Every journey to Japan will start with a plane ride, which for many parents can be a stressful part of going on holiday, especially if your kids are young.

It’s really important to pack snacks, bring enough diapers, and have entertainment ready. The easiest option is a fully charged tablet loaded with content and games, but also consider lightweight items like card games, favorite toys, or coloring books.

Once the plane is in the air, don’t hesitate to take short walks around the cabin. The more distracted your child is, the easier the journey will be.

Evening flights are a good choice, as children tend to fall asleep more easily.

Your first consideration upon arrival will likely be your pram or stroller. It’s best to ask your airline to deliver it to the airplane door so you can use it right away.

If it’s checked with your luggage, major airports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International offer loaner strollers you can use until you're reunited with your own.

There are two types of strollers: basic airport models found throughout the terminal and strollers provided by certain airlines. Both are free of charge.

The same applies when departing Japan. You can use your own stroller up to the gate, or check it in and borrow an airport or airline stroller.

Another key consideration at Japan’s major international airports is meeting your child’s toilet, feeding, or changing needs, whether you’re arriving or departing.

Fortunately, Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International all have spacious and modern baby facilities with private nursing booths, baby chairs, hot water dispensers, and comfortable diaper-changing tables.

They’re clean, easy to find, and very convenient.

It’s also a good idea to bring an empty bottle or flask. These airports usually have free water stations where you can fill up, and when departing, you can refill it after passing through security.

There isn’t always a great selection of child-friendly snacks, so it’s best to bring your own, whether you’re arriving from abroad or heading out from Japan.

Narita, Haneda, and Kansai International all feature play areas and observation decks, which are perfect for letting kids burn off energy before a flight.

These airports also have plenty of power sockets, including on many planes, so you can keep tablets and other devices charged for the journey home.

Traveling from Narita Airport (NRT) to central Tokyo can feel daunting after a long flight, especially with little ones in tow. Here are the best ways to get into the city, with tips for families.

1. Airport Limousine Bus – Stress-Free & Direct
The most convenient choice for families with younger kids.
・Direct service to major hotels and stations (no transfers!)
・Luggage stored below, so you can relax during the ride
・Many routes stop at family-friendly hotels in Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, etc. (see a complete list here)
・Recommended for families staying at major hotels or needing a door-to-door option
・Read more here

2. Narita Express (N’EX) – Fast & Comfortable
A direct train to Tokyo, Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Yokohama.
・Travel time: About 60 minutes to Tokyo Station
・Spacious seating and luggage storage areas
・Free Wi-Fi and clean onboard facilities
・Recommended for families with older kids or light luggage
・Read more here

3. Keisei Skyliner – Fastest to the Ueno area
The quickest option for northeast Tokyo areas.
・Travel time: 41 minutes to Nippori
・Good for those heading to Ueno or transferring to the Yamanote Line
・Read more here

4. Private Transfer – Door-to-Door Comfort
Book a private van or taxi in advance.
・No navigating public transport
・Ideal if you're jetlagged or traveling with multiple kids
・Available with child car seats upon request
・Recommended for larger families or those wanting ultimate convenience
・Read more here

Haneda Airport (HND) is closer to central Tokyo than Narita, making transfers with kids quicker and easier. Here are the most family-friendly ways to reach the city.

1. Airport Limousine Bus – Direct and Comfortable
A stress-free option, especially if you're heading to a major hotel or station.
・Many routes go directly to hotels in Shinjuku, Tokyo, Ikebukuro, etc.
・No transfers; ideal with strollers and luggage
・Onboard luggage storage and comfortable seats
・Some buses even have free Wi-Fi
・Recommended for: Families looking for an easy, no-hassle ride to the hotel.
・Read more here

2. Keikyu Line to Shinagawa/Higashi-Ginza/Asakusa – Budget-Friendly & Quick
A great value if you're heading to southern or eastern Tokyo.
・Travel time: About 15–20 minutes to Shinagawa Station
・Quick transfers to the Yamanote Line or other JR lines
・Strollers are allowed, but trains can get crowded during rush hours
・Recommended for budget-conscious families with light luggage.
・Read more here

3. Taxi or Private Transfer – Most Convenient Door-to-Door
Ideal for late arrivals, larger groups, or tired kids.
・Takes about 30–40 minutes to central Tokyo
・Book in advance to ensure a child seat is available
・Minivans or larger vehicles can accommodate multiple passengers and bags
・Recommended for families prioritizing convenience and comfort.
・Read more here

Landing at Kansai International Airport (KIX)? Here are the easiest and most family-friendly ways to get into central Osaka with kids, whether you're heading to Namba, Umeda, or elsewhere in the city.

