This 23-day itinerary is crafted as a grand family narrative, charting a course through the heart of Japan. The journey begins in the dazzling, futuristic metropolis of Tokyo, transitions to the serene volcanic landscapes of Hakone, delves into the deep cultural traditions of Kyoto, and culminates in the vibrant, culinary-rich streets of Osaka. More than a mere schedule, this plan is a carefully woven tapestry of experiences designed to engage and delight every member of the family. It balances iconic sights with hidden gems, high-energy theme parks with tranquil hikes, and modern pop culture with ancient martial arts, ensuring a rich and rewarding adventure for adults and children alike.
Success in securing some of Japan’s most sought-after experiences hinges on meticulous advance planning. For attractions with extremely high demand, spontaneity is not a viable strategy. The following timeline is the most crucial element of pre-trip preparation, transforming a complex set of booking windows into a single, actionable checklist to prevent disappointment.
| Booking Window | Action Item | Destination | Rationale & Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-4 Months Prior | Book All Accommodations | Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Osaka | Popular family-friendly hotels, apartment-style hotels like MIMARU, and ryokans book out far in advance, especially for multi-night stays. |
| ~93 Days Prior | Book Universal Studios Japan Tickets | Osaka | Purchase a package that includes a guaranteed Timed Entry Ticket for Super Nintendo World via an official partner like Klook or KKday. This is the most stress-free method to ensure access. |
| 10th of August, 10:00 AM JST | Book Ghibli Museum Tickets (for September) | Tokyo | Tickets for the following month are released online at 10:00 AM Japan Standard Time on the 10th of each month. They sell out within minutes. |
| 10th of September, 10:00 AM JST | Book Ghibli Museum Tickets (for October) | Tokyo | Same as above. This is for the latter part of your trip. Be prepared and logged in before the sale time. |
| 1 Month Prior | Make Pokémon Café Reservations | Tokyo & Osaka | Reservations for the Pokémon Cafés in both Tokyo and Osaka open one month in advance and are essential. They book up very quickly. |
Securing tickets for the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka is notoriously challenging and requires precise timing. There are two official channels for overseas visitors: purchasing online via Lawson Ticket or booking a package tour with JTB Sunrise Tours.
The JTB Sunrise Tour, while guaranteeing a ticket, is a full-day, fixed-itinerary bus tour that includes other destinations. This rigid structure fundamentally conflicts with the flexible daily plan requested for this trip, removing the family's autonomy. Therefore, this option is not recommended.
The primary and most suitable method is to purchase tickets directly from the Lawson Ticket website. This requires being online and ready to book at precisely
10:00 AM Japan Standard Time on the 10th of the preceding month. Tickets sell out almost instantly. For those who wish to avoid the stress of this online rush, using a third-party proxy buying service can be a viable, albeit unofficial, alternative to ensure tickets are secured.
Gaining entry to Super Nintendo World within Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is not guaranteed with a standard park ticket. There are three primary methods: obtaining a free Timed Entry Ticket via the official USJ app upon entering the park, entering a lottery on the app on very busy days, or securing guaranteed access in advance.
For a family traveling from abroad, relying on the day-of app method is a significant gamble, as tickets can run out within minutes of the park opening. The most effective and stress-free strategy is to purchase a ticket package that includes a
guaranteed Timed Entry Ticket for Super Nintendo World. These are available through official travel partners like Klook and KKday and should be booked as soon as they become available, approximately 93 days in advance. This approach eliminates uncertainty and ensures the family can experience one of the trip's most anticipated highlights.
The Japan Rail (JR) Pass offers unlimited rides on most JR trains, including the Shinkansen, for a set period. Historically, it was a cost-effective choice for many tourists. However, a significant price increase of nearly 70% in October 2023 has fundamentally altered its value proposition. The old benchmark—that a simple round trip between Tokyo and Kyoto justified the pass—is no longer true.
