A Complete 2-Week Japan Itinerary with Little Kids

Words contributed by Japan travel blogger Jo at The Tokyo Chapter. Images by Jessica Wright.

If you’re planning a trip to Japan with kids, you’ll want to get a good itinerary to make the most of your trip. We asked Jo at the Tokyo Chapter, a local to Japan with kids of her own, who has traveled all over the country, to share her insights.

Her advice? Plan a trip that offers sights for parents to enjoy but is still approachable for the little ones. If you’re starting to plan a trip, you’ll want to check out her in-depth guide to Japan with toddlers.

This sample itinerary is designed for those visiting Japan with a toddler for 2 weeks. It includes beautiful spots and moments for the whole family, as well as areas with child-friendly restaurants, playgrounds, adventures, and downtime.

As you begin to plan, you’ll see several things to do in each city and area, alongside great recommendations for family-friendly restaurants across Tokyo to Kyoto. Read on to plan your two-week Japan itinerary with little kids!

Short on Time? Here is the Ultimate Japan Itinerary with Kids (2 Weeks):

Stop 1: Tokyo — 3 nights

Explore Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods. Visit Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Harajuku’s Takeshita Street for treats, Shibuya Crossing, Ginza’s Police Museum, and Roppongi’s TeamLab Borderless. Play at Shibuya Playground 4 Kids, dine at Nori-Temaki or Momo Paradise, and enjoy Rainbow Karaoke.

1. &Here Ueno ($), for the best family-friendly apartments near Ueno Park
2. Mimaru Ueno North ($$), for the best spacious suites with kid-friendly bunk beds
3. All Day Place Shibuya ($$), for the best trendy Shibuya stay with family space

Stop 2: Kyoto — 5 nights

Dive into Kyoto’s charm with Kyoto Railway Museum, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Gion. Take day trips to Nara for deer and Todaiji Temple, Osaka for Kids Plaza and Dotonbori, and Arashiyama for bamboo forests. Eat at The Sodoh Kyoto or Toriji.

1. Mimaru Kyoto Station ($$), for the best family apartments near Kyoto Station
2. 22 Pieces Kyoto ($$), for the best boutique suites with toddler space
3. Hotel Imagine Kyoto ($), for the best modern design near transport hubs

Stop 3: Hiroshima — 3 nights

Discover Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, dine at Okonomi Republic, and play at Otemachi Daiichi Park. Visit Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine, Shukkeien Gardens, and Kurashiki’s Bikanchiku canals. Lunch at Miyajima Brewery or Kurashiki Ramen Masuya.

1. Fav Hotel Heiwa Odori ($), for the best modern apartments with family space
2. The Knot Hiroshima ($$), for the best stylish stay near Peace Park
3. Kiro Hotel ($$), for the best boutique charm with toddler perks

Stop 4: Tokyo Disney — 3 nights

Enjoy Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea with pre-booked tickets. Dine at Rainforest Cafe, rest at Aeon Mall Shin-Urayasu, or visit Tokyo Metro Museum. Depart via airport bus.

1. Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay ($$), for the best upscale Disney shuttle experience
2. Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay ($$$), for the best luxury near Disney monorail (no shuttle, but is in front of the Tokyo Disney Resort Liner monorail)
3. The Toy Story Hotel ($$$), for the best immersive Disney-themed adventure (no shuttle, but it’s in front of the Tokyo Disney Resort Liner monorail)

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

I have a variety of additional travel planning resources for Japan and toddler travel. I would recommend reading these posts:

• The Ultimate Guide to Japan With a Toddler for all my toddler-specific advice
• My Toddler Travel Essential Gear List for all things gear-related
• Important Things to Know Before Traveling to Japan for things you should before visiting
• How to Get Around Japan: A Japan Rail Travel Guide for how to get around by train
• 7 Tips for Surviving Long-Haul Flights with Toddlers for a few tips after some lessons learned with our toddler in tow
• What to Wear: The Styled Traveling Mom Edition for fashion recommendations for moms

For additional help planning your itinerary, don’t miss my 10-day Japan itinerary for first-timers, Tokyo itinerary, and Kyoto itinerary!

