🐾 Traveling to Japan with Pets in 2026
Pet-Friendly Japan
Japan is increasingly welcoming to pets, especially in urban areas like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. While not as universally pet-friendly as some European countries, many hotels, parks, cafes, and even trains now accommodate small dogs and cats. The key is careful planning—Japan's strict quarantine requirements mean you must start preparations at least 7 months before arrival to avoid your pet being detained for up to 180 days upon entry.
Pet Import Requirements & Documentation 2026
Step 1: Microchip (ISO Standard)
Your pet MUST have an ISO 11784 or 11785 compliant microchip implanted BEFORE the first rabies vaccination. This 15-digit microchip is mandatory—non-ISO chips require you to bring your own reader.
Verify with your vet that the microchip is the correct ISO standard. HomeAgain and AVID microchips are typically ISO-compliant and accepted by Japanese authorities.
Step 2: Rabies Vaccinations (Two Required)
First vaccination: Must be given at least 91 days after birth, on or after microchipping day. Second vaccination: At least 30 days after first, within the first vaccine's validity period. Only inactivated or recombinant vaccines accepted—NO live virus vaccines.
Keep all vaccination certificates with microchip numbers listed. Vaccinations given before microchipping are invalid unless special conditions met.
Step 3: Rabies Antibody Test (FAVN)
Blood sample must be drawn after second rabies vaccination and sent to a Japanese-approved laboratory. Results must show ≥0.5 IU/ml antibody titer. Test results valid for 2 years from blood draw date.
This step alone can take 2-4 weeks for lab results. Keep original lab certificate—you'll need it at Japanese customs. List of approved labs available at Japan's Animal Quarantine Service website.
Step 4: 180-Day Waiting Period
After blood is drawn for antibody test, your pet must wait at least 180 days before entering Japan. This waiting period cannot be waived or shortened. Arrive even one day early and your pet faces quarantine detention.
During this period, maintain current rabies vaccination. If vaccination expires before arrival, you must restart the entire process from the first vaccination.
Step 5: Advance Notification (40+ Days)
Submit advance notification to Japan's Animal Quarantine Service at your port of entry at least 40 days before arrival. Can be submitted online via NACCS system or by mail/fax.
Include all documentation: microchip number, vaccination records, FAVN test results, flight details, and destination address in Japan. Late submissions may be rejected.
Step 6: Health Certificate & Arrival
Obtain export health certificate from accredited veterinarian in your country within 10 days of departure. Certificate must confirm pet is free of rabies and (for dogs) leptospirosis symptoms.
Dogs can only enter through designated airports: Narita, Haneda, Chubu, Kansai, plus specific seaports. Cats can enter through any port. If all documents are in order, quarantine inspection takes less than 12 hours.
Timeline Summary
Minimum 7 months before travel: Microchip + First rabies vaccination → 30+ days later: Second rabies vaccination + Blood draw → 180+ days waiting period → 40+ days before arrival: Submit advance notification → 10 days before departure: Health certificate → Arrival: Quarantine inspection (typically 2-6 hours if compliant).
Pet Import Costs 2026
- Microchipping: $25-75 depending on vet clinic. ISO-compliant chips widely available at most veterinary offices in US, Europe, Australia.
- Rabies Vaccinations: $15-35 per shot. Total for two vaccinations: $30-70 plus vet consultation fees ($50-100 per visit).
- FAVN Test (Rabies Antibody): $100-200 for blood draw, lab analysis, and certificate. Results typically take 2-4 weeks.
- Health Certificate: $50-150 for export health certificate from USDA-accredited vet (US) or equivalent authority in other countries.
- Airline Pet Fees: In-cabin (under 10kg): $100-200 one-way on JAL/ANA. Cargo hold: $200-500 depending on pet size and airline. International flights: $300-800 total.
- Quarantine Fees (if non-compliant): Up to ¥3,000 ($21) per day for detention facility, potentially totaling ¥540,000 ($3,780) for full 180-day quarantine at owner's expense.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations in Japan
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Search for pet-friendly accommodations across Japan on Booking.com. Use the "Pets allowed" filter to find hotels, ryokans, and vacation rentals that welcome your furry companions. Many properties charge ¥1,000-3,000 ($7-21) per night per pet.
