Japan family vacation with Universal Studios

Tokyo

Day 1: Welcome to Tokyo

Konnichiwa! Welcome to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Upon arrival in Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital, meet your driver at the airport for a smooth private transfer to your hotel. Once checked in, settle into your room, unpack, and take some time to rest and recharge for the adventure ahead.

Tokyo

Day 2: Sights & kawaii culture

Begin your Tokyo city tour with a visit to Meiji Jingu, a serene Shinto shrine built in 1920 to honor Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Surrounded by a peaceful forest, it offers a quiet escape from the city's buzz and a chance to experience traditional Japanese prayer rituals.

Next, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen, a beautifully landscaped garden with wide lawns, scenic paths, and over 60 varieties of cherry trees. It is the perfect place for families to unwind.

Continue to Harajuku, Tokyo’s vibrant hub of kawaii culture, where colorful shops and sweet treats like rainbow cotton candy and crepes await.

If time allows, wrap up with a fun visit to Nintendo Tokyo for a magical dive into the worlds of Super Mario, Zelda, and more.

Fujikawaguchiko

Day 3: Perfect views of Mount Fuji

Located about 130 km southwest of Tokyo, Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest peak and a symbol of national pride and natural beauty. Begin your day with a scenic 2-hour drive to this iconic destination to enjoy stunning views from multiple vantage points.

Your first stop is Arakurayama Sengen Park, home to the famous Chureito Pagoda. This five-story pagoda, set against Mount Fuji, offers one of the most picturesque scenes in Japan that is especially magical during cherry blossom season or in the fall.

Continue to Oishi Park where seasonal flower fields create a colorful foreground for family photos with Mount Fuji rising majestically in the background.

To get even closer, enjoy a peaceful cruise on Lake Kawaguchi where the mountain’s reflection shimmers on the calm water.

After a day of breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences, return to Tokyo for an overnight stay.

Kyoto

Day 4: Step into ancient Japan

Make your way to the railway station and board the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto. Your ticket is included and the journey takes around 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, head to your hotel independently and get settled in.

In the afternoon, step into the world of ancient Japan with an exciting ninja experience. Dress in full ninja gear and learn about the secretive lives of these legendary warriors, including the tools and weapons they used. Practice throwing ninja stars and using a blowgun in fun, kid-friendly lessons.

You'll also have the chance to try on full samurai armor and capture unforgettable family photos dressed as a samurai clan.

Kyoto

Day 5: Japanese flavors & tea ceremony

Begin your day with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its stunning pathway of over 10,000 red torii gates. Each gate has been donated in gratitude for blessings received and the trail makes for an easy, scenic hike that you and your kids will enjoy. Winding up the mountain, it offers beautiful views along the way.

Afterward, head to Nishiki Market, known as Kyoto’s kitchen, where you can explore stalls offering everything from Japanese sweets to dried seafood and sushi. Let your kids use some of their pocket money to sample local treats as you stroll.

Later, visit the UNESCO-listed Nijo Castle to learn about the powerful Tokugawa Shogunate.

Conclude your day with an authentic Japanese tea ceremony, observing the graceful ritual of matcha preparation and enjoying a cup of tea paired with traditional sweets in a peaceful, intimate setting.

Kyoto

Day 6: Free day of explorations & activities

Today, explore Kyoto at your own pace. Visit the iconic Kinkakuji Temple where the Golden Pavilion reflects beautifully over a peaceful pond. Head to Arashiyama and stroll through the serene Bamboo Grove, then take a traditional Yakatabune boat ride with views of the Togetsukyo Bridge.

Across the river, meet the wild snow monkeys at Monkey Park Iwatayama. Just remember to observe them from a safe distance! 

For a fun alternative, visit Uji to explore the Nintendo Museum and enjoy matcha-flavored treats like ice cream and mochi.

However you choose to spend the day, it’s sure to be a memorable family adventure!

Osaka

Day 7: The flavors of Osaka

Say goodbye to Kyoto and travel to Osaka by train on your own (tickets are included). Upon arrival, explore Japan’s culinary capital at your leisure.

Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, surrounded by sprawling parkland, or step back in time at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living where historic townscapes have been beautifully recreated.

In the late afternoon, join a guided foodie tour through Dotonbori and Shinsekai. Savor local favorites like Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, and Kushikatsu while soaking in the retro vibes of these lively neighborhoods. Your local guide will share fun insights into Osaka’s rich food culture along the way.

Hiroshima

Day 8: Explore Hiroshima & Miyajima Island

Make your way to Shin-Osaka Station in the morning and board the Shinkansen to Hiroshima (your train ticket is included).

Upon arrival, meet your guide and take a scenic ferry ride to Miyajima Island, home to the famous Itsukushima Shrine, known for its elegant architecture and stunning views of Mt. Misen and the Seto Sea.

Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the island’s many eateries that offer local specialties include oysters, Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki, and conger eel rice bowls.

After lunch, return to the city to visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, including the preserved Atomic Bomb Dome, a powerful symbol of peace.

Finally, return to Osaka by train.

Osaka

Day 9: A day at Universal Studios Japan

Spend a full day of family fun at Universal Studios Japan, one of the country’s top theme parks located in Osaka’s bay area. Open for over two decades and now home to ten themed zones, including Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the park offers endless excitement.

Explore at your own pace as you snap a selfie with Hogwarts, meet Minions at the world’s largest Minion Park, and race through the Mario Kart ride in Super Nintendo World. With so much to see and do, it’s a day your family won’t forget.

Please note: Universal Express Pass is not included.

Osaka

Day 10: Goodbye, Japan

Finally, it is time to say goodbye to Japan as your family trip comes to an end. Meet your private driver for a smooth transfer to the airport in time for your flight home.