Hi all,
Me and my wife are planning our first international trip, we’re considering Japan in April 3-13,2026 ( golden period starts from april 29). We have a baby who will be 15 month old by April. Nothing is confirmed at this point , we’re in research phase. Is it a good idea ? If any of you have any suggestions, pls help.
“Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
– Land at Narita or Haneda.
– Use a private transfer or train (with pre-booked baby seat or carrier).
– Check in to a centrally located, family-friendly hotel/apartment (MIMARU Tokyo, Daiwa Roynet Hotel, or similar).
– Short evening stroll in the neighborhood. Stock up on baby essentials at Don Quijote or similar stores.
Day 2: Tokyo—Shibuya, Harajuku, Shinjuku
- Visit Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Shibuya Sky (book tickets ahead).
- Stroll Yoyogi Park for open space and cherry blossoms.
- Walk through Omotesando and Harajuku, possibly join a half-day local walking tour.
- Rest break in Baby Rooms at department stores.
- In the afternoon, visit Meiji Shrine if time/energy permits.
- Dinner locally, early night[3][4].
Day 3: Tokyo—Asakusa & Ueno
- Early visit to Senso-ji Temple and Nakamise-Dori for a relaxed morning.
- Play at Bentenyama Children’s Park.
- Visit Ueno Park for cherry blossom hanami or take the baby to Ueno Zoo.
- Simple lunch at Ueno, return for nap/quiet time.
- Evening stroll around Ueno or Sumida River.
- Consider visiting Tsukiji Outer Market for fresh food if manageable[4].
Day 4: Tokyo—teamLab Borderless, Skytree
- Head to teamLab Borderless for interactive art experiences—very baby-friendly.
- Lunch, then visit Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views.
- Explore Solamachi Shopping Center (Pokemon Center, Ghibli shop) and Sumida Aquarium.
- Return early to hotel for rest.
Day 5: Tokyo Disney Resort (Optional) / Relaxed Park Day
- Visit Tokyo Disneyland if desired (stay at a Disney resort nearby for convenience). Opt for just half a day with a baby, or skip Disney and spend the day at a local park/playground, e.g., Shinjuku Gyoen.
- Rest, pack for onward journey.
Day 6: Travel to Kyoto (Shinkansen)
- Use a morning bullet train (reserve seats, use luggage forwarding).
- Check in to Kyoto accommodation (MIMARU SUITES, Rihga Royal, or Watazen Ryokan).
- Afternoon stroll in the hotel area, visit Kyoto Station or Tower.
- Dinner nearby, early bedtime.
Day 7: Kyoto—Cultural Sights
- Guided day tour (or self-tour with taxi for flexibility): Kiyomizudera, Nijo Castle (daytime features the famous Miyako Odori dance—book tickets ahead), Fushimi Inari Shrine (go early, use a carrier instead of a stroller).
- Lunch at Nishiki Market.
- Afternoon in Gion; stay on major tourist streets where tourists are welcomed.
- Evening rest at accommodation.
Day 8: Kyoto—Arashiyama & Playtime
- Spend morning at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (skip stroller due to steps).
- Visit Monkey Park (if baby is in a carrier and parents are comfortable).
- Lunch at Arashiyama.
- Afternoon visit to TOEI Kyoto Studio Park for child-friendly activities; consider kimono rental/photoshoot for the whole family.
- Return to hotel and relax[3].
Day 9: Kyoto—Parks & Leisure / Nara Day Trip
- Head to Umekoji Park for the Kyoto Aquarium or Railway Museum.
- Alternatively, take a half-day trip to Nara to see friendly deer at Nara Park, wander Todaiji Temple.
- Back to Kyoto by sunset, easy dinner.
Day 10: Osaka Day Trip or Leisure
- Take a 15-30 min train to Osaka (reserve seats if possible).
- Visit Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan), play at Tempozan Harbor Village.
- Lunch at a local spot.
- Explore Dotonbori’s sights and river (child in carrier or compact stroller).
- Return to Kyoto or stay overnight in Osaka if preferred”
Above is the AI generated itinerary. I’m thinking of building my own itinerary based on this. Please suggest any changes needed .
Thanks in advance
by CauliflowerSevere165