2-Week Japan Itinerary With Little Kids

---

Japan with Toddler: Itinerary Overview

• Days 1-4: Tokyo (3 Nights)
• Days 4-9: Kyoto (5 Nights)
• Days 9-12: Hiroshima (3 Nights)
• Days 11-15: Tokyo Disney (3 Nights)

---

Stop 1: Tokyo — 3 Nights

Where to Stay in Tokyo with a Toddler

1. &Here Ueno ($), for the best family-friendly apartments near Ueno Park
2. Mimaru Ueno North ($$), for the best spacious suites with kid-friendly bunk beds
3. Mimaru Ueno East ($$), for the best walkable access to Ueno’s museums
4. Candeo Roppongi ($$), for the best modern rooms with Roppongi convenience
5. All Day Place Shibuya ($$), for the best trendy Shibuya stay with family space
6. Ibis Styles Ginza East ($), for the best budget-friendly Ginza location
7. Sotetsu Fresa Ginza Sanchome ($), for the best affordable comfort near Ginza

Day 1: Tokyo — Arrive in Tokyo

You’ll likely land in the mid-afternoon in Tokyo. By the time you get into town, it will be quite late, I suggest getting settled at your hotel and getting something easy to eat for the first night. Stretch your legs and stock up on snacks and food!

Day 2: Tokyo

Morning to Lunch: Explore Harajuku and Shibuya

Start your first morning with a beautiful walk at Meiji Shrine. Be sure to bring the stroller and keep your eyes peeled for a Japanese wedding here on the weekend. If park time is required afterwards, move to Yoyogi Park next door. If you’ve packed snacks, this is also a beautiful place to stop for a morning tea picnic.

From there, walk to Takeshita Street (4 minutes walk). Walk down the busy Takeshita Street in Harajuku (use the public restrooms at Meiji Shrine or Yoyogi Park beforehand). Stop for rainbow-colored giant cotton candy or a sweet or savory crepe after popping into Noa Print Club shop to take photo-booth selfies as a family (open from 8 am). Shop for cheap and cheerful knick-knacks (toys, accessories, clothing, souvenirs) along the way.

Eat lunch nearby or keep moving on to Shibuya. A few family-friendly lunch options near here (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Nori-Temaki, for hand-rolled sushi
• Las Dos Caras – Harajuku, for Mexican food
• Pizzeria Spontini, for Italian
• Sakuratei, for okonomiyaki
• Mr Farmer Omotesando, for salad bowls and smoothies

Or take the Yamanote line to Shibuya (5 mins) for lunch, and if you haven’t yet had lunch, family-friendly lunch options near Shibuya Station (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Momo Paradise, for sukiyaki and shabu shabu (includes all you can eat meat, veg, rice, soft drink, ice-cream)
• Tiger Gyoza Kaikan, for gyoza
• Uobei Sushi, for sushi train (walk-ins only, lots of non-fish options here)
• Washoku En Toki no Toki, for an izakaya inside Shibuya Hikarie
• The Rigoletto, for Italian food in Shibuya
• Kinka Sushi, for sushi and izakaya food
• Cocoichibanya, for a casual Japanese curry house
• Kotegaeshi Shibuya, for okonomiyaki
• Crisp Salad Works, for salads

Afternoon to Evening: Shibuya

Start by crossing the famous Shibuya Crossing and take in the view from the Starbucks at Shibuya Crossing. Explore Shibuya 109 (start at the top and work your way down) to take in wacky fashion or make your way to either the famous Koen-Dori Disney Store or the Pokémon Center (Pokémon and Nintendo Store). A must-visit shop is Shibuya Loft for incredible stationery and souvenirs.

For “out of the stroller time,” visit the indoor play center, Shibuya Playground 4 Kids, or Nabeshima Shoto Park. Finish the day at Rainbow Karaoke as a family. Your karaoke booth with disco lights and a phone to order your food and drinks as you go. Consider ending the day at Shibuya Crossing to take it in by night!

