Arrive at Tokyo (likely Haneda/Narita) around 09:45 AM. After clearing immigration and baggage, transfer into the city by airport limousine bus or train (Keisei Skyliner from Narita, Tokyo Monorail from Haneda). Check into a family-friendly Tokyo hotel – for example, MIMARU Tokyo Asakusa Station, an apartment-style hotel with bunk beds and a kitchen table, just steps from Sensoji Templecntraveler.com. Spend the afternoon relaxing and adjusting after your flight: perhaps stroll around the hotel’s neighborhood (if in Asakusa, enjoy Sensoji’s lantern-lit atmosphere in the evening) and grab a casual dinner of ramen or sushi nearby. Accommodation: Tokyo (same hotel for Days 1–6).
Begin your first full day immersing in Tokyo’s traditional side. Asakusa is home to Sensoji, Tokyo’s oldest and most famous Buddhist templejrailpass.com. Walk through the Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”) with its giant red lantern into Nakamise shopping street, where you can sample snacks like taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes) and pick up souvenirs. At Sensoji’s main hall, admire the incense and pagoda – this colorful 7th-century temple is one of Japan’s most popular spiritual sitesjrailpass.com. After soaking in the atmosphere (and maybe a rickshaw ride for fun), head to the nearby Tokyo Skytree in the afternoon. At 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree is Japan’s tallest structureen.wikipedia.org, and its observation decks offer panoramic city views. The kids will love the thrill of the glass floor panels, and you’ll all enjoy spotting Tokyo’s landmarks from above. Don’t miss the Pokémon Center or Nintendo Store in the Solamachi mall below if they’d like a souvenir. For dinner, try a local izakaya or a tempura restaurant in Asakusa – perhaps even a river cruise view of Tokyo’s skyline if energy allows. Transportation: Subway (Asakusa Line/Ginza Line) or taxi as needed. Food: Street snacks at Nakamise, and perhaps monjayaki or tempura at Asakusa’s eateries.
Time to experience modern Tokyo and youth culture! Start in the morning at Meiji Jingu (Meiji Shrine), a tranquil Shinto shrine set in a lush forest in Harajuku. The peaceful wooded paths and towering torii gates provide a calm oasis in the cityen.japantravel.com. You might witness a traditional wedding procession here. Next, walk over to Harajuku’s Takeshita Street, the epicenter of Tokyo’s teen pop culture. The kids will enjoy the quirky shops (character goods, cosplay outfits) and the famous crepe stands – try a strawberry banana cream crepe! For lunch, Harajuku offers fun themed cafes or the simple delight of kawaii rainbow cotton candy. Afterward, stroll down Omotesando (Tokyo’s Champs-Élysées) or head straight to Shibuya Crossing – the world’s busiest pedestrian crossingpmahotels.org. Join the scramble across with hundreds of others for the iconic experiencepmahotels.org. In Shibuya, make a beeline for Nintendo Tokyo in Shibuya PARCO. This flagship store is packed with exclusive Nintendo merchandise from Mario to Zeldakanpai-japan.com. (There’s also a Pokémon Center and Capcom store on the same floorkanpai-japan.com – a mini gaming paradise for the kids.) Across the street, find the Hachiko Statue (the loyal dog) for a quick photo op. By evening, the neon lights of Shibuya come alive. Head up to the Mag’s Park rooftop or a café window to watch the mesmerizing crossing from above
. Enjoy dinner in Shibuya – perhaps at a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant or a casual ramen shop. Tip: Shibuya is lively, but keep an eye on the kids in the crowds. Transportation: JR Yamanote Line or subway to Harajuku/Shibuya (use Suica cards). Accommodation: Tokyo.
Major Attraction Day: A full day of fun at Tokyo Disneyland in Maihama. Arrive when the park opens to beat some crowds. Tokyo Disneyland brings Disney magic with a Japanese twist – children’s dreams come to life amidst thrilling rides, enchanting parades, and beloved Disney characterspmahotels.org. Explore classic attractions in its seven themed lands: Pirates of the Caribbean in Adventureland, It’s a Small World in Fantasyland, and the runaway excitement of Big Thunder Mountain in Westernland. Don’t miss the Happiness Is Here parade or the evening Electrical Parade for dazzling floats. The park’s cleanliness and staff hospitality are top-notchcntraveler.com, and there are plenty of kid-friendly Japanese snacks (try the soy-sauce flavor popcorn or Mickey-shaped ice creams!). Plan for breaks – perhaps lunch at the Queen of Hearts Banquet Hall (a whimsical Alice in Wonderland–themed restaurant). By nighttime, Cinderella Castle’s backdrop for the fireworks is unforgettable. Transportation: JR Keiyo Line from Tokyo Station to Maihama (~20 minutes). Tip: Buy park tickets in advance and use the app to secure Disney Premier Access (FastPass) for popular rides. After an exciting day, return to your Tokyo hotel. Accommodation: Tokyo (rest well – tomorrow is a lighter day).
After yesterday’s big adventure, enjoy a mix of interactive learning and a special cultural experience. In the morning, head to Odaiba, Tokyo’s high-tech entertainment island. Visit the Miraikan – National Museum of Emerging Science & Innovation, a huge science museum with hands-on exhibits. The highlight for your boys will likely be meeting ASIMO, Honda’s humanoid robot, which walks and talks during scheduled demonstrationsthebearandthefox.com. Miraikan is full of cool interactive displays (build a model of the internet, step into a space station module, explore virtual reality) and is very kid-friendlythebearandthefox.com. Even younger kids enjoy the fun, engaging exhibits and robot performancesthebearandthefox.com. After spending the morning exploring science (and possibly grabbing lunch at the museum’s café or nearby food court – Odaiba also has a plethora of dining options and a life-size Gundam robot statue at DiverCity Mall for a quick wow momentthebearandthefox.com), head back to central Tokyo by early afternoon.