For this specific 23-day, one-way itinerary from Tokyo to Osaka, the nationwide JR Pass is not a cost-effective option. A detailed analysis of the major train journeys shows that purchasing individual tickets will result in substantial savings. The convenience of the pass does not outweigh the significant extra cost for this travel plan.
| Transportation Cost Analysis | Adult Fare | Child Fare | Family Total (2A, 2C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual Ticket Costs (Major Legs) | |||
| Tokyo → Odawara (Shinkansen) | approx. ¥3,280 | approx. ¥1,640 | approx. ¥9,840 |
| Odawara → Kyoto (Shinkansen) | approx. ¥11,770 | approx. ¥5,885 | approx. ¥35,310 |
| Kyoto → Shin-Osaka (Shinkansen/Special Rapid) | approx. ¥1,450 | approx. ¥725 | approx. ¥4,350 |
| Subtotal for Major Legs | approx. ¥16,500 | approx. ¥8,250 | approx. ¥49,500 |
| Estimated Other JR Travel | approx. ¥10,000 | approx. ¥5,000 | approx. ¥30,000 |
| Total Estimated Individual Ticket Cost | approx. ¥79,500 | ||
| 21-Day Nationwide JR Pass Cost | ¥100,000 | ¥50,000 | ¥300,000 |
| Net Savings by Buying Individual Tickets | approx. ¥220,500 |
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Note: Fares are based on unreserved seats where applicable and are subject to minor variations. Child fares are for ages 6-11. Sources:.
This analysis clearly demonstrates that purchasing tickets individually is the financially prudent choice, freeing up a significant portion of the budget for other experiences.
For seamless travel on local subways, non-JR trains, and buses, an IC card is essential. These rechargeable cards function as a digital wallet, allowing you to simply tap on and off at ticket gates. They can also be used for purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and coin lockers.
For tourists, the Welcome Suica and Pasmo Passport are ideal choices. They are valid for 28 days and do not require the standard ¥500 deposit. Functionally, the cards are identical and can be used interchangeably across Japan's major cities. These can be purchased from vending machines or JR ticket offices at Narita Airport upon arrival and can be recharged with cash at any train station ticket machine. Each family member, including children aged 6 and up, will need their own card.
Navigating train stations and crowded Shinkansen with large suitcases can be challenging, especially with children. Japan's highly reliable luggage forwarding service, known as takkyubin, is a transformative solution. This service allows you to send your main luggage from one hotel to the next, typically for next-day arrival. Arrangements can be made easily at your hotel's front desk or at a major convenience store. By forwarding the large bags, the family can travel between cities with only small daypacks, making transfers and train journeys significantly more comfortable and stress-free.
Day 1 - 19/09 Upon arrival at Narita International Airport (NRT) at 09:45, proceed through immigration and customs. The first logistical step is to purchase Welcome Suica cards for each family member at a JR East Travel Service Center or designated vending machine. Board the Narita Express (N'EX) train for a comfortable, direct journey to Shinjuku Station. After checking into the hotel, the afternoon is for gentle acclimatization with a visit to the beautiful
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. For the evening, the free observation decks at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offer stunning panoramic views of the sprawling city, providing a perfect introduction to Tokyo's scale.
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Accommodation: For excellent access and family-friendly options, consider Hotel Gracery Shinjuku, famous for its Godzilla head , or an apartment-style hotel like
MIMARU Tokyo Shinjuku WEST, which offers kitchenettes and more space.
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Food: Enjoy a casual welcome dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in the Shinjuku Station area.
Day 2 - 20/09 The morning is dedicated to one of the boys' key interests: judo. A visit to the Kodokan Judo Institute, the world headquarters of judo, is in order. While the main practice viewing is in the evening, the second-floor Judo Museum and Library is open on weekdays from 11:00 to 18:00 and offers a fascinating look into the history and philosophy of the martial art. In the afternoon, immerse the family in the vibrant energy of Shibuya. The main destination is the
Nintendo TOKYO store, located on the 6th floor of the Shibuya Parco department store. Be aware that on busy days, timed-entry tickets may be distributed to manage crowds. The same floor also hosts the Pokémon Center and a Capcom store, making it a paradise for gamers. Conclude the afternoon by experiencing the iconic
Shibuya Scramble Crossing from a nearby vantage point like the Starbucks in the Tsutaya building.
