![[global] Japan Kid-Friendly Itinerary Blog Cover](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/q_85/c_fill,w_1360/v1730430369/jhffwcljditmuftnxgff.jpg)
The best Japan family itinerary when traveling with kids
If you’re thinking of traveling to Japan with your kids, you might feel overwhelmed with all the planning you have to do. There are probably also dozens of questions going through your mind, especially if you have younger children.
As a mom who has been living in Japan for fifteen years, I get it. I’ve been there, which is why I’ve created this Japan itinerary that will hopefully please the entire family and help make your trip to Japan a memorable one. I’ll also share essential information to address important questions you might have about traveling in Japan with kids, especially when it comes to babies and toddlers.
Photo courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
This family-friendly itinerary covers the Golden Route — Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, which are must-visit cities for first-timers to Japan. Since these cities are used to tourists and are among the largest cities in Japan, you can feel assured that you’ll be able to travel comfortably with your family while enjoying the country’s highlights.
What to Know Before You Visit Japan
1. Get an eSIM
One of the best things about traveling in Japan right now is how much your smartphone will help you during your trip. Trust me, I first visited (and then lived in) Japan before smartphones were a thing and I am so envious of first-time travelers now! Everything you need to navigate and enjoy Japan is right in the palm of your hands.
So to be able to use your smartphone, you’ll need to buy an eSIM. It should be 5 GB at minimum if you use WiFi in your accommodation and refrain from watching videos. If you have a kiddo who may need entertainment via your smartphone, you’ll want to invest in more data.
2. Use Trusted Travel Companies Like Klook
I also recommend utilizing trusted and established travel companies such as Klook. Booking attractions and hotels through Klook can give you huge savings, especially when you use their promo codes or book during sales. For instance, you can use the discount code TINYTOTINTOKYO to get up to $10 off any purchase that’s $50 or more!
Klook’s website is also multilingual and allows users to pay using their own local currency and payment methods.You can get credits as well for certain bookings, which you can use towards saving money on other activities.
For those who aren’t familiar with Klook, they were originally a startup that was established in 2014. They’ve grown exponentially and now offer a variety of great experiences throughout Asia. If you’re wondering if they’re legit, I’ve personally used passes through Klook and I had zero problems. Everything was very smooth!
Scan your QR Code on your Klook App to enter the JR Station and board your Shinkansen directly!
Klook also has an app so everything you book will be in one place, which is quite convenient. As a parent, the last thing I want to be doing is fumbling about in my email trying to find where I booked things while my kid is in the midst of a meltdown for some reason, especially when I’m already at the destination and waiting in line!
Prior to booking a Japan experience through Klook, I recommend carefully reading information such as what’s included, the terms and conditions, and usage.
3. Be Ready for Immigration Procedures at the Airport
Before you arrive in Japan, complete the arrival and immigration procedures on Visit Japan Web, which will save you a ton of time once you land. Make sure you have your QR Code, which you’ll receive after filling out the form, ready as well at the airport!
4. Try Not to Travel During Rush Hour
Rush hour in Japan, typically on weekdays from around 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, is very busy when it comes to public transportation. This is not a time when you want to take the train with kids, so try to avoid it as much as possible!
5. Use Google Maps and Google Translate
Google Maps is so helpful when it comes to planning your trip and traveling throughout Japan. I use it all the time to find interesting things around me and top-rated restaurants nearby.
Google Translate is another indispensable app, allowing you to instantly translate anything in Japanese, such as restaurant menus and signs, to the language of your choice.
Okay, now that’s all out of the way, let’s get into your family Japan trip!
Two-Week Japan Family Itinerary
Tokyo
Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, is undoubtedly every traveler’s stop on their trip to Japan. And it absolutely should be — there is no shortage of things to do here, including plenty of activities for the entire family.
Make sure to purchase a Tokyo Subway Ticket, which will allow you up to 72 hours to travel in the city on the Tokyo Metro and Toei subway lines.
During your time in Tokyo, I recommend staying at one of the following family-friendly hotels:
All three are in excellent locations and have rental cribs. Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo and JR KYUSHU HOTEL Blossom Shinjuku also offer children’s amenities such as slippers and a toothbrush.
Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo, Japan
Land in Tokyo, either at Narita International Airport (NRT) or Haneda International Airport (HND). Note that Narita is located in Chiba Prefecture and is further from the center of Tokyo than Haneda.