1. Airport Limousine Bus – Direct & No Transfers
A convenient choice if you’re staying at a major hotel or want to avoid navigating train stations.
・Direct routes to Umeda, Namba, Tennoji, and Universal Studios Japan
・No stairs or transfers; just hop on and relax
・Onboard luggage storage and roomy seats
・Ideal after a long flight with kids and gear
・Read more here

2. JR Haruka Express – Quick & Comfortable
This limited express train runs straight to Tennoji, Shin-Osaka, and Kyoto.
・Discounted round-trip passes available for foreign travelers
・Large luggage space and clean restrooms onboard
・Recommended for families heading to central Osaka or connecting to Kyoto.
・Read more here

3. Private Transfer or Taxi – Hassle-Free Door-to-Door
Skip the transfers with a pre-booked car or van.
・Can request child seats in advance
・Especially helpful if arriving late or traveling with several kids
・Recommended for families seeking total convenience, or traveling with very young children.
・Read more here

If you are planning a longer stay in Japan and aren’t in immediate need of your luggage, you can arrange at the airport for your suitcases to be delivered straight to your hotel. This is really handy when you have kids and are traveling by train or coach, and want to be hands-free, apart from a stroller.

At Narita Airport, you can find dedicated luggage delivery companies on the international departure floors in both terminals, like Yamato, JAL ABC, and KTC, and they are open from early in the morning until the very last flight of the evening.

At Haneda Airport, you can find luggage delivery companies Sky Building Service and JAL ABC on both the second and third floors.

And at Kansai International Airport, you can find counters at the southern and northern ends of the first floor of Terminal 1 (JAL ABC; Kansai Airport Baggage Service).

For more information about this service, please visit each airport's website or click the following link.

Accommodation, and the options available to you, will vary depending on your budget.

Something like a hostel isn’t really a good idea if you have very young kids or babies, while a five-star hotel will normally have a crib available for use.

Cheaper hotels, particularly ‘business’ hotels, will likely not have any baby-friendly options, but most three-star and above hotels will have bed guards so that your child can sleep with you or on a separate bed.

Before you book your hotel, it’s best to check directly with them what options they have if it isn’t clear on the website you are using to book rooms.

Another good choice is a ryokan (Japanese inn), which usually offers futon bedding on tatami floors and can be surprisingly family-friendly.

Some newer family hotels also cater specifically to travelers with kids, with larger rooms, kitchenettes, and extra amenities designed for longer or more flexible stays.

Another option is to go fully Japanese on sleeping arrangements.

Parents in Japan usually sleep in the same bed as their child, on a futon.

Travelling with children is a perfect excuse to stay at a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) and try sleeping on a futon in a tatami room.

In particular, having another futon is cheaper than booking a hotel room with extra beds, and as the futons are on a tatami floor, you don’t have to worry about your child falling out of the bed or rolling around.

Wherever you stay, it’s a good idea to look for a hotel near a major train station.

Being close to transport will save time and energy when moving around with kids, especially with strollers or heavy bags.

Staying near stations like Tokyo, Ginza, Ueno, Shinjuku, Kyoto, Namba, or Umeda will make your trip much more manageable.

Some hotels in Japan are designed with families in mind.
These might offer small kitchenettes, larger rooms, bunk beds, or even laundry machines.

They can be a great option if you want a bit more space or plan to stay more than a couple of nights.

Regardless of the type of hotel or ryokan you book, the receptionists will normally be more than helpful in offering recommendations.

