an easygoing spot for burgers, fries, and thick shakes after a ski day. Expect approximately CAD $20–35 per person before drinks and tax. It is popular and fairly compact, so an early dinner around 5:30 p.m. helps avoid the busiest period and should suit a tired child. Afterward, keep the evening simple: walk a few blocks along Banff Avenue, pick up snacks for tomorrow, and turn in early for another full day on the mountain.
Catch the SkiBig3 shuttle from Banff to Sunshine Village early enough to arrive around 8:30–9:00 a.m. The shuttle ride to the base area takes roughly 25 minutes, followed by the gondola journey up the mountain, so allow extra time for winter-road delays, lift tickets, rentals, and your son’s lesson check-in. Reserve the shuttle and confirm the pickup point the night before; schedules can change during the spring season. Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and a small backpack, since the day becomes much easier once you are settled on the mountain.
Spend about six hours at Sunshine Village Ski Resort, making this your main ski day rather than trying to add another attraction. The resort has wide beginner-friendly areas as well as terrain for stronger skiers, and family lessons are a good option if your son needs instruction or either adult would appreciate guided time on the slopes. March snow can be excellent, but temperatures and visibility change quickly, so dress in layers and take a proper lunch break at one of the mountain lodges rather than skiing straight through. Lift, rental, and lesson prices vary considerably by booking date; reserving online ahead of time is usually cheaper, and check the final gondola and shuttle times before your last run.
Return to Banff in the late afternoon, shower and rest briefly, then take an easy stroll along Banff Avenue for about an hour. The central stretch is compact and walkable, with mountain views, souvenir shops, outdoor clothing stores, and plenty of places to warm up; keep the evening relaxed after a full day outside. For dinner, head to Bear Street Tavern, where the casual atmosphere and wood-fired pizzas work well for a family. Expect approximately CAD $20–35 per person before drinks and tip. It is popular after skiing, so arriving early—around 5:00–5:30 p.m.—helps avoid the busiest dinner period; otherwise, expect a short wait and use the time for another wander along downtown’s side streets.
Make this your earliest ski start of the three days: aim for a SkiBig3 shuttle from Banff around 7:00–7:30 a.m., depending on the seasonal timetable, and allow roughly 45 minutes to the resort base. Confirm the pickup point and schedule the night before, as departures can be limited. Arriving early gives you time for rentals, lift tickets, lockers, and a quick breakfast at the resort before the lifts become busy. Bring your passports or photo ID if required for rentals, and pack hand warmers—the Lake Louise base and upper mountain can feel considerably colder than Banff.
Spend approximately six hours on the slopes. Lake Louise Ski Resort is the most expansive and scenic of the SkiBig3 areas, but it is also easy for a nine-year-old to find the day tiring, so build in a warm-up break rather than trying to ski continuously. Beginners and children should stay near the learning areas until everyone is comfortable; stronger skiers can explore the broader front-side terrain while regrouping for lunch. Resort dining is convenient but expensive—plan roughly CAD $20–35 per person for lunch—or bring compact snacks and water, then take a shorter café break indoors. Check the mountain report before leaving Banff, particularly for wind holds or reduced visibility.
After returning equipment, take about 45 minutes at the Lake Louise lakeshore if roads, parking, and conditions permit. In March, the lake will normally be frozen and snow-covered, so this is a winter viewpoint rather than a lakeside walk; use the cleared viewing area near Fairmont Château Lake Louise and avoid wandering onto the ice unless local signage and officials specifically indicate it is safe. The resort village and lakeshore are separate areas, so allow extra time if your shuttle schedule requires a transfer. Keep this stop flexible—after a full ski day, a few photographs and a hot drink are more realistic than a long outing.
Take the evening shuttle back to Banff and keep dinner close to your accommodation rather than adding another drive. For a casual family meal, Coyotes Southwestern Grill on Banff Avenue is a reliable choice for burritos, fajitas, and child-friendly portions; expect approximately CAD $25–45 per person before drinks and gratuity, with dinner service commonly beginning around 5:00 p.m. Reservations are sensible on a ski weekend, though an early seating around 5:00–5:30 p.m. is often easier. Afterward, pick up snacks for tomorrow’s travel and turn in early—the next day begins with your transfer to Calgary International Airport and onward flight to Japan.