You can either take a bus or airport train to your accommodation or arrange a private airport transfer. Popular public transport options from Narita Airport include the Keisei Skyliner and the Narita Express NEX.
You'll get your own designated seat in the Narita Express Ordinary Car.
Klook also offers a Keisei Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket combo at a cheaper price. The Tokyo Subway Ticket gives you unlimited travel on Tokyo’s subway lines (Metro and Toei) for up to 72 hours, depending on the ticket duration you get.
For private transport, there are a number of options from Haneda Airport and Narita Airport. Best of all, you can choose to include a child booster seat or car seat. (Taxis in Japan usually don’t have car seats since they are not required by law to provide them, so private transport is the safer option.)
I don’t recommend planning any activities that require advance booking on your first day in Japan, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Instead, take the opportunity to look around the neighborhood of your hotel.
Day 2: Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya
Explore some of the most popular areas in Tokyo through the eyes of a local.
Explore the heart of Tokyo — Shibuya
As someone who lived in Tokyo for seven years before moving to Osaka, I can tell you that Shinjuku, Harajuku, and Shibuya are quite overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. This is why I recommend joining a walking tour for the most stress-free experience on your first full day in Japan. This walking tour led by a Tokyo local will take your family to all the highlights in these areas, such Meiji Jingu Shrine, Harajuku, and Shibuya Scramble.
Best of all, children ages five and under are free!
Want something more customizable? Consider this tour that includes lunch and dinner. The tour guide can also show you how to use the metro system and answer any other questions you have, which will be very helpful for the rest of your trip.
After your tour, consider visiting Shibuya Sky for the ultimate 360° night view of Tokyo. Tickets sell out quickly so make sure you purchase them in advance!
Day 3: teamLab Borderless and Tokyo Tower
Morning
teamLab Borderless, located in Azabudai Hills, is an immersive art experience where you can enjoy stunning and interactive three-dimensional artwork. Kids will be enthralled and feel like they’re visiting different universes as they explore each room’s wonders. It’s also a great place to take amazing photos of your family.
Like with many popular Tokyo attractions, I recommend getting your tickets in advance. Schedule your visit for first thing in the morning so you and your family have plenty of time to enjoy the museum. teamLab Borderless is also one of the attractions you can choose from if you purchase the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo. Children ages three and under are free.
Afternoon
After exploring teamLab Borderless, walk over Tokyo Tower, which is less than 10 minutes away. Tokyo Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in Tokyo and shouldn’t be missed. At 150 meters tall, it not only offers a great view of Tokyo but also has plenty of places to eat and shop.
If you have time, visit Roppongi Hills as well for some shopping. Kids can burn off some energy at Sakurazaka Park (Roborobo-En), which is especially beautiful in spring since it’s surrounded by cherry blossom trees. Also, make sure to stop by Mohri Garden to take photos and enjoy a Japanese garden in the city.
Roppongi Hills also has services for parents including free stroller rentals, a free playroom for kids ages 0-6 in HILLSIDE B2F, a nursing room, restrooms for kids, and a childcare center where staff can take care of your child(ren) by the hour.
Day 4: Asakusa and TOKYO SKYTREE
Morning
Head to Asakusa to see Tokyo’s famous Kaminarimon and Senso-ji Temple. The earlier you can get there, the better as it will become increasingly crowded throughout the day. Before you go, consider renting kimono for the whole family and doing a private photoshoot for the most memorable photos.
If you have younger children, they might enjoy playing at Bentenyama Children’s Park, a small playground located about a two-minute walk from Senso-ji Temple.
Afternoon
Take the train to Oshiage to visit TOKYO SKYTREE, which is located in Tokyo Skytree Town. It stands at an impressive 634 meters, making it the tallest building in Japan. With your kids, try to find all the places you’ve visited so far in Tokyo. And if the weather is on your side, you’ll be able to see Mount Fuji!
After taking in the view, explore the shops and restaurants in Tokyo Solamachi, which include a Pokemon Center and an official shop for Ghibli merchandise called Donguri Kyowakoku.
Make sure not to forget to stop by Sumida Aquarium. Here kids can enjoy looking at a variety of sea life from Japan and around the world, including penguins and a very impressive jellyfish tank. The aquarium is somewhat small but it’s unique and quite beautiful (not to mention convenient!).
