Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 90 travelers

7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Japan

Saturday, September 2: Tokyo

Morning: Start your trip in Tokyo by visiting the iconic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Japan as you explore the temple and its surrounding streets filled with traditional shops and eateries.

Afternoon: Head to Ueno Park, a sprawling green space that is home to various attractions including Ueno Zoo, the Tokyo National Museum, and beautiful cherry blossom trees. Spend the afternoon exploring the park and visiting the zoo to see a wide range of animals.

Evening: Experience the lively atmosphere of Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world. Take a walk around the area, shop at the trendy stores, and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.

  • Senso-ji Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ueno Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Shibuya Crossing: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, September 3: Kyoto

Morning: Explore the beautiful Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto. Walk along the enchanting path surrounded by towering bamboo stalks, and visit the nearby Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning gardens.

Afternoon: Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vibrant orange torii gates. Take a hike up the mountain to explore the winding trails and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto.

Evening: Immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere of Gion, Kyoto's historic geisha district. Stroll along Hanamikoji Street, lined with traditional teahouses and wooden machiya houses, and perhaps spot a geisha or maiko.

  • Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Tenryu-ji Temple: Estimated cost - 500 yen, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Gion District: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, September 4: Osaka

Morning: Begin your day by visiting Osaka Castle, a magnificent fortress with a rich history. Explore the castle grounds and take in panoramic views of the city from the top floor.

Afternoon: Indulge in some family fun at Universal Studios Japan, located in Osaka. Enjoy thrilling rides, meet your favorite characters, and be immersed in the magical world of movies.

Evening: Take a walk along Dotonbori, Osaka's vibrant entertainment district. Marvel at the dazzling neon lights, sample delicious street food, and shop for souvenirs.

  • Osaka Castle: Estimated cost - 600 yen, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Universal Studios Japan: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Full day
  • Dotonbori: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Hiroshima

Morning: Start your day by visiting the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a poignant tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. Explore the park, visit the Peace Memorial Museum, and see the iconic A-Bomb Dome.

Afternoon: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, known for its iconic floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine. Explore the island, hike Mount Misen for breathtaking views, and interact with friendly deer roaming freely.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Hiroshima Peace Boulevard, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Sample local delicacies such as Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

  • Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Miyajima Island: Estimated cost (ferry) - 360 yen, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Hiroshima Peace Boulevard: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Nara

Morning: Visit Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer considered sacred messengers of the gods. Explore the park, visit Todai-ji Temple housing the Great Buddha, and feed the friendly deer.

Afternoon: Discover the picturesque Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its stunning vermilion torii gates and serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely walk through the surrounding forest and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Evening: Stroll along Nara-Machi, the traditional merchant district of Nara. Explore the quaint streets, visit traditional shops, and dine at a local restaurant.

  • Nara Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Todai-ji Temple: Estimated cost - 600 yen, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Estimated cost - 500 yen, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Nara-Machi: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, September 7: Hakone

Morning: Embark on a scenic boat cruise across Lake Ashi in Hakone, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji on clear days. Enjoy the serene surroundings and fresh mountain air.

Afternoon: Visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, a unique outdoor museum showcasing a large collection of sculptures. Take a leisurely walk through the picturesque gardens and admire the art installations.

Evening: Relax and rejuvenate in one of Hakone's famous hot springs, known as onsens. Unwind in the natural hot spring baths and experience the traditional Japanese bathing culture.

  • Lake Ashi Boat Cruise: Estimated cost - 1000 yen, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hakone Open-Air Museum: Estimated cost - 1600 yen, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Hakone Onsen: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, September 8: Tokyo

Morning: Explore the futuristic district of Odaiba in Tokyo. Visit attractions like TeamLab Borderless, a digital art museum, and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck of Tokyo Tower.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the shopping paradise of Ginza, known for its luxury boutiques and department stores. Indulge in some retail therapy and enjoy a gourmet lunch at one of the upscale restaurants.

Evening: End your trip with a visit to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea, magical theme parks that offer entertainment for all ages. Enjoy thrilling rides, parades, and spectacular shows.

  • Odaiba: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ginza: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Tokyo Disneyland/Tokyo DisneySea: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - Full day

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting Japan's lesser-known destinations such as Takayama, a charming mountain town known for its traditional architecture and festivals, or Nikko, home to stunning shrines and natural beauty. In Takayama, explore the old town, visit Hida Folk Village, and try local delicacies like Hida beef. In Nikko, explore the Toshogu Shrine, hike through the beautiful national park, and relax in hot springs.

Check out hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version