In the late afternoon, dive into Japan’s martial arts culture. Take the subway to Bunkyo and visit the Kodokan Judo Institute, the world headquarters of judo (a treat for your judo-practicing kids!). The Kodokan houses a small judo museum (open on weekdays 11:00–18:00) with fascinating displays of Judo history150.60.32.66. Around 5 PM, head up to the dojo viewing area – the best time to visit is in the evening to watch judoka (judo practitioners) from all over train and spartripadvisor.com. Visitors are welcome to observe, and it’s inspiring to see dozens of students throwing and grappling on the mats where Olympic champions have trained. (The kids may even see a class of children their age practicing in white gis.) They’ll also love the Kodokan gift shop for judo-themed souvenirs. After this unique experience, have dinner in the nearby Tokyo Dome City area – perhaps at a family restaurant or grab some takoyaki. Note: The Kodokan museum and dojo are closed on weekends/holidays150.60.32.66, so this weekday visit is ideal. Transportation: Yurikamome automated train to Odaiba; subway (Mita or Marunouchi Line) or JR to Kodokan (Kasuga or Suidobashi Station). Accommodation: Tokyo.
Your last full Tokyo day is for electronics and free exploration. Spend the morning in Akihabara, Tokyo’s famous “Electric Town” and otaku (geek) culture hub. The area is jam-packed with electronics megastores and anime/game shops – an urban temple of Japanese subculturegotokyo.orggotokyo.org. Begin at one of the big stores like Yodobashi Camera to see endless gadgets and a fun toy section. Then wander the smaller shops in Akihabara Radio Kaikan building – filled with manga, collectible figurines, and retro video games. The boys can try their hand at a multi-level arcade (game center) – Akiba’s arcades (rebranded GiGO) offer claw machines, racing games and more across several floorsgotokyo.org. Don’t miss the Akihabara Gachapon Hall, a shop devoted entirely to capsule toy machines (the kids will love turning the knobs to win a surprise trinket)gotokyo.org. For lunch, Akihabara has fun theme cafés – but with kids, a simple meal at “Curry House CoCo Ichibanya” or a burger from MOS Burger might be easier. (If your family is adventurous, Akiba’s maid cafés are famous – but they can be pricey and more for the experience than the food.)
In the afternoon, you have some flexibility. If anyone in the family is a Ghibli anime fan, you could take a pre-booked trip to the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka (tickets must be reserved well in advance). Alternatively, stay in Tokyo and perhaps visit Ueno Park – the National Museum of Nature and Science or Ueno Zoo (with pandas) are good kid options. If you prefer something low-key, use this afternoon to rest or do some shopping (the kids might enjoy the LEGO Store or Kiddy Land toy store in Omotesando if not yet visited). By evening, consider a casual dinner in Shinjuku. This lively district is near your likely hotel and comes alive at night with neon signs. Wander through Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane) for a quick yakitori skewer, then treat the family to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building free observatory for a night view of the city lights. Back at the hotel, pack up – tomorrow you leave Tokyo. Accommodation: Tokyo (final night here).
Say goodbye to Tokyo’s hustle and take a morning bullet train towards Hakone. Activate your JR Pass if you have one, and catch a Shinkansen from Tokyo to Odawara (about 35–40 minutes by Kodama train). In Odawara, use the Hakone Free Pass (unlimited local transport)japan-experience.com and transfer to the scenic Hakone Tozan Railway, a mountain train winding through forests and tunnels up to Hakone. Arrive around midday in Hakone-Yumoto or Gora, where your family will experience a more traditional side of Japan. Check into a ryokan (Japanese inn), an especially family-friendly one. (Mid-range recommendation: Yoshiike Ryokan in Hakone Yumoto, which has lovely gardens and multiple hot spring bathsthetokyochapter.com.) Drop your bags, change into yukata robes provided by the ryokan, and get ready to explore.
In the afternoon, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum in Gora. It’s an outdoor sculpture park set in lush hills, blending art and play. The kids can run around vast lawns dotted with huge modern art sculptures and even climb inside some (there’s a dedicated play sculpture with nets and slides)onpointswithkids.com. Adults will enjoy the Picasso Pavilion and the stunning mountain views. Next, make your way to the Hakone Ropeway: ride the cable car up to Owakudani valley, an active volcanic zone with steaming sulfur vents. The otherworldly landscape is a hit with kids (though note the sulfur smell!). At Owakudani, sample the famous “black eggs” – eggs hard-boiled in natural hot springs, turning their shells black; local legend says eating one adds seven years to your lifeonpointswithkids.com. The ropeway continues, giving breathtaking glimpses of Mount Fuji on clear daysjapan-experience.com, and descends to Lake Ashi. Board a Hakone Sightseeing Cruise – a pirate-themed boat that glides across the lake. Children love the pirate ship cruise; it’s a fun boat decked out with masts and a captain, offering incredible views of lake, mountains, and even a floating torii gate along the shoreonpointswithkids.comonpointswithkids.com. Your kids might declare this their favorite part of Hakone
By late afternoon, head back to your ryokan. Time for relaxation: soak as a family (separately by gender) in the onsen hot spring baths. The mineral-rich waters, often around 40°C, are soothing after travelonpointswithkids.com. Many ryokans allow kids in the baths (just ensure they follow etiquette – wash before entering, no splashing). Dress in yukata for dinner – a traditional kaiseki meal may be included, with multiple courses of beautifully presented local dishes. Don’t worry, most ryokans can provide kid-friendly modified meals if needed (rice, fried chicken, etc.). After dinner, perhaps a short walk under the stars or a game in your tatami room before an early night. Accommodation: Hakone Ryokan (experience futon bedding on tatami mats).
