Japan is a popular destination at the moment, it has been since the Covid restrictions were lifted. There’s a reason for that too – it has something for everyone including the littlest one in your traveling party. Japan has always been our favourite travel destination. From our days as just a couple to now traveling with our 4-year-old daughter. Here are our top 5 reasons why it remains one of our favourite family holiday destinations and why it should be your next family adventure:
1. Rich Cultural Experiences
We originally traveled to Japan to watch Sumo. Yes, you read right, Sumo. My husband loves it and has religiously followed the sport since finishing high school. When asked what he loved so much about it, it was the history, the traditions and the display of class and culture that originally drew him in.
He loved it so much, that we waited inline from 4am – 8am outside Ryogoku Kokugikan (sumo hall or arena) to secure tickets to the Tokyo honbasho (tournament). I was 6-months pregnant at the time, but it was an awesome experience. We met a local bachan (granny) who insisted on sharing stories about the local area (lot’s of hand gestures and guessing, I wish I could speak Japanese). She even insisted on taking our photos with the local sumo nobori (flags), top tier experience.
We had fun in the line and after catching a couple hours of sleep after our early start, we headed back to the kokugikan to watch all the action. Snacks + Drinks are available and it’s a great days entertainment.
It’s no secret that Japan is a country steeped in tradition and culture. While it’s super popular on social media for its sushi and ramen, Japan has a unique blend of ancient and modern attractions. Sumo is just one of them. But it’s also famous for its historic temples and bustling streets. There’s no shortage of cultural experiences within walking distance, no matter where in Japan you’re based. Depending on what you’re into you can participate in traditional tea ceremonies, visit ancient UNESCO protected shrines and even enjoy local festivals that are hundreds of years old.
If you’re interested in checking out cultural and historical experiences, then Kyoto is a great city to be based in or nearby. Kyoto has plenty to offer from the beautiful Golden Palace (Kinkaku-ji) to the Kamishichiken Kabukai, a cozy geisha performing theater. Both are kid-friendly with plenty of
exploring to be done. If you want to add some adventure to the itinerary, hire an e-bike (like we did) and explore more of this beautiful city in the fresh air. We rented our e-bikes from here – they have amazing customer service (especially for foreigners), cost approximately ¥2400 ($25nzd) for the day and have kids seats available too.
2. Delicious and Diverse Cuisine
Japanese cuisine is renowned worldwide for its flavor and variety. From local markets, ramen shops and even konbini (corner store) meals, everyone’s tastes buds will be satisfied. If you can get some time away from the kids to check out the nightlife, then traditional izakayas (small bars, often with yummy meat skewers) offer cheap drinks, cheap food and a whole lot of entertainment. If the kids are coming, try one of the great Hot Pot or BBQ restaurants. We checked out Nabezo and it was DELICIOUS. Try the Sukiyaki! It’s approx. ¥4200pp ($42nzd), with unlimited meat and access to the salad and dessert bar.
Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus (including Nabezo) and are accommodating to young diners, making it easy to find something for everyone.
If you’re looking for something quick, easy and on-the-go then make sure to checkout any of the three popular konbini (corner store) 7/11, Lawsons and Family Mart. Each have a large range of fresh made meals and sandwiches. My absolute favourite from any one of the 3 above, is of course the infamous fried chicken in pancakes. No, seriously, I had it at least once a day and at all hours of the day and night (like 2am! For Real).
3. Safe and Clean Environment
Japan is known for its cleanliness and safety, which makes it an ideal destination for families.
One good thing about Japan, is they get out and enjoy their local sites and attractions. This obviously also brings crowds. If you’re traveling with kids and hoping to visit some of the hot spot attractions just be prepared to navigate crowds (especially through Golden Week and some weekends). While traveling with our 3-year-old at the time, we weren’t too worried because crowds move and the people are generally courteous and patient. The busiest place we found was definitely Universal Studios in Osaka. We opted to buy fast passes to cut the lines and this made the crowds a lot more enjoyable. You can buy fast-passes and tickets to Universal here.
If there is one thing Japan takes more seriously than safety, it’s cleanliness and public transport.
The cleanliness and public transport helps make getting around a new country less stressful when traveling with kids. The public transportation system is efficient and easy to navigate, ensuring that even first-time visitors can travel around the country with ease. If you feel like you’re getting lost, don’t worry because the public transport system is color coded and Google Maps has it fully loaded.
4. Exciting Theme Parks and Attractions
We may have gone to Japan back in the days for sumo, but this last time around we definitely went for the theme parks. I love theme parks, the food, the rides, the attractions, the shows… you get the picture. Japan is perfect, because it’s home to some of the worlds most famous theme parks and attractions. In Tokyo you have Disneyland, Disney Sea and Sanrio Purloland (Hello Kitty land) and in Osaka, Universal Studios.
Disneyland was great for the entire family, but especially our daughter! She absolutely loved our day there, eating popcorn, trying green mochi and meeting Mickey – while I loved Universal Studios. Both parks were amazing, but Universal Studios Japan is home to Super Nintendo World and Harry Potter! If you can’t make it to Sanrio Puroland, don’t worry too much as there is a large Hello Kitty attraction inside USJ just before Sesame Street!
Each of these parks offer a wide range of attractions suitable for children of all ages, from thrilling rides to character meet-and-greets. They do require a whole days attendance, but unlike most theme parks around the world, the food and drinks are all reasonably priced and eating in them is part of the experience. I would recommend if you’re hoping to eat at one of the themed restaurants in Disneyland or Disney Sea, you book at least a couple weeks before hand (you can do this through the app – found here). You can buy discounted tickets through our link to Disneyland here.
Additionally, places like the Ghibli Museum and Legoland Japan provide unique experiences that are sure to delight the entire family (and we can’t wait to visit them on our next visit back, September this year).
5. Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Beyond its urban centers, Japan boasts stunning natural landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures. Families can enjoy hiking in the Japanese Alps, relax in hot springs (onsen), or explore beautiful beaches and coastal areas. The country’s seasonal changes offer unique experiences year-round, from cherry blossom viewing in spring to skiing in winter.
We decided after 3 weeks on the mainland to spend a week in Okinawa. It was the perfect place to soak up the sun and beaches. After exploring through city streets, it was a welcome change and it felt very surreal. While the mainland can go from sakura blossoms (cherry) to snowy capped mountains, Okinawa offers up crystal clear turquoise waters and a jungle like landscape. We stayed at the Oriental Hotel and Resort with it’s 6 pools and spent most of the day exploring the island before coming back and lounging at the poolside. It was a great way to end our month long adventure through the land of the rising sun.
Conclusion
Japan is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for families. Its rich culture, delectable cuisine, safe environment, exciting attractions, and natural beauty make it a perfect choice for your next family adventure. Whether you’re exploring ancient temples, indulging in local delicacies, or enjoying the thrills of a theme park, Japan offers something special for every traveler. If you need 10 more reasons why Japan should be your next adventure, then check out my other blog post here.
We love heading to Japan for a family holiday and hope you enjoy your adventure there too. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send them to nicola@prettyfarfromhome.com, otherwise until next time,
Nic x