Leave Banff around 5:00–6:00 a.m. for Calgary International Airport, allowing 1½–2 hours by private transfer or the Banff Airporter, plus extra time for March mountain weather. For an international itinerary, aim to be at the airport roughly three hours before departure. Keep passports, medications, chargers, and a change of clothes in your carry-on, and confirm whether your bags are checked through to Kansai International Airport—with a connection, this can vary by airline and ticket.
This is a long travel day, usually involving one connection and approximately 13–17 hours of flying time. Encourage your son to switch gradually to Japan time by sleeping during the later portion of the itinerary and drinking plenty of water. On arrival at Kansai International Airport, allow time for immigration, baggage collection, and customs before following signs to the railway station. The Nankai Rapi:t is the simplest route into Namba, taking about 35–45 minutes; fares are approximately ¥1,450–1,700, and ordinary Nankai Airport Express trains are cheaper if the reserved train timing does not suit.
From Namba, walk or take one short subway ride to your accommodation, keeping the first evening deliberately simple. Stop at a nearby 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or Lawson for onigiri, sandwiches, fruit, noodles, yogurt, and drinks—roughly ¥800–1,500 per person. Japanese convenience stores are excellent for a tired arrival: food is fresh, hot items can be prepared for you, and ATMs generally accept Canadian cards. After checking in, set out clothes for tomorrow, charge your phones, and sleep rather than trying to sightsee; the family will enjoy Osaka much more after a proper reset.
Start around 8:30 a.m. with Osaka Castle Park, taking the Osaka Metro to Morinomiya Station or Tanimachi 4-chome Station. The park grounds are open all day and free, while the Osaka Castle Museum generally opens around 9:00 a.m.; allow roughly two hours for the castle exterior, gardens, and museum exhibits. The museum involves quite a few stairs and displays are more historical than interactive, so with a 9-year-old, keep the visit moving and focus on the observation floors and samurai-era stories. Admission is usually around ¥600 for the castle museum, with combination tickets sometimes available.
Walk a few minutes to the Osaka Museum of History, which normally opens around 9:30 a.m. and takes about 1½ hours. Its upper-floor exhibits trace Osaka’s development from ancient times to the modern city, and the large windows give you an excellent elevated view back toward Osaka Castle. A one-way taxi between the two museums is unnecessary; walking is easy, though allow extra time if your son wants to stop in the park. Admission is commonly around ¥600, with discounts or combination tickets occasionally offered.
Take the Osaka Metro from Tanimachi 4-chome toward Nippombashi, usually about 15–20 minutes including the transfer and walk, then explore Kuromon Ichiba Market for around 1½ hours. This is best treated as a grazing lunch rather than one formal meal: look for grilled seafood, tamagoyaki, wagyu skewers, strawberries, and freshly cut fruit. Budget approximately ¥1,500–3,000 per person, depending on how much seafood you try. Go with small portions first, since the market is more enjoyable when everyone samples several things; also remember that many vendors prefer customers to eat in designated areas rather than while walking.
From Kuromon Ichiba Market, walk west through Nippombashi toward Hozenji Yokocho, roughly 10 minutes. Spend about 45 minutes in the narrow, lantern-lit lanes and visit Hozenji Temple, where the moss-covered Fudo Myoo statue is traditionally sprinkled with water. This is a small stop, but it provides a welcome contrast to the busy market and makes a good family photo opportunity. Continue into Dotonbori for the evening, allowing about two hours for the neon-lit canal, the Ebisu Tower area, and Osaka specialties such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, kushikatsu, or bowls of ramen. For a calmer family meal, choose a restaurant on a side street rather than directly beneath the busiest signs; the main canal promenade is liveliest after 6:00 p.m. Return to your hotel by Osaka Metro from Namba Station, or walk if you are staying nearby.
