15-Day Family Japan Itinerary Exploring Pop Culture, History, and Cuisine from Tokyo to Osaka

Day 1: Tokyo Traditional & Sumo

Tokyo, Japan on July 31, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Ryogoku Edo Noren

Start your day with a traditional Japanese breakfast featuring fresh fish and tamago at Edo Noren, located near your hotel in Ryogoku Station. It's a great spot to experience local flavors.
JPY1500, 1h

10:15am

Sumo Museum and Ryogoku Sumo District Walk

Explore the Sumo Museum to learn about Japan's national sport through exhibits and memorabilia, then walk around Ryogoku to see sumo stables, sumo-themed shops, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum nearby for cultural context.
JPY0 - free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Chanko Tomoegata

Enjoy a hot and hearty chanko nabe, the traditional sumo stew, at this cozy local restaurant favored by sumo wrestlers.
JPY2500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Akihabara Electric Town

Delve into Tokyo’s pop culture and technology hub Akihabara, browsing anime shops, video game arcades, and stores specializing in Dragon Ball, Pokemon, and Evangelion memorabilia.
Free entry, shopping varies, 3h

5:30pm

Dinner at Gundam Café Akihabara

Dine at the Gundam Café for a unique themed experience featuring Gundam-inspired dishes and drinks, perfect for anime and pop culture enthusiasts.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 2: Anime & History Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on August 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Daiichi Ryogoku

Enjoy a traditional Japanese-Western breakfast buffet served at the hotel before a busy day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

TeamLab Planets TOKYO

Experience the immersive digital art installations featuring giant interactive projections and light shows, combining technology with creativity.
JPY3200, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Nabezo Shinjuku - Shabu Shabu and Sukiyaki

Savor high-quality Japanese hot pot dishes in a restaurant known for fresh ingredients and friendly service.
JPY3000, 1h

1:30pm

Ghibli Museum (Advance tickets required)

Explore the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli’s animations showcasing models, short films, and detailed exhibits. Book tickets in advance as entry is limited.
JPY1000, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Odaiba and Miraikan Museum

Head to Odaiba to visit the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan) to explore Japan’s technological advances and interactive exhibits perfect for all ages.
JPY620, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at DiverCity Plaza Food Court

Choose from diverse Japanese and international cuisines with views of the full-scale Gundam statue.
JPY1500-2500, 1h
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Day 3: Historical & Tech Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan on August 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast in the hotel dining area.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple

Explore Tokyo's oldest temple and the surrounding historic Nakamise shopping street featuring traditional snacks and souvenirs.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Daikokuya Tempura

Taste Tokyo’s famous tempura bowls, a specialty of this longstanding restaurant near Senso-ji.
JPY1800, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Pokemon Center DX & Pokemon Cafe

Head to Nihonbashi’s Pokemon Center DX, one of the largest flagship stores, for exclusive merchandise, and enjoy themed treats at the Pokemon Cafe.
Cafe dishes around JPY2000-3000, 2h

3:30pm

Explore Akihabara Retro Video Game Shops

Back to Akihabara to hunt for retro video games and anime collectibles perfect for all ages interested in gaming history.
Free browsing; purchases vary, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Tonkatsu Maisen Aoyama Honten

Enjoy premium tonkatsu (breaded pork cutlets) in an elegant setting, a beloved Tokyo staple.
JPY2500, 1h
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Day 4: Tokyo to Kyoto

Tokyo to Kyoto, Japan on August 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Check-out

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and prepare for your train trip to Kyoto.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Shinkansen to Kyoto

Take the bullet train from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station, a 2h20m ride, offering comfort and speed.
JPY14000 per person (one way), 2h20m

11:00am

Check-in at Hotel Emion Kyoto

Drop off your luggage and freshen up before sightseeing.
Included, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nishiki Market