Day 3 - 21/09 This day contrasts Tokyo's ancient past with its modern skyline. Start the morning in Asakusa, visiting the magnificent Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest temple. Explore the bustling Nakamise-dori, the traditional shopping street leading to the temple, perfect for finding souvenirs and trying classic snacks. In the afternoon, travel a short distance to the Tokyo Skytree. Ascend to its observation decks for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city you've begun to explore.
Day 4 - 22/09 This is a major attraction day centered on immersive art and futuristic architecture. Dedicate the morning and early afternoon to teamLab Borderless, the "museum without a map" now located in Azabudai Hills. This stunning digital art museum encourages visitors to wander, explore, and become part of the art itself. It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance to secure entry and save on cost. Comfortable shoes are a must, and wearing light-colored clothing can enhance the experience as it acts as a canvas for the light projections. Afterwards, travel to the man-made island of
Odaiba in Tokyo Bay. Here, the family can marvel at the life-sized Unicorn Gundam Statue, see the Rainbow Bridge, and take photos with the miniature Statue of Liberty.
Day 5 - 23/09 Assuming tickets were successfully secured three months prior, today is dedicated to the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli. Visit the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka for your reserved time slot. Remember that photography is prohibited inside the museum to preserve its magic for all visitors, but is allowed in the outdoor areas. The ticket includes a viewing of an exclusive short animated film shown only at the museum's Saturn Theater. After the museum visit, spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the adjacent
Inokashira Park, where the family can rent swan-shaped paddle boats on the pond. The surrounding neighborhood of Kichijoji is a charming area to explore with many shops and cafes.
Day 6 - 24/09 This day is designed for flexibility. Option 1 (Major Attraction): For fans of all things cute (kawaii), a day trip to Sanrio Puroland is an excellent choice. This indoor theme park dedicated to Hello Kitty and friends is perfect for a rainy day and offers charming shows, rides, and character greetings.
Option 2 (Two Smaller Activities): For a more relaxed day, book a table at the Pokémon Cafe in Nihonbashi (reservations are essential and open one month in advance). Combine this with an exploration of
Tokyo Character Street in the basement of Tokyo Station, a corridor of shops dedicated to beloved Japanese characters.
Day 7 - 25/09 After several busy days, the morning is for relaxation. A visit to Ueno Park, with its expansive grounds and the popular Ueno Zoo, offers a leisurely start. The main event is in the late afternoon. Return to the
Kodokan Judo Institute for the experience the boys have been waiting for: observing a live judo practice (randori) session. Spectators can watch for free from the 8th-floor viewing gallery on weekdays and Saturdays from approximately 16:30 to 19:30. This is a rare and authentic cultural experience that connects directly to the family's interests.
Day 8 - 26/09 Use the morning for any final Tokyo exploration or souvenir shopping. The Hakuhinkan Toy Park in Ginza is a multi-story wonderland for children. In the afternoon, prepare for the next leg of the journey. At the hotel, arrange for the
takkyubin luggage forwarding service to send the main suitcases directly to your hotel in Kyoto. This will allow the family to travel to Hakone for two nights with only small overnight bags, making the journey much more manageable.
Day 9 - 27/09 Travel from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto Station using the Odakyu Railway. Upon arrival at either Shinjuku or Odawara, purchase the 2-Day Hakone Freepass for each family member. This pass is an excellent value, providing unlimited travel on eight different modes of transport that form the famous "Hakone Loop". Begin the scenic circuit: ride the charming
Hakone Tozan Railway up the mountain, transfer to the Hakone Tozan Cable Car, and then soar over the steaming volcanic vents of the Owakudani valley on the Hakone Ropeway. Descend to the shores of Lake Ashi and board a whimsical
Hakone Pirate Ship for a cruise across the lake, with stunning views of the floating torii gate and, on a clear day, Mount Fuji. Check into your accommodation for the night.
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Accommodation: Experience a traditional Japanese inn by staying at a family-friendly ryokan. Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu and
Hotel Okada are excellent mid-range options that welcome children and offer the choice of private onsen (hot spring baths), allowing the family to bathe together.
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Food: Enjoy a multi-course kaiseki dinner at the ryokan, a culinary art form in itself.