Wake up in the mountains! Enjoy a Japanese-style breakfast at the ryokan (grilled fish, miso soup, rice, and more – though Western options are often available for the kids). Today, complete any parts of the Hakone Loop you didn’t finish yesterday. Use the Hakone Free Pass to hop on the various transportsjapan-experience.com. If you didn’t do the ropeway or lake cruise yet, do them now. Along Lake Ashi, consider stopping at Hakone-machi to visit the Hakone Checkpoint (a small outdoor museum of an Edo-period checkpoint) or walk part of the Ancient Tokaido Road lined with cedar trees for a short family hike. At Moto-Hakone, see the iconic red torii of Hakone Shrine by the lake – a great family photo spot with the shrine steps and dragon fountains.
In the afternoon, you could visit Hakone Shrine (a mystical lakeside Shinto shrine – kids can get their fortunes told or enjoy the huge trees)onpointswithkids.com. If you have time and interest, Gora Park is a pleasant stop – a small botanical garden park, free with the Hakone Pass, where the kids can run around or even try a brief hands-on craft workshop (like glassblowing or pottery painting)onpointswithkids.com. Alternately, simply relax at an onsen theme park like Hakone Kowakien Yunessun (if the kids prefer a more playful waterpark onsen with slides – note sections require swimsuits).
By late afternoon, retrieve your luggage from the ryokan (or have it sent ahead). It’s time to continue on to Kyoto. From Odawara Station, catch the Shinkansen to Kyoto – about 2 hours (e.g., Hikari train)japan-experience.com. Marvel as the bullet train glides at ~270 km/h – another exciting experience for the kids. Arrive Kyoto in the evening. Transfer to your hotel (consider the MIMARU Kyoto apartment hotel chain – spacious family suites with kitchen, and even Pokémon-themed rooms that will thrill the kidsthefamilyvoyage.com). Settle in and have a simple dinner (perhaps a hearty bowl of Kyoto ramen or katsu curry near your hotel). Welcome to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan! Accommodation: Kyoto hotel (Days 8–13). cntraveler.comthefamilyvoyage.com
Start early to beat crowds at Kiyomizu-dera, Kyoto’s celebrated temple on the hillside of Higashiyama. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its massive wooden stage that juts out 13 meters above the valley, offering stunning views over Kyotojapan-guide.com. Kids will be amazed that the huge veranda was built without nails! Walk up the charming Sannenzaka slope (stop for taiyaki or smoothie on the way) to the temple. At Kiyomizu’s entrance, sip from the Otowa Waterfall streams – each stream is said to grant a different benefit (academic success, love, longevity). It’s a fun ritual for them to catch the water with cups on long poles. Explore the temple grounds, including the Love Stones at Jishu Shrine (where people try to walk between two stones with eyes closed – your boys might enjoy the challenge!). The whole area is bustling and scenic.
Next, stroll the preserved lanes of Higashiyama district. The traditional wooden machiya houses now host craft shops and snack vendors. Pick up Kyoto specialties like yatsuhashi (cinnamon mochi sweets) or green tea ice cream. Continue west toward Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district. By now it’s midday; have lunch around Gion or Kawaramachi – perhaps a casual okonomiyaki grill where you cook savory pancakes at your table (fun for kids), or try Kyoto-style sushi. In the afternoon, consider a cultural experience: a short tea ceremony workshop in Gion, where the family can learn to whisk matcha tea (some tea houses offer simplified ceremonies that are okay for children). Alternatively, visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum (if your kids are into comics) or simply relax at your hotel for a bit.
In the late afternoon/early evening, enjoy a Gion stroll. As dusk falls, lanterns light up Hanamikoji Street’s traditional teahouses. You may catch a fleeting glimpse of a maiko (apprentice geisha) in kimono hurrying to an appointment – the atmosphere is especially magical in the eveningtravel.rakuten.com. For dinner, treat yourselves to kaiseki (a multicourse Japanese meal) if feeling adventurous (some restaurants offer child-friendly mini courses), or stick to something easy like izakaya tapas or a noodle shop. Don’t miss wandering Pontocho Alley along the Kamogawa River for ambiance. Accommodation: Kyoto.
Time for an outing to Arashiyama, a scenic district on Kyoto’s western outskirts (about 30 minutes by train). In the morning, visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, an otherworldly walkway surrounded by towering green bamboo stalksoffbeatjapan.com. The sunlight filtering through creates a tranquil, enchanting atmosphereoffbeatjapan.com – it’s a great spot for family photos. (Go early for the most serene experience.) Exit near Tenryu-ji Temple, a Zen temple with beautiful gardens – you can peek in or just enjoy the garden path (free with bamboo grove). Next, a short adventure the kids will love: cross the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge (“Moon Crossing Bridge”) over the river, and hike up about 20 minutes to Iwatayama Monkey Park. At the top, over 100 wild Japanese macaque monkeys roam freely. The kids (and adults!) can feed the monkeys through a safe enclosure – visitors go into a “cage” to offer food while monkeys roam outsidetripadvisor.com. It’s a reverse zoo! For a few hundred yen you get apple or peanut pieces to hand to the monkeys (who might even bow for treats). The view of Kyoto city from up there is spectacular with monkeys all aroundtripadvisor.com. After enjoying time with these cheeky creatures, descend and reward yourselves with lunch.