Make Universal Studios Japan your full-day focus, arriving 45–60 minutes before the official opening time. Take the JR Yumesaki Line from Osaka Station to Universal City Station—about 15 minutes, usually with a change at Nishikujo—then follow the lively pedestrian approach through Universal CityWalk Osaka. Park hours and opening procedures vary by date, so check the official app shortly before your visit; in practice, gates may open earlier than the posted time. Have your tickets loaded in advance, and go straight to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Timed-entry tickets or area entry in the app can sell out quickly, especially during spring school-holiday periods. Your son will want time for Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, character photos, and the interactive Power-Up Band activities; expect a full morning here rather than trying to rush through it.
Eat at Kinopio’s Café inside SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, ideally before the main lunch rush or at an off-peak time. The themed meals—often featuring mushroom-shaped burgers, pasta, desserts, and character details—usually run about ¥2,000–4,000 per person. Queueing and ordering procedures can change, so check the park app or ask a Cast Member when you enter the area. After lunch, keep the afternoon flexible for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Park, and whichever major rides suit your family’s height and comfort; Universal’s app is useful for wait times, show schedules, and locating quieter snack stops. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light layer, as the Osaka Bay waterfront can feel cool after sunset.
When you are ready to leave the park, take your time browsing Universal CityWalk Osaka, directly outside Universal City Station. It is an easy, low-effort way to finish the day with souvenir shops, Japanese snacks, and dinner without making another train journey. Budget roughly ¥1,500–3,000 per person; Kushikatsu Wakuwaku, Hard Rock Cafe Osaka, and the food-court-style options are convenient for a family, while the upper-floor restaurants are better if you want to sit down properly. If everyone is tired, simply take the JR Yumesaki Line back to Osaka Station after dinner rather than adding another Osaka neighbourhood—tomorrow’s Kyoto day will be much more enjoyable with an early night.
Take the JR Special Rapid from Osaka Station to Kyoto Station around 7:30–8:00 a.m.; the ride takes about 30 minutes and costs roughly ¥580 per adult. Leave larger bags in a Kyoto Station locker or at your hotel, then use the JR Nara Line to Inari Station—the shrine entrance is immediately across the road. Start with the lower torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha, then walk uphill through the orange tunnels for about two hours. The first section becomes busy quickly, but the crowds thin noticeably beyond the main viewpoints. Comfortable shoes are essential, and bring water and a small snack for your nine-year-old.
Return toward central Kyoto by train and subway, allowing roughly 30–40 minutes, then walk to Nishiki Market. Spend about 1½ hours browsing the covered arcade’s stalls, trying small portions of yuba, grilled seafood, tamagoyaki, pickles, and Kyoto sweets. A realistic food budget is ¥1,500–3,000 per person, though remember that eating while walking is discouraged in many parts of the market—buy something, then eat beside the stall or in a designated area. The market is busiest around midday, so keep belongings close and avoid blocking the narrow passage with luggage.
From Nishiki Market, walk west for about 20 minutes, or take a short taxi ride if everyone is tired. Allow approximately two hours at Nijō Castle, where the ornate Ninomaru Palace and its famous “nightingale floors” make the shogun-era visit especially engaging for children. The grounds generally open around 8:45 a.m. and close in the late afternoon, with final admission typically about an hour before closing; verify the 2027 schedule before setting out. Admission is usually around ¥1,300 for adults, with reduced pricing for children. The castle grounds are spacious, so take a short break in the gardens rather than trying to rush every section.
Walk or take the subway and a short walk from Nijō Castle toward the Kamo River, arriving at Pontocho Alley around dusk. This narrow atmospheric lane is best enjoyed as a gentle wander rather than a checklist—look for a family-friendly restaurant with a posted menu and seating available without a reservation. Casual meals generally run ¥2,000–4,000 per person, while many traditional establishments are considerably more expensive or restrict children at dinner. For an easier choice, check the nearby Kiyamachi side streets for ramen, yakitori, or curry. Finish with a stroll along the river before returning to your Kyoto hotel; if you are staying in Osaka, allow about 45–60 minutes back to Kyoto Station and then take the JR train to Osaka Station.
Set out early for Arashiyama, ideally leaving your hotel around 6:45–7:15 a.m. From Kyoto Station, the JR San-in Line reaches Saga-Arashiyama Station in about 15 minutes; from there, it is a 10–15-minute walk to the bamboo grove. The grove itself is free and open around the clock, but arriving by 8:00 a.m. makes a noticeable difference before tour groups fill the path. Allow about 45 minutes for the walk, and keep expectations realistic: it is beautiful but fairly compact, so take your time with photographs rather than rushing through.
