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 65 travelers

Tokyo and Kyoto Family-Friendly Itinerary

Tuesday, October 17: Arrival in Tokyo

Welcome to Tokyo! Start your trip by exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Shibuya. In the morning, visit the famous Shibuya Crossing, one of the busiest intersections in the world. Enjoy breakfast at a local cafe and then head to Meiji Shrine, a serene oasis in the heart of the city. In the afternoon, indulge in some shopping at Shibuya 109 and explore Takeshita Street in Harajuku. In the evening, experience the dazzling lights and entertainment in the Shinjuku district.

  • Shibuya Crossing: Free, 1 hour
  • Meiji Shrine: Free, 2 hours
  • Shibuya 109: Shopper-dependent, 1-2 hours
  • Takeshita Street: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Shinjuku: Free, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, October 18: Tokyo Disney Resort

Spend a magical day at Tokyo Disney Resort. Start with Disneyland in the morning, exploring classic attractions and meeting beloved Disney characters. Grab lunch at one of the themed restaurants. In the afternoon, hop over to DisneySea, an enchanting park with a nautical theme. Enjoy thrilling rides, live shows, and unique entertainment. Wrap up the day with a spectacular nighttime show at either park.

  • Tokyo Disneyland: Approx. ¥8,200 ($75) per adult, ¥4,900 ($45) per child, 8-10 hours
  • Tokyo DisneySea: Approx. ¥8,200 ($75) per adult, ¥4,900 ($45) per child, 8-10 hours
Thursday, October 19: Explore Asakusa and Odaiba

Start your day in Asakusa, a traditional neighborhood filled with cultural highlights. Visit Senso-ji, Tokyo's oldest temple, and browse through Nakamise Shopping Street for souvenirs. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the area. In the afternoon, head to Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment district. Visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum and explore the Gundam statue. Take a relaxing cruise on the Tokyo Bay and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.

  • Senso-ji: Free, 2 hours
  • Nakamise Shopping Street: Shopper-dependent, 1-2 hours
  • teamLab Borderless: Approx. ¥3,200 ($30) per adult, ¥1,000 ($9) per child, 2-3 hours
  • Odaiba Gundam Statue: Free, 1 hour
  • Tokyo Bay Cruise: Approx. ¥1,500 ($14) per adult, ¥750 ($7) per child, 1 hour
Friday, October 20: Day Trip to Nikko

Escape the bustling city and take a day trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Toshogu Shrine, a stunning complex of ornate buildings and beautiful gardens. Explore the natural wonders of Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. Take a leisurely walk around the charming town and enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner before returning to Tokyo in the evening.

  • Toshogu Shrine: Approx. ¥1,300 ($12) per adult, ¥450 ($4) per child, 3-4 hours
  • Lake Chuzenji: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Kegon Falls: Free, 1 hour
  • Exploring Nikko Town: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, October 21: Travel to Kyoto

Today, travel from Tokyo to Kyoto. Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) for a comfortable and efficient journey. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and get settled. In the afternoon, explore the historic district of Higashiyama. Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. Take a stroll along the charming streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, lined with traditional shops and teahouses. End the day with a visit to Gion, Kyoto's famous geisha district.

  • Shinkansen Ticket: Approx. ¥13,080 ($120) per adult, ¥6,540 ($60) per child, 2.5 hours
  • Kiyomizu-dera Temple: Approx. ¥400 ($4) per adult, ¥200 ($2) per child, 2-3 hours
  • Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Gion: Free, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 22: Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Taisha

Start your day in Arashiyama, known for its scenic bamboo forest. Take a walk through the magical grove and visit the beautiful Tenryu-ji Temple. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch in the area. In the afternoon, head to Fushimi Inari Taisha, renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates. Take a hike up the mountaintop to enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto. End the day with a visit to Nishiki Market, a bustling food market offering various local delicacies.

  • Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Tenryu-ji Temple: Approx. ¥500 ($5) per adult, ¥300 ($3) per child, 1-2 hours
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Nishiki Market: Shopper-dependent, 1-2 hours
Monday, October 23: Kyoto Imperial Palace and Ginkaku-ji

Start the day by visiting the Kyoto Imperial Palace, the former residence of the imperial family. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about Japan's rich history. Afterward, head to Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), a Zen temple surrounded by stunning gardens. Take a scenic walk along the Philosopher's Path, a picturesque canal lined with cherry trees. In the afternoon, visit the Nijo Castle and admire its architectural beauty. Conclude your trip with a traditional tea ceremony experience.

  • Kyoto Imperial Palace: Free (reservation required), 2-3 hours
  • Ginkaku-ji: Approx. ¥500 ($5) per adult, ¥300 ($3) per child, 1-2 hours
  • Philosopher's Path: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Nijo Castle: Approx. ¥1,000 ($9) per adult, ¥350 ($3) per child, 2-3 hours
  • Tea Ceremony Experience: Approx. ¥2,000-3,500 ($18-32) per person, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum in Tokyo. This open-air museum showcases traditional Japanese buildings from the Edo period, allowing visitors to step back in time. Another hidden gem is the Toei Kyoto Studio Park in Kyoto, where you can explore the sets of historical dramas and even dress up in samurai or geisha costumes. These attractions offer unique insights into Japan's culture and history, perfect for families seeking a memorable experience.

Don't forget to check KAYAK for the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Tokyo and Kyoto!

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