A classic Golden Route itinerary that ticks off all the must-sees, perfect for families’ first trip to Japan.
Day 1–4: Tokyo
Arrive in Tokyo and settle into your hotel located for convenience. Families can explore the vibrant crossing at Shibuya, enjoy the bright lights of Shinjuku, and wander through Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple. Kids will love the playful atmosphere of Harajuku’s Takeshita Street and the immersive digital art experience at teamLab Planets or teamLab Borderless. For a full day of fun, spend a day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea (both just 30 minutes by train from central Tokyo) or head to Fuji-Q Highland for thrilling roller coasters with views of Mt. Fuji (approx. 2 hrs by car).
Day 5–6: Hakone (1.5 hr train from Tokyo)
Travel into the mountains of Hakone, known for its natural hot springs and incredible views of Mt. Fuji. Families can take the ropeway across the volcanic Owakudani Valley, enjoy a pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi, and relax in a traditional ryokan (many have family rooms and private baths).
Day 7–9: Kyoto (2 hr Shinkansen (bullet train) from Hakone/Odawara Station)
Step back in time in Japan’s cultural heart. Explore the golden splendour of Kinkaku-ji Temple, wander through the magical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and experience a hands-on tea ceremony suitable for all ages. In the evenings, stroll through the historic streets of Gion and maybe spot a geisha or maiko on the way to an engagement.
Day 10–11: Osaka (30 min train from Kyoto)
Move on to Osaka, a vibrant city loved by families. Sample street food in Dotonbori (kids will love the giant neon signs and takoyaki stalls), visit Osaka Castle, and spend a full day at Universal Studios Japan, home to Super Nintendo World and rides for all ages.
Day 12–13: Hiroshima & Miyajima (2 hr Shinkansen from Osaka)
Travel to Hiroshima to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum — a powerful and educational experience for older children. Then take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island, famous for its giant red torii gate that appears to float at high tide. Families can also enjoy easy hiking trails, friendly deer and scenic views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Day 14: Return to Tokyo/ Osaka (4 hr/ 2 hr respectively Shinkansen from Hiroshima)
Finish your journey back in Tokyo or Osaka for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before departure.
A fun-filled journey for younger kids and tweens, blending theme park magic, hands-on activities, and gentle adventures.
Day 1–5: Tokyo
Begin your adventure in Tokyo, a city that blends futuristic fun with family-friendly attractions. Spend a magical day at Tokyo DisneySea, where little ones can explore themed lands and enjoy rides designed for all ages. Visit the Pokémon Center for exclusive games and souvenirs, and step into the mesmerising world of teamLab Planets, where interactive digital art will captivate kids and adults alike. Take a family day trip to Hakone (1.5 hrs by train) for a pirate ship cruise across Lake Ashi, a ropeway ride over steaming volcanic valleys, and unforgettable views of Mt. Fuji.
Day 6–8: Kyoto (2 hr Shinkansen from Tokyo)
Arrive in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, where hands-on experiences make history come alive. Children can dress up and try swordplay in a samurai or ninja class, learn the art of making bento lunches, or take part in a family-friendly tea ceremony workshop. Don’t miss a day trip to Nara (45 min from Kyoto) to meet the friendly, free-roaming deer and explore the giant Buddha at Todai-ji Temple.
Day 9–11: Osaka (30 min train from Kyoto)
Finish your journey in lively Osaka, perfect for younger adventurers. Spend a day at Universal Studios Japan, home to Super Nintendo World and rides for every age group. In the evenings, stroll through Dotonbori, a neon-lit district filled with street food stalls where families can sample takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes).
Optional Extras:
For families wanting a deeper cultural touch, add an overnight stay in a traditional ryokan with hot spring baths, or take a side trip to Himeji Castle (1 hr from Osaka), where kids can explore one of Japan’s most spectacular historic castles.
High-energy experiences, pop culture, and adventurous activities designed for older kids and teens.
Day 1–4: Tokyo
Begin in Tokyo, where teenagers can dive straight into Japan’s pop culture. Explore Harajuku’s quirky cafés and fashion boutiques, discover Akihabara’s gaming arcades and anime shops, and visit the Pokémon Center for exclusive treasures. Add an immersive VR experience in Shinjuku or Odaiba, then soak up the energy of Shibuya’s neon lights and its famous scramble crossing.
