Hi experts!
I’m planning my family’s first international trip to Japan this (early) June. We will be arriving in Tokyo May 30, and flying back to the US late afternoon on June 8th.
I have two daughters- age 11 and 14. I’ve traveled internationally before (but never to Asia) and this will be my husband’s first international trip as well as my daughters.
I’m having a hard time deciding what to do in addition to what I have planned so far:
May 31- we are meeting up with an English-speaking guide to learn how to get our train tickets, go to Asakusa, Senso-Ji Temple and Akihabara.
June 1 – Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi bus tour all day
June 2 – explore Harajuku, Shinjuku and Shibuya
This is where the trip can go in many directions and I’m unsure of what to prioritize. I love nature, history and Buddhism so I would love to go to Kyoto. My husband doesn’t love nature walks and my kids don’t either. My kids are into anime, fashion, love Japanese food, and gaming.
Here are the options I’m considering (and I know it’s not possible to do all of them- so would love suggestions on how to best combine or simplify and focus on one). I’m open to any al all modes of transport (train, air)
More in Tokyo- what are we missing that is must-see?
Kyoto – bamboo forest
Kyoto – Fushimi Inari shrine
Kyoto – Kinkaku-Ji
Osaka – Tonbori River Cruise
Osaka – dotonbori
Hiroshima – peace park, Atomic bomb Done
Miyajima Island
Okinawa – as a family, we love beaches and relaxing and I’m drawn to this even though it isn’t on the typical first timer itinerary for Japan
We don’t want to spend time at any global theme parks- so Disney and universal studios are out (but if there are any that are more authentic Japan experiences we would be up for that.
Please help me pick the itinerary that will make my husband and kids fall in love with international travel!
Any and all tips would be so appreciated!
by achago