Continue on foot to Tenryu-ji, which generally opens at 8:30 a.m. The temple’s garden is the highlight, especially the pond backed by the forested Arashiyama hills, and is a calmer experience after the bamboo grove. Admission is usually about ¥500 for the garden, with a separate fee if you add the temple buildings. Plan roughly 1½ hours, and have your son look for the dragon painting in the Hatto hall if it is open; opening days and hours can vary, so check the temple’s official schedule shortly before visiting.
Walk downhill toward Togetsukyo Bridge, taking about 15 minutes from Tenryu-ji. Spend around 30 minutes along the riverbank, where the bridge, willow-lined water, and surrounding hills make one of Kyoto’s most recognizable views. This is a good place for a snack or drink from one of the small shops around Arashiyama, but avoid a long sit-down lunch if you have a timed railway departure. The area is busiest around midday, so keep an eye on the clock and walk back toward Saga-Arashiyama Station or Torokko-Saga Station for the train.
Board the Sagano Scenic Railway at Torokko-Saga Station for the roughly 25-minute ride through the Hozugawa gorge to Torokko-Kameoka Station. With station access and the return journey included, allow about two hours. Reserved seats are strongly recommended—especially for a family of three—and usually cost around ¥880 per adult and ¥440 for a child each way, though fares and seasonal schedules can change. After arriving at Torokko-Kameoka, take the connecting JR service from nearby Umahori Station back toward central Kyoto; check the exact connection because the stations are a short walk apart and trains are not frequent. If the scenic railway is suspended for weather or maintenance, do not assume the ticket is automatically usable another day—ask at the station counter.
Return to central Kyoto and make your way to Ippudo Nishikikoji, near the Nishiki Market area. Expect a short wait at dinner, particularly between 6:00 and 7:30 p.m.; joining the queue before you are hungry is worthwhile with a child. Bowls are generally around ¥1,000–2,000 per person, and the customizable noodles and milder options make it an easy family choice. After dinner, wander briefly through the surrounding lanes of Teramachi and Shinkyogoku before heading back—keep this final stroll unhurried, as Arashiyama’s early start and the train ride make today pleasantly full without needing another major attraction.
Take a morning Tokaido Shinkansen Nozomi from Kyoto Station, ideally around 7:30–8:30 a.m.; the journey to Tokyo Station takes about 2 hours 15 minutes. Reserve seats through SmartEX or at a JR ticket office, and choose the right-hand side when travelling toward Tokyo for the best chance of seeing Mount Fuji shortly after leaving Kyoto—visibility is never guaranteed. Keep a snack and drink handy, and avoid oversized luggage unless you have reserved an oversized-baggage seat.
After arriving, follow the signs inside Tokyo Station toward Tokyo Character Street in the Yaesu underground area. Spend about 1½ hours browsing the Pokémon Store Tokyo Station, Nintendo Tokyo Pop-Up Store when operating, and the other character shops; stock and opening dates can change, so check the official store listings before travelling. The station is large and lockers fill quickly, so take your main luggage to your hotel or use a staffed luggage counter rather than trying to carry it through the shopping arcades.
From Tokyo Station, take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Otemachi, then the Hanzomon Line to Oshiage〈Skytree〉Station—about 30–40 minutes in total. Head up to the Tokyo Skytree observation decks for roughly two hours; the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria offer superb views across the city, though haze is common in spring. Advance timed tickets are worthwhile, especially for a family, and the higher deck is optional if the queues are long or your son has had enough sightseeing.
Stay in the complex for Solamachi, the shopping and dining centre beneath Tokyo Skytree. This is a good low-pressure break after the train and observation decks: browse the character goods, stationery, snacks, and food floors, or stop for a dessert while enjoying views of the tower from outside. Allow about 1½ hours, but keep dinner flexible—return to Tokyo Station by the same Hanzomon route, or use the Toei Asakusa Line from Oshiage if it better suits your hotel.
