Japan is a playground for children, and a world full of robotics, pioneering gadgets and gizmos, neon lights and make-believe. Plan your Japan family holiday with Scott Dunn for…
At Scott Dunn, we create tailor-made family holidays to Japan that are fascinating, colourful and full of energy. From Tokyo's bright lights and quirky neighbourhoods to Kyoto's ancient temples and the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Japan offers a mix of adventure, culture and discovery that appeals to all ages. Families can learn about the legends of samurai warriors that shaped the country's past, discover centuries-old customs through tea ceremonies and calligraphy, and enjoy thrilling experiences like watching sumo wrestlers in action or exploring Japan's world-class theme parks.
Japan is also one of the easiest destinations in Asia to explore with excellent domestic transportation links, making it ideal for families with young children all the way to travel with grandparents. It's clean, safe and exceptionally well-organised, with the high-speed Shinkansen bullet train making it simple to travel between cities. The general accessibility, modern facilities, and culture of hospitality mean families can navigate Japan with confidence and ease.
Our experts create custom-made itineraries for every kind of traveller, from multigenerational holidays to Japan tours with teenagers. Each holiday plan is designed around what you want to explore, so there's fun at every stage of your family trip to Japan.
Japan offers a wealth of activities to keep every member of the family entertained and engaged, whether your children are obsessed with anime and manga, fascinated by samurai history, eager for active adventures or simply love discovering something new. From water sports along pristine coastlines to hands-on cultural workshops, futuristic technology experiences to encounters with wildlife, there's something to spark joy and curiosity in travellers of all ages. While your kids are bound to love the entire country, there are a few key activities and places that really cater to them, as well as the young at heart. Below are the top things to do in Japan with your children that our guests have loved time and time again.
Explore one of Tokyo’s most playful districts. A wonderland for kids and teens, Harajuku bursts with colour, quirky fashion and kawaii cafes themed around Pokémon, Moomins, cats, robots, and more. Great for all ages.
Otaku heaven for anime and gaming fans. Explore giant arcades, neon-lit stores, and cosplay cafés. Sample Japanese cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants to family-friendly, cosy izakayas. Great for teens and kids 8 and up.
Start your day at Tokyo’s Tsukiji or Toyosu markets. Watch tuna auctions, enjoy affordable sushi breakfasts (with set menus for about £15 a head), and show the kids how sea-to-plate dining comes to life. Great for all ages.
Two magical parks filled with unique rides you won’t find at other Disneylands around the world. Enjoy Japanese-style treats and meals around the park and keep everyone entertained with attractions that appeal to all age groups, young and old.
Step into Japan’s history with a hands-on samurai workshop just outside of Kyoto. Kids aged 10 and older can dress in traditional clothes, learn the art of using a samurai sword, discover ancient etiquette, and learn Japanese history too.
Paddle around Miyajima floating Grand Torii Gate, then hike or ride the cable car for island views. After exploring, try the city’s famous savoury pancakes Okonomiyaki. We recommend a nature and cultural Hiroshima day trip for kids 10 and up.
At Scott Dunn, we design tours and select accommodation that bring together all the places you want to see in Japan, whether that's nature and adventure, vibrant cities, ancient temples and culture or a combination of it all. Every Japan family tour and stay with Scott Dunn is shaped around what excites you, and through our partnerships with the finest properties across the country, you'll stay in the hotels that best suit your needs.
Below are examples of the itineraries we've designed with families in mind. Explore Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka on a highlights tour filled with hands-on experiences, or venture into the landscapes of Mount Fuji, Hakone, and Hokkaido on an adventure and nature itinerary. On the accommodation side, well-known luxury hotel chains like the Four Seasons and Mandarin Oriental really get families and know what children and parents need for a relaxing holiday, from interconnecting rooms to world-class spas where adults can unwind.
Whether you're looking for a hotel with a spa for parents to relax, family suites with space for everyone, or the cultural immersion of a traditional guesthouse, Scott Dunn will help you find the perfect tour and stay based on what matters most to your family.
The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho
Tokyo, Japan
Epic Japan
Osaka, Kyoto, Takayama & Tokyo
£12,000 pp
Family Fun in Japan
Tokyo, Takayama, Kanazawa & Kyoto
£7,200 pp
Japan with Kids
Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto
£6,300 pp
Japan in Spring - Cherry Blossom Season
Tokyo, Kanazawa, Miyajima, Kyoto & Hakone
£16,000 pp
Since climate varies from region to region, the best time to visit Japan really depends on which part of the country you’re visiting and what is on your itinerary:
Tokyo is one of the best places to visit in Japan with families, filled with pop culture, neon lights, museums, game centres and themed restaurants to keep kids entertained. Even the bullet train ride between cities is an adventure, thrilling younger travellers and making sightseeing a treat.
The countryside also promises much entertainment for children while on holiday in Japan. Places like Hakone, Takayama and Kawaguchi offer their world-renowned hot springs, or onsens, which are the perfect antidote to a stint in Japan’s bustling cities. Hunker down with the family in a ryokan or take to two wheels and explore the beautiful countryside by bicycle. Getting a glimpse into daily life in Japan is an incredible contrast, and while these locations still offer lots of activities, it is slower paced than days in Tokyo.
Yes, Japan is very welcoming towards toddlers and young children. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are especially toddler-friendly, with parks, aquariums, interactive museums, and themed cafés that make sightseeing fun for little ones.
When you are on the go, do be aware that accommodations like baby-changing facilities or stroller access can be limited. Japanese people are more likely to carry their babies everywhere, so if strollers are a necessity, travel may be easier with slightly older children.
We recommend spending at least 10 to 14 days on a family holiday to Japan. This allows plenty of time to travel between cities, enjoy family-friendly experiences, and explore the country at a comfortable pace.
Most restaurants in Japan welcome children, though kids’ menus are uncommon except at larger chains. It’s also worth checking ahead for non-smoking areas when dining out.
Many hotels in Japan are suitable for families, offering spacious rooms, kids’ meals, and child-friendly amenities. Some traditional ryokans also provide family rooms and meals suited to younger guests.
Ready to start planning your ideal Japan holiday? Packed with recommendations about the local culture, cuisine and how to travel around, our Japan holiday guides give you all the intel you need ahead of your holiday to Japan.
Call us on 020 8682 5060 to start planning
