Japan with Kids

Japan as a Family Travel DestinationJapan is great for families with children. The country is safe and clean, the infrastructure is efficient, and children are naturally welcomed in restaurants and on transport. The most pleasant travel times for families are spring and autumn; summer is hot and humid.Experiences for ChildrenTheme Parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, and Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, are the most famous parks. They are heavily visited on weekends and during school holidays.Museums: The Ghibli Museum in Mitaka near Tokyo features the world of Studio Ghibli films; admission with a pre-booked dated ticket only. Railway museums like the SCMaglev and Railway Park in Nagoya or the Kyoto Railway Museum, as well as interactive science museums, are also popular.Animals and Nature: The Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan is one of Japan's largest aquariums. In Nara, hundreds of tame Sika deer roam the park freely, and city parks often have large playgrounds.Shinkansen: Even a ride on the high-speed train is an experience for many children.Practical TipsDiapers and Baby Food: Find them in drugstores, supermarkets, and many Konbini (convenience stores).Changing Rooms: Department stores, large stations, and malls have well-equipped changing and nursing rooms; changing facilities are marked by “Omutsu-gae” or a baby symbol.Medical Care: Medical care is excellent. Get travel health insurance and note down addresses of English-speaking pediatricians at your destinations.Train Travel: With JR, children under 6 years travel free with a paying adult (without their own seat), children aged 6 to 11 pay half price.Accommodation and FoodAccommodation: Hotel rooms in cities are often small; ask specifically for family rooms. In Ryokan, you sleep on futons on tatami mats – practical as extra beds can simply be added. However, some Ryokan do not accept young children. Holiday apartments offer more space and a kitchen.Eating Out: Family restaurants and chains often have children's menus and high chairs. Udon, Omurice (omelette on rice), Japanese curry, and Onigiri are generally popular with most children.Getting Around with ChildrenStrollers: City stations usually have elevators, but trains are very crowded during rush hour. A light, foldable buggy is more practical than a large stroller; a baby carrier helps at temples and shrines with many steps.Car Seats: For children under 6 years, a car seat is mandatory. Book in advance with the car rental company. Taxis generally do not have child seats.