18-Day Family Adventure in Japan: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto & Nara Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Shibuya

Tokyo, Japan on May 11, 2025

3:00pm

Check-in at Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu

Settle into a centrally located hotel ideal for exploring Tokyo’s vibrant Shibuya district.
JPY20000, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Shibuya Crossing & Hachiko Statue

Experience the world-famous bustling Shibuya Crossing and visit the iconic statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Uobei Shibuya Dogenzaka

Enjoy a fun conveyor belt sushi experience, perfect for kids and adults alike, featuring fresh and affordable sushi.
JPY1500, 1h

Day 2: Shrines & Shinjuku

Tokyo, Japan on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tsukiji Kiyomura Sushi Zanmai Higashi

Start your day with fresh and delicious sushi breakfast close to your hotel.
JPY1800, 1h

9:30am

Visit Meiji Shrine

Explore the peaceful and majestic Meiji Shrine, a significant Shinto shrine surrounded by forest.
Free, 1.5h

11:30am

Walk through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Relax in this spacious, beautifully landscaped garden ideal for kids to run around.
JPY500, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Menya Musashi Shinjuku

Experience renowned Tokyo ramen that is hearty and kid friendly.
JPY1200, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Shinjuku shopping and entertainment

Visit department stores and arcades perfect for all ages.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Omoide Yokocho Yakitori Alley

Savour traditional Japanese grilled skewers in a lively atmosphere, great for trying different bites.
JPY2500, 1.5h

Day 3: Disneyland Day

Tokyo, Japan on May 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before heading to Tokyo Disneyland.
Included, 0.5h

8:30am

Full day at Tokyo Disneyland

Experience magical rides, exciting parades, and character meet-and-greets at the world-renowned Disneyland.
JPY8200 (adult), JPY5600 (child), 9h

6:00pm

Dinner inside Disneyland

Dine at iconic themed restaurants such as Grandma Sara’s Kitchen offering comfort food for the family.
JPY2000, 1h

Day 4: DisneySea Adventure

Tokyo, Japan on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with hotel breakfast before another fun Disney day.
Included, 0.5h

8:30am

Full day at DisneySea

Explore unique maritime themed attractions, shows, and rides at DisneySea, great for kids and adults.
JPY8200 (adult), JPY5600 (child), 9h

6:00pm

Dinner near hotel

Relax with dinner at Ikspiari shopping complex with family-friendly eateries offering various cuisines.
JPY2500, 1h

Day 5: Zoo & Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at nearby Cafe

Grab coffee and Japanese-style pancakes at Narutoya Ueno for a gentle start.
JPY1200, 0.75h

9:00am

Visit Ueno Zoo

See Japan’s oldest zoo, home to famous capybaras and pandas; kid favourite animals.
JPY600 (adult), Free (child under 12), 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ameyoko Market

Sample delicious street food and fresh seafood stalls in this bustling open-air market.
JPY1500, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Akihabara

Dive into anime, gaming, and electronics shopping heaven; visit kid-friendly themed cafes.
Free to browse, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Akihabara Gyukatsu Motomura

Try a delicious beef cutlet dish, quick and easy for families.
JPY2500, 1h

Day 6: Asakusa & River

Tokyo, Japan on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Kagetsudo Asakusa

Enjoy famous melonpan sweet bread, warming start to the day.
JPY500, 0.5h

9:00am

Visit Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise Street

Walk through Tokyo’s oldest temple and shop traditional snacks and souvenirs along Nakamise shopping street.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Sumida River Cruise

Take a scenic 40-minute ferry cruise from Asakusa to Hamarikyu Gardens for unique city views.
JPY1200 (adult), JPY600 (child), 40m

12:30pm

Lunch at Hamarikyu Garden Teahouse

Enjoy matcha and traditional sweets with garden views.
JPY1200, 1h

2:00pm

Afternoon free - hotel check-in at Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo Ueno

Rest and prepare for evening plans.
Included, 1h

5:30pm

Dinner at Ise Sueyoshi

Savour seasonal Japanese kaiseki dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere near Ueno.
JPY3000, 1.5h

Day 7: Shopping & Onsen

Tokyo, Japan on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bill’s Omotesando

Try the famous ricotta hotcakes in the heart of fashionable Omotesando.
JPY2000, 1h

9:30am

Shopping at Takeshita Street, Harajuku

Explore quirky fashion boutiques, sweets shops and colourful street scenes loved by families.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Kyushu Jangara Ramens Harajuku