Where to Stay with Pets
- Business Hotels (Tokyo, Osaka): Chains like APA Hotel, Hotel Villa Fontaine, and Dormy Inn allow small pets (typically under 10kg) for ¥1,000-2,000 per night. Rooms small but functional, usually near train stations with nearby parks for walks.
- Pet-Friendly Ryokans (Countryside): Traditional inns in Hakone, Nagano, and Hokkaido welcome pets with advance booking. Fees ¥2,000-5,000 per night. Some offer private outdoor baths for dogs. Book directly and confirm pet policies.
- Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, Rakuten STAY): Entire homes and apartments frequently allow pets, especially in suburban areas. Ideal for longer stays—full kitchens, laundry, outdoor space. Prices ¥8,000-20,000 per night for family-sized properties.
- Pet Resorts (Rural Areas): Dedicated pet-friendly resorts in Yamanashi, Nagano, and Hokkaido feature dog runs, pet menus, and grooming services. Prices ¥15,000-30,000 per night including meals. Popular with Japanese pet owners on weekends.
- Camping & Glamping: Many campgrounds in national parks (Fuji-Hakone-Izu, Nikko) allow leashed pets. Glamping facilities offer luxury tents with pet amenities. Sites ¥3,000-10,000 per night.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Hotels: High-end properties like The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, Conrad Osaka, and Hotel Nikko Kanazawa offer pet packages (¥5,000-10,000) including beds, bowls, treats, and even pet-sitting services.
Always confirm pet size limits, breed restrictions, and additional fees when booking. Some hotels restrict pets to ground-floor rooms or specific buildings.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
National Parks & Hiking
Nikko National Park, Hakone, and Fuji Five Lakes area offer pet-friendly trails. Dogs must be leashed at all times. Avoid during peak cherry blossom season due to crowds.
Many mountain huts and onsen towns welcome pets. Check park visitor centers for trail maps showing pet-accessible routes and waste disposal stations.
Beaches & Coastal Areas
Dog-friendly beaches in Shonan (Kanagawa), Chiba, and Okinawa have designated pet sections. Summer restrictions (June-August) may apply at some beaches.
Enoshima Island and Atami allow leashed dogs on beaches and walking paths. Many beach cafes provide water bowls and outdoor pet seating.
Urban Parks (Tokyo, Osaka)
Yoyogi Park, Ueno Park, and Osaka Castle Park welcome leashed dogs. Early mornings popular with local dog walkers. Waste bags provided at most park entrances.
Odaiba Seaside Park in Tokyo offers waterfront dog-walking paths with views of Rainbow Bridge. Many surrounding restaurants have pet-friendly terraces.
Pet Cafes & Restaurants
Tokyo and Osaka feature dedicated dog cafes where pets can socialize while owners enjoy coffee (¥500-1,000). Outdoor restaurant seating commonly allows well-behaved pets.
Ask staff "Pet wa daijōbu desu ka?" (Are pets okay?) before entering. Many izakayas with terrace seating welcome small dogs during non-peak hours.
Cable Cars & Ropeways
Hakone Ropeway, Mount Takao cable car, and Nikko's ropeways allow pets in carriers or on leash (small dogs). Fees typically ¥500-1,000 per pet.
During cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, advance reservations recommended as some operators limit pet numbers per car.
Shopping Streets & Markets
Outdoor shopping areas like Nakamise-dori (Asakusa) and Philosopher's Path (Kyoto) welcome leashed pets. Indoor malls generally prohibit pets except service animals.
Many pet supply stores (Pet Plus, Kojima) allow you to shop with your pet. Some even have self-service dog wash stations (¥500-1,000).
Pet Transportation in Japan
- Trains (JR Lines): Small pets (under 10kg) in carriers travel free on most JR lines including Shinkansen. Carriers must fit on lap or under seat (max 70cm length). Larger dogs require half-price tickets and muzzle; allowed only in non-reserved seats.
- Subway & Urban Transit: Tokyo Metro, Osaka Metro allow small pets in carriers free of charge. Larger dogs: ¥200-500 with leash and muzzle required. Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5-7 PM) when crowding makes pet travel stressful.