Day 5–6: Nagano – Snow Monkeys (1.5 hr Shinkansen from Tokyo + 1 hr local train)
Travel north to Nagano Prefecture to visit Jigokudani Monkey Park, where Japanese macaques soak in natural hot springs during the winter months — a sight teens won’t forget. Stay overnight in nearby Yudanaka or Shibu Onsen, where families can try a traditional ryokan and even bathe in hot springs themselves. This stop adds a unique wildlife and nature experience to your trip.
Day 7–8: Hakone or Fuji Five Lakes (3–4 hrs by train from Nagano)
Continue to Hakone or the Fuji Five Lakes region for spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. Take a pirate ship cruise on Lake Ashi, ride the ropeway across Owakudani’s steaming volcanic valley, and enjoy a playful afternoon at an onsen theme park with fun water slides and hot spring baths.
Day 9–11: Kyoto (2 hr Shinkansen from Hakone/Odawara Station)
Arrive in Kyoto, where teens can combine history with hands-on fun. Cycle through atmospheric streets, take a manga drawing workshop, and stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. For something special, join a tea ceremony or explore Gion’s lantern-lit alleys in the evening.
Day 12–13: Osaka (30 min train from Kyoto)
Head to Osaka, where big energy meets big flavour. Spend a day at Universal Studios Japan and Super Nintendo World, followed by evenings in neon-lit Dotonbori, tasting takoyaki and okonomiyaki. For sporty families, add a visit to Osaka Castle Park by bike.
Day 14: Fly home from Osaka
Optional Extra: Fuji-Q Highland (2 hrs from Tokyo or stopover en route from Hakone)
For teens chasing thrills, Fuji-Q Highland delivers with record-breaking roller coasters, anime-themed rides and escape rooms.
A culture-rich adventure blending history, creativity, and hands-on experiences, perfect for curious families of all ages.
Day 1–4: Tokyo
Start your journey in Tokyo, where every generation can find something to enjoy. Explore the Miraikan Science Museum with its interactive exhibits, discover Japan’s past at the Edo-Tokyo Museum, and stroll through Asakusa to visit the historic Senso-ji Temple. Families can balance sightseeing with fun shopping stops and evening meals in the bustling districts of Shinjuku or Shibuya.
Day 5–6: Nikko (2 hr train from Tokyo)
Take a short trip north to Nikko, home to ornate, UNESCO-listed shrines and set against a backdrop of mountains and waterfalls. Stay in a family-friendly ryokan, where children can try tatami rooms and futon beds while parents relax in hot springs. Gentle nature walks and scenic bridges make this a perfect spot for all ages.
Day 7–9: Kyoto (2 hr Shinkansen from Tokyo/Nikko area)
Immerse yourselves in Japan’s cultural heart. Families can enjoy a hands-on calligraphy lesson, join a traditional tea ceremony, and dress up in colourful kimonos for memorable photos. Wander through the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its tunnels of bright red torii gates, and spend time exploring peaceful gardens and markets.
Day 10–11: Hiroshima & Miyajima (2 hr Shinkansen from Kyoto)
Continue to Hiroshima, where a visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum offers a moving and educational experience, especially for older children and teens. Take a short ferry ride to Miyajima Island to see the giant floating torii gate and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with friendly deer and mountain views.
Day 12–13: Kanazawa (3 hr train from Hiroshima or 2.5 hr from Kyoto)
Discover Kanazawa, a city that blends history with creativity. Families can explore the preserved Samurai district, stroll through the famous Kenroku-en Gardens, and spark curiosity at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, where interactive exhibits appeal to both children and adults.
Day 14–15: Osaka (2.5 hr train from Kanazawa)
End your adventure in Osaka, known for its vibrant food scene. Take part in a family cooking class to learn how to make okonomiyaki or sushi, then head to neon-lit Dotonbori to sample street food together. For a final cultural touch, visit Osaka Castle Park, which combines history with wide open spaces perfect for children to explore.
For active families wanting to get off the beaten track, hike, and explore Japan’s natural wonders.
Day 1–3: Tokyo
Begin in Tokyo, where your family can dive straight into Japan’s buzzing capital. See the famous Shibuya Crossing, explore colourful neighbourhoods like Harajuku, and take part in a hands-on sushi-making class — fun for kids and adults alike. In the evenings, enjoy the neon lights of Shinjuku or a boat ride on the Sumida River for a different perspective of the city.
