11-Day Family Friendly Rail Journey Through Japan

Day 1: Arriving In Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

9:00AM

Breakfast at Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your adventure with a delicious sushi breakfast at one of the market's many eateries, renowned for the freshest seafood.
Take the Yamanote Line to Tsukiji Station.
JPY200, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Asakusa & Senso-ji Temple

Stroll through the historic streets of Asakusa and visit the famous Senso-ji Temple, where kids can partake in the fortune-telling tradition.
Take the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line from Tsukiji to Asakusa.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Asakusa Menchi

Savor delicious Japanese croquettes at this local eatery, a favorite among families.
Walking distance within Asakusa area.
JPY800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Odaiba Day Trip

Head to Odaiba, a futuristic island, to visit teamLab Borderless or the LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
Take the Yurikamome Line from Shimbashi to Odaiba-kaihinkoen Station.
JPY1200, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Acedia Gyudon

Enjoy a hearty beef bowl for dinner as a great way to end your first day.
Take the Yurikamome Line back to Shimbashi and transfer to Yamanote Line.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Starbucks Shibuya

Fuel up with coffee and pastries at this popular location that overlooks the famous Shibuya Crossing.
Take the Yamanote Line to Shibuya Station.
JPY800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue

Experience the bustle of Shibuya Crossing, the busiest pedestrian intersection in the world, and visit the statue of the loyal dog Hachiko.
Walking distance from Starbucks.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Meiji Shrine

Discover the tranquility of Meiji Shrine, nestled in a forested area, which offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle.
Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Genki Sushi

Enjoy a unique sushi experience where plates come via a conveyor belt - fun for the whole family!
Walk to Genki Sushi in the Harajuku area.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Ueno Park & Zoo

Head to Ueno Park, where the family can visit Ueno Zoo and explore the beautiful park surrounds.
Take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno Station.
JPY600 (Zoo Fee), 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tofuya Ukai

Indulge in a vegetarian dining experience set in a charming traditional Japanese building.
Take the metro back to the city center.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Hakone

Hakone, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at your hotel before heading to Hakone.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shinkansen to Hakone

The family will board the Shinkansen for a scenic ride toward Hakone, known for its hot springs and Mt. Fuji views.
Walk to Tokyo Station and board the Shinkansen.
JPY6000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hakone Yumoto Station

Grab a quick lunch at a station bento shop to experience traditional Japanese boxed meals.
At Hakone Yumoto Station.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hakone Open Air Museum

Visit this unique museum featuring sculptures and art installations amidst beautiful nature.
Take the Hakone Tozan Railway from Hakone Yumoto to Chokoku-no-Mori Station.
JPY1600, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax in an Onsen

Experience the famous Japanese hot springs at your ryokan’s onsen – a must-do for relaxation!
Return to your ryokan (booking in advance is recommended).
Included with ryokan stay, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Your Ryokan

Enjoy an exquisite multi-course kaiseki dinner prepared with seasonal ingredients.
Within your ryokan.
Included with ryokan stay, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Day in Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ryokan

Indulge in a traditional Japanese breakfast at your ryokan before heading to Kyoto.
Walking distance within your ryokan.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen

Take the fast and efficient Shinkansen to Kyoto, enjoy the views en route.
Depart from Hakone to Kyoto Station.
JPY12000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Taste local delicacies from numerous stalls lining the market, great for families to sample various treats.
Walk to Nishiki Market from Kyoto Station.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

Visit the stunning Golden Pavilion surrounded by serene gardens, a favorite photo spot.
Take the bus from Nishiki Market to Kinkaku-ji.
JPY400, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Wander through the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a must-see natural wonder.
Take the train from Kinkaku-ji back to Arashiyama Station using the JR line.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kyo-Kaiseki Yuzu

Dine on a beautiful multi-course dinner that combines traditional Kyoto flavors with seasonal ingredients.
Return to a nearby restaurant in Arashiyama.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Discover Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast that includes Japanese and Western options at your hotel.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

Visit the iconic shrine with thousands of vermillion torii gates, a fun, scenic hike for the family.
Take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafeteria Nara

Grab a quick and delicious lunch popular among locals and tourists alike.
Nearby the shrine.
JPY1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Nijo Castle

Explore the historic Nijo Castle, where the kids can enjoy the unique architecture and beautiful gardens.
Return to Kyoto City via bus or taxi.
JPY600, 2 hours

4:00PM

Kyoto Tower

Finish your day with a breathtaking view of Kyoto from Kyoto Tower, offering spectacular photo opportunities.
Walk from Nijo Castle to Kyoto Tower.
JPY800, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ippudo Ramen

Savor a bowl of famous tonkotsu ramen that kids and adults alike will love.
Take a short taxi ride to the restaurant.
JPY1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Osaka Adventures

Osaka, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy an energizing breakfast buffet at your Kyoto hotel.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Osaka

Board the JR Train to Osaka; the short, quick ride makes it easy for families.
Walk to Kyoto Station.
JPY560, 15 minutes