They can also help with sending luggage to your next destination, booking taxis, or assisting with anything else to make your stay more comfortable.

Even with a language barrier, hotel staff are generally welcoming and used to helping families.

The subject of children and eating can be a difficult one, even without travelling to another country, as sometimes they just won’t like even foods they normally like!

However, Japan has an amazing array of both traditional Japanese food and variations of Western food to suit every taste.

For nursing while out and about it is always best to head to the nearest shopping mall or department store. Shopping malls and department stores often have dedicated baby changing rooms with private areas for nursing. Larger department stores may have exceptionally spacious rooms with private nursing booths, as well as dedicated baby changing tables, hot water machines, and general seating.

Also, be sure to pack a privacy blanket for those times when you aren’t near either of the above options. Always make sure to have a flask of hot water with you for baby formula, and to refill this at the baby facilities mentioned above. It is also normally no problem to get hot water refills at restaurants.

Family restaurants always have baby chairs and children’s menus, though if you are carrying your own food for your toddler, it is no problem to feed them this in a restaurant.

The great thing about family restaurants is that they are normally fairly inexpensive, and they usually have a varied range of dishes for kids. Some chains, like Royal Host, allow you to swap rice for bread in the child's menu, and they can normally make reasonable adjustments to the food as well.

For older kids, you will have more options as the full range of cafes and restaurants are open to you, but generally speaking, family restaurants are good for elementary school kids and younger.

Additionally, for toddlers and small children, it is worth investigating whether there are any children’s cafes in your local area. These normally charge a small fee per hour but offer dedicated play areas and a variety of toys, and sometimes these play areas are supervised. In most cases, these kinds of cafes serve up food for both adults and children.

Generally, most restaurants are child-friendly and can be quite accommodating for younger customers. Family eateries are usually quite willing to serve up normal meals for kids, but with substitutions or with meat or fish cut up for smaller mouths. Quite often, they also have cutlery for kids.

A family that recently visited had this to say: “Everywhere you go, there is at least written Information in English, and as everything works like it should, you don't need anybody to solve problems. With the food, it really helped that you can often see what the food looks like before you enter a restaurant. Our kids especially liked fish together with rice, and they didn't get tired of it.”

Pro tip: If you're on a budget, visit a supermarket or convenience store and check out their great bread selection. There are all kinds of delicious bread options at great prices, and they are great for filling the tummies of growing kids before you go to a restaurant to eat.

Japan’s trains are clean, reliable, and generally punctual, making them one of the best ways to get around with kids.

Major stations can be large and busy, so always allow a little extra time when traveling with children.

Fortunately, signage is clear, and many stations have English maps near ticket machines and platforms.

Families often appreciate the organization of the stations, with clear markings indicating door positions and priority seating areas.

One visiting family even noted how there was “no hectic running around” because everything was so clearly laid out.

I recommend getting a travel IC card like a Suica or PASMO, as it allows each passenger to tap in and out of trains, subways, and buses, which helps you get to your seat faster.

Babies and young children up to the age of six often can ride free if they don’t occupy their own seat.

Children aged six to eleven pay half fare, though six-year-olds not yet in elementary school also ride free.

On local trains, you can usually just tap through with a prepaid IC card like Suica or PASMO, which is easier than buying single tickets each time.

On Shinkansen bullet trains or limited express trains, it’s worth reserving seats to guarantee space for your family.

Some express trains, like the Spacia X to Nikko, even offer private compartments or group seating areas, depending on the route.

A big consideration when traveling anywhere with kids is whether the city is stroller-friendly, and Tokyo really delivers.

Sidewalks are smooth and fairly wide, and nearly every train and metro station has elevators, even if you have to walk a bit to find them.

The metro usually has dedicated stroller spaces in the first and last carriages, which are clearly marked.

Trains in general are stroller-friendly, but if you're traveling during peak commuter hours, it can be challenging to board with a bulky one.

Compact or foldable strollers are easier to manage and can be stored in luggage areas on longer-distance trains.

If you're taking a city bus, be aware that buses are small and often don’t have much space for open strollers.

