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Japan Unplugged

Japan has always been on our family travel bucket list, and when we finally made it happen, the experience was beyond anything we could have imagined. From the neon lights of Tokyo to the peaceful temples of Kyoto, there was something for everyone—from the kids’ excitement over robots and ninjas to the parents’ love of culture and food. Here’s a day-by-day look at our family’s unforgettable 7-day trip to Japan.

Day 1: Touchdown in Tokyo – Robots, Lights, and Shibuya Crossing

We arrived in Tokyo jet-lagged but excited. After dropping our bags at the hotel in Shibuya, we couldn’t wait to see the famous Shibuya Crossing—a must-do when you’re in Tokyo! We joined the sea of people crossing the street in every direction, and the kids were blown away by how many people were moving all at once.

Afterward, we headed to Robot Restaurant for a wild, colorful show that the kids absolutely loved—think giant robots, neon lights, and music! For dinner, we kept it casual with a visit to a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant where everyone could pick their favorite dishes as they rolled by. 🍣

Day 2: Tokyo Disneyland – A Day of Magic

Day 2 was all about the kids (and let’s be honest, the grown-ups too!). We spent the whole day at Tokyo Disneyland. The park is magical, with Japanese twists on classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain. The kids couldn’t get enough of the parades and meeting their favorite characters. 🎢✨

One of the best parts? The Japanese food in the park! We tried Mickey-shaped churros, adorable bento boxes, and even green alien mochi from Toy Story.

Day 3: Exploring Tokyo – Temples, Ninjas, and Parks

We kicked off the day at Meiji Shrine, a peaceful escape right in the middle of bustling Tokyo. The kids enjoyed writing their wishes on wooden plaques, while we soaked up the calm, tree-lined paths.

Next, we headed to Asakusa to see the famous Senso-ji Temple. The kids loved the market stalls leading up to the temple—lots of souvenirs and snacks to try!

For lunch, we went to a ninja-themed restaurant in Akihabara. The kids were thrilled to see ninja servers and “secret doors” to our table. Afterward, we explored Akihabara’s famous anime shops and arcades—perfect for the kids who are into video games!

Day 4: Kyoto – Temples and Tea Ceremonies

We hopped on the bullet train (the kids were fascinated by how fast it goes!) to Kyoto, and the change of scenery was immediate. Kyoto is so much quieter than Tokyo, with its ancient temples and gardens. Our first stop was Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its endless rows of bright orange torii gates. The kids turned it into a game, racing through the gates while we marveled at the beauty of the place.

Afterward, we took part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, where the kids learned how to make (and drink) matcha tea. It was a fun way for them to experience Japanese culture.

Day 5: Arashiyama – Monkeys and Bamboo Forests

We took a day trip to Arashiyama, just outside Kyoto, and it turned out to be one of the kids’ favorite days. We started with a visit to the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where we hiked up a hill to see wild monkeys. The kids got to feed them (from behind a safe cage, of course), and they thought it was the coolest thing ever. 🐒

Next, we visited the famous Bamboo Forest. Walking through the towering bamboo was like stepping into another world, and it gave us some great family photo ops! We ended the day with a boat ride down the Hozu River, which was peaceful and relaxing after a busy day of exploring.

Day 6: Osaka – Street Food and Castles

We took a short train ride to Osaka, known for its street food and fun vibe. First stop was Osaka Castle—the kids loved exploring the huge grounds and climbing to the top for a panoramic view of the city. 🏯

For lunch, we hit up Dotonbori, a lively street filled with food stalls and restaurants. We tried takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes), and the kids had fun picking out different snacks to try. The giant neon signs and energy of the place made it a fun experience for all of us.

Day 7: Nara – Feeding the Friendly Deer

On our last full day, we took a day trip to Nara, famous for its friendly deer that roam freely around the park. The kids were in heaven feeding the deer (and yes, the deer can get a little pushy for those crackers!). 🦌

We also visited Todai-ji Temple, home to a massive bronze Buddha statue. It’s an awe-inspiring sight, and the kids were amazed by the size of it. We spent the rest of the day wandering around Nara, stopping for ice cream and enjoying the peaceful vibe before heading back to Osaka.

Final Thoughts

This trip to Japan was a mix of excitement, culture, and family fun. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Whether we were riding rollercoasters, feeding deer, or wandering through bamboo forests, every day was an adventure.

If you're thinking about a family trip to Japan, I say go for it. The mix of tradition and modern fun makes it the perfect destination for families. Plus, the convenience of public transport (and how clean everything is!) made traveling around easy—even with kids in tow.

Pro Tip: We booked all our flights, hotels, and some tours through Mytripjunction.com which made planning super easy. If you’re traveling with kids, having everything pre-arranged is a lifesaver!