10:00AM

Universal Studios Japan

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Universal Studios Japan, packed with attractions that cater to families.
Transfer to Universal City Station from Osaka Station.
JPY8000 (Entry Fee), 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner Inside Universal Studios

Choose from various themed dining options within the park for a convenient meal.
Available within the park.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely ride back to your hotel after an exciting day.
Take the train back to your hotel.
JPY560, 30 minutes
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Day 7: Travel to Hiroshima

Hiroshima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for travel.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shinkansen to Hiroshima

Take the Shinkansen towards Hiroshima, where history and culture await!
Depart from Osaka Station.
JPY15000, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Okonomiyaki Village

Taste the famous Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, a delicious savory pancake!
Walk to nearby Okonomiyaki Village.
JPY1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

Visit the memorial park to educate the family on the importance of peace and world unity.
A short walk from the lunch location.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Hiroshima Castle

Explore the reconstructed Hiroshima Castle and its surrounding gardens, a perfect spot for family photos.
25-minute walk from the Peace Memorial Park.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nagataya

Indulge in another round of Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at this well-reviewed local restaurant.
Walk from Hiroshima Castle.
JPY1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Day Trip to Miyajima

Miyajima, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Miyajima.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ferry to Miyajima

Take the ferry from Hiroshima to Miyajima, enjoying the scenic sea view.
Ferry terminal is a short walk away.
JPY1800 (Round Trip), 30 minutes

10:30AM

Visit Itsukushima Shrine

Admire the iconic floating torii gate at Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
JPY300, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Try fresh grilled oysters at one of the many local restaurants on the island.
Near the shrine grounds.
JPY2000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hike Mount Misen

Spend the afternoon hiking Mount Misen, where incredible views await at the summit.
Walking to the trail starting point.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return Ferry to Hiroshima

Catch the ferry back to Hiroshima, reminiscing about the day’s adventures.
Ferry terminal near where you landed.
Included in round trip, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Kettle Kitchen

Unwind with a casual dinner featuring sushi rolls and ramen before calling it a day.
Short walk from the hotel.
JPY2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Day Trip to Okayama

Okayama, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at your hotel before departing for Okayama.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shinkansen to Okayama

Board the Shinkansen to Okayama for a quick trip to another beautiful area of Japan.
Departing from Hiroshima Station.
JPY5000, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Okayama Korakuen Garden

Walk through one of Japan's most beautiful landscape gardens, a peaceful spot for families.
Short walk from Okayama Station.
JPY400, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a Local Cafeteria

Have a delightful lunch featuring local Okayama specialties at a nearby cafeteria.
Nearby the garden.
JPY1000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Okayama Castle

Explore the majestic Okayama Castle and its museum, where kids can learn while having fun.
Walk from the garden to the castle.
JPY600, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Hiroshima

Board the Shinkansen back to Hiroshima for a relaxed evening.
Departing from Okayama Station.
JPY5000, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at a Local Izakaya

Experience a casual dining atmosphere with diverse menu options to please the whole family.
Walk from your hotel.
JPY2000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Day Trip to Nara

Nara, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast at the hotel before heading out.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Nara

Take the JR Yamatoji Line to Nara, a lovely day trip destination known for deer parks and ancient temples.
Walking from hotel to Nara Station.
JPY600, 45 minutes

10:30AM

Nara Park

Visit Nara Park, where families can interact with the freely roaming deer, a delightful experience!
Walk from Nara Station.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Nakatanido

Try the famous mochi pounded fresh in front of you at this local shop.
Short walk in the park.
JPY500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Todai-ji Temple

Explore the impressive Todai-ji Temple, home to immense Buddha statues; the kids will be amazed!
A pleasant walk from Nara Park.
JPY600, 2 hours

4:00PM

Isuien Garden

Stroll through this lovely Japanese garden, a perfect spot for family photos and relaxing.
Walk from Todai-ji Temple.
JPY800, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kura Sushi

Enjoy a fun sushi experience with a conveyor belt and a variety of choices for the whole family.
Walking distance back to Nara Station.
JPY1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Return to Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a final breakfast with the family before departing for Tokyo.
Walking distance within your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Ride back to Tokyo on the Shinkansen while reflecting on all the lovely memories made during the trip.
Departing from Nara Station.
JPY6000, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Akihabara

Dive into the colorful streets of Akihabara, known for its electronics and otaku culture.
Take the Tokyo Metro from Tokyo Station.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at CoCo Ichibanya

Enjoy the famous Japanese curry in your favorite combination before wrapping up your trip.
Walking distance from Akihabara.
JPY1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Take a stroll in Shinjuku Gyoen, a beautiful garden perfect for winding down after a busy trip.
Take the Tokyo Metro to Shinjuku Station.
JPY500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Gonpachi Shibuya

Celebrate your incredible trip with a final dinner at this famous izakaya, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Take the Tokyo Metro back to Shibuya.
JPY3000, 2 hours
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