Day 3: Tokyo

Morning to Lunch: Ginza

Start the day in Ginza with a late sit-down western-style breakfast at Sarabeth’s or Bill’s. For a Japanese breakfast, visit Tsukiji Sushiko Wa Nagomi. Another late morning coffee and a spot to stretch little legs is the rooftop at Ginza Six or the gardens at the Imperial Palace.

After, visit the free children’s Police Museum in Ginza. Please note that this museum is closed on Mondays. Then visit the Sanrio and Hello Kitty Store called Sanrio World in Ginza. Shop for souvenirs and stationery at the Hands Department Store or the Toy Store Hakuhinkan.

For lunch, stay in Ginza or move to Roppongi. A few family-friendly lunch options in Ginza (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Ginza Kimuraya, for omurice, croquettes, or hamburger steaks, and all you can eat homemade bread
• Tempura Mochiku, for tempura
• Ginza Steak, for a high-end kid-friendly teppanyaki lunch (approx 9000 yen per adult)
• Nemuro Hanamaru, for a sushi train
• Basil, for Asian/Indian fusion

From there, take the subway to Roppongi. If you haven’t yet had lunch, family-friendly lunch options in Roppongi (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Mohri Salvatore Cuomo, for Italian food
• Le Pain Quotidien Tokyo Midtown, for pasta, salad, and bakery
• Suji Dining Rokkaku, for traditional Japanese lunch sets
• Hona, for okonomiyaki

Afternoon: Roppongi

Spend the afternoon visiting the Mohri Garden, located behind Roppongi Hills, for a short walk through a small Japanese garden and take some beautiful photos of the flowers or seasonal leaves. After, you can walk to Robot Park in Roppongi for a play at the park with the multi-colored slides.

On a clear day, take in Mt Fuji from the observation deck at Mori Art Museum or the observation deck at Team Lab Borderless. Have a play at the toddler and baby play space in Mohri Gardens (around the corner from the Lego Shop). Finish the day at Team Lab Borderless (book tickets and a time slot in advance).

Day 4: Tokyo (Morning)

Morning: Shinjuku

On your last morning in Tokyo, start the day at Tokyo Toy Museum and then explore Shinjuku Gyoen Gardens (open from 9 am, admission is 500 yen) as a family, and then walk to Kabukicho to spot the Godzilla head. Please note that the Toy Museum is closed on Thursdays.

Before departing for Kyoto, a few family-friendly lunch options in Shinjuku (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Newoman Food Hall, for oysters, sushi, bakery, or western dishes
• 800 Degrees, for Neapolitan pizza
• Takashimaya Food Village, for delicatessen take-out food options to enjoy in the park
• Kichiri Mollis, for a Japanese/Italian fusion izakaya

---

Stop 2: Kyoto — 5 Nights

Where to Stay in Kyoto with a Toddler

1. Mimaru Kyoto Station ($$), for the best family apartments near Kyoto Station
2. 22 Pieces Kyoto ($$), for the best boutique suites with toddler space
3. Hotel Imagine Kyoto ($), for the best modern design near transport hubs
4. Kyoto Century Hotel ($$), for the best classic comfort by Kyoto Station

Day 4: Kyoto (Afternoon)

Afternoon: Shinkansen to Kyoto

Take the Shinkansen to Kyoto in the mid-afternoon, a good opportunity for young children to take a nap. Keep an eye on the right side of the train about 40 minutes out of Tokyo. If the weather is fine, you will see Mt Fuji! (Don’t worry if your seats are on the opposite side, as you can go to the middle lobby areas between carriages for a proper view and beautiful photos.)

When you arrive in Kyoto, consider a family-friendly dinner option near Kyoto Station if you need a quick meal (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Kobe Motomachi Doria, for doria, hamburger steak, and omurice
• Shabu-Shabu Tajimaya, for sukiyaki and shabu-shabu
• Capricciosa, for pizza and pasta
• Tsuruhashi Fugetsu, for okonomiyaki

After, take a taxi to your accommodations for easier direct access. Consider going for a walk that evening to stretch your legs in the neighborhood you are in.

