Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Japan (December 27, 2023)

Day 1: Tokyo

In the morning, visit the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market, where you can witness the vibrant seafood auction. In the afternoon, explore the futuristic district of Odaiba, home to shopping malls, entertainment centers, and the popular Odaiba Seaside Park. As the evening approaches, head to Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea for a magical experience.

• Tsukiji Fish Market: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Odaiba: Estimated transportation cost: ¥500, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
• Tokyo Disneyland/DisneySea: Estimated ticket cost: ¥8,200 per person, estimated time spent: full day

Day 2: Kyoto

Begin your day by visiting the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, surrounded by beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, explore the historic district of Higashiyama and visit the enchanting Kiyomizu-dera Temple. End your day with a walk along the picturesque Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

• Kinkaku-ji Temple: Admission fee: ¥400, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Higashiyama District: Estimated transportation cost: ¥500, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Day 3: Osaka

Start your day with a visit to Osaka Castle, a magnificent structure surrounded by lush parkland. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dotonbori, known for its neon lights, street food, and shopping. Don't miss the chance to ride the famous Tempozan Ferris Wheel for panoramic views of the city in the evening.

• Osaka Castle: Admission fee: ¥600, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Dotonbori: Estimated transportation cost: ¥500, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Tempozan Ferris Wheel: Estimated cost: ¥800, estimated time spent: 1 hour

Day 4: Hiroshima

Take a day trip to Hiroshima and visit the iconic Atomic Bomb Dome, a symbol of peace. Explore the Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the city's history. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Miyajima Island and marvel at the stunning Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating torii gate.

• Atomic Bomb Dome: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Peace Memorial Park and Museum: Admission fee: ¥200, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Miyajima Island: Estimated transportation cost: ¥400, estimated time spent: 4-5 hours

Day 5: Nara

Start your day by visiting Nara Park, where you can encounter friendly deer roaming freely. Explore the Todai-ji Temple, home to the famous Great Buddha statue. In the afternoon, stroll through the picturesque Isuien Garden and visit the Kasuga Taisha Shrine.

• Nara Park: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Todai-ji Temple: Admission fee: ¥600, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Isuien Garden: Admission fee: ¥900, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine: Admission fee: ¥500, estimated time spent: 1 hour

Day 6: Hakone

Spend the day exploring the scenic beauty of Hakone. Start with a visit to Owakudani, an active volcanic zone known for its hot springs and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Ashi and ride the Hakone Ropeway for panoramic vistas. End your day with a soak in a traditional onsen (hot spring).

• Owakudani: Estimated transportation cost: ¥2,000, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Lake Ashi: Estimated transportation cost: ¥1,000, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Hakone Ropeway: Estimated cost: ¥1,800, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Onsen: Estimated cost: ¥1,500, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Day 7: Tokyo

Spend your last day in Tokyo exploring the trendy neighborhood of Shibuya. Start with a visit to the famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian crossing in the world. Explore the shops, cafes, and entertainment centers in the area. In the evening, head to the Tokyo Skytree for breathtaking views of the city.

• Shibuya Crossing: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Shops and cafes in Shibuya: Variable costs, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Tokyo Skytree: Estimated ticket cost: ¥3,000, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a family-friendly off the beaten path experience, visit the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum in Tokyo. It offers a unique opportunity to explore historic Japanese houses and buildings from different eras. Another local favorite is the Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama, where you can learn about the history of instant noodles and even create your own cup noodle flavor.

Check out hotel and flight prices for your trip to Japan here.