Ok we just got back from 3 weeks in Japan and learned a TON! These are some of our favorites, from places to stay to things to do.
Map
Sections
6
Where to stay in Tokyo
Things to do in Tokyo
What to pack
Japan Blog!
Getting around
Kyoto things to do (including day trips!)
Where to stay in Tokyo
We stayed at Mimaru when we went to Tokyo and found it to be a great fit for our family of 4. They had plenty of space and washers and dryers.
MIMARU Official Website - APARTMENT HOTEL MIMARU
Beautiful luxury hotel near the imperial palace and Tokyo station.
Palace Hotel Tokyo
Things to do in Tokyo
You can easily spend an entire day here! Beautiful, lively park with a zoo and museum. On the day we went, there was a festival complete with food truck parks and live music.
Ueno Park
Beautiful, small zoo featuring Chinese giant pandas!
Ueno Zoological Gardens Ticket - Klook United States
A must see museum if you have time. The museum is expansive and you can spend several hours here.
Tokyo National Museum Ticket
An instagrammable photo spot! Shibuya sky is a fun activity if you make it to Shibuya. You can see so much of Tokyo here, including Tokyo tower and the Shibuya scramble.
SHIBUYA SKY Ticket - Klook United States
If you’re into Disney, definitely check out these unique parks! We went to Disney sea and were blown away. Download the app first to check ride times once you arrive.
Tokyo Disney Resort - Tokyo Disneyland & Tokyo DisneySea Park Tickets
A must see for hello kitty fans!
Sanrio Puroland Tokyo Ticket
Fun to check out! There are some food trucks at the bottom to grab a snack before you head up.
Tokyo Tower Ticket - Klook United States
Iconic spot for great photos! This neighborhood is very lively and fun to explore.
Shibuya Crossing
Fun mall to check out in harajuku, near toms of little shopping streets.
THE 10 BEST Shopping Malls in Shibuya / Harajuku / Ebisu (Tokyo)
Busy shopping street in harajuku near the mall. It’s a pedestrian street and is a little touristy, but fun to explore.
Takeshita- Street 竹下通り
Tokyo is massive, so a tour guide is always a good idea.
Top 10 Tokyo Day trips 2025
What to pack
These suitcases have taken us all over the world with no issues’
Away
Weather was humid and a little unpredictable when we went in October. I’d recommend bringing rain gear!
Women's Rain Jackets
Japan Blog!
My complete list of things I wish I did differently on our Japan trip! I cover apps you need, planning tips and transportation.
Japan with Kids: Things we Wish We Knew before our trip - Wayfaring Four
Getting around
The bullet train, or Shinkansen, was such a fun and unique experience. If you’re going on a long trip (like Tokyo to Kyoto) this will save you several hours. I’d recommend buying tickets in advance and arriving to the platform about 20-30 minutes bef...
Japan Bullet Train Tickets and Schedule - Shinkansen
Download this app for hailing cabs in Japan! Be prepared for some can drivers to speak little to no English. The app works the same way as uber, so it’s easy to use no matter what
Most used taxi app in Japan │ Taxi App GO │ GO Inc.
If you’re traveling by train a lot on your trip, this may be helpful to save you some money.
JR Whole Japan Rail Pass
Luggage shipping is a game changer for Japan travel! It’s so easy, and takes about a day. Drop an air tag in your suitcase for extra peace of mind.
Yamato Transport Narita Baggage Delivery Service Counter
Kyoto things to do (including day trips!)
Visit the famous Nara deer during your visit to Japan! This is a great day trip from Kyoto and was one of our favorite things we did.
Top 10 Nara Prefecture Tours 2025
Epic aquarium with whale sharks! You can easily spend a half day here at least. The aquarium is large and right next to a mall with more kids activities. Highly recommend!
Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan Tickets
Osaka castle is another great day trip from Kyoto. There is an epic playground next to it as well.