Arashiyama has many family-friendly eateries – try some kushikatsu (fried skewers) or a simple udon noodle at a local shop. Afterwards, consider a traditional rickshaw ride around Arashiyama’s quiet streets (the drivers often act as guides and even take family photos). If time permits, pay a visit to Okochi-Sanso Villa gardens (lovely stroll and matcha tea included) or the Sagano Scenic Railway for a 25-minute retro train ride along the Hozugawa Gorge – especially fun if your kids like trains (note: check schedules, it may require advance booking). In the late afternoon, return to central Kyoto. You can spend a relaxed evening – perhaps at Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s bustling food market street. Let the family sample local delicacies: plump takoyaki (octopus balls), sashimi on sticks, or sweet mochi. Dinner could be informal tonight – Nishiki area has many choices, or grab some bento and have a “picnic” by the Kamogawa River if weather is nice. Accommodation: Kyoto.
Torii-lined pathways at Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto’s iconic shrine famous for its thousands of vermilion gates.
This morning, take a short train ride to Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Japan’s most impressive Shinto shrines. Fushimi Inari is famous for its trail of 10,000 vermilion torii gates winding up Mount Inaritheworldisabook.com. The kids will feel like they’re in a magical tunnel as you walk through endless bright-orange gates. Hike as far as your family is comfortable – even going up 30 minutes to the viewpoint is rewarding (you don’t have to do the full 2-3 hour summit hike). Along the way, you’ll see many stone fox statues (foxes are Inari’s messengers), and small shrines where you can pause. It’s a fun, free outdoor adventure – keep an eye out for little omokaru stone fortune pillars and let the kids try lifting them. Back at the base, enjoy a snack from the street stalls (grilled corn, fox-shaped senbei rice crackers, etc.). Tip: Fushimi Inari has no closing time; going early helps avoid the crowd and heat.
Around late morning, hop on the JR Nara Line a few stops further to Uji, a charming small city famous for green tea. First, a special stop for your Nintendo-loving family: the Nintendo Museum in Uji (opened in 2024)nintendo.co.jp. Here, visitors can discover and experience the history of Nintendo’s entertainment products – from classic playing cards to Game Boys and Switch consolesnintendo.co.jp. The museum features interactive exhibits showcasing Nintendo’s creativity and innovationnintendo.co.jp, and even has a game area and a café with Mario-themed treats. (Note: Tickets must be reserved in advance via an online lottery systemnintendo.co.jp. Be sure to book ahead as slots are limited.) The kids will be thrilled to see old consoles and giant statues of Mario and friends. After an exciting time learning about everything Nintendo, enjoy lunch in Uji – try a green tea soba or matcha ice cream in the town known for its high-quality matcha.
Next, step back into history at Byodoin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its Phoenix Hall, with elegant architecture, is so iconic it’s on the 10¥ coinen.japantravel.com. Stroll through the peaceful garden and pond; even if the kids aren’t temple buffs, they might enjoy feeding the koi fish or spotting the phoenix statues on the roof. If energy remains, consider a short walk to the Uji River for scenery – perhaps even try a casual tea-picking or tasting experience at one of Uji’s many tea houses (some offer brief workshops where kids can whisk their own bowl of matcha). By late afternoon, return to Kyoto. Enjoy a final evening in Kyoto with a special dinner – maybe dine in the Pontocho alley at a restaurant overlooking the Kamogawa River. Relish Kyoto’s ambiance and perhaps take an evening walk to Yasaka Pagoda beautifully lit up. Accommodation: Kyoto.
Take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, which is about 1 hour from Kyoto by train (JR or Kintetsu). Nara is a hit with kids thanks to its friendly free-roaming deer. Arrive Nara in the morning and head to Nara Park, where over 1,200 sacred deer wander the lawns and pathsjapancheapo.com. Purchase some shika senbei (deer crackers) for ¥200 from a vendor and have the boys feed the deer – many of the deer will bow their heads politely to ask for a cracker It’s a delightful and memorable interaction (remind the kids the deer are gentle but can be eager – hold crackers flat on your palm and be ready for deer nudges!). After giggles with the deer, walk to Todai-ji Temple, an awe-inspiring wooden temple hall that is the world’s largest wooden building housing a massive 15-meter bronze Buddhajapancheapo.com. Enter and be wowed by the Great Buddha (Daibutsu) – the sheer size will impress everyone. Kids can try squeezing through a pillar hole in the temple said to be the size of Buddha’s nostril (if they fit, it’s believed they’ll attain enlightenment – or at least have bragging rights).
Explore Todai-ji’s grounds, then perhaps visit the adjacent Nara National Museum if there’s interest in more history (or skip in favor of outdoor fun). Let the kids run around Nara Park’s open spaces – they can interact with more deer (by now they may have learned some deer “language”: Nara deer are famous for being so used to humans that they behave in amusing ways; just watch your maps and papers, as deer might nibble them). If you’re lucky to be there around lunch, head to a nearby casual spot – Nara has good curry restaurants and noodle shops. In the afternoon, visit Kasuga Taisha, a Shinto shrine in the forest famous for hundreds of stone lanterns. The peaceful wooded approach is a nice small hike for the family, and kids might find the mossy lanterns and tiny hidden shrines enchanting. You can also stop by Naramachi (old town area) for a snack – perhaps mochi covered in kinako (roasted soy flour), a local treat.
