Be inspired by Japan
Wherever your Japan family holiday takes you, you can be sure of some eye-opening experiences for adults and kids alike. While Japan is a developed country with some similarities to the UK or other ‘western’ nations, it has been shaped by a history and culture that is truly unique in the world. The clash between the ultra-modern and an ancient world of shoguns, geishas and samurai is a big part of what makes Japan such an exciting destination, and we’ll always recommend an itinerary that shows you both sides of the story.
Japan is also an incredibly beautiful place with sweeping countryside and majestic mountain scenery, so if you choose to get away from the big cities then you’ll be richly rewarded.
You’ll likely find Japanese people to be friendly, polite and welcoming, although some may come across a little reserved or shy at times. This is largely down to Japanese culture, which historically holds modesty and calmness as major virtues. We’ve found that travelling with children can be a great way of breaking any barriers, and you may well pick up a few extra friends through your kids’ natural inquisitiveness.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Japan with Kids?
If you’re planning a family holiday to Japan, chances are you’ll be travelling during the school holidays. Luckily, these times actually work really well for exploring the country.
Easter is one of the best times to go. The weather is mild and comfortable in most places, and there is usually not much rain. If your timing is right, you might catch cherry blossom season. The pink blossoms covering parks and temples are absolutely stunning and feel really special. It is a popular time though, so things can get booked up quickly. If you are thinking of travelling at Easter, it is worth getting your plans sorted early.
Autumn is another brilliant time to visit. If you can get away during the October half term, you will catch beautiful autumn colours and still enjoy pleasant weather. Like spring, this season is popular with locals and tourists, so it is best to book ahead if you want the best options.
Summer in Japan is bright, lively and packed with festivals. There are firework shows, food stalls and lots of fun events for families. It can get very hot and humid though, especially in the cities. The start of summer can also bring some heavy rain. If you are visiting in summer, it is worth spending time in the mountains where it is cooler and great for outdoor adventures.
Christmas in Japan is a bit different to what we are used to, but it is still a lot of fun. Even though it is not a traditional holiday, you will still see festive lights and decorations. The Japanese even have a tradition of eating KFC on Christmas Day which always surprises people. Just be prepared for chilly weather. December can be cold and January and February are usually the coldest months of the year, sometimes dropping below freezing.
Whatever time of year you choose, Japan is full of amazing places to explore and experiences that the whole family will love.
What Japan does best:
- A Culture Packed with Variety
Japan is bursting with rich traditions and modern wonders, so you will never be short of things to see and do. From peaceful shrines and elegant tea ceremonies to futuristic cities and jaw-dropping scenery, it is a destination that keeps everyone entertained. Be sure to catch an authentic sumo wrestling match, experience a traditional Japanese festival like Osaka’s colourful Danjiri Matsuri, enjoy a Geisha dance performance, and of course, hop aboard the famous bullet train for a ride you will never forget. - Step Back in Time with Temples and Traditions
If you love history or simply enjoy soaking up a peaceful atmosphere, Japan’s ancient temples and shrines are a real treat. Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples are dotted all over the country, each with its own story to tell. Keep an eye out for the striking Torii gates that mark the entrance to sacred spaces. They are iconic symbols of Japanese spirituality and a must-see during your visit. - A Dream for Anime and Manga Fans
If you or your kids are into Anime or Manga, Japan is like stepping straight into your favourite show. It is everywhere in the big cities, from themed shops to street art. Make time to visit the magical Studio Ghibli Museum and, if you can, catch the latest release in a small local cinema. Anime is such a huge part of everyday life in Japan that experiencing it first-hand is a real highlight. - Heaven for Gadget Lovers
Japan is a playground for tech fans. Ride the sleek Shinkansen bullet train, explore interactive exhibits at the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation in Odaiba, or dive into the world of electronics at the Toshiba Science Museum. In the evening, you might even stumble across one of Tokyo’s themed bars — we found a sci-fi cocktail bar with a robot vibe that served a drink called the Bumblebee, and it was surprisingly good.
Travel with confidence
Generally speaking, Japan is one of the safest and most reliable places you can visit as a family. The streets are clean, public spaces are well looked after, and crime levels are incredibly low. Transport is modern, easy to use and always seems to run on time, which makes getting around with kids much less stressful. The healthcare system is also excellent, with high standards across the board.
Before you go, it is really important to make sure you have a good family travel insurance policy that includes cover for Japan. If you do need medical help while you are out there, it can get expensive, so having the right cover will give you peace of mind.
What makes Japan so special?
It is easy to see why the Japanese are often thought of as some of the kindest and most respectful people in the world. What really stands out is how incredibly clean everything is. You will notice that people take their rubbish home with them, and even the underground stations look spotless. It is also one of the safest countries to travel in. Crime is very rare and theft is almost unheard of. You will even see bikes left unlocked outside shops and airports without a second thought. There is a strong sense of respect for others and for shared spaces, and that makes exploring Japan feel calm, welcoming and refreshingly stress-free.