Day 4–5: Nagano (1.5 hr Shinkansen from Tokyo + 1 hr local train/bus)
Head into the Japanese Alps to meet the famous snow monkeys of Jigokudani (seasonal), who bathe in hot springs during the winter months. Stay in a traditional ryokan in Yudanaka or Shibu Onsen, where families can try futon beds and relax in private baths. Explore the surrounding alpine villages, with gentle hikes suitable for all ages.
Day 6–7: Fuji Five Lakes (3–4 hr by train from Nagano)
Continue to the Fuji Five Lakes region, one of the best places to enjoy Mt. Fuji’s beauty. Families can hike through forests, paddle on Lake Kawaguchiko, and take in panoramic views from the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. In spring, the area bursts with cherry blossoms; in autumn, colourful foliage frames the mountain.
Day 8–10: Kyoto (2 hr Shinkansen from Fuji area/Odawara)
Immerse yourselves in Kyoto’s serene culture. Join a tea ceremony, visit elegant temples and gardens, and stroll through the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine with its tunnels of red torii gates. For families who enjoy walking, the Philosopher’s Path offers a peaceful nature walk lined with cherry trees and small shrines.
Day 11–13: Kyushu (1 hr flight from Osaka to Fukuoka/Kumamoto)
Fly south to Kyushu, Japan’s volcanic island. In Beppu, see the steaming hot springs known as the “Hells of Beppu,” some of which are fun and interactive for children. Active families can hike Mount Aso, one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas, and explore the breathtaking Takachiho Gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and waterfalls.
Day 14–15: Okinawa (2 hr flight from Kyushu)
End your journey in tropical Okinawa, where white-sand beaches and turquoise waters await. Families can snorkel over colourful coral reefs, kayak through mangroves, or simply relax in the island’s laid-back atmosphere. Okinawa is the perfect place to wind down after an active adventure through Japan’s mountains and forests.
From samurai stories to sushi-making and shrines, this Japanese adventure is perfect for curious kids, inquisitive teens, and parents who love to explore.
Day 1–4: Tokyo
Begin in Tokyo, where ancient traditions meet modern innovation. Visit Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, then dive into history at the Edo-Tokyo Museum. For science enthusiasts, the Miraikan (National Museum of Emerging Science & Innovation) offers interactive exhibits on robotics, space and the environment. Families can also join a calligraphy workshop or visit the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku for a taste of Japan’s warrior past.
Day 5–6: Nikko (2 hr train from Tokyo)
Travel north to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its elaborate shrines and mountain scenery. Explore the ornate Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the Tokugawa shoguns, and walk across the striking Shinkyo Bridge. Stay in a family-friendly ryokan, where children can try futon beds and parents can enjoy hot spring baths. Gentle walks to nearby waterfalls add a nature touch to the cultural experience.
Day 7–9: Kyoto (2 hr Shinkansen from Tokyo/Nikko area)
Immerse yourselves in Kyoto’s cultural heart. Dress in traditional kimono and stroll through the old streets, take part in a tea ceremony, and try hands-on activities such as bento-making or origami workshops. Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its tunnels of bright red gates, and explore temples such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Ryoan-ji, famous for its Zen rock garden.
Day 10–11: Hiroshima & Miyajima (2 hr Shinkansen from Kyoto)
Head south to Hiroshima for a moving visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, an important and educational stop for families with older children. Take the ferry to Miyajima Island to see the famous floating torii gate, visit Daisho-in Temple, and wander the quiet island paths where tame deer roam freely.
Day 12–13: Kanazawa (3 hr train from Hiroshima or 2.5 hr from Kyoto)
Explore Kanazawa, a city rich in history and creativity. Families can wander the atmospheric Samurai district, stroll through the beautifully landscaped Kenroku-en Gardens, and engage with modern works at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art. Workshops in gold leaf decoration or traditional crafts provide hands-on fun for children and adults alike.
Day 14–15: Osaka (2.5 hr train from Kanazawa)
Conclude your journey in Osaka, where food and culture come together. Take part in a family cooking class to learn how to prepare sushi or okonomiyaki, then explore the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori for a lively evening atmosphere. Before departure, visit Osaka Castle, which blends history with wide open grounds perfect for a family stroll.
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