By late afternoon, return to Kyoto. The kids (and you) might be a bit tired from walking, so plan a relaxed evening. Maybe have dinner near Kyoto Station – one fun option is the Kyoto Ramen Street on the station’s 10th floor, where you can choose from different regional ramen shops (everyone can pick their favorite toppings). Head back to your hotel to pack – tomorrow you head to Hiroshima. Transportation: JR Miyakoji rapid train (~45 min) or Kintetsu limited express (~35 min) from Kyoto to Nara. Accommodation: Kyoto (final night here).
Check out of your Kyoto hotel and activate (or continue) your JR Pass for the intercity trip. This morning, catch the Shinkansen from Kyoto bound for Hiroshima – but hop off mid-journey at Himeji (about 1 hour from Kyoto by Hikari train). At Himeji, you’ll visit Himeji Castle, Japan’s most spectacular feudal castle and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nicknamed the “White Heron Castle” for its elegant white plastered towersvisit-himeji.com, Himeji Castle is Japan’s largest and best-preserved samurai castlegoaheadtours.com. It looks straight out of a fairy tale – or perhaps a level from Mario for the kids’ eyes! Walk about 15 minutes from the station up the broad boulevard to the castle. As you approach, the towering main keep comes into view, surrounded by sprawling fortified walls and gates. Enter the castle grounds (free area) and consider taking the self-guided route through the interior (note: it’s about six stories of climbing inside steep wooden stairs – doable if the kids are up for it). Inside, you’ll see the clever defense design (narrow windows for archers, rock drop slots) and get a panoramic view from the top. It’s a bit of a workout, but a great history lesson and photo op. Even if you don’t climb up, exploring the grounds and winding stone paths of Himeji – imagining samurai once walked here – is exciting. The kids can roam the courtyard and enjoy imagining a real-life castle with moats and secret passages. Don’t forget to take a family photo with the majestic keep in the background.
After castle exploration (1.5–2 hours), have lunch in Himeji. There’s a charming shopping arcade on the walk back to the station where you can grab lunch – perhaps try Himeji’s local oden (if adventurous) or just a comforting bowl of udon or sandwiches at a café. By early afternoon, re-board the Shinkansen for about 1 hour to Hiroshima. Arrive Hiroshima and head to your hotel (Days 13–14). Since it’s late in the day, we’ll focus on Hiroshima city tomorrow; for now, you might walk around Hiroshima Station or nearby Okonomimura (a building full of okonomiyaki stalls) for dinner. Hiroshima is famous for its Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake layered with cabbage and noodles). It’s a must-try local dinner – the kids will enjoy watching the chef skillfully flip the huge pancake on the teppan grill. Check in and rest up for a meaningful day tomorrow. Accommodation: Hiroshima.
Today is a day of remembrance and learning in Hiroshima. In the morning, make your way to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This green, solemn park in the city center is dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing of August 6, 1945en.wikipedia.org and stands as a powerful symbol of peace. Begin at the famous A-Bomb Dome (Genbaku Dome) – the skeletal ruins of a building that withstood the blast, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site preserved as a reminder of the horrors of nuclear warwhitemad.pl. It’s a poignant sight: explain to the kids at an appropriate level what happened here – that this building is kept as a memorial to all the lives lost and a hope for peace.
Walk across the park, ringing the Peace Bell together for a moment of reflection. Visit the Children’s Peace Monument, with thousands of colorful origami cranes sent from children worldwide. Your boys might be interested in the story of Sadako and the thousand paper cranes – it’s a touching way to relate the importance of hope and peace to younger ones. Continue to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, an essential visit (though some exhibits are emotionally intense). The museum’s displays (survivors’ belongings, photographs, and scientific explanations) convey the reality of the bombing’s devastation and the human stories behind it, while advocating for world peaceen.wikipedia.org. Take your time through it; you may choose to gently guide the kids through certain sections (there are model exhibits and multimedia that might engage them, but also graphic content – use your discretion). It’s a heavy experience, but very meaningful. By the end, the message of “No more Hiroshimas” and global peace is clear.
After this, lighten the mood a bit with lunch. Hiroshima has a vibrant downtown (try a local okonomiyaki again if you haven’t, or the kids might enjoy a simple diner or even familiar fast food after the museum). In the afternoon, explore more of Hiroshima city: perhaps visit the Hiroshima Castle, a reconstructed castle with samurai costumes you can try on (fun photo op!). Or head to the Hiroshima Museum of Transportation if your kids are train enthusiasts. Another option: the Hiroshima Orizuru Tower next to the Peace Park – its roof observatory offers panoramic views and has an area where you can fold and drop paper cranes, adding to a cumulative sculpture (a cathartic, hopeful activity after the museum).
By evening, consider taking the streetcar over to Hiroshima Bay for dinner – the city is famous for fresh oysters if you’re seafood lovers (the local specialty in winter). Alternatively, have dinner around the Hondori shopping street area – plenty of casual eateries. Try Hiroshima-style tsukemen (cold noodles with spicy dipping sauce) or simply grab some ice cream and relax. Early night tonight – tomorrow is an island adventure. Accommodation: Hiroshima.