- Taxis: Most taxis accept pets with advance notice via apps like JapanTaxi or GO. Potential cleaning fee ¥1,000-2,000 if pet sheds excessively. Pet-friendly taxi services available in major cities—book ahead.
- Rental Cars: Major agencies (Toyota Rent a Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Times Car RENTAL) allow pets with advance booking. Pet fee ¥2,000-5,000 per rental period. Bring your own seat covers and crate. Compare rental car options for best pet-friendly rates.
- Domestic Flights (within Japan): ANA and JAL allow in-cabin pets under 8-10kg for ¥5,000-6,000 one-way. Larger pets travel as checked baggage (¥6,000-15,000 depending on size). Book pet space when purchasing ticket as availability limited.
- International Flights to Japan: Compare airlines on Aviasales for pet-friendly carriers and routes. ANA, JAL, and United have established pet programs with clear policies and fees.
Pet Travel Etiquette
Japanese culture values cleanliness and consideration for others. Keep pets quiet on public transport, immediately clean any accidents, and keep them close to avoid bothering other passengers. Apologize ("Sumimasen") if your pet causes any disturbance. Most Japanese are pet-friendly but appreciate owners who show responsibility.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Veterinary Clinics
24-hour emergency clinics in major cities: Tokyo Veterinary Emergency (Setagaya), Osaka Animal Medical Center, VCA Anihos (Yokohama). Consultation fees ¥5,000-20,000 depending on treatment.
Pet travel insurance highly recommended. International policies from companies like PetPlan cover emergency treatment abroad. Save clinic phone numbers before travel.
Pet Supplies & Pharmacies
Nationwide chains Pet Plus, Kojima, and Cainz stock food, toys, medications, and accessories. Prices comparable to or cheaper than Western countries. Most brands available internationally.
Bring prescription medications from home with documentation. Japanese pharmacies carry basic items (flea/tick prevention, vitamins) but prescription drugs require local vet consultation.
Grooming & Day Care
Professional grooming salons (trimming, bathing, nail care) cost ¥3,000-8,000 per session depending on pet size and services. Major cities have English-speaking groomers catering to expats.
Dog daycare facilities in Tokyo and Osaka charge ¥3,000-5,000 per day. Useful if you're visiting temples or attractions that don't allow pets. Book 1-2 days ahead.
Pet-Sitting Services
Apps like PetSitters Japan and Anytimes connect you with local pet sitters (¥2,000-4,000 per visit or ¥8,000-15,000 per day for full care). Read reviews and meet sitters before committing.
High-end hotels often have concierge-arranged pet-sitting services. Some luxury properties offer in-room pet care so you can enjoy dinner or shows.
Pet Rules & Cultural Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in all public areas including parks, streets, and trails. Maximum leash length typically 2 meters. Off-leash only in designated dog parks (dog runs) which exist in some urban parks.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs (typically over 10kg) must wear muzzles on public transportation. Carry a comfortable muzzle and introduce it gradually before your trip. Not required in parks or on streets.
- Waste Disposal: Always carry waste bags—provided free at many park entrances but bring your own backups. Fines up to ¥10,000 ($70) for not cleaning up after pets in some municipalities.
- Noise Control: Excessive barking bothers neighbors, especially in hotels and apartments. Choose accommodations with understanding of pet behaviors. Bring familiar toys and bedding to keep pets calm.
- Temple & Shrine Restrictions: Most Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines prohibit pets in buildings and sacred areas. Outdoor grounds sometimes allowed with leashed pets kept away from worship areas.
- Restaurant Policies: Pets typically allowed only at outdoor seating. Never allowed in indoor dining areas except dedicated pet cafes. Always ask permission before entering with pet.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Japan 2026
Japan: Perfect for Families
Japan ranks among the world's best family travel destinations in 2026. Exceptional safety, clean facilities, reliable public transport, and endless kid-friendly attractions make it ideal for families with children of all ages. From Tokyo's theme parks and digital art museums to Kyoto's temples and Osaka's food scene, every family member finds something magical. The country's infrastructure—family bathrooms, nursing rooms, stroller ramps, kids' menus—shows Japan's family-first philosophy.