Enjoy a wide variety of local Kyoto specialties and street food in this lively traditional market corridor.
JPY1500-2500, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Explore this iconic UNESCO World Heritage temple featuring panoramic views over Kyoto and beautiful historic architecture.
JPY400, 2h

4:00pm

Walk through Gion District

Stroll through Kyoto’s famous geisha district with traditional teahouses and historic streetscapes.
Free, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at Gion Kappa Restaurant

Experience a cozy eatery offering authentic Kyoto kaiseki and local dishes with vegetarian options.
JPY3500, 1.5h
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Day 5: Kyoto History & Culture

Kyoto, Japan on August 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a Japanese-style breakfast buffet at Hotel Emion Kyoto.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Visit the famous shrine famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates; a must-see for history and cultural enthusiasts.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Inari Sushi Koji

Try popular Kyoto-style inari sushi and traditional set meals near Fushimi Inari.
JPY1500, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Kyoto Railway Museum

Explore interactive exhibits detailing Japan's rail history, perfect for tech and history lovers of all ages.
JPY1200, 2h

3:30pm

Nijo Castle

Explore this historic castle with impressive architecture, gardens, and Samurai era history.
JPY1000, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Pontocho Alley

Dine in one of the atmospheric restaurants along Pontocho Alley offering Kyoto cuisine and river views.
JPY3500-5000, 1.5h
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Day 6: Kyoto Tech & Pop Culture

Kyoto, Japan on August 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with hotel breakfast.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Kyoto International Manga Museum

Dive into Japanese manga culture at this extensive museum showcasing thousands of manga from all eras and genres including anime inspirations.
JPY800, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Cafe Bibliotic Hello!

Enjoy a creative fusion meal in a quirky, book-filled cafe specializing in local Kyoto ingredients.
JPY1500, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Kyoto Tower

Visit the observation deck for panoramic city views and check out the digital exhibits exploring Kyoto’s tech innovations.
JPY770, 1.5h

3:00pm

Explore Nishiki Market for Anime Snacks & Souvenirs

Shop for unique anime-themed treats and souvenirs referencing Pokemon and other popular franchises.
Free browsing, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Kyoto Gogyo Ramen

Try the famous burnt miso ramen for a unique Kyoto culinary experience.
JPY1300, 1h
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Day 7: Kyoto Nature & Food

Kyoto, Japan on August 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast

Buffet breakfast at hotel.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Monkey Park

Walk through the stunning bamboo grove and visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park for great views and wildlife interaction.
Monkey park entrance JPY550, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Saga Tofu Ine

Enjoy traditional Kyoto-style tofu dishes near Arashiyama.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Tenryu-ji Temple

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage temple with stunning gardens overlooking the river, peaceful and culturally rich.
JPY500, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Kyoto Onsen or Hotel Spa

Unwind from busy days by soaking in a traditional Japanese onsen or hotel spa facility!
JPY1000-1500, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Nishiki Warai

Savor Kyoto-style okonomiyaki and other casual comfort foods in a lively setting.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 8: Kyoto to Osaka

Kyoto to Osaka, Japan on August 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Check-out

Have breakfast at hotel and prepare for travel to Osaka.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train to Osaka

Take a short 30-min train ride from Kyoto to Osaka, enjoying the scenic Kansai region.
JPY600, 30m

9:30am

Check-in at Rihga Hotel Osaka Vignette Collection

Relax and drop luggage before exploring downtown Osaka.
Included, 30m

10:30am

Visit Osaka Castle

Tour the historic castle with interactive exhibits on samurai history and city views from the top floor.
JPY600, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kuromon Ichiba Market

Taste fresh seafood, grilled delicacies, and street snacks at Osaka’s vibrant market.
JPY2000, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Nipponbashi Den Den Town

Osaka’s answer to Akihabara, filled with anime/gaming stores specializing in Dragon Ball, Pokemon, and more.
Free browsing, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Dotonbori Street

