Traveling to Japan with kids is an incredible experience that can be both enjoyable and educational.
From the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka to the tranquil countryside, there is something for every family to explore in this vibrant country.
With a rich cultural heritage, fabulous food, and countless attractions, Japan has something for everyone.
When planning your next family vacation, consider taking a trip to Japan with your kids.
It’s a great way to teach them important lessons about different cultures and traditions.
And, they will also have an unforgettable time exploring all that Japan has to offer.
Why Visit Japan With Kids
There are many reasons you should such as:
Safety and Cleanliness
Japan is one of the safest places in the world, and its people are also very friendly.
Even though it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, Japan is generally a very safe place to travel with children.
There aren’t many reports of crime or even small thefts among travelers.
Also, it’s very clean.
Even though there aren’t many rubbish bins (trash cans), there isn’t much rubbish on the streets.
Also, there won’t be any graffiti on the walls.
Aside from that, it is common to take your shoes off before entering a home, a temple, and even some shops and restaurants.
It is a way to keep the tatami floors clean and free of germs.
Family Amenities
Many public restrooms have toilets that are just the right size for kids.
This makes them feel much more at ease.
Even adults and older children will be interested in the bathrooms.
Japan’s toilets are very interesting.
Your kids will find them both scary and interesting because of all the buttons and gadgets on them.
Everything Is Cute In Japan
Japan makes even commonplace things attractive and amusing.
Consider their diet.
Donuts for kids often include googly eyes and faces.
Kids’ sausages are chopped and grilled to look like octopuses.
Easy to get around
When traveling with kids, it’s a huge plus if the country is well-connected and easy to get around with only public transportation.
You don’t have to worry about getting a rental car in Japan.
By train, bus, or subway, you can get almost anywhere quickly and for a low price.
Bullet trains, also called high-speed trains, connect many of the country’s bigger cities, making it easy to move quickly from one place to another.
Japan’s public transportation is also very safe and reliable.
After a day or two, you’ll be able to get the hang of it.
So now, let’s move on to places for children.
Fun Places For Kids
While it’d be impossible to cover all of them, here are some of the best places to visit in Japan with kids.
The below are in no particular order.
Sanrio Puroland, Tama
Sanrio Puroland, located in the Tama area of Tokyo, Japan, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.
This amusement park was opened in 1990 and is based on Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and My Melody.
It is an impressive indoor theme park that features a variety of interactive rides, shows, shops, and restaurants for all ages to enjoy.
The entire park has been designed to replicate a living cartoon world.
It has vivid colors, whimsical decorations, and even costumed characters walking around for visitors to interact with.
Sanrio Puroland offers an unforgettable experience for young kids due to:
- the “Puro Village,” which is home to all the Sanrio characters,
- the exciting rides such as “Kitty’s House”
- “My Melody’s Flower Garden”
There are also special seasonal events held throughout the year that turn this already amazing place into something truly magical.
Visiting Sanrio Puroland is a great way to immerse yourself in the fun and unique atmosphere of Japanese culture.
All while also creating lasting memories with your family.
Cup Noodles Museum, Yokohama
The Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama, Japan is an innovative and interactive museum.
It is dedicated to celebrating the popular, iconic instant ramen created by Momofuku Ando in 1958.
Located in Yokohama’s historic Minato Mirai district, this one-of-a-kind attraction offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history of cup noodles.
All while also experiencing fun hands-on activities.
At the museum, you can take a factory tour to explore how cup noodles are made.
You can even participate in a personalized “My Cupnoodles Factory” experience.
Here you can customize your own flavors and packaging.
The museum also features a creative lab with workshops for kids to learn more about food science.
As well as a Noodles Bazaar with over 20 countries’ different ramen flavors.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that the Cup Noodles Museum has become one of Japan’s most popular tourist destinations.
From learning about its history to customizing your own cup noodles and sampling delicious international flavors, this unique museum truly has something for everyone.
Ghibli Park in Aichi
The Ghibli Park in Aichi, Japan is an incredible experience for fans of the iconic animation studio.
Situated in Nagakute City, this expansive park is the perfect way to enjoy and explore the many wonderful stories and characters created by Studio Ghibli.
