5 Must-Do Things To Do In Japan With Kids

I grew up in a small town in Japan. I met my husband there, got married, had my first son there. It’s been 10 years since we moved to Canada, so my son was pretty much raised as a Canadian. We try to go back to Japan as often as possible, and it’s great to see my son get so fascinated with my home country. Here are 5 Must-Do Things in Japan with your children.

Family restaurants are everywhere in Japan. They are reasonably priced and kid friendly. For some reason, Kids Meals are called “OKOSAMA(Child) LUNCH” And yes, they are served all day, not just at lunch time. It usually consists of little bit of everything (spaghetti, meatballs, etc.) and a little mountain of rice with a flag on top. When my son first saw it, he thought that was the greatest thing! Make sure you take a photo.

Every city will have a shrine, big or small. These are good places to enjoy pretty traditional buildings and take photos (best of all, free admission!) At the main hall you’ll see a bell with a big rope attached to it. You tug the rope to “wake up the God.” There should be a trunk in front of you, so throw in some small change and clap your hands twice, close your eyes and make a wish.

Some festivals are huge and happen annually, so be sure to check the local event schedule of where you are headed. But if you are lucky, you might just come across a small fair near the shrine. Unlike North American fairs, there won’t be any rides, but usually a strip is lined with all kinds of different vendors selling snacks (candy apple, cotton candy, savory pancakes, etc.), toys and masks, or have a game booth. My favourite is “scoop the goldfish” game!

If you have a daughter, you must go to “Character Goods Store”—such as Sanrio and Kiddy Land. You’ll be overwhelmed by the number of character goods (most famous of all is Hello Kitty). From underwear to chopsticks, you can find all kinds of wacky fun things with your favourite character on it.

There are plenty of things for boys as well (my son loved Cup Noodle shaped erasers), and these tiny things make great souvenirs for friends back home.

The train system in Japan is so sophisticated—they are always on time, clean, seats are comfortable, and you’ll most likely see a clerk in a uniform selling various snacks on a cart. Oh, and this is not for kids, but they also sell beer and other cocktails! Of course, if you have a chance, take the Bullet Train (Shinkansen). They’re super cool looking, and go at 300km/hour! So sit back, relax and enjoy your yummy cocktails!

5 Must-Do Things To Do In Japan With Kids

Kid-Friendly Overseas Activities