Get ready for a magical day trip. In the morning, take a JR train (~30 minutes) to Miyajimaguchi and then the ferry to Miyajima Island (10 minutes; JR Pass covers the JR ferry). Miyajima, officially Itsukushima, is often considered one of Japan’s top scenic wonders. As the ferry approaches, you’ll see the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine rising from the sea – a sight your family will recognize from postcardsjapan.travel (and perhaps from the museum’s model yesterday). On the island, you’ll again meet tame deer wandering freely (yes, more deer – though fewer than Nara, they’re equally friendly in seeking snacks!). Stroll to the Itsukushima Shrine, which is uniquely built over the tidal flats. During high tide, the shrine and its vermilion torii gate appear to float on waterjapan-guide.com – an enchanting scene
. Walk through the shrine’s boardwalks above the sea and take in the harmony of architecture and nature (the shrine is a UNESCO site for exemplifying Japanese scenic beauty combining mountains and seawhc.unesco.org). If the tide is low, you can even walk out on the sand right up to the giant torii gate’s pillars for a close look and family photo.
After visiting the shrine, explore Miyajima’s Omotesando shopping street. It’s lined with souvenir shops and food stalls. Treat the kids (and yourselves) to Miyajima’s specialties: momiji-manju, maple leaf–shaped cakes filled with sweet bean or chocolate, and perhaps grilled oysters (the region’s delicacy). For lunch, you could try anago-meshi (grilled eel on rice) if feeling adventurous, or simple udon noodles if not. Next, a bit of adventure: take the Miyajima Ropeway up Mount Misen. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views over the Seto Inland Sea and scattered islands. At the upper station, you can hike about 30 minutes (if energy permits) to the Mount Misen summit. Along the way or at the top, look out for wild monkeys and friendly deer – yes, even on the mountain! The summit offers a panoramic view that on clear days might let you see as far as Hiroshima city. There are also historic sites on Misen, like Reikado Hall (with a flame said to have been burning for 1,200 years). If a full hike sounds tough, even just riding to the intermediate station and enjoying the nature trails around there is nice (there’s an observatory and some short paths).
Come afternoon, descend back to town. If time allows and the kids still have stamina, you could catch a performance of Miyajima’s tame deer aren’t the only animals – sometimes you’ll spot raccoon dogs or monkeys too. But likely, you’ll be ready to wind down. Before leaving, consider purchasing some last souvenirs (perhaps a small torii gate model or a Shinto charm for good luck). Ferry back to the mainland.
Return to Hiroshima in the evening. Tonight, why not celebrate your last night in Japan? Consider a nicer dinner – perhaps head to Hiroshima’s downtown for a variety of restaurants. You might try a yakiniku BBQ place where the kids can grill meat at the table, or an Izakaya that’s family-friendly to sample various Japanese dishes one more time. Don’t forget to have the local dessert: lemon-flavored Hiroshimayaki cake or more momiji-manju. Look back on all the amazing experiences from Tokyo to here! Accommodation: Hiroshima (or, if you prefer, you could travel on to Osaka tonight – but a next-morning train is fine).
Take the Shinkansen one last time from Hiroshima to Osaka (about 1.5 hours). You’ll arrive in Osaka by late morning. Check into your Osaka hotel (Days 16–22) – perhaps stay near Namba/Dotonbori for convenience, as it’s a lively area great for food and transit connections. After settling in, step out to experience Osaka’s famous neighborhood: Dotonbori. This area is the epitome of Osaka’s motto “kuidaore” (“eat until you drop”). Start at Dotonbori Street along the canal – immediately the kids will notice the huge quirky signboards: a giant moving crab, a pufferfish lantern, the neon Glico running man billboard. It’s a feast for the eyesbooking.com, especially in the evening when neon lights reflect off the water. For lunch, indulge in Osaka’s street food: try takoyaki (ball-shaped octopus fritters) from a popular stand – the boys can watch the vendors expertly flipping the batter balls in special pans. Also sample kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers (there are restaurants where you can sit and dip an array of skewers in sauce – remember the Osaka rule: “no double dipping” in the shared sauce!). If they’re still hungry, perhaps a serving of gyoza dumplings or Osaka sushi.
After lunch, wander through the adjacent Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade – it’s a long covered arcade full of fashion boutiques, toy shops, and snack stalls. You might find the Osaka Pokémon Center (located in Daimaru Shinsaibashi mall) for one more Pokémon fix – it’s quite large and fun even just to browse. Later, take a break at the hotel or visit the quirky Amerikamura youth district (with funky shops and street art) to see Osaka’s youth culture (there’s a small park, Triangle Park, where local teens hang out – near there you could find some crepes or bubble tea if the kids crave it).
In the evening, experience Dotonbori’s electric atmosphere after dark. The family can take a Tonbori River Cruise (a 20-min boat ride) to see the neon from the water – entertaining and relaxing. For dinner, enjoy Osaka’s famous okonomiyaki in its homeland – perhaps at a restaurant like Mizuno or Chibo where they cook the savory pancakes on a teppan in front of you (Osaka-style okonomiyaki is thicker and filled with ingredients, a bit different from Hiroshima’s – you get to compare!). End the night with a stroll under the neon lights, and maybe treat the kids to a taiyaki or soft-serve ice cream cone. Accommodation: Osaka.