Enjoy rich tonkotsu ramen, a kid-friendly menu available.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Oedo Onsen Monogatari

Experience traditional hot spring baths and kid-friendly areas for a relaxing afternoon.
JPY2720 (adult), JPY1380 (child), 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Hanayashiki Amusement Park Mall Restaurants

Easy casual dining with options for kids to unwind after the onsen day.
JPY2000, 1h

Day 8: Tokyo to Osaka

Osaka, Japan on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Early breakfast before traveling to Osaka by Shinkansen.
Included, 0.5h

8:00am

Shinkansen Bullet Train Tokyo to Osaka

Enjoy a fast and comfortable 2.5-hour bullet train ride to Osaka.
JPY16600 adult, JPY8300 child, 2.5h

11:00am

Hotel check-in at Cross Hotel Osaka

Convenient accommodation close to major sights in Osaka.
JPY15000, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch near hotel - Kushikatsu Daruma

Taste Osaka’s famous deep-fried skewers in a family-friendly setting.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Osaka Castle

Explore the impressive historical castle with informative exhibits and panoramic views.
JPY600 (adult), JPY300 (child), 2h

5:00pm

Walk and explore Dotonbori

Famous for neon lights and street food, sample takoyaki and enjoy vibrant atmosphere.
Free to browse, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Dotonbori Konamon Museum

Make your own takoyaki or enjoy freshly made ones, fun for the family.
JPY2000, 1h

Day 9: Aquarium & Food Tour

Osaka, Japan on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Grab a hearty breakfast before a day out exploring marine life.
Included, 0.5h

9:00am

Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan

Visit one of the world's largest aquariums featuring a massive central tank and diverse sea creatures.
JPY2400 (adult), JPY1200 (child), 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Tempozan Marketplace

Enjoy casual dining with a variety of foods near the aquarium.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Rest or explore nearby Tempozan Ferris Wheel

Relax and enjoy panoramic views of Osaka from the giant ferris wheel.
JPY800 (adult), JPY400 (child), 1h

4:00pm

Return to hotel to refresh

Prepare for the evening food tour.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dotonbori Street Food Tour

Sample local specialties including takoyaki and okonomiyaki, guided or self-led tour through lively streets.
Approx. JPY3000, 2h

Day 10: Shopping Spree

Osaka, Japan on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up before a day of shopping in Osaka.
Included, 0.5h

9:00am

Shopping in Namba & Shinsaibashi

Explore vibrant shopping arcades with fashion, toys and souvenirs; kid-friendly stores included.
Free to browse, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Chibo Okonomiyaki

Taste Osaka’s famous savoury pancakes with various fillings, great for families.
JPY2000, 1h

2:15pm

Continue shopping or visit Namba Parks

Enjoy shopping mall with rooftop gardens for kids to relax.
Free to browse, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Dotonbori Imai Honten

Try classic udon dishes in a cozy setting close to shopping areas.
JPY1800, 1h

Day 11: Spa World Day

Osaka, Japan on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day relaxed before spa activities.
Included, 0.5h

10:00am

Spa World Osaka

Enjoy diverse themed onsen baths and pools, including kid-friendly zones to relax and play.
JPY1200 (adult), JPY600 (child), 4h

2:30pm

Lunch at Spa World Food Court

Casual dining with multiple Japanese and international food options.
JPY1500, 1h

4:00pm

Light sightseeing or rest

Explore nearby Tennoji Park or relax at the hotel.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Tsuruhashi Fugetsu Okonomiyaki

Another chance to enjoy Osaka’s beloved okonomiyaki in a casual setting.
JPY2000, 1h

Day 12: Temples & Boulevards

Osaka, Japan on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a cultural day visiting temples.
Included, 0.5h

9:00am

Visit Shitenno-ji Temple

Explore one of Japan’s oldest temples, peaceful and rich with history.
JPY300 adult, Free children, 1.5h

11:00am

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Admire traditional architecture at this popular Shinto shrine.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at local soba restaurant

Enjoy handmade soba noodles, an authentic experience for all ages.
JPY1500, 1h

2:00pm

Walk along Midosuji Boulevard

Stroll the tree-lined shopping street, especially beautiful in cherry blossom season with many cafes.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Honkogetsu Osaka

Dine on Kaiseki cuisine, offering seasonal dishes in refined atmosphere.
JPY3500, 1.5h

Day 13: Travel to Kyoto & Explore

Kyoto, Japan on May 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Eat early before taking the short train ride to Kyoto.
Included, 0.5h