Days 5 & 6: Tokyo Disney
Even if you’re not a Disney fan, no trip to Tokyo would be complete without visiting Tokyo Disney Resort Parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, which are arguably among the most popular theme parks in Japan. They’ve put their own unique Japanese spin on things, so it’s unlike any experience you’ll have back home, especially when it comes to Tokyo DisneySea.
My daughter is a huge fan of Tokyo Disney so we try to go as much as possible, especially since they have seasonal events such as Halloween and Christmas.
The best time to visit Tokyo Disney is on weekdays, especially between Tuesday to Thursday, since weekends are especially congested. I also think it’s a good idea to stay at a hotel close to the Tokyo Disney Resort Parks since Tokyo Disney is not actually in Tokyo but in Chiba Prefecture. I recommend the Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel, which has an indoor playground and mini-golf for kids.
For more information on visiting Tokyo Disney with kids, read these articles:
Not a fan of Disney or theme parks? Then consider booking some other attractions using the Klook Pass Greater Tokyo. Depending on the combinations and whether you apply a discount code, you can save significantly using this pass. Or you can work with a tour guide to create a private custom tour of Tokyo sights you’d like to see!
Day 7: Mount Fuji and Hakone Day Trip
Mount Fuji, a symbol of Japan, is located a few hours west of Tokyo and is a perfect place to visit on a day trip. Consider booking a private tour that will take you not only to Mount Fuji from your hotel in Tokyo but also to other famous locations in the area including Lake Kawaguchiko, Oshino Hakkai, Chureito Pagoda Shinto Shrine, and Saikyo Iyashi no Sato Nemba.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, there are group tours available as well.
Kyoto
Japan’s cultural capital (and former capital), Kyoto is home to many important shrines and temples that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s unlike any other city in Japan, making it a popular destination for both locals and international tourists.
If Kyoto sounds like something you’re unsure whether your kids will like, you might be pleasantly surprised.
My daughter, age five, has absolutely loved Kyoto ever since she first visited at 1.5 years old. I'm positive kids will enjoy exploring family-friendly places the former capital has to offer.
For Kyoto, I recommend getting the Klook Pass Kansai, which will allow you to choose up to nine attractions in the Kansai region (Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe). This pass gives serious savings when used for the right attractions. I’ve personally used this pass and loved the convenience of having everything in one place. It was also very easy to use and I had no issues with it. I honestly wish I had known about it earlier because I had visited lots of Kyoto attractions with my daughter but without the pass!
If you have a child under the age of 6, I don’t recommend getting the Klook Pass Kansai for them because their admission fee for various attractions in Kansai is either free or very cheap so there’s no need for it.
In Kyoto, I recommend staying at Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto, which offers amenities for kids such as yukata, toothbrushes, slippers and pajamas, and bed guards. You can also rent toys and a crib if needed.
Other family-friendly hotels in Kyoto that have amenities for children and are in great locations include Soraniwa Terrace Kyoto, Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station, and Kyoto Century Hotel.
If you’re looking to experience staying at a traditional Japanese inn (ryokan), consider Kyoto Watazen Ryokan. This child-friendly ryokan in Kyoto welcomes kids of all ages and offers childrens meals, kid-sized yukata, as well as rental goods such as step stools and booster seats.
Day 8: Visit Kyoto Aquarium, Kyoto Railway Museum, and Kyoto Tower
Morning
Travel to Kyoto from Tokyo via Shinkansen first thing in the morning. (I don’t think the JR Pass is necessary for this itinerary, so buy a one-way ticket.)
Before you leave, consider using Yamato Transport’s delivery service to send your luggage from your hotel in Tokyo to Kyoto. This way you’ll have a lot less to carry, which is honestly what every parent wants.
![[usxanz] tokyo to kyoto bullet train](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_550,h_356/v1730180273/zkdbfktdonwb6dtct8gr.jpg)
If you haven’t delivered your luggage to your Kyoto hotel, stop by your hotel to drop off your luggage or use one of the lockers at Kyoto Station before going to Kyoto Aquarium. This aquarium features marine life local to Kyoto as well as other creatures from around the world, including penguins and seals.
Afternoon
From Kyoto Aquarium, walk to the Kyoto Railway Museum. This museum has plenty of interactive displays for kids to learn about Japan’s trains, as well as displays of real trains. Kids can ride a steam locomotive, play in a small park in the museum, or play indoors with Plarail toy trains. Even if your child is a little older, they’ll likely enjoy this museum. Even as an adult, I found it fun!
Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto Aquarium are located in Umekoji Park, so if you have time, consider taking a stroll to see the rest of the park. It has some lovely gardens as well as an amazing Kyoto-themed playground for kids.
Photo courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
For a wonderful end to your first day in Kyoto, visit Kyoto Tower. Try to reach there around sunset for the best view. For dinner, check out the food court in the basement of Kyoto Tower Sando. There’s something for everyone!
Kyoto Aquarium, Kyoto Railway Museum, and Kyoto Tower are all attractions you can choose from if you purchase the Klook Pass Kansai.
Day 9: Fushimi Inari, Kiyomizudera, Golden Pavilion, and Arashiyama
Kyoto typically involves lots of walking, and buses to popular tourist destinations in the city can be quite crowded, which isn’t ideal for young families (especially if you have a stroller). This is why, as a parent, I recommend taking the least stressful route and booking a day tour of the most famous shrines and temples in Kyoto led by a National Government Licensed English Guide Interpreter.
Kiyomizudera Temple in winter. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
This is a great option if you’re limited on time and want to see Kyoto highlights without having to take public transport and walk (especially in summer when it’s quite hot and humid). Children ages five and under are also free unless they require a seat on the tour bus. Best of all, the tour is stroller-friendly!
The tour covers Nijo Castle, Kiyomizudera, and the Golden Pavillion Temple (Kinkakuji), all UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as Fushimi Inari, which has about 10,000 vermillion tori gates, Sanjusangen-do Temple and Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Want a private and customizable tour? Consider this walking tour led by a Kyoto local who will show you family-friendly places in Kyoto according to your needs. Children age 12 and under are free! Before your tour, you can also rent kimono for the whole family to get the full Kyoto experience.
Day 10: TOEI Kyoto Studio Park and Arashiyama
Morning
TOEI Kyoto Studio Park. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
Visit TOEI Kyoto Studio Park, the perfect place for kids to discover Edo Japan while taking in modern anime culture. My daughter absolutely loves this place, especially if I rent a ninja costume for her and let her run wild through the park. There are lots of kid-friendly fun activities for the entire family to do and a huge 15-meter-tall Evangelion that you can go inside as well!
I suggest having lunch at TOEI Kyoto Studio Park because restaurants at your next stop, Arashiyama, tend to be quite crowded and you’ll likely have to wait for a seat.
Afternoon
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
Ride a bus to Arashiyama, an area tucked into the mountains that offers beautiful river and bamboo views. I suggest taking the bus straight to Arashiyama Park and then walking to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama. Here kids will be able to see Japanese macaque, or Japanese snow monkeys, up close. The hike up takes about 20 minutes. Note that there are many stairs so I don’t recommend bringing a stroller unless you’re okay with carrying it.
After this, visit Fu Fu No Yu Onsen for a nice soak for about 30 minutes to an hour before crossing the famous Togetsukyo Bridge and heading to Tenryuji Temple. This World Heritage Site is the most famous and important temple in Arashiyama and has a very lovely, serene garden. From here, you can walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest before going to Saga-Arashiyama Station.
Tour Arashiyama on a rickshaw
Arashiyama can be quite crowded so you may want to consider touring the area by rickshaw. Children ages 0-5 are free as long as they sit on the lap of a guardian.
And if you haven’t had a kimono experience yet, this would be the perfect time to rent a kimono and take family photos. Note that the kimono must be returned by 5 PM, so I recommend skipping the onsen and doing this before going to Tenryuji Temple.
You can either travel to Osaka in the evening or stay one more night in Kyoto. Your kids might be tired so it might be best to stay in Kyoto.
Osaka
Known as “Japan’s kitchen”, Osaka is famous for its food culture. Before my daughter was born, I usually spent most of my trips to Osaka eating local food like okonomiyaki and kushikatsu. However, after moving to Osaka from Tokyo with a young child, I soon discovered how many things there are to do in Osaka, especially with kids. One of the best parts is that Osaka far less crowded than Tokyo.
