Best Things to Do in Japan with Kids
1. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea
Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea are must-visit attractions for families. Tokyo Disneyland offers a classic Disney experience with beloved characters, parades, and themed rides, while DisneySea provides a unique blend of aquatic-themed adventures and thrilling rides. Both parks are designed to cater to all ages, making them perfect for family fun.
2. Ueno Zoo
Located in Tokyo, Ueno Zoo is Japan’s oldest zoo, home to a wide variety of animals, including giant pandas, tigers, and elephants. The zoo is well-organized with educational exhibits that are both entertaining and informative for children. There is also a monorail that kids will love to ride.
3. Legoland Japan
In Nagoya, Legoland Japan is a theme park where children can explore life-sized Lego models, ride Lego-themed attractions, and even create their own Lego masterpieces. The park is particularly suited for younger children, with many interactive exhibits that encourage creativity and play.
4. Ghibli Museum
For fans of Studio Ghibli, the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is a magical experience. The museum showcases the art and animation of Hayao Miyazaki’s films, with exhibits that include life-sized models, short films, and hands-on activities. Kids can explore the Catbus room or watch exclusive Studio Ghibli short films that are not available elsewhere.
5. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. Kids will be fascinated by the massive tanks filled with marine life, including whale sharks, rays, and jellyfish. The interactive exhibits and the touch pool where kids can feel starfish and small sharks are particular highlights.
6. Nara Deer Park
In Nara, Nara Deer Park offers a unique opportunity to interact with friendly deer that roam freely throughout the park. These deer are considered sacred and are accustomed to humans, allowing children to feed them special deer crackers that can be purchased on-site. The park also houses several historical sites, including the Todai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
7. Fuji-Q Highland
For families with older children, Fuji-Q Highland near Mount Fuji is an exhilarating theme park known for its record-breaking roller coasters and other thrill rides. The park also features more family-friendly attractions, such as the Thomas Land area, which is perfect for younger kids who love Thomas the Tank Engine.
8. Tokyo Toy Museum
The Tokyo Toy Museum in Shinjuku is a hidden gem where children can engage in various toy-themed activities. The museum offers a mix of traditional Japanese toys and modern playthings, with numerous interactive areas where kids can play and learn. It’s a hands-on museum that encourages creativity and discovery.
9. Hiroshima Children’s Museum
The Hiroshima Children’s Museum is both an educational and entertaining experience. The museum features interactive exhibits on science and space, with hands-on activities designed to stimulate curiosity and learning. The outdoor playground and planetarium are also great additions, making it a well-rounded destination for families.
10. Hakone Open-Air Museum
In Hakone, the Hakone Open-Air Museum combines art and nature in a way that is engaging for children. The museum features sculptures and installations set against the backdrop of Hakone’s beautiful landscapes. Kids can explore the interactive exhibits, including a labyrinth, and enjoy the foot bath filled with warm hot spring water.
11. KidZania Tokyo
KidZania Tokyo in Odaiba is an interactive city made for children, where they can try out different jobs and roles in a mini-world designed just for them. It’s an educational and fun experience that allows kids to understand the adult world through role-playing as firefighters, doctors, pilots, and more.
12. Nikko Edomura (Edo Wonderland)
Travel back in time at Nikko Edomura, also known as Edo Wonderland, where kids can experience life in the Edo period of Japan. The park features ninja shows, samurai training, and traditional Japanese games. Kids can even dress up in historical costumes and participate in interactive activities that make history come alive.
13. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
Located in Kyoto, Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is a fun place where kids can see monkeys up close in their natural habitat. The park offers a short hike to the top, where visitors are rewarded with stunning views of Kyoto and the opportunity to feed the monkeys.
14. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
In Okinawa, the Churaumi Aquarium is a highlight for any family trip. The aquarium is famous for its massive Kuroshio Tank, which houses whale sharks, manta rays, and an array of other marine life. The interactive exhibits, including a touch pool and a dolphin show, are particularly popular with children.
15. Tokyo Dome City
Tokyo Dome City offers a wide range of attractions, including an amusement park with rides suitable for all ages, a planetarium, and a spa. The Tokyo Dome hosts various sports events and concerts, making it a lively destination for families. The area also has numerous restaurants and shops catering to different tastes.
16. Miyajima Island
For a more cultural experience, visit Miyajima Island near Hiroshima. The island is famous for the floating Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Kids will enjoy the scenic boat ride to the island and the chance to explore the island’s temples, feed the friendly deer, and try local snacks like grilled oysters.
17. Robot Restaurant
While the Robot Restaurant in Tokyo’s Shinjuku district may not sound like a typical family attraction, older kids and teenagers will likely be fascinated by its high-energy, neon-lit performances featuring robots, dancers, and music. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that’s uniquely Japanese.
18. Sapporo Snow Festival
If visiting Japan in winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido is a magical experience. The festival features massive snow and ice sculptures, many of which are interactive and themed around popular characters and events. Kids can also enjoy snow slides, snowball fights, and other winter activities.
19. Kyoto Railway Museum
For train enthusiasts, the Kyoto Railway Museum offers an extensive collection of trains, from steam locomotives to modern bullet trains. The museum features interactive exhibits where kids can operate train simulators and learn about the history of Japan’s railway system.
20. Fushimi Inari Taisha
Finally, a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto offers both cultural enrichment and a bit of adventure. The famous path of torii gates provides a scenic hike that is manageable for children and offers a sense of exploration as they make their way up the mountain.
Japan offers an endless array of experiences that cater to families with children. From theme parks and interactive museums to cultural sites and natural wonders, there’s something for every family to enjoy. These activities not only entertain but also provide educational value, making a family trip to Japan both fun and enriching.
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