Experience famous Osaka street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki under bright neon lights.
JPY2500, 1.5h
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Day 9: Osaka History & Shopping

Osaka, Japan on August 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy hotel breakfast buffet.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Osaka Museum of History

Learn about Osaka from ancient times to modern day with multi-level exhibitions and panoramic views of the castle.
JPY600, 1.5h

11:00am

Namba Yasaka Shrine

See this unique lion-head shaped shrine with an impressive cultural atmosphere.
Free, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Kushikatsu Daruma

Try the famous Osaka kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers) at this local institution.
JPY1800, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping in Shinsaibashi

Explore Osaka’s premier shopping street filled with boutiques, anime shops, and eateries.
Free browsing, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Umeda Sky Building

Go up to the Floating Garden Observatory for spectacular city views and great photo opportunities.
JPY1500, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Harukoma Sushi

Enjoy fresh and affordable sushi at one of Osaka’s beloved conveyor belt sushi restaurants.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 10: Osaka Technology & Anime

Osaka, Japan on August 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Buffet breakfast at hotel to fuel the day.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Osaka Science Museum

A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits perfect for tech and science enthusiasts.
JPY400, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Ichiran Ramen Umeda

Enjoy a customizable solo ramen dining experience famous throughout Japan.
JPY1000, 1h

12:30pm

Visit Pokémon Center Osaka

Shop for Pokemon merchandise with exclusive items, photo spots, and themed environments.
Free entry, 1.5h

2:30pm

Explore Nipponbashi Manga & Anime Shops

Return to Den Den Town to explore even more stores and unique finds and arcades.
Free browsing, 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at Okonomiyaki Chitose

Try various regional styles of okonomiyaki in this casual, local favorite spot.
JPY1800, 1h
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Day 11: Osaka Culture & Leisure

Osaka, Japan on August 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a diverse breakfast buffet.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Visit one of Japan's oldest shrines known for unique architecture and tranquil gardens.
Free, 1.5h

11:30am

Lunch at Tsurutontan Udon Noodle Brasserie

Relish inventive and beautifully presented udon dishes in a stylish setting.
JPY2000, 1h

1:00pm

Amerikamura (America Village) Shopping

Explore this youth culture hotspot for quirky shops, trendy cafes, and street art.
Free browsing, 2h

3:30pm

Relax at Spa World

Spend the afternoon enjoying the large themed hot spring baths and relaxation areas connected to your hotel area.
JPY1300, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Matsusakagyu Yakiniku M

Treat the family to premium Matsusaka beef yakiniku, a luxurious local delicacy.
JPY6000, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Osaka to Tokyo

Osaka to Tokyo, Japan on August 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Check-out

Enjoy an early breakfast and pack to travel back to Tokyo.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Shinkansen to Tokyo

Return to Tokyo via bullet train with a comfortable and fast ride.
JPY14000, 2h20m

11:00am

Check-in Hotel Sunroute Shinjuku

Settle into your final hotel stay in the dynamic Shinjuku area.
Included, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Omoide Yokocho

Experience local Shinjuku alleyway dining with small stalls serving yakitori and drinks.
JPY2000, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Relax in one of Tokyo’s most beautiful parks blending Japanese and French garden styles.
JPY500, 2h

4:00pm

Explore Anime & Game Shops in Shinjuku

Shop for last-minute anime, gaming goods, and Dragon Ball or Evangelion collectibles in shops like Animate and Mandarake.
Free browsing, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Torikizoku Shinjuku

Casual yakitori dining with affordable prices, popular among locals.
JPY2000, 1h
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Day 13: Departure Day

Tokyo, Japan on August 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a light breakfast at the hotel.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Pack and Check-out

Prepare for airport transfer and final shopping if time allows.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Airport Transfer to Narita/Haneda International Airport

Depart Tokyo for your flight home, concluding your rich cultural and pop culture Japan trip.
JPY3000-4000 approx, 1h
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