Day 5: Kyoto

Morning: Railway Museum and More

First thing in the morning, visit the Kyoto Railway Museum. This place is incredible for adults, kids, AND babies. Please note that this museum is closed on Wednesdays. Afterwards, have a play at the adventure playground out front called Umekoji Park.

For lunch, reserve a table at The Sodoh Kyoto, a beautifully converted traditional Japanese home in Higashiyama (reservations required). Take a taxi to reach this upscale restaurant, and dress smartly. If bringing children, consider activities to keep them engaged, as the atmosphere is quite refined.

If you’d prefer not to eat lunch at Sodoh, other nearby lunch options include:

• Gion Tanto, for okonomiyaki
• Tokkyu Ramen, for ramen and gyoza
• Chao Chao Gyoza Shijo Kawaramachi, for gyoza (10 mins by taxi from Kiyomizudera)
• Starbucks Coffee – Kyoto Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya, for the world’s first Starbucks store in a traditional Japanese house with tatami seating

Afternoon: Higashiyama and Temples

In the afternoon, visit Kiyomizudera Temple up in Higashiyama. Take in the temple grounds and the street-lined shops on the way up the hill. For a fun family activity, consider renting kimonos if that interests you. Several stores along the way offer these rentals. Stop for soft serve ice cream along the way in this area.

Popular streets here that get visited frequently are Sannenzaka, just note that there are several steps. You can also visit nearby sights like Kodaiji Temple, Yasaka Shrine, and Kenninji Temple. Once it gets dark, take a walk through the streets of Gion. Have dinner closer to Kyoto Station if you’re staying near there.

A few family-friendly dinner options near Kyoto Station include:

• Toraji, for yakiniku inside Yodobashi Camera
• Aeon Mall Food Court, for McDonald’s, steak, ramen, KFC, Subway, Indian food, Baskin-Robbins, takoyaki, Chinese, and Korean food
• Pomme no Ki, for omurice
• Pasta More, for casual Italian food

Day 6: Day Trip to Nara

Start the morning early by taking the train down to Nara. It takes just an hour to start, and the earlier the better. Our Nara day trip itinerary is a great way to plan your time there.

Don’t forget to feed the deer and go to Todaiji Temple. Then, rent bikes as a family for the day (including the child seat options with helmets included) from Asuka Bike Rental. They have four locations around Nara and offer child seat options and helmets. And finally, go see mochi pounding at a store called Nakatanidou (open 10 am-7 pm).

For dining in Nara, a few family-friendly lunch spot options I recommend are:

• Le Case Nara, for French quiche
• Kurasushi, for a sushi train
• Gyukatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Nara Park, for crumbed beef cutlets on rice
• Steak Gusto, for a casual diner with steak and an all-you-can-eat salad and bread bar (10-minute taxi from Nara Station)

Day 7: Day Trip to Osaka

For day 7 in your Japan itinerary, consider taking a day trip down to Osaka from Kyoto. You can take a limited express train (no need for a Shinkansen bullet train) in under 45 minutes, which is amazing.

Begin the morning at the Kids Plaza Osaka play space/museum, and then make use of the playground outside. Please note that Kids Plaza is sometimes closed on Mondays or Tuesdays, so check in advance.

From there, either hop in a taxi or take the metro to explore the Dotonbori area and have lunch at one of these family-friendly restaurants nearby:

• Gyozaoh! Dotonbori, for gyoza
• Chibo Dotonbori, for okonomiyaki
• Slices, for pizza by the slice in Nishi-Shinsaibashi

Before returning to Kyoto, make your way to Hep5 for some shopping and to ride the Ferris wheel on top of this shopping mall. You could have an early dinner at a higher-end food court (called Grand Front Osaka) above Osaka Station before returning to Kyoto. This food court offers a variety of options, including sushi, Italian cuisine, gyoza, Korean dishes, oysters, and more. It’s lovely to have everyone choose something different for dinner, yet still sit together.

