Holidays with kids to any country can be challenging. However, with pop culture and kid-friendly amenities everywhere, Japan is definitely a great destination for families. Follow the tips below to help you to plan well beforehand.
Transportation and Public Facilities
Take advantage of children fares when taking trains. Children between ages of 6-11 ride half-price (including shinkansen), while those aged under 6 ride for free. There are also priority seats for elderly, disabled, pregnant passengers or people with young children on trains and buses. Try to avoid getting on a crowded urban train during morning rush hour.
Most train stations and buildings in major cities have lifts and escalators, however, attractions such as shrines and temples may not have ramps for baby trolleys. If you have difficulties finding the diaper changing rooms in shopping malls and stations, do not hesitate to inquiry at the information centre.
Driving by yourself or booking private car charter service is often a good strategy for families, as it makes child and luggage handling much easier. You can also reach much anywhere outside the cities with flexibility. Remember to reserve child seats at the car-rental agencies in advance if necessary.
Food and Drinks
It is always a good idea to explore the local cuisine at family restaurants such as Gusto and Saizeriya. They usually provide a large variety of both western and Japanese style dishes and kids’ meals at a reasonable price. You can also ask for high chairs and non-smoking sections.
Besides, you can go to the food court or restaurant street inside any department stores where some comfort food or fast-food can be found easily.
If your child has allergies, try to translate and write them down in Japanese. Discuss any menu modifications with the hotels or restaurants when making a reservation.
Supermarkets, convenience stores and bakeries may be your best friends if you are looking for take-away or home-cooking ingredients during your stay or road trip. For baby food, supermarkets and drugstores are where you want to go.
Accommodations
Major hotels usually have triple rooms, but quads or rooms with two queen-sized beds are rare and quite expensive in Japan. You may request a cot for an extra fee (providing the child’s age fits hotel’s policy). Hotels which located near major stations with elevator are more convenient for families.
Hostel or guesthouse with family rooms and four-person dorm rooms is often a cheaper alternative. You can also save the budget by making use of the common kitchen area.
If you are staying at traditional ryokan and minshuku to experience Japanese culture, they usually provide up to four or five futons in a tatami room. You may want to prepare some food instead of booking a meal as it may not be suitable for everyone’s taste.
For outdoor lovers, research ski or beach resorts accommodation plans as they usually provide packages which include your stay, outdoor activity instruction, equipment rental and meals at a lower price.
Luggage Delivery Service
Make good use of the luggage delivery service to save time and energy during your trip to Japan. You can send your luggage from the airport to the hotel and vice versa, send it between hotels or even at the convenience store nearest to your guesthouse.
Packing Tips
Bring any medicine that your child may need, as Japanese pharmacies do not sell foreign medications. You might also want to pack some small plastic spoons and forks for your kids as some Japanese restaurants do not provide children’s tableware.
