8-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Kyoto and Osaka

Day 1: Explore Kyoto's Culture

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at % Arabica

Begin your family adventure with a delicious cup of coffee and some fresh pastries at the famous % Arabica, known for its stunning views.
Walk for 15 minutes to your next location.
JPY2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Admire the spectacular Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens where kids can roam and play.
Take bus #101 from the café.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Enjoy soba noodles with a view of the tranquil Katsura River for a family-friendly lunch experience with local flavors.
Travel via bus to Arashiyama, approximately 30 minutes.
JPY3500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Take a stroll through the mesmerizing bamboo forest, where kids can run and explore the winding paths.
Walk to the Bamboo Grove from the restaurant, around 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Monkey Park Iwatayama

Hike up to see wild monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto, perfect for a mini family adventure.
Walk back to the park entrance, about 10 minutes.
JPY600 (age 4 and up), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Yudofu Sagano

Finish your day with a traditional tofu dinner in a cozy atmosphere, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
Take the bus back to the city center.
JPY3000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historic Temples and Gardens

Kyoto, Japan

8:30AM

Breakfast at Ichinen

Start your day with a delightful Japanese breakfast, including fresh fish and rice, located near Nijo Castle.
Short walk from your accommodation.
JPY1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nijo Castle

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with beautiful gardens and historical architecture.
Walk to Nijo Castle, 5 minutes away.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Stroll in Kyoto Imperial Palace Park

Let the kids play in the large open spaces of the park and appreciate the tranquility of the palace grounds.
Walk to the park, about 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Kyotofu Fujino

Enjoy a healthy, family-friendly lunch specializing in tofu dishes to replenish your energy.
Walk 15 minutes to the restaurant.
JPY2600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Visit this iconic wooden temple and enjoy the impressive views over Kyoto’s skyline and the chance to shop for local crafts.
Take bus #206 from the restaurant.
JPY400, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Wander Through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka

Stroll through charming historical streets, making sure to take lots of family photos at picturesque moments along the way.
Walk down from the temple.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ramen Sen no Kaze

Indulge in rich bowls of ramen that children will love, with a variety of toppings to choose from.
Take a bus or short taxi ride back into the city.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Family Day at Theme Parks

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at McDonald's

Keep it simple and familiar with a breakfast stop at McDonald's to fuel up before a day of fun.
Walk to McDonald's, which is nearby.
JPY1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Head to Universal Studios Japan

Travel to Osaka for a thrilling day at Universal Studios with rides and attractions suitable for the whole family.
Take the JR line from Kyoto Station to Osaka, about 15 minutes.
JPY8000 (entry fee), All day

12:30PM

Lunch Inside Universal Studios

Grab a family meal at the park, with various options such as burgers, sushi, or pizza.
Within the park.
JPY3500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Hard Rock Cafe

Wrap up your exciting adventure with a lively dinner at Hard Rock, ideal for families and kids.
Located inside Universal Studios Japan.
JPY4500, 2 hours

7:30PM

Return to Kyoto

Head back after an incredible day of fun.
Take the JR line back to Kyoto.
Included in previous JR fee, 15 minutes
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Day 4: Nature and Art

Kyoto, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Cervin

Savor a European-style breakfast with delicious pastries and coffee to start your day.
Take a short bus ride or walk, around 20 minutes.
JPY1600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Kyoto National Museum

Explore captivating exhibits that introduce Japan's vast history through art and artifacts perfect for kids.
Take a bus to the museum.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tokyo Katsu Kiyota

Relish delicious katsu dishes that are sure to please the whole family!
Walk to the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
JPY2700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Let the kids roam and connect with nature through various plants and flowers; a perfect spot for a picnic.
Take bus #204 to the gardens.
JPY200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Philosopher's Path

Take a leisurely walk along this beautiful cherry tree-lined canal, filled with small shops and cafes.
Walk from the Botanical Gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sushiro

Enjoy delicious, quick sushi at this family-friendly chain restaurant, allowing for everyone to pick their favorite.
Bus back to the city center.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Culinary and Cultural Delights

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Dotonbori Street

Start your exploration with delicious street food breakfast options like takoyaki or okonomiyaki.
Take the JR train from Kyoto to Osaka.
JPY4500 (average for family), 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Dotonbori Waterway Cruise

