Curator’s statement
Having a baby doesn’t have to mean compromising on travel, the world and adventure. In Japan, you’ll find a destination that is both family-friendly and packed with activities for all. It is a journey full of discovery for both parents and your little ones. Whether you are navigating bustling cities or exploring serene countryside, Japan offers great facilities that help busy parents travel with babies. This 3-week itinerary has been designed with families in mind. It balances exciting activities with rest, and ensures you create memories that will last a lifetime.
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Days 1-4: Tokyo, where tradition meets innovation
Kick off your adventure in Tokyo, a city of contrasts where neon lights meet tranquil parks. Spend your first day exploring Asakusa district and Senso-ji Temple, a must-go for culture and shopping lovers. Babies will love the colorful atmosphere. For lunch, eat like a local and grab a stand-up omakase sushi at Magurobito Kaminarimon Branch.
Day 2: Parks and shopping
Spend the day at Ueno Park, perfect for stroller walks, and explore the temples, followed by a visit to the National Museum of Nature and Science, a fun and educational spot for families. Wrap your day at Ameyoko Shopping Street. For Wagyu enthusiasts, get a table at Wagyu Yakiniku Panga.
Day 3: Market and gardens
Start your day at Tsukiji Outer Market to explore one of Tokyo's most famous and busy fish markets (consider using a baby carrier here). Head to Ginza, Tokyo's shopping district, towards the Imperial Palace and Kokyo Gaien National Gardens.
Day 4: Shrine and parks
Visit Meiji Shrine and relax in Yoyogi Park. Wrap up your day visiting Shibuya district with a stop at the iconic Shibuya Crossing. Experience Kabukicho at night with all its lights, enjoy a delicious sushi dinner at Ko Sushi.
Day 5-6: Nikko – Peaceful mountain retreat
Rent a car to escape the city and head to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by natural beauty.
Day 5: Explore Toshogu Shrine and the numerous temples nearby. The babies will love the gentle pace of this historic town. Bring a baby carrier for better comfort. Eat at Hanamusubi Izakaya
Day 6: Take a stroll along Lake Chuzenji and visit the dramatic Kegon Falls. Nikko’s clean mountain air makes it a rejuvenating stop for the whole family. Go back to Tokyo for the night.
Day 7-8: Hakone and Mount Fuji – Scenic beauty
Hakone offers stunning views and family-friendly activities, with Mount Fuji as the star attraction.
Day 7: Get to Hakone from Tokyo with a Shinkansen and rent a car. Ride the Hakone Ropeway for breathtaking panoramas. Head then to Motohakone for a memorable photo of Mt. Fuji and Hakone Shrine in a single frame. Enjoy a family-friendly soak in a private onsen in your hotel room (many accommodations cater specifically to families).
Day 8: Take a road trip around Mt. Fuji National Park and head up to Shimoyoshida. Visit Chureito Pagoda and Kanadorii district. If Mt. Fuji is clearly visible, don't miss Tatego-Hama Beach and Nakanokura Pass View Point.
Day 9-10: Osaka – Food and fun
Osaka is vibrant, colorful and ideal for families who love to explore and eat!
Day 9: Say goodbye to Hakone and hop on the Shinkanzen towards Osaka. Visit Osaka Castle, where the surrounding gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. In the evening, head to Dotonbori for some of the best street food in Japan.
Day 10: Take a day trip to Nara, home to friendly deer in Nara Park. These gentle creatures will fascinate babies, and the serene Todai-ji Temple offers peaceful moments. In Nara, have a private chef dinner at Todaiji Nagomi.
Day 11-14: Kyoto – Ancient charm
Kyoto’s history and natural beauty make it a must-visit, and its slow pace is ideal for families. Kyoto is the least stroller-friendly city, so bring a baby carrier for maximum comfort
Day 11: Get to nearby Kyoto and wander through Gion district and its numerous temples. Don’t forget to visit Hōkan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) outlook and the jaw-dropping Kiyomizu-dera. Try a Gyukatsu at Guykatsu Kyoto Katsugyu Ponto-Cho.
Day 12: Stroll through the enchanting Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and then visit the masterpiece among Kyoto’s temples, Kinkaku-ji aka the Golden Temple.
Day 13: Start the day early with the iconic red torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha. Start early in the morning and keep on going with the trail, you will see the crowds fading out. A baby carrier is a must for this walk. It’s time for a sushi dinner at Kinbe.
Day 14: Spend the day exploring Nanzen-ji Temple and the Heian Shrine, ending with a relaxing tea ceremony.
Day 15-16: Kanazawa – A hidden gem
Kanazawa combines cultural history with beautiful gardens, perfect for family exploration.
Day 15: Visit first the local fish market and get fresh sushi for lunch, then head to Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful Japanese gardens. Babies will love watching the koi fish and waterfalls.
Day 16: Walk through the Higashi Chaya Geisha District, where the quiet streets and geisha houses create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Also visit the Nagamachi Samurai District to learn more about the customs and history of these warriors.
Additional days
Day 17: Back to Tokyo
It's time to go back to Tokyo for the last days of this trip. Take the day to stroll the manga and anime capital of the world, Akihabara, and visit the hidden temple Kanda Myoujin Shrine.
Day 18: Day trip to Kamakura
From Tokyo, have a serene day trip to Kamakura, old Japan's political and military center under the rule of the Kamakura Shogunate. Visit the Kotoku-in temple and enjoy the chill seaside town
Day 19: Arigato Japan!
It's time to say goodbye to Japan, bringing back fantastic memories and awesome pictures with your baby
Need to know
Japan is the perfect first overseas trip to take with your baby! Here are a few pros and things to consider:
Japan has super-clean lactation rooms almost everywhere, with hot water dispensers for formula milk and enough space for changing diapers. Download the Mamapapamap in your App Store to get access to the nearest one.
Public transportation like Shinkansen trains and metro lines have family-friendly cars and elevators to get you on the right platform easily. Make sure to put the Accessibility option in Google Maps to get to the nearest elevator.
Most tourists in Japan travel luggage-free between hotels thanks to several accessible luggage-delivery services like Yamato.
All restaurants in Japan tend to be very small. Consider bringing a travel baby chair with you if possible.
Bring with you a foldable travel stroller and a baby carrier, a must, especially when visiting historic places like Nikko or Kyoto.
Travel Advisor
Luca Montagnino
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Japan page.