For your visit to Osaka, I highly recommend getting a 2-Day Osaka Amazing Pass. This pass covers most train lines and buses in Osaka as well as so many attractions, so you will absolutely save money by using it. Unlike the Klook Kansai Pass, you can visit as many attractions as you want over a one or two-day period using the Osaka Amazing Pass. I’ve used the two-day pass and it’s truly amazing!
Note that there is no pass for kids, so you’ll have to purchase an adult pass. Depending on the age of your child and the attractions you want to visit, it may not be worth it to get them a pass as well.
Photo credit: APARTMENT HOTEL MIMARU on Facebook
In terms of accommodation, I recommend staying at Hotel Gravia Osaka, which has amenities for kids and rental cribs. Hotel Hankyu RESPIRE OSAKA is another great option, which has many rental items for children including strollers, pajamas, a baby bath, potty rings, and toys. They also have amenities for kids and diapers.
For kids who like Pokemon, they might enjoy staying in a Pokemon-themed room at MIMARU Osaka Namba North. This spacious room also has a kitchenette, making it perfect for long stays.
Day 11: LEGOLAND, Osaka Aquarium, and Tsutenkaku
Morning
JR West Hello Kitty-themed Haruka Express
Getting from Kyoto to Osaka is relatively easy. You don't need to splurge on the Shinkansen to get from Kyoto to Osaka. Take the Hello Kitty-themed JR Haruka Express instead for some nice photo opportunities!
While you'll be tempted to start exploring Osaka right away, I recommend stopping by your hotel first to leave your luggage or use the Yamato’s luggage delivery service.
Venture to Osakako Station to visit some of the most kid-friendly attractions in Osaka. First, check out LEGOLAND Discovery Center Osaka, which has rides, LEGO movies, and of course, plenty of LEGO for kids to play with. Entrance is covered under the Osaka Amazing Pass but only on certain days and you need to make a reservation in advance.
Legoland Osaka. Photo Courtest of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
Have lunch at either LEGOLAND or one of the many restaurants at Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho in Tempozan Harbor Village.
Afternoon
No trip to Osaka is complete without visiting Osaka Aquarium, which houses various aquatic creatures from the Pacific Rim, including whale sharks.
When your kids have had their fill of watching marine life, consider using the Osaka Amazing Pass to ride on the nearby Cruise Ship Santa Maria and Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel. The ferris wheel is especially nice during sunset.
On board the Cruise Ship Santa Maria. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
In the evening, head to Tsutenkaku, an iconic tower in Osaka where you can see a beautiful view of the city. Entrance to the tower is included in the Osaka Amazing Pass. If you have older kids who are at least 120 cm tall, they might enjoy going down the Tower Slider, which is a 60 meter-long slide that runs from the third floor of Tsutenkaku all the way down to the basement. This attraction is also included in the Osaka Amazing Pass, but only on weekdays.
View from Tsutenkaku Tower. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
Tsutenkaku is located in Shinsekai where there are lots of restaurants serving iconic Osaka food, such as kushikatsu, so make sure to have dinner here! There are a lot of highly rated kushikatsu restaurants here but I recommend visiting Kushikatsu Daruma if you haven’t been.
Day 12: Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Team Labs
Morning and Early Afternoon
Exploring the Osaka Castle. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
Travel to Osaka Castle, which is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. Try to get there by 9:30 AM so you can get tickets for the Osaka-jo Gozabune Boat. This boat ride is also included in the Osaka Amazing Pass but you still need to get a ticket using the pass. You can choose what time you want to ride the boat around the castle but I recommend doing it as early as possible so you don’t have to walk back.
From here, walk up to Osaka Castle. The entrance fee to the castle is also covered under the Osaka Amazing Pass but even if you don’t use the pass, make sure you buy your tickets online because the line to purchase tickets is usually very long.
There’s lots for kids to see throughout the castle and at the top, you can enjoy a nice view of Osaka. When you’re done, visit the Kaiyodo Figure Museum Miraiza Osaka-jo, where you can see various figures of popular anime characters, animals, and Japanese monsters like Godzilla. It’s small but definitely worth visiting if you have the Osaka Amazing Pass since you’ll get in for free!
Before leaving the castle grounds, don’t forget to visit Hokoku Shrine!
In terms of lunch, you can buy something from LAWSON and have a picnic on the castle grounds. I have a guide to kid-friendly convenience store food in Japan so make sure to check it out! There are also some restaurants near Osakajokoen Station.
Late Afternoon
In the afternoon, you have two options.