Finish back inside Tokyo Station at Rokurinsha Tokyo Ramen Street, on the Yaesu-side underground level. Its signature tsukemen—thick noodles dipped into a rich hot broth—usually costs about ¥1,500–2,500 per person. Expect a queue at dinner; join the line before 5:30 p.m. for an easier meal, or use the ticket machine and be prepared to wait. Order a smaller portion for your son if available, and note that the restaurant is casual with limited seating. Afterward, it is a convenient place to collect luggage or continue directly to your Tokyo hotel.
Start around8:30 a.m. at Meiji Jingu, entering through the large torii near Harajuku Station. The shrine grounds open from sunrise until sunset, and the broad gravel paths through the forest feel remarkably quiet despite being in central Tokyo. Allow about 1½ hours, including time to see the main shrine buildings, write a wish, and let your son look for the traditional sake barrels and seasonal flowers. Keep voices low near the worship area, and bring a small amount of cash for offerings; admission to the shrine grounds is free.
Walk about 10 minutes from the shrine toward Takeshita Street, stopping for a quick drink or snack if needed. This is an easy transition from tranquil shrine grounds to Harajuku’s bright, busy youth-fashion scene, so expect a noticeable change in crowds.
Spend roughly 1½ hours browsing Takeshita Street, where shops sell character goods, inexpensive accessories, novelty toys, and colorful clothing. For a fun break, try a freshly made crepe from Marion Crepes or Santa Monica Crepes; budget about ¥700–1,200 each. The street is free to explore, but it becomes crowded late in the morning, so keep wallets and phones secure and stay together in the narrowest sections. If the crowds become tiring, use nearby Cat Street for a calmer walk toward Shibuya rather than retracing your steps.
From Harajuku, take the JR Yamanote Line one stop to Shibuya Station—about 5 minutes—or walk for approximately 20–25 minutes. First view Shibuya Scramble Crossing from the station’s Shibuya Hikarie area or the pedestrian viewpoint near Starbucks Shibuya Tsutaya; allow about 30 minutes for photos and people-watching. For lunch, the station area has plenty of family-friendly choices, but Tokyu Food Show in the station complex is particularly practical for picking up rice bowls, sushi, or sandwiches without a long restaurant wait.
Continue to Shibuya Sky at Shibuya Scramble Square, accessed directly from the station. Reserve timed tickets online well ahead—especially for a clear spring afternoon—and allow about 1½ hours. The open-air rooftop is exposed to wind, so bring a light jacket and check the weather before leaving; umbrellas and some loose items may not be permitted on the rooftop. Tickets are commonly around ¥2,000–2,500 per adult, with child pricing available, and sunset slots tend to sell out first.
Take the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line from Hibiya Station or Ebisu-area connections toward Tsukiji Station, allowing roughly 25–30 minutes depending on your starting platform and transfer. Visit Tsukiji Outer Market in the early evening for a relaxed browse and casual dinner, although many specialist seafood shops close by mid-afternoon. Focus on the covered lanes and the restaurants around Nishikawa Street, choosing small portions of grilled seafood, sushi, tamagoyaki, or rice bowls as you go; budget approximately ¥1,500–3,000 per person. Check individual closing times on the day, as evening availability varies, and return to your hotel by the Hibiya Line or taxi if everyone is tired after a full day.
Start at Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo inside Sunshine City, aiming for opening time—usually around 10:00 a.m. Allow about 1½ hours for the large merchandise floor, seasonal displays, and the Pokémon Card Station area. The centre is on the Sunshine City shopping complex’s second floor; from Ikebukuro Station, allow 10–15 minutes on foot, or use Higashi-Ikebukuro Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line. Merchandise availability changes quickly, and popular items can sell out, so let your son choose purchases before moving on rather than promising a particular character or plush.
Walk through Ikebukuro to Namco Ikebukuro, allowing roughly 10 minutes between the two. This is a good late-morning stop for about 1½ hours of arcade games and crane machines, with plenty suitable for a nine-year-old. Set a clear yen limit before starting—perhaps ¥2,000–3,000 for the family—because crane games can absorb money quickly. For lunch, take the JR Yamanote Line from Ikebukuro Station to Tokyo Station, then walk about 10 minutes to the Pokémon Café in Nihombashi; the full transfer usually takes 25–35 minutes.