Buses are still doable, especially with a foldable stroller and a baby carrier, but they’re best avoided during rush hour.

Every station has at least one toilet, though smaller stations may not have baby-changing tables.

Larger stations, shopping malls, department stores, and museums usually have well-equipped changing and nursing rooms.

Some changing tables are only located in women’s restrooms, so fathers traveling alone may need to look for accessible toilets instead.

If needed, you can usually find suitable facilities at nearby department stores or public buildings.

Rush hour in Japan typically runs from around 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and again from 5 PM to 7 PM on weekdays.

During these times, trains can be packed to the point of being shoulder-to-shoulder, especially in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama.

It is not recommended to ride trains during rush hour if you’re traveling with a stroller or younger children, as there may be no space to board at all.

Even foldable strollers can be difficult to manage in a packed train, and getting on or off quickly at busy stations can be stressful.

When possible, try to plan your day to start just after the morning peak or travel in the early afternoon when it’s much quieter.

If you need to travel during those times, consider using a baby carrier instead of a stroller and aim for the first or last carriage, which are typically less crowded.

Taxis or walking may also be better alternatives for short trips during peak commuting hours.

Kids can get restless on longer rides, so it’s a good idea to bring a few small toys, books, or a tablet.

Eating and drinking is fine on Shinkansen and long-distance trains, but not on regular commuter trains.

Convenience stores inside or near stations have plenty of kid-friendly snacks, from juice boxes to rice balls.

For longer rides, try picking up an ekiben (station bento), which can be a fun and tasty experience for older kids.

For longer journeys, the Shinkansen (bullet train) and domestic flights will be your friends—really, they will!

Which one you choose will depend on your budget, where you're going, and whether you’re using the Japan Rail Pass or a discounted airline ticket for tourists.

Both options are very convenient for families and offer good support for travelers with kids.

For short- to mid-range trips, like Tokyo to Kyoto, the Shinkansen is usually the fastest and easiest choice, about two hours station to station.

But for longer trips, like Tokyo to Fukuoka, which takes around five to six hours by train, flying is usually quicker overall and can be more relaxing.

One issue to be aware of on the Shinkansen is the lack of large luggage and stroller storage.

Each car only has a small storage area behind the very last row of seats, which on the Tokaido Shinkansen can be claimed if you book luggage space in advance. (The Tohoku, Hokuriku, and Hokkaido Shinkansen do not require advance reservations for luggage space, so be sure to book the last row near the door to stow a stroller or larger bags.)

If you can’t get those seats, your only options are to board early and try to grab the space first, squeeze your luggage in front of you, or book a Green Car seat, which gives you more space.

Unfortunately, strollers must be folded and stored like luggage, and there’s no dedicated stroller parking on board.

If you’re traveling with both a stroller and big suitcases, a great option is to use a luggage delivery service (takkyubin) and send your bags ahead to your next hotel.

Then you can travel light with a baby carrier and a small day bag, which will make your trip much more enjoyable and stress-free.

By contrast, flying means you can check your stroller and luggage, use airport facilities like changing rooms and shops, and enjoy a more hands-free travel experience.
Of course, being in the air with a baby or toddler has its own challenges, but the flight from Tokyo to Fukuoka is under two hours—much easier to manage than a long train ride with no space to move.

One family who visited Japan said: “The Shinkansen was a highlight for the kids and I could imagine that my daughter played for a quick moment with the thought of becoming a train conductor in the future. It was that cool.”

When choosing where you are going to visit it is best to be realistic about how you will get from A to B, and also what kind of locations are suitable for the age of your kids.

Locations like temples, shrines, and castles are often located up steep hills, long stairs, or on very rocky surfaces, and also they will generally be of no interest to very young children.

For places you really want to visit, it's best to always have a baby carrier handy for babies and small children.

Some places will have a dedicated storage area for strollers, some will not, so it is really a good idea to check what you are getting yourself into if there is somewhere you really want to go to.

This is less of an issue for families with teenagers, but the best approach to these kinds of situations is to take your children to a park or soft play place in the morning and then do your visit to a more challenging location in the afternoon. Basically, you need to exhaust your kids in the morning so that they will be less energetic/asleep in the afternoon.