8:30am

Shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto

Convenient 15-minute bullet train ride to Kyoto.
JPY1500 adult, JPY750 child, 0.25h

9:00am

Check-in at hotel near Fushimi Inari Shrine

Stay in Kyoto close to key sights for easy access all day.
JPY18000, 1h

10:30am

Walk through Fushimi Inari Shrine

Explore thousands of red torii gates in this iconic and family-friendly shrine.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Vermillion - espresso bar and info

Light meals and coffee, great for families at Fushimi Inari.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Walk under towering bamboo stalks; a serene and photogenic spot beloved by kids and adults.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Arashiyama Yoshimura

Soba noodles with views of the river, child-friendly and relaxing.
JPY2500, 1h

Day 14: Nara Day Trip

Nara, Japan on May 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fill up before day trip to Nara.
Included, 0.5h

8:30am

Train from Kyoto to Nara

45-minute train ride to historic Nara filled with parks and deer.
JPY800 adult, JPY400 child, 0.75h

9:30am

Check-in at Nara Hotel

Stay in a traditional hotel with family rooms close to Nara Park.
JPY17000, 1h

10:30am

Nara Park and Deer Feeding

Interact with friendly sacred deer roaming freely in the park – kids love this experience.
Deer crackers JPY150, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Nakatanidou mochi shop

Taste freshly pounded mochi, a favorite local treat.
JPY500, 0.5h

2:00pm

Visit Todai-ji Temple

Home to the Great Buddha, this impressive temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
JPY600 adult, JPY300 child, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Kamameshi Hompotan Nara

Family-friendly restaurant serving traditional rice pot dishes.
JPY2200, 1h

Day 15: Return to Tokyo & Ginza

Tokyo, Japan on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Rested early breakfast before traveling back to Tokyo.
Included, 0.5h

8:00am

Shinkansen Kyoto to Tokyo

Fast 2.5-hour ride back to Tokyo for last leg of trip.
JPY13000 adult, JPY6500 child, 2.5h

11:00am

Check-in at Hotel Villa Fontaine Tokyo Shiodome

Modern hotel with good access to suburbs and central Tokyo.
JPY18000, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ginza Core Cafe

Enjoy light meals with excellent people-watching opportunities in upscale Ginza.
JPY1800, 1h

2:00pm

Walk through Ginza shopping district

Explore luxury boutiques, department stores and kid-friendly toy shops.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ginza Kyubey

Sushi dinner at one of Tokyo’s best-known sushi restaurants, great for a special family meal.
JPY4000, 1.5h

Day 16: Shopping Tokyo & Harajuku

Tokyo, Japan on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Easy breakfast start near Shibuya.
Included, 0.5h

9:00am

Shopping in Harajuku & Omotesando

Visit fashionable boutiques, quirky shops and kid-friendly cafes on Takeshita and Omotesando streets.
Free, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Luke’s Lobster Harajuku

Enjoy tasty and lightweight lobster rolls, perfect for kids and adults alike.
JPY1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Cat Street for browsing

Relaxed shopping street with small boutiques, sweets shops and art galleries.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel for rest

Prepare for last evening out.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Afuri Ramen Ebisu

Try lighter yuzu ramen with child-friendly menu options in a casual setting.
JPY2000, 1h

Day 17: Last Day Shopping

Tokyo, Japan on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start last day relaxed with hotel breakfast.
Included, 0.5h

9:00am

Final shopping in Harajuku & Omotesando

Pick up any last souvenirs, trendy clothes, toys and gifts.
Free, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

Enjoy a unique café surrounded by flowers with fresh meals that kids will enjoy.
JPY1800, 1h

2:30pm

Rest at hotel and pack

Get ready for departure day with downtime.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Gonpachi Nishi-Azabu

Dinner at the restaurant that inspired Kill Bill, offering family-friendly izakaya meals.
JPY3000, 1.5h

Day 18: Departure & Souvenirs

Tokyo, Japan on May 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Last breakfast in Tokyo before travel.
Included, 0.5h

9:00am

Check-out and transfer to Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport

Stay near the airport for convenience ahead of flight.
JPY13000, 1h

10:00am

Last-minute souvenir shopping at Haneda Airport

Explore airport shops for final gifts such as Japanese snacks, toys and souvenirs.
Varied, 2h

12:30pm

Head to departure gate and fly home

End of wonderful family adventure in Japan.
Varied, Varied