Major Attraction Day: Get ready for an action-packed day at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) – especially to experience Super Nintendo World! Arrive before park opening if possible (around 8 AM) to maximize time. Once inside, head straight to Super Nintendo World – an immersive Mario-themed area that truly makes you feel inside a video game. (Entry to this zone may require a timed entry ticket via the USJ app – be sure to arrange that upon arrival.) The kids (and parents!) will be thrilled by the life-size Piranha Plants, Question Blocks (yes, you can punch them to collect coins via a Power-Up Band if you get one), and meet Mario and Luigi. Don’t miss Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, an augmented reality dark ride where you race Bowser – it’s the park’s headline attraction, combining a ride with a 3D gamereddit.com. Also, try Yoshi’s Adventure, a gentle ride that offers a cute tour of the Mushroom Kingdom. Super Nintendo World also has interactive games and activities (like punching blocks, collecting keys to battle Bowser Jr.), so plan some time just to explore and play. The whole area is a visual treat – make sure to take a family photo on Mario Kart or with the Princess Peach’s Castle backdrop.
Outside of Nintendo World, USJ’s other areas await: Step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – even if the kids haven’t read the books, they’ll enjoy the moving portraits and magic of Hogwarts (try a Butterbeer!). The Jurassic Park section has the thrilling Jurassic Park water ride (you will get a bit wet) and the Flying Dinosaur coaster (if your 9-year-old is a daredevil and tall enough, otherwise maybe just watch it roar overhead). Younger kids will enjoy Minion Park – a zany Despicable Me-themed area that has goofy rides and Minion-themed snacks, a family favorite for its vibrant funtriptojapan.com. There’s also Universal Wonderland with Snoopy, Hello Kitty, and Sesame Street rides perfect for the 6-year-old (like carousels and a family coaster). USJ has shows too – consider catching the WaterWorld stunt show (explosions and jet-ski stunts – very entertaining).
For lunch inside the park, there are plenty of options: perhaps eat at Kinopio’s Cafe (Toad’s Cafe) in Super Nintendo World for a Mario-themed meal (the mushroom pizza bowl and question-block tiramisu are Instagram-worthy!). Or grab something simple like a hot dog or Japanese curry from one of the park’s stands to save time. Keep everyone hydrated and take breaks as needed – there are areas to sit and snack.
As evening falls, if you’re not too exhausted, enjoy the Parade (seasonal – often a Universal Spectacle Night Parade with floats from Minions, Mario, etc.). By park closing, you’ll likely be happily worn out with souvenirs in hand (maybe a Mario cap or a wand from Ollivanders). Head back to your Osaka hotel (USJ is about 15–20 minutes by train from Osaka Station). If you have the energy, grab a quick dinner at the station or convenience store – otherwise, collapse in your room. What a day! Accommodation: Osaka.
After yesterday’s thrill ride, take it easier today with a mix of education and sightseeing. Start at the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, one of the world’s top aquariums, located in the Tempozan Harbor Village. Kaiyukan features an enormous central tank that houses a whale shark – the kids’ jaws will drop seeing this gentle giant cruise bybooking.com. Wander through its well-designed exhibits representing Pacific marine environments: watch playful sea otters, enormous deep-sea crabs, penguins, dolphins, and even a mesmerizing jellyfish display. A highlight is the tunnel where rays and sharks glide overhead. The aquarium is very kid-friendly (with touch pools for starfish, etc.). Plan ~2 hours here. Afterwards, consider a quick ride on the Tempozan Ferris Wheel next door for a panoramic view of Osaka Bay – a relaxing ride after walking the aquarium.
Have lunch in the Tempozan Marketplace mall – perhaps at the Naniwa Kuishinbo Yokocho, a food theme park styled like 1960s Osaka, offering local bites (or simply find a café for sandwiches if you prefer). In the afternoon, head to Osaka Castle. This iconic castle is a must-see cultural site amid the city. Wander the expansive Osaka Castle Park, letting the kids run a bit freely. Enter the Osaka Castle Museum inside the reconstructed castle keep – it has an elevator for convenience and displays about the history of unification under Hideyoshi Toyotomi. From the top observation deck, enjoy great views over Osaka. While the historical exhibits might only mildly interest the kids, the samurai armor displays and the chance to dress up in a samurai helmet or princess kimono (for a small fee) are fun for photos. Also, the kids might enjoy the video displays and the story of the famous siege of Osaka narrated in a kid-accessible way. Outside, don’t miss feeding the park’s resident turtles in the moat or spotting colorful koi fish.
By late afternoon, make your way to Shinsekai (“New World”), Osaka’s retro downtown district near Tsutenkaku Tower. It’s an old-school, somewhat gritty but family-friendly area that feels like stepping back in time to mid-20th-century Osaka. Tsutenkaku Tower, once the tallest in Asia, looms above – you could ride up for city views and see the famous Billiken statue (the “God of Things As They Ought to Be”). Stroll through Shinsekai’s colorful streets filled with flashy signs for kushikatsu restaurants. This is the perfect place to have dinner – at a kushikatsu joint! Pick a variety of skewered foods (meats, veggies, cheese) and dip them in the shared tonkatsu sauce (remember, one dip only!). It’s a fun, interactive meal – kids usually enjoy anything on a stick. They can try skewered hot dogs or fried cheese if nothing else. Enjoy the lively, slightly nostalgic atmosphere with locals laughing over beers and skewers – truly an Osaka experiencejapan.travel.
After dinner, walk through the neon of Shinsekai – grab a taiyaki or candied apple for dessert if available. Return to your hotel via subway (Shinsekai is near Ebisucho or Dobutsuen-mae Station). Accommodation: Osaka.