Top Family Attractions 2026
Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
Japan's most famous family destination. Disneyland features classic rides perfect for younger kids. DisneySea offers unique nautical-themed attractions better suited for teens and adults.
2026 Prices: Adults ¥7,900-9,400 ($53-64), Children (ages 4-11) ¥4,700-7,400 ($31-50) depending on season and day of week. Purchase tickets online in advance—NOT sold at gate. Disney Premier Access (FastPass) costs ¥1,500-2,500 ($10-17) per ride to skip lines.
Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)
Home to Super Nintendo World (opened 2021), Harry Potter's Wizarding World, and Japanese-exclusive attractions. Perfect for families with kids 8+.
2026 Prices: Adults ¥8,600-10,900 ($58-74), Children ¥5,800-7,500 ($39-51). Express Pass (¥10,000-30,000) highly recommended during peak seasons to avoid 90+ minute waits. Book timed entry for Nintendo World immediately upon park entry.
teamLab Planets & Borderless (Tokyo)
Interactive digital art museums where kids walk barefoot through water, interact with lights, and play in immersive installations. Mesmerizes all ages.
Planets (Toyosu): ¥3,800 ($26) adults, ¥1,800 ($12) kids. New 2025 expansions: Athletic Forest, Catching Forest. Borderless (Azabudai Hills): ¥4,200 ($29) adults, ¥1,000 ($7) kids. Reserve time slots weeks ahead—very popular.
Ueno Zoo (Tokyo)
Japan's oldest zoo featuring giant pandas, tigers, elephants, and Japanese wildlife. Perfect for families with toddlers and young children.
Entry: ¥600 ($4) adults, FREE for children under 12. Open 9:30 AM-5 PM, closed Mondays. Combine with Ueno Park museums for full-day family adventure. Stroller rentals available (¥500).
Nara Park & Deer Feeding
Over 1,200 sacred deer roam freely—kids can feed them deer crackers (shika senbei). Unforgettable hands-on wildlife experience.
FREE park access. Deer crackers: ¥200 per pack. Deer bow for treats! Watch for assertive deer—supervise young children. Easy day trip from Kyoto (45 min) or Osaka (50 min). Combine with Todai-ji Temple (¥600 entry).
Osaka Castle
Historic castle with museum exhibits, observation deck, and surrounding park perfect for picnics and running around.
Entry: ¥600 ($4) adults, FREE for children under 15. Elevator to top (no climbing required). Park features playgrounds, food vendors, seasonal cherry blossoms and plum groves.
Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo
Largest Pokémon store in Japan with exclusive merchandise, games, and photo opportunities. Kids go wild for Pikachu encounters.
FREE entry. Located in Ikebukuro's Sunshine City. Other Pokémon Centers in Shibuya, Tokyo DX, and major cities. No reservations needed but prepare for crowds on weekends.
Miraikan Science Museum (Tokyo)
Interactive exhibits on robots, space, environment, and future technology. ASIMO robot demonstrations, planetarium shows, hands-on experiments.
Entry: ¥630 ($4.30) adults, ¥210 ($1.40) children. English audio guides available. Plan 3-4 hours. Perfect for rainy days. Located in Odaiba near teamLab and other family attractions.
Sanrio Puroland (Tokyo)
Indoor Hello Kitty theme park with rides, shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets. Ideal for younger children especially girls ages 3-10.
Entry: ¥3,600-4,900 ($24-33) adults, ¥2,500-3,800 ($17-26) kids depending on day. Located in Tama City (40 min from central Tokyo). All-weather indoor facility perfect for rainy days.
Book Family Activities & Tours
Discover skip-the-line tickets, family-friendly tours, and unique experiences on Viator. From tea ceremonies to theme park packages, find age-appropriate activities with flexible cancellation policies and instant confirmation.
Family Accommodations 2026
- Family Hotels (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka): Chains like Hotel Gracery, Keio Plaza, and Mimaru specialize in family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids). Prices ¥15,000-35,000 ($102-238) per night. Amenities: cribs, kids' amenities, family bathrooms, children's play areas. Book 3-6 months ahead for cherry blossom season.