The Pokémon Café requires an advance reservation through its official online booking system, and reservations often disappear quickly when released. Allow around 75–90 minutes for the themed meal; expect approximately ¥2,000–3,500 per person, with food and drinks ordered individually. Arrive exactly at your reserved time, since walk-ins are generally not practical. After lunch, return to Tokyo Station and take the JR Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station, roughly 25 minutes. In Shibuya, head to Nintendo Store Tokyo in Shibuya PARCO, normally open around 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Allow 1½ hours for the official merchandise, game displays, and photo opportunities. The store can be busy, and entry procedures may change, so check the day’s instructions at the building entrance; you may need a timed entry ticket during peak periods.
Stay in Shibuya PARCO for the Capcom Store Tokyo, making this an easy 45-minute late-afternoon visit without another cross-city journey. It is a compact stop for Monster Hunter, Resident Evil, Street Fighter, and other Capcom merchandise. Once finished, take a relaxed walk around Center-gai and the quieter side streets toward Miyashita Park before dinner. For a straightforward family meal, try Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka, where sushi arrives on a conveyor system and individual plates are easy to order; expect roughly ¥1,500–3,000 per person, though queues are common. Alternatively, Torikatsu Chicken near Shibuya Station is inexpensive and casual, but seating is tight and the menu is less child-friendly for picky eaters.
Keep the evening unhurried after a full day of shopping and arcades. Browse Miyashita Park or watch the pedestrian crossing from the Shibuya Scramble Square area, then return to your hotel by train before the busiest late-evening rush. Keep purchases together in one durable bag, and use an IC card such as Suica or Pasmo for the JR and subway rides; Tokyo’s stations are manageable, but Ikebukuro, Tokyo, and Shibuya are large, so allow extra time for finding the correct exit.
Take a morning Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Odawara Station—the Kodama journey is roughly 35 minutes. Reserve seats if possible and sit on the right-hand side heading west for the best chance of spotting Mount Fuji; visibility is often clearest before midday, though clouds can easily hide it. A regular JR ticket plus Shinkansen fare is generally around ¥3,500–4,000 per adult one way, with children paying a reduced fare. From Odawara Station, Odawara Castle is a straightforward 10–15-minute walk; allow about 1½ hours for the keep, grounds, and family-friendly displays. The castle museum typically opens around 9:00 a.m. and costs roughly ¥510 for adults, with reduced child admission. The surrounding park is free, and it is a good place for your son to stretch his legs after the train.
Return to Odawara Station and use the local Hakone Tozan Railway to Hakone-Yumoto, a scenic ride of about 15 minutes rather than the longer 30-minute estimate sometimes given for the full route. Have lunch around Hakone-Yumoto before continuing—湯葉丼 直吉 (Yuba-don Naokichi) is a popular, approachable choice for a warm yuba rice bowl, while Hakone Bakery is useful for a quicker meal or takeaway. Expect approximately ¥1,000–2,000 per person, and be prepared for a short queue at lunchtime. If you are using the ropeway and cruise on the same day, buy or confirm a Hakone Freepass or combined transport ticket at the station; fares and included sections vary, so check the current route map before boarding.
From Hakone-Yumoto, take the mountain railway onward to Gora, then board the Hakone Ropeway toward Togendai. The full ropeway crossing takes about 30 minutes, but allow roughly two hours for transfers, waiting, and brief stops at Owakudani if operating conditions permit. Expect dramatic volcanic slopes and sulphur vents; gondolas can pause or close in strong wind, so keep a little flexibility. At Togendai, continue with the Lake Ashi sightseeing cruise, which takes about 30 minutes each way and offers the best open views toward Mount Fuji on a clear afternoon. The cruise and ropeway are weather-dependent, and Fuji is never guaranteed—this is a scenic day rather than a reliable Fuji-viewing excursion. Keep snacks and water handy, as food options become more limited between transport connections.