Day 8: Day Trip to Arashiyama

One of the best areas of Kyoto to experience is the historic Arashiyama district. Just 15 minutes by train from Kyoto Station, I recommend arriving early if possible.

It’s best to pre-book a ricksha for a ride as a family through the bamboo forest, as the path can be quite long, or walk with a stroller. While there, stop by % Arabica for coffee and enjoy the beautiful views. After a walk and a ride through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, take a walk through beautiful Tenryuji Temple. Some families also like the monkey park here (although I am not a big fan).

Family-friendly lunch suggestions for Arashiyama (best to make a reservation, even for weekdays):

• Kumahiko, for kaiseki dining as a family (lunch budget: approx 6000 yen per adult and there is a children’s menu)
• Sushi Naritaya, for sushi
• Obu Cafe, for casual Japanese food (udon, curry, vegetarian options, waffles)
• Yudofu Takemura, for tofu
• Miffy Sakura Kitchen, for Miffy-shaped bakery items

Take a short walk through the craft shops near Arashiyama Station and then a short walk through the Kimono Forest art installation. Then grab a coffee or snack at Tully’s Coffee before returning to the hotel.

Day 9: Kyoto (Morning)

In the morning, take the train for 5 minutes from Kyoto Station to Fushimi Inari Shrine (the shrine that is famous for the red tori gates). Walk up as far as little legs in the group can manage (park strollers at the bottom.) There are street food options available here from approximately 11 am. However, if you’re visiting earlier, Vermillion Cafe is open from 7:30 am.

Return to the hotel to collect or forward belongings and take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima.

---

Stop 3: Hiroshima — 3 Nights

Where to Stay in Hiroshima with a Toddler

1. Fav Hotel Heiwa Odori ($), for the best modern apartments with family space
2. The Knot Hiroshima ($$), for the best stylish stay near Peace Park
3. Nest Hotel Hiroshima Hatchobori ($), for the best budget connecting rooms (requires connecting rooms for more than 2 people)
4. Sotetsu Grand Fresa Hiroshima ($), for the best affordable city-center comfort
5. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima ($$), for the best upscale family-friendly amenities
6. Kiro Hotel ($$), for the best boutique charm with toddler perks

Day 9: Hiroshima (Afternoon)

Once in Hiroshima, take a walk through Peace Park and Peace Memorial, and have lunch in the Peace Park/River area. Family-friendly lunch spot recommendations near the Peace Park (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Cafe Ponte, for Italian food, freshly squeezed juice, and hot dogs by the river
• Ekohiiki, for famous Hiroshima oysters
• Sheba Cafe, for salads, pastries, and croissants (this cafe has a kids menu and a small play corner with toys)
• Park South Sandwich, for a cafe next to a playground

After lunch, kids can have a play at Otemachi Daiichi Park, a small local playground nearby. After resting at the hotel, head out for dinner to enjoy Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Many restaurants in Hiroshima serve this dish, but my favorite family-friendly spots cook it at the table, making it easy to customize ingredients as needed. Here are my favorite spots:

• Okonomi Republic
• Okonomi Mura
• Hassei, for a gluten free okonomiyaki option

Day 10: Day Trip to Miyajima

From Hiroshima Station, take the train to Miyajima-Guchi Station and then the ferry out to Miyajima. Upon arrival, explore Itsukushima Shrine (take note of the lower tide, as it will look different after lunch). Explore the beautiful little stores on the island, the scenery, and the changing leaves with the seasons. Deer freely roam all over Miyajima.

Travel Tip: If time in Japan allows, allocate one night to stay at a ryokan on Miyajima. As the last ferry departs, the tourist crowds vanish, offering a serene Japanese experience—enjoying the onsen, sleeping on a futon atop tatami mats, and savoring meals served in the privacy of your room.

Family-friendly lunch options on Miyajima (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• Miyajima Brewery, for oysters or pasta
• Kiyomori Chaya, for udon or oysters
• Miyajima Base, for gluten-free food

After lunch, visit Miyajima Umaimono-kan for ice cream decorated with Miyajima-themed wafers. It’s truly a work of art. From there, make the journey back to Hiroshima.