Nature plays a big role in Japanese life too, and if you care about the environment, this is a great country to travel through responsibly. Public transport is not only reliable but also easy to use. With a JR Rail Pass, you can get around the country quickly and efficiently, including rides on the famous bullet train. It means there is no need to rely on taxis or hire cars. On top of that, cycling is really popular in Japan and the cities are well set up for it. Whether you want a slow, scenic ride with the family or something a bit more adventurous, it is a brilliant way to get around and cut down your carbon footprint. And for those who love a proper cycling challenge, there are incredible long-distance routes that stretch across the country from coast to coast.
Getting to grips with the Language
When it comes to speaking Japanese, we definitely recommend taking a good phrasebook or having some key phrases saved on your phone. English is not as widely spoken in Japan as it is in other parts of Asia. You will find it easier to get by in big cities like Tokyo, but once you head into smaller towns or rural areas, English becomes quite rare. Since the written language is made up of symbols, it can be tricky to figure things out without a bit of help, so having some handy phrases to refer to can really save you from awkward moments.
The good news is that Japanese is fairly phonetic, so if you read a phrase out loud from your book or phone, chances are you will be understood. That said, Japanese is a complex language, and it can take years to fully master. There are often several ways to say the same thing depending on the situation, and that can be a bit confusing for visitors. Still, don’t let that put you off. Just give it a go. The Japanese really appreciate it when travellers make the effort to speak their language, and even trying a few simple phrases goes a long way.
One thing to be aware of though once you say something confidently, people might assume you are fluent and start chatting away. It can lead to some funny situations, trust us. That is why learning how to say “I don’t understand” can be just as useful as ordering a meal or asking for directions. You will find some key phrases below to help you get started.
Key Japanese words and phrases to know
Arigatou gozaimasu – Thank you
Onegaishimasu – Please
Sumimasen – Excuse me
Hai -Yes
Iie – No
Gomen Nasai – I’m sorry
Wakarimasen – I don’t understand
Kawaii! – Cute!
Bigaku – No exact word translation but it means ‘A love for aesthetically pleasing/admirable/cute/attractive things’
Ukiyo – This one word translates to “floating world” and encapsulates the feeling of being totally present, unaffected by the stresses of the world and simply deep into that exact moment. Something we are sure you will experience frequently during your travels in Japan!
Food in Japan
Food in Japan is delish… so let the mouth-watering commence! From humble rice-based street food and warming Ramen bowls to lavish sushi bar-restaurants, food in Japan is something to get truly excited about. We’d personally recommend the female-owned and run Nadeshiko Sushi restaurant in Tokyo’s Akihabara area, with all-female sushi chefs, they’re incredibly friendly to tourists and create some of the best Sushi in Tokyo!
Vegetarian & vegan food in Japan
Vegetarians and vegans will find a lot that pleases them, but just be aware that attitudes to meat and fish can be very different to that of western countries. It’s always worth researching the names of things that you can or can’t eat. The big cities will cater to you easily but it could be trickier in rural areas. Vegetarians will find it easier than vegans to find something to chow down on (so nothing new there eh, Vegang!), as a lot of snacks are egg-based. The Japanese are a big fan of tofu, fresh vegetables and mushrooms so just be brave and ask, as they will always, in true Japanese nature, go out their way to find you something which suits. It’s common for education around veganism and vegetarianism to be quite minimal in some areas of Japan, and you may find that they don’t consider fish to be meat. Your best bet is to practice some key phrases that you’re comfortable with, which outline your specific needs as clearly as possible. Learn more about Japanese food.
In the cities, you’ll find western restaurants and firm favourites, but we would recommend finding truly authentic places to eat. Even if you have to point, smile and bow instead of speaking if there’s no English on the menu. Your bravery will reward you with culinary delights! Sometimes it’s not always crystal clear what things are, so prepare to play the famous ‘Japanese food roulette’… Either way, you’ll end up with some good stories to tell upon your return.
Are you gluten-free? Read our coeliac guide.
Weather in Japan
Japan is very seasonal, and depending on your interests, you’ll need to be careful with deciding when you want to visit. Given its subarctic location in the North, it can be extremely cold in Winter, providing some of the best powder snow in the world. This makes it a haven for skiers the world over.
Spring brings the cherry blossom season, which is one of the most iconic Japanese experiences. Everyone has seen images of the beautiful pink blooms that blanket the country for a few weeks every year, probably one of the most serene and beautiful events to experience in the world. Though with it comes greater numbers of tourists, so it’s worth booking well ahead.
The summer, especially in the southern islands, brings some of the best sunshine and heat for Japan’s palm-lined, white-sand beaches. Go exploring around the Pacific side beaches that litter the archipelago of Islands that make up Japan.
Autumn brings ‘Koyo’, a famous period in which the leaves transform from vibrant greens to passionate reds, yellows and oranges. Flocks of people travel across the world just to witness this beautiful natural phenomenon. Just looking at the photos of each seasonal landscape will transport you into the other-worldly aura Japan has. It’s probably our favourite time to go!