After the cruise, follow the transport connection back to Hakone-Yumoto and take a reserved-seat Odakyu Romancecar to Shinjuku, allowing roughly 1½ hours. Reserve the limited express surcharge and seats in advance, especially for the return journey; the direct train is much more comfortable with a tired child than changing local trains. The combined sightseeing day can become expensive—budget approximately ¥8,000–12,000 per adult for the principal railways, ropeway, and cruise, depending on the pass and Shinkansen choice. Have dinner near your hotel in Shinjuku, where Omoide Yokocho offers atmospheric small eateries or Lumine EST provides easier family dining, generally ¥1,500–3,000 per person. If weather suspends the ropeway, check the official Hakone Navi updates and use the designated replacement buses rather than trying to improvise the mountain connections.
Make Asakusa your final Tokyo morning, arriving around 8:00–8:30 a.m. while the temple grounds are still relatively peaceful. Walk through Kaminarimon Gate and along the opening stretch of Nakamise-dori to Senso-ji; allow about 1½ hours for the gate, incense burner, main hall, and the surrounding lanes. The temple grounds are free and open around the clock, although shops and many food stalls generally begin opening around 10:00 a.m. Keep small coins handy for an omikuji fortune, and remember that the central worship areas can become crowded by late morning.
Spend the next hour browsing Nakamise-dori, where you’ll find folding fans, tenugui cloths, children’s toys, samurai-themed souvenirs, and plenty of edible gifts. For an easy family snack, look for freshly made ningyoyaki cakes or melonpan, but eat while standing in the designated area rather than walking. If you want a quieter shopping detour, wander briefly along the side streets toward Shin-Nakamise Shopping Street, which has covered arcades and more everyday prices. From Asakusa Station, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line to Ueno Station—about 5 minutes, roughly ¥180 per adult—then walk into Ueno Park.
Allow about 1½ hours for Ueno Park, keeping this visit intentionally relaxed after several busy sightseeing days. In mid-March, early cherry blossoms may be appearing depending on the season, while the broad paths and ponds make it an easy place for your son to stretch his legs. You can simply stroll rather than add another museum, since the family has already had several full cultural days. Later, descend toward Ameya-Yokocho, the energetic market street running between Ueno Station and Okachimachi Station. Spend about an hour sampling fruit, sweets, grilled snacks, or inexpensive sushi and browsing sportswear, toys, and travel-sized gifts. Prices vary, but ¥500–1,500 per person is plenty for casual grazing.
From Ueno-Okachimachi Station, take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or walk south toward Ginza if everyone still has energy; the train ride is about 10 minutes. For a reliable final dinner, try Ginza Hachigou for refined ramen if you can secure one of its limited evening seatings, or choose Tsukiji Sushi Kiyoshi for a more traditional sushi meal. Families wanting something casual can use the basement restaurant floors of Matsuya Ginza or Mitsukoshi Ginza, where several restaurants serve approachable Japanese dishes without a formal atmosphere. Budget approximately ¥2,000–5,000 per person, and return to your hotel early enough to organize passports, souvenirs, and luggage for tomorrow’s flight.
Keep this departure morning simple: have bags packed and ready the night before, and confirm whether your flight leaves from Haneda Airport or Narita International Airport. For an international departure, leave central Tokyo about three hours before takeoff from Haneda, or roughly four hours before takeoff from Narita. Haneda is usually the easier airport—about 30–45 minutes by train or taxi from central districts—while Narita generally takes 60–90 minutes by the Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner, or airport limousine bus. A taxi is convenient with three suitcases but expensive; reserve one if your departure is very early. Keep passports, boarding passes, medications, and one change of clothes in your hand luggage, and allow extra time for checked baggage and any airline connection requirements.
Expect a full travel day with at least one connection, most commonly through a Canadian hub such as Vancouver, Toronto, or Montréal, depending on the ticket available for spring 2027. At the first Canadian airport, follow the signs and airline instructions carefully: you may need to clear Canadian customs and recheck bags even if they were tagged through from Tokyo. With your son, pack snacks, an empty refillable bottle, headphones, and a small activity for each flight segment. Reconfirm the baggage allowance and connection rules directly with the operating airline, since the shortest itinerary is not always the simplest if it involves separate tickets.
You may reach Gander late in the evening or the following day because of the time difference and connection length. Arrange a pickup or taxi before departure if possible, particularly if arriving after local bus or rental-car hours. Keep the first evening deliberately quiet: collect luggage, check for any delayed-bag notifications, and get home to rest rather than planning anything after the long journey.