Famous Japanese Landmarks for Kids
1. Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower is one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Resembling the Eiffel Tower in Paris, this red and white structure stands tall at 333 meters. It’s not just a great place to take pictures – kids will love visiting the observation decks to enjoy a bird's-eye view of Tokyo. There’s also a fun, interactive museum inside the tower that showcases the history of the tower and offers activities for kids to learn about Japan's modern development.
Interesting Fact:
Tokyo Tower was built in 1958 and is still used today as a broadcasting tower. It's slightly taller than the Eiffel Tower, which stands at 330 meters!
Kid Tip:
Make sure to visit the Foot Town at the base of the tower, which has a variety of souvenir shops and an aquarium that younger children might enjoy.
2. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain at 3,776 meters, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Japan. For families with older kids who love outdoor activities, climbing Mount Fuji can be a thrilling adventure. But even if climbing isn't an option, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the mountain from afar. The Fuji Five Lakes region offers scenic views of the mountain and lots of activities such as boat rides, fishing, and even amusement parks.
Interesting Fact:
Mount Fuji is actually a dormant volcano that last erupted in 1707.
Kid Tip:
The nearby Fuji-Q Highland amusement park has rides with views of Mount Fuji and attractions like the "Thomas Land," which is perfect for younger children.
3. Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is famous for its thousands of bright red torii gates that create a magical pathway up the mountain. The walk through these gates is an exciting adventure for kids, who can imagine they are traveling through a mystical tunnel. Along the way, there are small shrines and fox statues, which represent the messengers of the shrine’s deity, Inari.
Interesting Fact:
The Fushimi Inari Shrine has over 10,000 torii gates, all donated by individuals or businesses as offerings.
Kid Tip:
Look for the fox statues, which often have small offerings of food or money. You can also buy a fox-shaped ema (wooden plaque) to make your own wish.
4. Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s most famous castles and has a long history dating back to the 16th century. Kids will enjoy exploring the castle grounds, which are filled with large stone walls, moats, and beautiful gardens. Inside the castle is a museum that displays samurai armor, swords, and other historical artifacts. The top floor of the castle offers a great panoramic view of Osaka.
Interesting Fact:
The castle was originally built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Japan's most famous historical figures, but has been rebuilt several times due to wars and natural disasters.
Kid Tip:
The castle park is a great place to have a picnic, and during cherry blossom season, it’s one of the best spots in Japan to see sakura flowers.
5. Himeji Castle
Often called the "White Heron Castle" because of its elegant, white appearance, Himeji Castle is one of the best-preserved samurai castles in Japan. Its large, complex design makes it feel like a giant maze, which kids will love exploring. The castle has secret rooms, hidden stairways, and even traps that were used to protect against invaders.
Interesting Fact:
Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has never been destroyed by war, earthquakes, or fire – making it one of the few original castles in Japan.
Kid Tip:
The castle grounds are huge, so take your time exploring the gardens and ponds around the castle after your visit inside.
6. Nara Park
Nara Park is famous for its friendly deer, which roam freely around the park. Kids will have a blast feeding and interacting with the deer, who are very accustomed to visitors. The park is also home to Todai-ji Temple, which houses the Great Buddha – one of the largest bronze statues of Buddha in the world.
Interesting Fact:
The deer in Nara are considered sacred and are believed to be messengers of the gods according to local tradition.
Kid Tip:
You can buy special deer crackers (shika senbei) to feed the deer, but be careful – the deer can get very excited and follow you around!
7. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
Located in the tropical region of Okinawa, the Churaumi Aquarium is one of the largest and most impressive aquariums in the world. It’s home to whale sharks, manta rays, and hundreds of other sea creatures. The huge Kuroshio Tank is a highlight, where kids can watch the massive whale sharks swim gracefully by.
Interesting Fact:
The Churaumi Aquarium’s Kuroshio Tank is one of the largest in the world, holding 7,500 cubic meters of water!
Kid Tip:
There are interactive exhibits where kids can touch starfish and other small sea creatures, making the visit even more hands-on and fun.
8. Legoland Japan
For kids who love Lego, a visit to Legoland Japan in Nagoya is a must. This theme park is full of rides, shows, and attractions all built around Lego bricks. There’s even a Lego model of famous Japanese landmarks like Mount Fuji and Tokyo Tower, which kids can admire.
Interesting Fact:
Legoland Japan has over 40 rides and attractions spread out over different themed areas such as Pirate Shores, Adventure, and Miniland.
Kid Tip:
Make sure to visit the Build and Test area where kids can create their own Lego vehicles and race them against others.
9. Miyajima Island
Miyajima Island, located near Hiroshima, is known for its floating torii gate that seems to rise out of the water during high tide. The island is a peaceful place with beautiful temples, walking trails, and more of the friendly deer that kids love to interact with. Taking a short ferry ride to the island is also a fun experience for younger children.
Interesting Fact:
The torii gate belongs to Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and has been standing in the water for over 800 years.
Kid Tip:
Kids will enjoy taking a ride on the ropeway up Mount Misen for stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea.
10. Odaiba
Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay, known for its futuristic attractions and entertainment. Kids will love visiting the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, where they can interact with immersive light displays and moving artworks. There’s also a life-size Gundam robot outside the DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, which is sure to impress fans of robots and anime.
Interesting Fact:
The life-sized Gundam statue stands at 18 meters tall and even moves at certain times of the day!
Kid Tip:
Don’t miss the Toyosu Market nearby, where families can see Japan's famous fish auctions and try fresh sushi.
11. Hokkaido's Shirogane Blue Pond
The Shirogane Blue Pond, located in Hokkaido, is a magical sight that seems straight out of a fairy tale. The water in the pond is a vibrant shade of blue due to natural minerals in the water. Kids will be fascinated by the otherworldly colors and reflections created by the water and surrounding trees.
Interesting Fact:
The pond gets its blue color from aluminum hydroxide particles that reflect blue light.
Kid Tip:
The pond is most beautiful in the early morning when the sunlight hits the water at the perfect angle, creating stunning reflections.
Conclusion
Exploring Japan's famous landmarks is an unforgettable experience for kids and families. From historical castles and shrines to modern attractions and natural wonders, there’s no shortage of exciting places to visit. Each of these landmarks offers unique activities and learning opportunities that will leave children with lasting memories of Japan’s rich culture and beauty.
Top Comments
No Comments Yet