10-Day Family Itineraries in Japan: Top 3 Travel Ideas

When considering an ideal family holiday destination, Japan should always be at the top of your list. Whether it's exploring Akihabara for a dose of imagination, partaking in tea ceremonies in ancient buildings, or trying on hiking adventures along scenic trails, a 10-day Japan tour offers a multitude of options for families and kids alike.

Itinerary #1: Highlights of Japan: Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Tokyo

A classic 10-day itinerary with Mt. Fuji to take in all the highlights of Japan, leisurely walking Osaka, historic Hiroshima with its wonders, ancient Kyoto dotted with temples and shrines, and the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to cater to all your family's needs.

Arrive in laid-back Osaka and kick off your Japan journey with a leisurely one-day walking tour. Amble along the bustling streets of Dotonbori, sampling the diverse flavors of Japanese cuisine. Head to the nearby Osaka Castle Park for a tranquil boat ride around the castle, a prime spot for admiring the blooming cherry blossoms in spring.

Make a stopover at Kobe and Himeji on your westward journey to Hiroshima. Indulge in authentic Kobe beef paired with sake, and explore the pristine white Himeji Castle, ensuring a delightful experience for your family and kids.

The next day, visit Hiroshima's Peace Memorial Park to contemplate history at the Atomic Bomb Dome. Followed by a boat ride to Itsukushima, home to the stunning floating shrine, which offers a unique perspective at dawn and dusk.

After a 2-hour Shinkansen ride, return to Kyoto and enjoy authentic Kaiseki cuisine for lunch at Gion. While there, you can easily locate an antique tea house where your child can experience the art of tea ceremony while dressed in a kimono. Follow the red Torii gates to climb the stairs to Fushimi Inari-Taisha; reward yourself with some wagashi treats to share with your family at Kiyomizu-Dera while taking in the panoramic views of the city.

Return to Tokyo before dusk to witness the city come alive once more with its vibrant neon lights. Shinjuku, the town that never sleeps, offers an array of nightlife experiences. The following day, offer prayers for your family's well-being and happiness at Meiji Shrine, and take in the serene beauty of the Imperial Palace's East Garden. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Senso-ji and make a detour to the nearby Akihabara district.

Let your day trip to Mt. Fuji serve as the grand finale of this 10-day family itinerary. Cruise serenely across Lake Kawaguchi, with the majestic mountain as your backdrop, and the fluttering maple leaves or flower petals adding to the enchantment, which can be one of the best memories of your Japan family tour.

Mt. Fuji

Recommended Tour Itinerary

Highlights of Japan: Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Tokyo 10 DAYS Explore This Tour

Itinerary #2: Culture Immersion With Fireworks

Immerse yourself in a world of Ninja equipment, samurai swords, and armor, alongside intricately designed kimonos and imaginative flower arrangements. The rich cultural tapestry here offers endless experiences to enrich your 10-day family itinerary in Japan.

Arrive in the metropolis of Tokyo, with its skyline dominated by modern marvels like the sleek Tokyo Tower and Sky Tree. Here, amidst the urban landscape, you can explore serene historical landmarks such as the Meiji Shrine for spiritual contemplation, bustling Senso-ji for making wishes, and the tranquil East Garden of the Imperial Palace. Tokyo is a city that embraces both its rich culture and vibrant modernity.

Travel along the coastline southwards to Kamakura, renowned for its iconic Great Buddha statue at Kotoku-in. Take a leisurely stroll along the approach to Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, guided by its towering torii gate, and continue to Yuigahama Beach, where the annual Kamakura Fireworks Festival illuminates the sky in a spectacular display of light and color.

About an hour's drive west lies the serene town of Hakone, an ideal destination for a relaxing hot springs holiday. Taste in the iconic black-shelled eggs boiled at Owakudani before boarding the cable cars to capture panoramic views of the valley, its steaming vents, serene lakes, and the majestic backdrop of Mt. Fuji.

After cruising Lake Ashi and indulging in an onsen experience, continue westward to the historic city of Kyoto for a deeper cultural immersion. Witness a night light show at Nijo Castle, where spring visitors can also marvel at the cherry blossoms accompanying the neo-lights. Explore Tokyo's Kitchen of Nishiki Market to gather special ingredients for a cooking class. Reserve a day in Gion to fully embrace the art of the tea ceremony or flower arrangement, and take extra time at the Samurai Ninja Museum to uncover the secrets of these ancient martial arts.

Enjoy a free day in Osaka, bidding farewell to the final leg of your 10-day itinerary. Take advantage of its convenient transport to nearby Nara, where you can interact with the beloved deer that children adore. Alternatively, soak up Osaka's leisurely atmosphere with a food tour to tantalize both your eyes and palate.

Senso-ji

Recommended Tour Itinerary

Japan Highlights with Firework Festival by Bullet Train 10 DAYS Explore This Tour

Itinerary #3: Essential Japan With Nakasendo Hiking

Hiking in Japan is one of the best ways to experience its seasonal varieties, from vibrant greenery with the chirping of insects to the golden hues of autumn leaves that shine as the gems. Below is a 10-day itinerary with Nakasendo Trail, offering your family an unforgettable hiking adventure.

Arrive in Tokyo for the essential parts that can represent Japan the most. Wander through the tranquil Meiji Shrine after passing under its verdant torii gate into the lush forest beyond. Explore the refined beauty of the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace before diving into the vibrant atmosphere of Senso-ji, where the Kaminarimon gate welcomes you with its brightly adorned lantern. Conclude your day with a unique afternoon tea experience in Akihabara, infused with an animated theme.

Head to Nagoya for the next day's hiking preparation, one of your gateways to the Nakasendo Trail. Meanwhile, as the home of Toyota, don't forget to take your kids to explore the Toyota Automobile Museum before tomorrow's hike.

This three-day hiking journey begins from Magome to Narai, tracing a path along cobblestone roads that wind through dense forests. Enveloped in the dappled sunlight, the serene melody of streams, and the soft caress of the wind, you'll encounter Tsumago, the rural village frozen in time, reminiscent of the Edo period.

Awakened by the melodious chirping of birds, continue your journey with your family along the mottled path, passing enchanting waterfalls along the way. Arrive at Nojiri and board the local train to Yabuhara to extend your adventure. After a 6km hike, you'll reach Narai, nestled beneath Mount Ontake, where rows of old-style two-story wooden houses stretch for miles. It's a place that invites you to linger and soak up its timeless charm before continuing your journey to Kyoto.

Centrally located, Nijo Castle is quite convenient to access, offers multiple times to capture the different sides between day and night. Ascend the stairs that are framed by thousands of torii to reach the lovely statues of foxes that welcome you to Fushimi Inari Shrine. Set aside a day for Gion to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, from the technique of tea ceremony to traditional geisha performances during your kaiseki cuisine dinner.

On the last day of this 10-day itinerary, unwind in Osaka and soak in its leisurely atmosphere to relax your body and soul before heading home. Enjoy a leisurely city stroll, savoring delectable local cuisine along the way. If you're still feeling energetic, hop on the Shinkansen to Nara for a day tour. There, adorable deer, serene forests, and cultural wonders await your exploration.

Gion

Recommended Tour Itinerary

Japan Family Tour with Nakasendo Trail Hiking 15 DAYS Explore This Tour

Make Your Ideal Japan Family Tour

Whether you prefer classic destinations with diverse themes or off-the-beaten trails to uncover Japan's unique side, worry not about duration or seasonal activities. Simply share your family's preferences with Odynovo, and we'll tailor your ideal Japan family tour to perfection.