Day 10 - 28/09 The morning is dedicated to a unique blend of art and nature at the Hakone Open-Air Museum. This was Japan's first outdoor museum and is a fantastic destination for families. The vast grounds allow children space to explore while adults appreciate world-class sculptures by artists like Rodin and Picasso set against the backdrop of the Hakone mountains. The interactive, climbable "Symphonic Sculpture" is a particular highlight for all ages. In the afternoon, embark on a family-friendly hike. For an easy walk with historical significance and great views, the
Onshi-Hakone Park Trail is an excellent choice. For a longer but still manageable hike, the
Lake Ashinoko West Bank Trail offers a peaceful walk through forests and along sandy beaches. These options provide a good balance for a family with children aged 9 and 6.
Day 11 - 29/09 Enjoy a final, rejuvenating onsen bath and a traditional Japanese breakfast at the ryokan. Use the Hakone Freepass to travel to Odawara Station. From Odawara, take the Tokaido Shinkansen directly to Kyoto. Upon arrival, check into your Kyoto hotel where your forwarded luggage should be waiting. For a fun and convenient dinner, head to the 10th floor of the Kyoto Station building to explore Kyoto Ramen Koji (Ramen Street). This "theme park" of ramen features shops from different regions of Japan, allowing everyone to choose their favorite style of noodle soup.
Day 12 - 30/09 Today explores two of Kyoto's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing contrasting styles of Japanese beauty. Begin the day at Kinkaku-ji (The Golden Pavilion), a stunning temple covered in gold leaf that appears to float on its reflecting pond. In the afternoon, find tranquility at
Ryoan-ji Temple, home to Japan's most famous Zen rock garden. The minimalist design provides a peaceful space for contemplation and a fascinating contrast to the opulence of Kinkaku-ji.
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Accommodation: For ultimate convenience, Hotel Granvia Kyoto is located directly within the Kyoto Station complex. For an apartment-style stay with more room for the family,
MIMARU KYOTO STATION is an excellent choice. For a traditional ryokan experience, a family-friendly option like
Nishiyama Ryokan offers a comfortable stay.
Day 13 - 01/10 Dedicate the full day to exploring the scenic Arashiyama district on the western edge of Kyoto. Start early to walk through the ethereal Arashiyama Bamboo Grove before the crowds become overwhelming. The path is paved and manageable for children. In the afternoon, undertake the short but steep hike up to the
Iwatayama Monkey Park. Strollers cannot be taken on this trail, so a baby carrier would be necessary for a younger child, but at ages 9 and 6, the boys should find it an exciting climb. The reward at the top is a fantastic panoramic view of Kyoto and the chance to safely feed wild Japanese macaques from inside a protected building.
Day 14 - 02/10 Visit one of Japan's most recognizable sights, Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. A key strategy for visiting with children is to manage expectations. The full hike to the summit of Mount Inari and back takes 2-3 hours and involves a great deal of stairs, which can be too strenuous for young children. A more enjoyable approach is to hike for about 30-45 minutes to the
Yotsutsuji intersection. This spot serves as a natural resting point, offering splendid views over the city and allowing the family to experience the iconic tunnels of gates without becoming exhausted. The base of the shrine is lined with food stalls, providing a perfect opportunity for a fun street food lunch.
Day 15 - 03/10 Explore the culinary heart of the city with a morning visit to Nishiki Market, affectionately known as "Kyoto's Kitchen". This narrow, five-block-long shopping street is a sensory adventure, packed with stalls selling local delicacies. It's a fantastic place for the family to sample different foods, from fresh seafood skewers to Japanese pickles and the famous soymilk doughnuts. In the afternoon, take a cultural stroll through the historic
Gion district, Kyoto's famous geisha district. Explore the beautifully preserved wooden machiya houses and, if you're lucky, you might spot a geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) or maiko (apprentice geiko) on her way to an appointment.
Day 16 - 04/10 Today is a major attraction day designed for the boys. Visit the Toei Kyoto Studio Park (Eigamura), a working film set and theme park dedicated to Japan's historical dramas (jidaigeki). Here, the family can walk through a recreated Edo-period town, watch exciting ninja and samurai action shows, and even dress up in costumes. The park offers many interactive experiences, including a ninja maze and a haunted house, making it a highly engaging and fun-filled cultural day out.