This theme park offers a unique chance to step into some of their most beloved worlds, with various attractions and installations that bring the magic of Ghibli movies to life.
Visitors can wander through recreations of scenes from movies such as:
- My Neighbor Totoro
- Spirited Away
- Kiki’s Delivery Service
- Howl’s Moving Castle, and more!
From breathtakingly detailed sets to interactive experiences like the Catbus Ride, there’s something for everyone at Ghibli Park.
However, much of the park has sets and photo opportunities.
If you are expecting rides, then you’ll be disappointed.
Still, be sure to check out all the replicas of famous landmarks from the films.
you might even spot robotic versions of some beloved characters wandering around!
Tokyo DisneySea
Tokyo DisneySea is a must-see amusement park located in Tokyo, Japan.
It’s one of the two theme parks at the Tokyo Disney Resort and is owned by The Oriental Land Company and operated by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts.
Opened in 2001, Tokyo DisneySea was the first ever nautical-themed amusement park in the world.
Now, it has gone on to become one of the most popular attractions in Japan with an estimated 13 million visitors annually.
From thrilling rides and entertainment shows to incredible dining experiences, Tokyo DisneySea offers something for everyone.
Beyond its incredible rides and attractions, what really sets Tokyo DisneySea apart from other theme parks is its unique mix of immersive storytelling.
This takes you on a magical journey every time you step into the park.
This enchanting atmosphere along with its iconic architecture makes it a truly memorable experience for visitors from around the world.
A trip to Tokyo DisneySea is sure to provide lasting memories that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo Disneyland is an iconic theme park located in Tokyo, Japan.
First opened in 1983, it has welcomed millions of visitors from all over the world since then.
This beloved destination offers a variety of attractions, shows, and dining experiences to suit every type of guest.
From spectacular parades to thrilling roller coasters, Tokyo Disneyland promises a magical experience for all who visit it.
Not only does the park offer entertainment for all, but also features beautiful gardens and themed areas.
Filled with colorful characters and fun rides featuring beloved Disney characters such as Mickey Mouse or Princess Belle, this theme park is truly one of a kind!
The sheer size of the park makes it a great option for families looking to spend an entire day exploring its many areas while experiencing unique cultural experiences along the way.
Additionally, Tokyo Disneyland is known for its exceptional customer service and attention to detail when it comes to its guests’ needs and safety.
Universal Studios Japan | USJ
The Universal Studios Japan theme park was the first of its kind to open in Asia.
The amusement park was established in the Osaka Bay Area in 2001 and is now the second-most visited theme park in Japan, behind only the Tokyo Disney Resort.
There are now 10 different parts of Universal Studios Japan.
A few of the most popular are:
- Minion Park,
- Super Nintendo World
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
I recommend spending a day in USJ if you are in Osaka.
It is convenient to get there from the city, and the expansive park offers enough to keep you occupied for the whole day.
Extra Reasons to Visit Japan With Kids
If you want to take your kids on an educational field trip, then head over to one of Japan’s many museums or art galleries.
The Tokyo National Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of Japanese art.
While the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum showcases various structures from centuries past.
Additionally, there are several animal-themed attractions like Ueno Zoo, Osaka Aquarium, and Yokohama Hakkeijima Sea Paradise, to name a few.
Perfect for showing children unique creatures, some found only in Japan!
Finally, no trip to Japan would be complete without sampling some of its traditional cuisine!
From sushi rolls and ramen noodles to okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes) and takoyaki (battered octopus balls), there’s something for everyone on this culinary adventure!
For families looking for affordable dining options, there are plenty of budget-friendly restaurants around town serving tasty Japanese dishes at reasonable prices.
Word of Warning
If you decide to travel to Japan with kids, be aware that is not as good as other countries at taking care of animals.
Oftentimes, animals are seen as entertainment, sadly.
Tosa dog fights are legal and happen in Shikoku to an audience.
And at Nikko Saru Gundan in Japan, monkeys are dressed up and put on shows for the public.
The things that monkeys do today are like circus acts of the past best forgotten in the West.
So, be careful when you see ads for things for kids and families that feature animals as a draw.
Before You Go
From historical landmarks and cultural experiences to delicious food a trip to Japan with kids is sure to be one that they won’t soon forget!
So why not start planning your next vacation today?