Day 11: Hiroshima

In the morning, visit Shukkeien Gardens and participate in a casual tea ceremony experience (bookings not required). Then take a train to a country town (40 mins), Kurashiki, for a beautiful walk along the canals in the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter. The buildings are black and white and are just so beautiful. This town is largely untouched by most tourists in Japan.

It’s a beautiful insight into country life in Japan. The town is flat and easy to get around with small children. Check out the Ohara Museum of Art and see Claude Monet’s Lilies with your own eyes.

Family-friendly lunch options in Kurashiki:

• Kurashiki Ramen Masuya, for ramen, fried rice, and gyoza (closed Wednesdays)
• Kyuhondo-Tei, for French/Italian food
• Ario Kurashiki Shopping Mall Food Court, for family-friendly restaurants (sushi train, tonkatsu, yakiniku, pancakes, etc.)

For a place to play after lunch and sightseeing, Ario Kurashiki Shopping Centre has an outdoor children’s playground. Alternatively, if you need a restful afternoon, take it easy in Hiroshima. Round 1 Amusement Park in Hiroshima features arcade games, including claw machines, bowling, and karaoke (no need to make a reservation). For food, visit the family restaurant Royal Host for Western and Japanese food. All kids’ meals come with a toy.

---

Stop 4: Tokyo Disneyland — 3 Nights

Where to Stay in the Tokyo Disney Area with a Toddler

All of these recommendations have a complimentary shuttle to Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo Disneysea.

1. The Toy Story Hotel ($$$), for the best immersive Disney-themed adventure (no shuttle, but it’s in front of the Tokyo Disney Resort Liner monorail)
2. Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay ($$$), for the best luxury near Disney monorail (no shuttle, but is in front of the Tokyo Disney Resort Liner monorail)
3. Hotel Okura Tokyo Bay ($$), for the best upscale Disney shuttle experience
4. Ibis Styles Tokyo Bay ($), for the best budget-friendly Disney shuttle
5. Henn Na Hotel Maihama ($), for the best quirky, robot-themed family fun
6. La’Gent Hotel Tokyo Bay ($), for the best colorful, kid-friendly shuttle stay

Day 12: Tokyo Disneyland

For day 12, take the Shinkansen to Tokyo ( almost 4 hours) and then a local train to Maihama train station (16 mins) to check into a hotel near Tokyo Disneyland. Keep an eye on the left side of the train about 80 minutes past Kyoto. If the weather is fine, you will see Mt Fuji! Don’t worry if your seats are on the opposite side, as you can go to the middle lobby areas between carriages for a proper view and beautiful photos.

Family-friendly dinner options in the Disney area (reserve ahead of time for high season or weekends):

• The Rainforest Cafe, for Western/American food
• Ikspiari Kitchen Food Court (Tokyo’s Version of Downtown Disney), for udon, hamburgers, steak, or ramen
• Toraji, for yakiniku
• Pitta 00, for pizza
• Shabu-Shabu Tajimaya, for shabu-shabu

Day 13: Tokyo Disneyland

Spend the day at either Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea theme parks. Don’t forget to buy tickets ahead of time and have the Tokyo Disney Resort app ready to reserve FastPasses for rides once you’re inside the gates. It is best to arrive approximately 1 hour ahead of opening time and eat breakfast in line; that will save you ride waiting times later.

Remember that both parks allow re-entry, so it’s okay to return to the hotel for nap times or downtime in the middle of the day. For Tokyo Disneyland, be sure to bring a picnic mat (available at the 100 yen store or convenience stores) to sit on while watching the parades.

Day 14: Tokyo

A day of rest and recovery. This can also be a final day for shopping by heading back into the centre of Tokyo or making use of the Aeon Mall at Shin-Urayasu or the bigger shopping center, Lalaport Tokyo Bay. Children who love trains may love to visit the Tokyo Metro Museum.

Day 15: Depart for the Airport

Limousine buses for both Haneda and Narita Airports depart from outside Tokyo Disneyland and some of the bigger hotels.

---

Save This Post for Later on Pinterest