(If you already stopped at Himeji Castle on Day 13, today can be a free day in Osaka or an alternative trip to Kobe. If you skipped Himeji earlier, consider doing it now.)
Option 1 – Himeji (if not done): Take the JR Shinkansen ~1 hour to Himeji and follow a similar plan as Day 13: visit the stunning Himeji Castle, climb inside its wooden keep for a history adventure, and enjoy the castle gardens. Perhaps add on the Koko-en Garden next to the castle (beautiful landscaped gardens, where kids can feed the fish and turtles). Enjoy a local lunch, then return to Osaka by afternoon.
Option 2 – Kobe: Sleep in a bit and go to Kobe (~30 min by JR train). Start at Kobe’s Harborland district – a seaside area with a Ferris wheel, shops, and the Kobe Maritime Museum’s striking architecture next to the red Kobe Port Tower. You can let the kids ride the Anpanman Kids Museum (if they know the character) or simply enjoy the open space by the sea. For lunch, Kobe Chinatown (Nankinmachi) is fun – lots of street food stands (pork buns, dumplings) and a vibrant atmosphere. In the afternoon, consider taking the Ropeway up Mount Rokko or the Shin-Kobe Ropeway to the Nunobiki Herb Garden – at the top are lovely gardens, a mini footbath, and views of Kobe and Osaka Bay. If the family prefers animals, Kobe Animal Kingdom is a great option – it’s an interactive zoo/aquarium where you can walk among free-flying birds and capybaras (very hands-on and indoors/outdoors). In the evening, maybe try the world-famous Kobe beef for dinner as a splurge – some teppanyaki restaurants offer family-friendly sittings (they can cook a lean cut for the kids). Return to Osaka at night.
Option 3 – Osaka Free Day: If you need a break from travel, use today to relax or explore any missed Osaka attractions. Perhaps visit the Osaka Science Museum (lots of interactive exhibits) or the Kids Plaza Osaka (children’s museum with play zones). Or do some shopping for souvenirs in areas like Umeda or Nipponbashi Den-Den Town (Osaka’s electronics and anime district, akin to Akihabara). It’s your buffer day to catch your breath or dive deeper into whatever interests your family most.
In the evening, gather for a final Japan trip dinner. Maybe head to the Umeda Sky Building’s observatory for a twilight view of the city lights, then dine in the retro “Takimi Koji” basement food street that reproduces 1920s Osaka alleys. Try any favorites one last time – be it sushi, ramen, tempura, or even Japanese curry. Raise a glass (of green tea or Calpis for the kids) to a fantastic journey!
It’s time to say sayonara. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have the morning to do any last-minute things. If you have a bit of time and haven’t yet, you could pop into Osaka’s Pokemon Center DX in Shinsaibashi or the Gundam Store for final gifts. Or take a serene walk in Namba Yasaka Shrine to see its unique lion-head stage. Ensure all your Japan goodies are packed (perhaps use the hotel’s delivery service to send luggage to the airport if you have lots).
When ready, transfer to Kansai International Airport (KIX) – about 50 minutes by Haruka Express train from Osaka Station or a direct airport limousine bus from various city stops. At the airport, enjoy one last Japanese meal (maybe a ramen or some takoyaki at the food court) and spend any remaining yen on snacks like KitKat flavors or Tokyo Banana for souvenirs. Reflect on the past three weeks of adventures – from Tokyo’s skyscrapers and temples, the Nintendo and judo experiences, peaceful Alps and hot springs, the rich culture of Kyoto and Nara, to the fun of Universal Studios and the moving history in Hiroshima. It’s been a balanced journey packed with hiking and nature, kid-friendly fun (Nintendo, Ghibli, theme parks), and meaningful cultural sites for the adults.
Board your flight from Osaka with unforgettable family memories. Otsukaresama deshita – job well done on an epic trip! Have a safe journey home and come back soon. nintendo.co.jppmahotels.org
Transportation Notes: Throughout your trip, you’ve used a variety of ground transport: a combination of a JR Pass (likely a 14-day pass activated when leaving Tokyojapan-experience.com) for long-distance trains, and regional passes in Kansai as needed. Within cities, convenient subways and buses made getting around easy. No internal flights were needed per your request – Japan’s train network connected all your destinations smoothly.
Accommodation Summary: You stayed in comfortable, mid-range family accommodations: from the apartment-style Mimaru hotels in Tokyo/Kyoto/Osaka (spacious rooms with bunk beds and kitchen, highly praised by traveling familiesreddit.combooking.com) to a traditional Hakone ryokan (with onsen baths and kaiseki dinner for a cultural experiencethetokyochapter.com), and standard hotels near transit hubs elsewhere. This ensured both adult comfort and kid-friendly amenities throughout.
Food Highlights: You embraced Japan’s cuisine without restrictions – slurping ramen, grilling savory okonomiyaki, devouring conveyor-belt sushi, enjoying street snacks like yakitori, takoyaki and crepes, and even trying a tea ceremony and ryokan banquet. The boys loved the novelty of cooking their own meat on a yakiniku grill and the sweetness of treats like taiyaki and matcha ice cream.
From city skylines and samurai castles to cuddly deer and Mario Kart rides, your Japan trip achieved a wonderful balance for all agesonpointswithkids.com. You’ve checked off the must-see popular destinations and found special experiences aligning with your sons’ interests in Nintendo and martial arts, all while staying within a mid-range budget (using efficient trains and family-style lodging). It’s been an educational, exciting, and enriching 21-day family adventure.
Safe travels home, and until next time – mata ne! (See you again!)