Enjoy a delightful boat cruise through Osaka's famous river, taking in colorful sights and sounds.
Short walk to the river dock.
JPY2000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kiji (Okonomiyaki)

Dine at a famous okonomiyaki restaurant, where the food is cooked right in front of you, engaging for kids!
Walk from the dock, about 10 minutes.
JPY3000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Explore one of the largest and most spectacular aquariums in the world, featuring diverse marine life for your family to marvel at.
Take the subway to Osaka Aquarium, around 30 minutes.
JPY2500 (age 4 and up), 2 hours

4:30PM

Osaka Castle Park

Take a stroll through the beautiful park surrounding Osaka Castle, where kids can play and have fun.
Take subway back towards the city center, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Uo Ta Fish Market

Savor delicious seafood and sushi at this local favorite, bringing joy to both kids and adults.
Take subway to the restaurant.
JPY3500, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Fun in the City

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Kuromon Ichiba Market

sample Japanese street foods and fresh seafood at this vibrant market, perfect for adventurous eaters in your family.
Walk to the market, which is nearby.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Osaka Tenmangu Shrine

Visit this historic shrine, where the children can learn about Shinto practices and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Take the subway, 20 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle

Savor traditional udon noodles prepared fresh, inviting even the kids to try new flavors.
Short walk away.
JPY2500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Osaka Science Museum

Explore interactive exhibits that are engaging and educational, offering fun learning experiences for kids.
Take subway, about 20 minutes.
JPY1000, 2 hours

3:30PM

Nakanoshima Park

Enjoy some outdoor time in Nakanoshima Park, with opportunities for picnicking and relaxing.
Walk to the park, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Matsusaka Yakiniku M, Sennichimae

Enjoy a grilling experience with delicious cuts of beef that can be customized to each family's taste.
Walk to the restaurant, about 20 minutes.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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Day 7: Adventures Beyond the City

Osaka, Japan

8:30AM

Breakfast at Ikari Sushi

Start your day with a refreshing sushi breakfast that satisfies both young and older taste buds.
Walk to the sushi shop, about 15 minutes.
JPY2000, 1 hour

10:00AM

Day Trip to Nara Park

Travel to Nara to see friendly free-roaming deer in their natural habitat, making for great family photos.
Take the JR line from Osaka to Nara, about 45 minutes.
JPY800 (round trip), All day

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Nara Park

Pack some on-the-go lunches to enjoy a peaceful picnic with the deer around you.
Find a nice spot in the park.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Witness the extraordinary Great Buddha statue inside one of Japan's most famous temples.
Walk to the temple within Nara.
JPY600 (age 6 and up), 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore Naramachi

Wander through the beautifully preserved historic district filled with merchant houses and traditional shops.
Short walk from the temple.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Katsu Nara

Enjoy delicious katsu meals suitable for all ages to wrap up your day in the charming city of Nara.
Take the train back to Osaka afterward.
JPY2700, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Final Day in Osaka

Osaka, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Asahiya

Embrace the final day with a hearty Japanese breakfast including grilled fish and miso soup, providing a nutritious start.
Walk to Asahiya, which is nearby.
JPY1500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Shopping at Shinsaibashi

Enjoy a day of shopping and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of one of Osaka's most famous shopping streets.
Take the subway to Shinsaibashi.
Free (shopping costs vary), 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Matsusaka Gyukyo

Dig into authentic Matsusaka beef at this restaurant known for its rich flavor, perfect for indulging on your last day.
Walk to the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
JPY5000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Osaka Museum of History

Spend your afternoon exploring Osaka's engaging history through interactive displays, enjoyable for all ages.
Walk back to the museum, about 15 minutes.
JPY600, 2 hours

4:30PM

Last-minute Snacking at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Take time to sample last-minute delights at this vibrant market before shipping out, from sweet treats to savory bites.
Head back by subway.
JPY2000 (varies), 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Matsusaka Yakiniku

Conclude your unforgettable journey in Japan with a flavorful farewell dinner at this highly recommended yakiniku spot.
Take the subway back to the restaurant.
JPY5000, 2 hours
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