Option 1: You can either spend some time shopping and exploring Shinsaibashi before heading to Dotonbori, one of the most famous districts in Osaka known for its flashy and unique signs and food. Here you can take a boat ride along the river, which is covered under the Osaka Amazing Pass, and enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Sail through Dotonbori on the Wonder Cruise. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
Option 2: If you’re considering purchasing the Klook Pass Kansai, you can visit teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka, which is one of the attractions you can choose from. If your kids are anything like mine, they will love exploring the colorful interactive exhibits.
Depending on the time of year, teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka doesn’t open until around 6-6:30 PM, so until then, you can take a stroll around Nagai Park. Admission to Nagai Botanical Park and the Osaka Museum of Natural History are included in the Osaka Amazing Pass, so you may want to use it to visit those as well.
teamLab Botanical Garden. Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
Day 13: Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
Universal Studios Japan is probably the most popular theme park in western Japan and is bound to be a hit with kids of all ages. If your kids know this is a stop on their Japan trip, they will probably be bouncing in anticipation.
To make the most of your visit, I suggest arriving early because the gates tend to open 15-20 minutes before the official opening time. To help make your visit smoother, buy your passes in advance from Klook. I also recommend getting Universal Express Passes if you want to skip lines for select rides and guarantee entry into Super Nintendo World.
For more helpful advice and tips on visiting Universal Studios Japan with kids, read these articles:
Day 14: Prepare for your trip home
You can either fly out of Kansai International Airport or take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo from Shin-Osaka Station if you’re flying from Narita or Haneda. I recommend staying another night in Tokyo if you’re flying out of Narita International Airport or Haneda International Airport just in case there’s some trouble with the Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka and it’s delayed, because the last thing you want is to miss your flight!
Recommended child-friendly hotels near Narita International Airport:
Recommended child-friendly hotels near Haneda International Airport:
FAQ About Japan Travel with Kids
Where can I buy diapers, formula milk, and other supplies for babies and toddlers?
The best places to find diapers, formula, baby food, and other essential supplies for kids are Don Quijote and children’s stores such as Nishimatsuya, Akachan Honpo, and Babies R Us, which are located throughout Japan. I’ve written in detail about these stores on my blog so feel free to check it out.
Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
You can also sometimes find diapers and other supplies at major drugstores in Japan such as Matsumoto Kiyoshi. I suggest visiting standalone stores because the ones in stations will likely not carry anything for children. If you need any help, ask a staff member at your accommodation and they will gladly lend a hand.
For more information on baby and toddler supplies in Japan, here are some helpful articles:
Should I bring a stroller to Japan?
This is a tough question! There are many factors to consider when using a stroller in Japan. For instance, train stations might not have an elevator or there may be a long line to use it, especially in Tokyo. Shrines and temples might also have lots of stairs, so you’ll need to leave your stroller at the bottom or carry it.
I don’t think there’s any harm in bringing a stroller, and if you don’t find it useful, you can always leave it at your hotel. There are stroller rental services in Japan as well, which I share in my article on strollers in Japan.
Should I rent a car?
If you’re traveling within Tokyo, I don’t recommend renting a car. For the itinerary in this article, a car is not necessary.
However, if you want to rent a car in Japan, Klook offers car rental services.
For information on driving in Japan with kids, read this article.
Where can I nurse and change diapers in Japan?
Photo Courtesy of Tiny Tot in Tokyo
One thing that impressed me when I had a baby in Japan was the abundance of Baby Rooms, which can be found in shopping malls and sometimes at train stations. These are places where you can change your child’s diaper, get hot water for their formula, and breastfeed in private.
For more information, read my article on baby rooms in Japan.
Do children travel for free on trains?
Children ages six and under travel for free on local trains in Japan.
For the Shinkansen (bullet train), you’ll need to buy them a children’s ticket if they are occupying a seat.
Do children stay for free in hotels?
Children ages five and under who are sharing a bed with a parent can generally stay for free at hotels. However, this may vary depending on the hotel. For instance, some hotels will allow children up to age 18 to stay for free if bed-sharing. You may also incur an additional charge if kids need meals such as breakfast.
About Kay A.
Kay A. is a Canadian freelance writer and occasional voice actor who has been living in Japan for more than a decade. She also writes about her experiences parenting and traveling with kids in Japan on her website, Tiny Tot In Tokyo.