Very old traditional places up in the mountains, like Nikko, might be challenging without a baby carrier or stroller, but it is possible. The advantage of a place like Nikko is that there are wide open spaces which are perfect for kids to run around in. Walking around somewhere like Asakusa in Tokyo is absolutely fine with a stroller.

In general, apart from some shrines and temples, most places are pretty accessible in Tokyo and other major cities, but can become increasingly more difficult the further into the countryside you go.

A helpful tip to know about Japan is that having kids, even as a Japanese family, comes with a lot of benefits, as culturally speaking, there is a high regard for children, especially young ones. So, don’t be surprised if men and women alike exclaim at your child’s cuteness or smile at their antics.

In practical terms, there is a lot of assistance and consideration for families with children, which you can rely on during your trip. This also means that child facilities tend to be plentiful, and all supermarkets and pharmacies carry products for children.

For someone from a country like the UK, where even major cities like London are severely lacking in elevators at train stations, you will be delighted to find elevators almost everywhere in Japan. You rarely have to plan your journey around which stations are accessible.

There are also many free children's play areas in shopping malls and department stores, usually located near the sections that sell toys and clothes. In addition, you'll find numerous parks and paid indoor play areas throughout the country.

In general, parents in central Tokyo try not to inconvenience others by avoiding strollers and using baby carriers instead. This has led some stores to offer free rental strollers for use within their premises.

However, you don’t need to feel obligated to follow this informal custom. In most of Tokyo, it’s common to see families using strollers on trains without issue.

While animal cafes, particularly cat cafes, are very popular tourist attractions, they usually won’t allow anyone under 11 to enter. To be fair, this makes sense, as you wouldn’t really want your baby or toddler to be playing with an animal.

There are a few that are more directed toward kids under 11, including zoos, where your child can experience touching an animal. Luckily, as an alternative, there are a lot of soft play locations you can use instead, and these are far more baby-friendly.

Japan is very child-friendly, and that means there are a lot of parks with playgrounds. Some are more designed for younger kids, while others are more for elementary school aged kids, but generally, outside of the immediate city center, it is easy to find a playground.

The great thing about these parks is that they usually have toilet facilities, including an accessible toilet with a baby changing table, and benches for sitting down and having a snack or drink.

Bigger parks with trees and large grassy areas can be slightly more challenging for families with a stroller, but these parks are extremely popular for families when there is warm weather, as it is absolutely fine to put up a tent and let your kids run around.

Though you don’t need to have a tent to do this, you can buy an inexpensive plastic sheet from a store to put on the grass and have a picnic.

There are a number of soft play locations within Japan, like BørneLund Asobi no Sekai Ariake Garden in Tokyo or BørneLund Playville Osaka Castle Park, and you may feel hesitant about using them because of the language barrier. However, these places usually have at least written information in English, and you will not have any issue using them.

Going to these kinds of places, or playgrounds, is an absolute must in the mornings so that your kids can release their energy. That way, you can enjoy a more relaxed tourism experience in the afternoon.

More importantly, these places are really fun for small kids, and many of them have adult facilities like massage chairs.

Many shopping malls, department stores, and airports have free-to-use strollers, and these really are lifesavers, especially when you are using a baby carrier a lot.

Normally, even children up to the age of 4 or 5 can use them, so after a busy day of playing and sightseeing, there is nothing quite like getting them into one of these strollers, sitting down at a café, and treating yourself to a great dessert while they sleep.

Even big theme parks like Disneyland and USJ have rental strollers, and if you are visiting without a stroller, these are an absolute must-have.

It is hard work to make sure your kids, both small ones and older ones, have fun while on vacation, but do make sure that you have fun too and that you make time for relaxing.

It is easy to overplan and try to fit in too many activities on your trip, but ultimately your kids need time to run around and have fun, and you need to plan for moments when everyone can just sit, or sleep, and unwind.

Moreover, if you plan massive exciting things every day, even your kids will get too tired and become fussy. Parks and soft play centers are perfect for relaxed play and relaxed adult time.