Planning a family trip to Tokyo? This exciting and vibrant city is the perfect place to begin your Japan family holiday. From iconic sights to kid-friendly experiences, Tokyo offers a wonderful mix of tradition and modernity that keeps both adults and children entertained. This itinerary is part one of our two-part Japan family tours guide and focuses on your first week exploring Tokyo with kids. Click here for part two
Whether you're curious about the family trip to Japan cost, need help mapping out your days, or want to know which attractions are toddler-friendly, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive day-by-day Tokyo itinerary.
Where to Stay during Your Japan Family Travel adventure
Days 1–4: Taito City (Asakusa)
Start your journey in Taito City, specifically the Asakusa district. This area is less crowded than Shinjuku or Shibuya, providing a gentle introduction to Tokyo's bustling environment. We recommend staying in a cozy Airbnb with tatami rooms and futon beds to enhance the traditional Japanese experience (we included our top picks below). The area is filled with cultural sights, family-friendly restaurants, and easy subway access.
Days 5–7: Shinjuku
Transition to the vibrant and modern Shinjuku district. A hotel room on the 20th floor or higher offers breathtaking city views. Shinjuku offers convenience, fun nightlife (family-safe during the day), and close proximity to key attractions, making it ideal for the second half of your Japan family travel adventure. We stayed at Odakyu Hotel Century Southern Tower, we'd recommend it to everyone, we could even see mount Fuji from our room window!
Navigating Tokyo: Public Transport Tips for Japan Family Travel
Tokyo’s transit system is fast and reliable but overwhelming for newcomers. Buy a Tokyo Metro Pass for unlimited subway rides and avoid the hassle of individual tickets. Stations are labeled by number and line letter (e.g., G03 for the Ginza Line), which simplifies transfers.
Day 1: Welcome to Tokyo – Starting Your Family Trip to Japan
Getting Oriented for Your Japan Family Holiday
Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and take it easy after your long flight. Asakusa is a gentle introduction to the city and perfect for kids.
Kid-Friendly Activity
Visit Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and stroll down Nakamise-dori for souvenirs and snacks. End your day with panoramic views at Tokyo Skytree.
Where to Eat
Try local street food like melon pan and yakitori, or dine at a casual tempura restaurant like Tendon Tenya.
Estimated Daily Cost: ¥15,000–¥25,000 (USD $100–$170)
Day 2: Mount Fuji Views & Yokohama – Cultural Day Trips on Your Japan Family Holiday
Exploring Beyond Tokyo on a Japan Family Tour
Take a day trip to Mount Fuji via the Shinkansen to Shin-Fuji Station (weather permitting), or enjoy a fun detour to Yokohama—perfect for families.
Kid-Friendly Activity
Wander through Yokohama Chinatown and ride the Cosmo Clock 21 Ferris wheel. The area is stroller-friendly with plenty of snack stops.
Where to Eat
Savor dim sum or Chinese street food in Chinatown. Budget-friendly and fun for kids!
Estimated Daily Cost: ¥17,000–¥27,000 (USD $115–$180)
Day 3: Odaiba – A Highlight of Any Family Trip to Japan
Kid-Centric Fun in Tokyo Bay
Spend the day in Odaiba, a man-made island filled with interactive attractions like LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Miraikan Science Museum, and the life-size Gundam statue.
Travel Tip
Get there via the driverless Yurikamome Line—the ride itself is fun for kids.
Where to Eat
Try themed eateries like Gundam Café or head to Aqua City Odaiba’s food court for global cuisine.
Estimated Daily Cost: ¥18,000–¥30,000 (USD $120–$200)
Day 4: Day Trip to Odawara – A Peaceful Retreat on Your Japan Family Holiday
Exploring a Hidden Gem in Your Family Trip to Japan
Take a break from the Tokyo hustle with a visit to Odawara Castle, a historical site surrounded by serene gardens.
Kid-Friendly Activity
Let the kids explore castle grounds and samurai exhibits while you enjoy the view from the top tower.
Where to Eat
Dine at local soba shops or grab train station bentos (ekiben) for a picnic.
Estimated Daily Cost: ¥16,000–¥26,000 (USD $110–$175)
Day 5: Urban Nature in Shinjuku – Culture & Greenery on Your Japan Family Travel Adventure
Transition to Shinjuku and Family Adventures
Move into your Shinjuku hotel, then relax at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, one of the best urban green spaces in Tokyo.
Kid-Friendly Activity
Enjoy seasonal blooms and a spacious landscape perfect for strollers and small children.
Where to Eat
Visit Omoide Yokocho for grilled skewers or try a family-style izakaya with booth seating.
Estimated Daily Cost: ¥15,000–¥25,000 (USD $100–$170)
Day 6: Towering Views and Pedestrian Wonder – Tokyo Tower & Shibuya
Iconic Landmarks on Your Japan Family Holiday
Start the morning with a trip to Tokyo Tower—less crowded than Skytree but just as memorable. In the afternoon, head to Shibuya Crossing and nearby Hachikō Statue.
Where to Eat
Try Uobei Sushi, a high-tech sushi train restaurant that’s a hit with kids.
Estimated Daily Cost: ¥17,000–¥28,000 (USD $115–$190)
Day 7: Final Day in Shinjuku – Reflect & Relax on Your Tokyo Family Trip
Wrapping Up Your Family Trip to Japan
Explore nearby attractions like the Samurai Museum or take a walk through Kabukicho in the daytime for a very different view of Tokyo’s nightlife zone.
Where to Eat
Have your farewell meal at Matsuya or a family-friendly tonkatsu restaurant.
Estimated Daily Cost: ¥20,000–¥30,000 (USD $135–$200)
Family Trip to Japan Cost Breakdown
| Category | Daily Range (¥) | 7-Day Total (¥) | USD Equivalent (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (family room in Tokyo) | 30,000–45,000 | 210,000–315,000 | $1,400–$2,100 |
| Food | 6,000–12,000 | 42,000–84,000 | $280–$560 |
| Transportation | 2,500–4,500 | 17,500–31,500 | $115–$210 |
| Attractions & Tours | 4,000–7,000 | 28,000–49,000 | $185–$325 |
| Total | 42,500–68,500 | 297,500–479,500 | $1,980–$3,200 |
💡 Budget Tip for Family Travelers
If you're looking to save, it's possible to cut costs by:
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Staying in suburban areas or smaller capsule hotels that accommodate families
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Eating primarily from convenience stores and food courts
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Choosing free or low-cost attractions like local shrines and public parks
With some effort, savvy travelers have reported bringing costs down closer to ¥20,000–30,000/day ($130–$200) for a family of 4 — but expect trade-offs in comfort and location.
Conclusion: Why Tokyo Is the Perfect Start to Your Family Trip to Japan
A family trip to Tokyo is an unforgettable way to start your broader Japan family holiday. With exciting cultural experiences, engaging kid-friendly attractions, and a welcoming environment, Tokyo is a must on any family trip to Japan. As you continue your journey, keep in mind that smart planning and local tips can help you manage your family trip to Japan cost while ensuring everyone in the family has a great time.
Next up: Our Part Two itinerary will take you through Kanazawa, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and Osaka—the perfect way to round out your unforgettable Japan family travel adventure.
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I would like to know how much it costs