10 Unforgettable Things to Enjoy with Kids in Japan
10 Unforgettable Things to Enjoy with Kids in Japan
Japan is a dream destination for many families. It’s safe, clean, full of culture, and packed with activities for all ages. From neon-lit cities to peaceful gardens, Japan blends tradition with modern fun. If you are traveling with children, you will find that the country offers more than just sightseeing – it’s an interactive learning playground.
In this guide, we explore 10 unforgettable things to do with kids in Japan that will make your trip magical. Whether your children love nature, technology, history, or cute characters, there is something here for everyone.
1. Visit Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
Tokyo Disneyland is where fairy tales come to life. Your kids can meet their favorite Disney characters, watch magical parades, and enjoy rides for all ages. Right next door is Tokyo DisneySea, a one-of-a-kind park found only in Japan. It has more adventurous rides, beautiful water-themed worlds, and incredible shows.
Why kids will love it: The parks have both gentle rides for toddlers and thrilling adventures for older children. Seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas make it even more special.
Tip: Buy tickets in advance online and arrive early to skip long lines.
2. Explore the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka
If your kids love Studio Ghibli films like My Neighbor Totoro or Spirited Away, this museum will be a wonderland. It’s filled with artwork, life-size characters, and exclusive short films.
Why kids will love it: The Cat Bus play area (for younger children) is a big hit. The museum feels like stepping inside an animated movie.
Tip: Tickets sell out fast, so book them before your trip.
3. Dress Up in Kimono in Kyoto
Give your kids a cultural experience by dressing in traditional Japanese kimono. Many rental shops in Kyoto will dress the whole family, and you can walk around historic streets like Gion or visit temples for beautiful photos.
Why kids will love it: Wearing bright, colorful clothes and feeling part of history is fun and memorable.
Tip: Some rental shops have smaller sizes for young children.
4. Take a Shinkansen (Bullet Train) Ride
The Shinkansen isn’t just a way to travel; it’s an exciting experience. Zooming across the country at speeds up to 320 km/h is thrilling for children and adults alike.
Why kids will love it: Watching the scenery blur past the window feels like a real-life adventure movie.
Tip: Get a Japan Rail Pass if you’re traveling between cities to save money.
5. Visit Nara and Feed the Friendly Deer
Nara Park is home to hundreds of free-roaming deer that bow to visitors in exchange for special deer crackers (shika senbei).
Why kids will love it: Feeding and petting these gentle animals makes for adorable memories.
Tip: Always supervise young kids when feeding the deer.
6. Experience TeamLab Borderless in Tokyo
This digital art museum is like stepping into a dream. Rooms are filled with moving light projections, interactive displays, and colorful designs.
Why kids will love it: They can chase digital butterflies, draw sea creatures that swim across giant walls, and wander through glowing flower tunnels.
Tip: Book tickets online and wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot to explore.
7. Ride a Pirate Ship on Lake Ashi in Hakone
In Hakone, you can take a sightseeing cruise on Lake Ashi aboard a colorful pirate ship. The ride offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.
Why kids will love it: Sailing on a pirate ship feels like an exciting storybook adventure.
Tip: Combine the trip with a ride on the Hakone Ropeway for more scenic views.
8. Visit the Cup Noodles Museum in Yokohama
This fun and educational museum shows the history of instant noodles and lets visitors make their own personalized cup noodles.
Why kids will love it: They can choose their soup flavor, toppings, and even decorate their cup.
Tip: Arrive early to book a time slot for the noodle-making activity.
9. Play at Odaiba’s Mega Web and LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Odaiba in Tokyo is packed with kid-friendly attractions. Mega Web lets kids test drive small cars, while LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers themed rides, 4D movies, and creative play areas.
Why kids will love it: The variety of games, rides, and interactive experiences keeps them entertained for hours.
Tip: Many attractions in Odaiba are indoors, making it perfect for rainy days.
10. Relax at an Onsen Town with Family Baths
While many hot springs in Japan are separated by gender, some onsen towns offer private family baths. This way, everyone can enjoy the relaxing warm water together.
Why kids will love it: Splashing in natural hot water feels like a big, warm bath after a long day of exploring.
Tip: Check places like Hakone or Beppu for family-friendly onsen options.
Don’t Miss
Japan offers endless opportunities for family fun, but planning ahead will make your journey smooth and stress-free. Always keep in mind that Japan is both deeply traditional and ultra-modern, so your kids will enjoy a perfect balance of cultural learning and entertainment.
Make sure you balance high-energy activities like theme parks with calmer days at gardens, temples, or countryside spots. This keeps children happy and avoids travel fatigue.
Public transport in Japan is efficient and safe, but it can be busy during rush hours. Consider traveling mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid crowds. In restaurants, many places offer kid-friendly meals, and convenience stores are perfect for quick snacks.
Your children will love seeing Japan’s unique seasonal events – from cherry blossoms in spring to snow festivals in winter. Even the local festivals (matsuri) offer colorful parades, music, and street food that kids find exciting.
Above all, be open to spontaneous moments. Sometimes, the best memories come from stumbling upon a street performance, trying a strange-looking snack, or playing with local children in a park.
Whether it’s the sparkle in their eyes when meeting Mickey Mouse, the curiosity when feeding a deer, or the joy of creating their own cup noodles, these 10 unforgettable things to do with kids in Japan will fill your trip with stories you’ll share for years.
External Link (verified & helpful):
Japan National Tourism Organization – Family Travel