Day 17 - 05/10 Enjoy a final Kyoto morning with some last-minute souvenir shopping or a revisit to a favorite spot. Arrange for luggage forwarding to send the main bags to your Osaka hotel. The train journey from Kyoto to Osaka is very short, taking only about 30 minutes on a Special Rapid service. After checking into the hotel in Osaka, take a first exploratory walk through the vibrant and neon-lit Namba and Dotonbori areas to get a feel for the city's energetic atmosphere.
Day 18 - 06/10 This is the day the Nintendo fans have been waiting for. Dedicate the entire day to Universal Studios Japan (USJ). Using the pre-booked timed entry ticket, head straight to
Super Nintendo World. The main attractions here are perfectly suited for the family:
Mario Kart: Koopa's Challenge, an innovative augmented reality ride (minimum height 107 cm), and Yoshi's Adventure, a charming outdoor ride offering great views of the land (minimum height 92 cm). Consider purchasing Power-Up Bands, which allow you to interact with the land by punching blocks and collecting keys, though this can involve queuing for the mini-games. Beyond Nintendo, the park offers other family-friendly areas like
Minion Park and Universal Wonderland, which is geared towards younger children with characters from Sesame Street and Hello Kitty. For lunch, the themed dishes at
Kinopio's Café inside Super Nintendo World are a must-try.
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Accommodation: A hotel in the central Shinsaibashi or Namba area provides excellent access to food and transport. Cross Hotel Osaka and
Hotel Nikko Osaka are solid mid-range choices.
Day 19 - 07/10 Spend the morning at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world's largest and most impressive aquariums. Its innovative design takes visitors on a spiral path from the surface down to the ocean floor, centered around a massive main tank that is home to majestic whale sharks. After the aquarium, take a ride on the adjacent
Tempozan Ferris Wheel for spectacular views over Osaka Bay and the city.
Day 20 - 08/10 Visit Osaka Castle in the morning. While the castle keep is a modern reconstruction, its imposing stone walls and moats are original and impressive. The interior functions as a museum showcasing the history of the castle and the samurai era, with armor and artifacts that will capture the boys' imagination. In the afternoon, make a pilgrimage to the
Nintendo OSAKA official store, located in the Daimaru Umeda department store next to Osaka Station. This store is even larger than its Tokyo counterpart and is the perfect place for any final Nintendo merchandise hunting.
Day 21 - 09/10 Embrace Osaka's motto of kuidaore ("eat till you drop") with a full day dedicated to its culinary scene. Start at Kuromon Ichiba Market, a lively covered market where you can sample fresh seafood, produce, and various street foods. In the afternoon and evening, conduct a deep dive into the iconic Dotonbori district. Guide the family through trying Osaka's "big three" street foods: takoyaki (grilled octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). For a sit-down meal, family-friendly okonomiyaki restaurants like
Chibo or Mizuno are excellent choices where the dish is often cooked on a teppan grill at your table. For a different view of the area's famous neon signs, consider a short
Dotonbori river cruise.
Day 22 - 10/10 This is a flexible day for the family to pursue any remaining interests. Options include last-minute souvenir shopping in the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping arcade, revisiting a favorite spot, or exploring the retro-futuristic neighborhood of Shinsekai and its landmark Tsutenkaku Tower. Use the evening to pack for the journey home.
Day 23 - 11/10 Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast. Travel from the Namba or Shinsaibashi area to Kansai International Airport (KIX) for your departure. The most convenient options are the Nankai Electric Railway's "Rapi:t" limited express train from Namba Station or a direct Limousine Bus, which is often easier with family and luggage.
This 23-day journey is designed to be a rich and multifaceted experience, creating lasting memories by balancing Japan's thrilling modernity with its profound traditions. From the judo dojo to the digital art museum, and from serene mountain hikes to the vibrant chaos of Dotonbori, this itinerary offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Japan tailored for a family with diverse interests. The key to a successful trip lies in the strategic advance planning outlined above, which will ensure that the most anticipated experiences are secured, allowing the family to relax and immerse themselves in the adventure.