- Disney Hotels (Tokyo): Six official Disney hotels ranging from value Tokyo Disney Celebration Hotel (¥15,000-25,000 per room) to luxury Hotel MiraCosta at DisneySea (¥50,000-100,000). Benefits: early park entry, character dining, free shuttle. Book 4-6 months ahead.
- Apartment Hotels (MIMARU brand): Over 12 locations in Tokyo featuring spacious rooms with kitchenettes, washing machines, separate living areas. Perfect for families. Prices ¥20,000-40,000 per night for 4-person units. Some locations offer Pokémon-themed rooms.
- Traditional Ryokans (Countryside): Family rooms with tatami mats, futon bedding, private or shared onsen baths, kaiseki dinners. Prices ¥20,000-50,000 ($136-340) per person including meals. Kids often receive discounted rates. Popular in Hakone, Kyoto outskirts, Hokkaido.
- Vacation Rentals (Airbnb, VRBO): Entire homes and apartments with full kitchens for family cooking. Ideal for longer stays (5+ nights). Prices ¥10,000-30,000 per night for family-sized properties in Tokyo/Kyoto. Laundry facilities, space for kids to spread out.
- Beach Resorts (Okinawa): All-inclusive family resorts with kids' clubs, pools, water sports, and English-speaking staff. Properties like Hilton Okinawa and Busena Terrace. Prices ¥25,000-60,000 per night for family rooms. Popular July-September.
Find family-friendly hotels with connected rooms, cribs, high chairs, and kids' facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from parents about cleanliness, noise levels, and proximity to attractions.
Family Travel Practicalities 2026
Transportation with Kids
- Train Travel: Children under 6 ride FREE on all trains including Shinkansen. Ages 6-11 pay half fare. IC cards (Suica, Pasmo) simplify ticketing. Reserved seats recommended for long journeys—book family seats together for space.
- Stroller-Friendly: Japanese cities excel at accessibility. Stations have elevators (look for elevator symbols). Sidewalks wide with ramps. Stroller rentals available at major attractions (¥500-1,000 per day). Many families use baby carriers in crowded areas.
- Subway & City Transport: Tokyo Metro and Osaka Metro offer family day passes. Kids under 6 free, 6-11 half price. Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:30 AM, 5-7 PM) when trains are crushingly crowded—nearly impossible with stroller.
- Rental Cars with Car Seats: Child car seats mandatory for children under 6. Rental companies provide seats for ¥1,000-2,000 per day—reserve when booking car. Compare rental car options for family-sized vehicles with car seat availability.
- Taxis: Expensive but convenient for short trips with tired kids. Most taxis fit 4 passengers. No car seats required by law in taxis. Apps like JapanTaxi and GO allow English booking and payment.
Dining with Children
- Family Restaurants: Chains like Saizeriya, Gusto, and Jonathan's offer kids' meals (¥400-800), high chairs, crayons, picture menus. Open long hours, very affordable. Found near every station.
- Conveyor Belt Sushi: Kids love picking plates! Kura Sushi and Sushiro have tablet ordering in multiple languages. Prices ¥100-500 per plate. Rewards games for kids. Most locations provide booster seats.
- Department Store Food Halls (Depachika): Basement floors of department stores sell prepared foods, bento boxes, desserts. Perfect for picky eaters—buy different items for each family member. Eat in nearby parks.
- Convenience Stores (Konbini): 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson stock onigiri (¥100-200), sandwiches, salads, hot foods, baby formula, diapers. Open 24/7. Microwave available for heating food. Lifesaver for early mornings or late nights.
- Allergy-Friendly Dining: Food allergies taken seriously in Japan. Many restaurants provide allergen charts. Phrases to know: "Tamago arerugī" (egg allergy), "Gyūnyū arerugī" (milk allergy). Carry allergy cards in Japanese.
Baby & Child Facilities
- Nursing & Changing Rooms: Train stations, department stores, malls, and parks provide spotless baby changing rooms with nursing areas, hot water for formula, diaper disposal. Look for "授乳室" (nursing room) signs.
- Pharmacies & Baby Supplies: Drugstores (Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Welcia, Sundrug) stock formula, diapers (Pampers, Merries brands), baby food, wipes. Japanese diapers high-quality and affordable. Open late hours.