Things to watch out for in Japan
Getting lost
It’s easy to get lost in Japan, given that the signs and directions are written in Japanese a lot of the time. The subway in Tokyo is notoriously like a riddle and may leave you staring at the map blankly. To avoid any unnecessary confusion, we suggest researching the routes and lines you need to take, before setting out. This will serve you well as it can be hard to find attendants around and they don’t always speak English.
Also, despite being famed for its hight-tech innovations, Japan’s train ticket machines are often pretty dated and confusing. So the more you have prepared, the better chance you have of not getting frustrated or buying the wrong tickets.
Food labelling
Food in Japan is labelled very differently to the West, so if you have certain food requirements or allergies, prepare a printed and handwritten list in Japanese. You can use this to show in a shop or restaurant. Google Translate app doesn’t always work when the packaging is essentially like a Manga poster!
Japanese etiquette
Japan has very specific etiquettes, manners and expected behaviours when it comes to certain things. Don’t let this intimidate you though, they are usually easily learned and most of them are simply common sense courtesy. Like when travelling anywhere, offending people is possible. However, as a traveller, you are generally awarded a level of leniency, and by simply being aware and researching anything you aren’t sure about, you’re very unlikely to end up in a negative situation. The most notable etiquette to be aware of is taking your shoes off when entering a home or building; it will usually be clear when it’s appropriate to do this, but keep an eye out for the shoe racks on the side. Bowing is polite, both when greeting and thanking people, and two hands should be used when exchanging business cards or gifts. There is also a clear code for how to use Onsen spas, and how to behave in temples.
Temperature changes
Don’t forget that if you are venturing off into rural areas, the heating is not what it will be in major cities. It can drop to low temperatures at night and when sleeping on a traditional futon bed on the floor it can get chilly! It’s never a bad idea to take some thin thermal or cotton pyjamas and thick socks to avoid any sleepless nights, especially in the winter.
Budgeting for Food in Japan
As with anywhere, dining in Japan can be as inexpensive or as extravagant as you choose. The country is fantastic for affordable everyday meals, and street food in particular is both delicious and budget-friendly. Many options are eat-and-walk style, such as nori wraps or inari, perfect for snacking on the go or saving for later. Just keep in mind that in some places eating while walking is considered impolite.
On average, you can expect to spend around ¥1000 to ¥3000 per meal, so budgeting around ¥10000 to ¥15000 per day is a sensible plan depending on your tastes and appetite.
Accommodation often includes at least one meal, which can help stretch your budget further. Staying in a ryokan, a traditional guesthouse, is especially memorable. These family-run inns typically serve beautifully prepared local cuisine, often presented as an array of small dishes and bowls, sometimes even with a donabe clay pot and mini stove for cooking at the table. It is one of the most charming and authentic ways to experience Japanese food culture.
Shopping in Japan
The real question in Japan isn’t what you can buy, but what you can’t. Shopping is an experience in itself, and nowhere more so than in Tokyo, where different districts are dedicated to specific styles and products.
Tokyo Districts
Akihabara is the go-to district for electronics, while Harajuku sets the tone for cutting-edge streetwear and youth fashion. Shibuya and Ginza, on the other hand, are where you’ll find luxury boutiques and international high street brands side by side, making them hubs for both trend seekers and big-name shoppers.
Nishiki Market
In Kyoto, Nishiki Market is a must-visit destination, famous for its lively atmosphere and its street food culture of “walking and eating.” Beyond Kyoto, major cities across Japan are equally rewarding for shoppers, whether you are hunting for vintage antiques, bespoke tailoring, contemporary fashion or handmade crafts.
Vintage heaven!
Vintage markets and flea stores are hugely popular in Japan and can be found in cities and towns across the country, perfect for those who love to rummage for hidden treasures. Tokyo in particular has a thriving scene, with markets and shops offering everything from quirky antiques to one-of-a-kind fashion finds. There is also a strong culture of second-hand designer and streetwear shopping, so if you enjoy picking up trendy pieces while supporting sustainable fashion, you will be spoilt for choice.
Brief history of Japan
Japan’s rich ancestral history is shaped by emperors, shoguns, samurai and daimyo, who for centuries fought to protect sacred lands. While much of this past was marked by conflict—including invasions by the Mongols and, in more recent times, the devastation of the Second World War—Japan also carries a legacy of peace, resilience and cultural achievement. Across the country you’ll find countless historical sites, some reflecting its turbulent chapters and others celebrating its more harmonious eras.
Modern Japan is a parliamentary democracy, modeled originally on the British system, with representatives elected through parliament. The country also maintains its monarchy, the oldest continuous hereditary monarchy in the world. Emperor Naruhito ascended the throne in April 2019 following the abdication of his father, becoming the 126th monarch in Japan’s imperial line of succession.
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