Hi everyone, My family (a couple with a 6-year-old girl) is traveling to Japan for the first time in the first week of October. We're looking for a light itinerary with a mix of cultural sights, nature, and fun activities for our daughter. We love visiting Japanese Temples. Here's our detailed plan, and we would love to get your feedback and suggestions!
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
- Arrive at Narita Airport at around 3pm. After clearing customs and immigration, we’ll take a train to our hotel in Tokyo.
- Check into our hotel and relax. Depending on our energy levels, we might take a short walk around the neighbourhood to get a feel of the city and grab a quick bite to eat.
Day 2: Senso-ji Temple and Ueno Zoo
- Morning: Visit Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple. We’re excited to explore the temple grounds and Nakamise Street for some traditional snacks and souvenirs.
- Afternoon: After lunch, we’ll head to Ueno Zoo to see the pandas and other animals. Our daughter loves zoos, so we hope she’ll enjoy it!
Day 3: Tokyo Disneyland
- Morning: A full day at Tokyo Disneyland! We’ll start early to make the most of our time there.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring Tokyo Disneyland, focusing on attractions suitable for our 6-year-old. Any ride recommendations for young kids?
Day 4: Travel to Kyoto. Fushimi Inari Shrine and Gion District
- Morning: Travel to Kyoto via Shinkansen. Upon arrival, we’ll visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and walk through the iconic torii gates.
- Afternoon: Explore the Gion District. We hope to catch a glimpse of a geisha and enjoy the traditional atmosphere.
Day 5: Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto Aquarium
- Morning: Visit the Kyoto Railway Museum. Our daughter loves trains, and we think she’ll be fascinated by the exhibits.
- Afternoon: Head to Kyoto Aquarium, which should be fun and educational.
Day 6: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Monkey Park
- Morning: Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The serene atmosphere and towering bamboo should be quite a sight.
- Afternoon: Visit the Arashiyama Monkey Park. Our daughter is excited about seeing the monkeys up close!
Day 7: Kinkaku-ji and Philosopher's Path
- Morning: Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). The golden temple and its reflection in the pond will be a beautiful experience.
- Afternoon: Stroll along the Philosopher’s Path. We’ll take it easy and enjoy the scenery.
Day 8: Himeji Castle and Kokoen Garden
- Morning: Day trip to Himeji to see Himeji Castle. We’ve heard it’s one of Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved castles.
- Afternoon: Explore Kokoen Garden next to the castle before heading back to Kyoto.
Day 9: Nara Park and Toda-ji Temple
- Morning: Travel to Nara and visit Nara Park to feed the friendly deer. We think our daughter will love this!
- Afternoon: Visit Todai-ji Temple and see the giant Buddha statue.
Day 10: Travel back to Tokyo. Explore Odaiba
- Morning: Travel back to Tokyo.
- Afternoon: Explore Odaiba. We plan to visit the Miraikan Science Museum and Palette Town. Any other recommendations for Odaiba?
Day 11: Day Trip to Hakone and Mt. Fuji
- Morning: Combined Day Trip to Hakone and Mt. Fuji. We’ll start with the Hakone Ropeway for stunning views of Mount Fuji, followed by a boat cruise on Lake Ashi.
- Afternoon: Visit Lake Kawaguchi, take a scenic boat ride or ropeway, and then return to Tokyo.
Day 12: Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Falls
- Morning: Day trip to Nikko. We’ll visit the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which we’ve heard is quite beautiful and unique.
- Afternoon: Check out Kegon Falls and Tobu World Square before heading back to Tokyo.
Day 13: Shopping in Tokyo
- Full Day: We’re dedicating this day to shopping in Tokyo! We plan to hit popular shopping areas like Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, Harajuku, and Akihabara. Any tips on the best shops or malls for family-friendly shopping?
Day 14: Departure from Tokyo
- Morning: Free time for any last-minute shopping or sightseeing. We might revisit a favorite spot or relax at the hotel.
- Afternoon: Check out of the hotel and head to Narita/Haneda Airport for our flight back home.
Any feedback or suggestions on our itinerary? Are there any must-see places we’ve missed or any tips for traveling with a young child? Thank you in advance for your help!
by sasi_814