Jodie shares a first-time family guide for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Japan’s Disney parks
Want to visit Japan with kids for the first time, but aren’t sure where to start? From toddler to tween to teen, our family of four has visited Japan as a family multiple times (in fact, we’re writing this from Osaka right now).
Kelsey Graves recently talked with Jodie about all things Japan on the Trip Tales Podcast.
Jodie joined Kelsey live from Japan to discuss making this incredible destination both magical and manageable for families. As an above-the-knee amputee, Jodie shared insights on how families can explore Japan while navigating mobility differences and cultural experiences.
Listen to Jodie’s discussion with Kelsey on the Trip Tales Podcast for:
- Real-world family Japan travel advice, from a mom who’s visited Japan multiple times with kids
- Interview conducted from Japan discussing accessibility and mobility considerations
- Coverage of the typical first-time visitor’s “Golden Route” of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
- Tokyo Disney Resort’s two parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea
- Why Japan is a great destination to visit as a family, including food, accommodation, transportation, and more
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Follow the Golden Route of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
Tokyo offers endless family entertainment, from the playgrounds and zoo at Ueno Park to the cultural immersion of Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree.
We explored “Kitchen Street” (Kappabashi Street) and discovered the convenience of SUICA and PASMO cards for navigating the train system with kids.
The city’s anime culture comes alive at JUMP Shops and One Piece Mugiwara shops, while teamLab Museums (Planets and Borderless) provide interactive digital art experiences that captivate children.
Kyoto provides a more traditional Japanese experience, where families can wander the Gion area’s shops, explore the famous Bamboo Forest, and stay in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) for an authentic cultural immersion.
Osaka, known as ”The Kitchen of Japan,” introduced us to regional specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki. The Dotonbori area’s river boat tours and Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel offer family-friendly entertainment, while Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine provides cultural depth (and a great nearby park with a large playground). Osaka is also home to Universal Studios Japan (USJ).
Cultural immersion through food and activities
From karaoke sessions to sushi experiences, Japan offers countless ways for families to engage with local culture.
We recommend Kura as a reliable Japanese chain restaurant for families seeking authentic but accessible dining experiences. The balance of Pokémon culture, traditional shrines like Meiji Jingu, and modern attractions creates an itinerary that satisfies different family interests.
Japan proves that international family travel can accommodate various mobility needs while delivering transformative cultural experiences that appeal to both children and adults.
Check out more on Trip Tales Podcast
Podcast episode key points
- Transportation: Shinkansen bullet train, SUICA/PASMO cards, Klook app for transfers, train system navigation with kids
- Tokyo Highlights: Ueno Park, Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo Skytree), Kappabashi Street, Meiji Jingu Shrine, JUMP Shops, One Piece stores, teamLab Museums, Tokyo Disney and DisneySea
- Kyoto Experiences: Gion area exploration, Bamboo Forest, ryokan stays, traditional Japanese breakfast
- Osaka Attractions: Takoyaki and okonomiyaki foods, Dotonbori river area, Ebisu Tower Ferris Wheel, river boat tours, Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine, Universal Studios Japan, Japanese soufflé pancakes
- Practical Tips: Making Japan affordable for families, two Tokyo airports (Narita/Haneda), Uber/GoTaxi apps, Kura restaurant chain recommendation
- Cultural Elements: Karaoke, anime/manga culture, traditional Shinto experiences, accessibility considerations for mobility differences
Before you know it, you’ll be ready to visit Japan with kids for the first time, and you’re going to have an amazing trip!