- Medical Care: Pediatric clinics (Shōnika) widespread. Tokyo Medical Center and St. Luke's International Hospital have English-speaking pediatricians. Consultations ¥3,000-10,000. Travel insurance essential—medical costs high for non-residents.
- Coin Lockers: Store luggage and shopping bags in lockers at every major station. Sizes ¥300-800 per day. Frees hands for stroller pushing and wrangling kids. Take photos of locker number and location!
Kid-Friendly Activities by City
Tokyo with Kids
Top Activities: DisneySEA, teamLab Planets, Ueno Zoo, Tokyo Skytree, Pokémon Centers, Ghibli Museum (advance booking required), Odaiba attractions (LEGOLAND, science museums), Akihabara anime shops.
Best Areas to Stay: Shinjuku (transportation hub), Ueno (zoo + museums), Odaiba (family attractions), Asakusa (traditional Tokyo), Ikebukuro (Sunshine City, Pokémon).
Kyoto with Kids
Top Activities: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove + Monkey Park, Fushimi Inari shrine hikes, Nara deer feeding (day trip), Kyoto Railway Museum, Toei Kyoto Studio Park (ninja experiences), tea ceremony experiences, kimono dressing.
Family-Friendly Temples: Kiyomizu-dera (shops + views), Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion photos), Fushimi Inari (torii gate exploration—kids love the hike). Avoid overly formal temples with strict quiet rules.
Osaka with Kids
Top Activities: Universal Studios Japan, Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan (world-class), Osaka Castle, Dotonbori food street, Kuromon Market sampling, Kids Plaza Osaka (interactive museum), Tempozan Ferris Wheel.
Food Adventures: Okonomiyaki cooking classes, takoyaki stands, conveyor belt sushi, ramen museums. Kids love Osaka's casual, energetic food culture.
Hakone & Mt Fuji Region
Top Activities: Hakone Ropeway with Fuji views, Lake Ashi pirate ship cruises, Open-Air Museum sculptures, easy hiking trails, family-friendly onsen (hot springs with bathing suits allowed).
Best for: Families wanting nature break from cities. Day trip from Tokyo or overnight at family ryokan. Spring/autumn best weather for kids.
Family Budget Planning 2026
- Daily Budget (Family of 4): Budget: ¥40,000-60,000 ($272-408) including accommodation, meals, local transport, one attraction. Mid-range: ¥80,000-120,000 ($544-816) with nicer hotels and multiple activities. Luxury: ¥150,000+ ($1,020+) for premium hotels, dining, private guides.
- Accommodation: Largest expense. Budget hotels ¥12,000-20,000, Mid-range ¥25,000-40,000, Luxury ¥50,000-100,000+ per night for family room. Book early for best rates.
- Meals: Breakfast at hotel or konbini (¥1,500-3,000 for family). Lunch at casual restaurants (¥3,000-6,000). Dinner at nicer restaurants (¥6,000-12,000). Daily food budget: ¥12,000-20,000 ($82-136) for four.
- Attractions: Disney/Universal: ¥25,000-40,000 per day. Museums: ¥2,000-8,000 total. Mix free activities (parks, temples, window shopping) with paid attractions to balance budget.
- Transport: JR Pass (7-day) costs ¥50,000 ($340) for adults, ¥25,000 for kids 6-11—calculate if it saves money for your specific itinerary. Local subway day passes ¥800-1,200 per adult. Trip.com offers flight + hotel packages that can save 15-25% versus booking separately.
Money-Saving Tips for Families
Travel during shoulder seasons (early March, May, September, early December) for 30-40% lower hotel rates. Eat breakfast at konbini (¥300-600 per person). Use free attractions: parks, shrine grounds, window shopping. Buy 3-day or 4-day theme park tickets for discounts versus daily tickets. Stay in apartments with kitchens to prepare some meals. Children under 6 ride all trains free—significant savings on transport.
Best Time to Visit Japan with Family
- Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms (late March-early April), pleasant temperatures 15-22°C (59-72°F), school spring break crowds. Book hotels 4-6 months ahead. Ideal for first-time visitors with amazing scenery.
- Summer (June-August): HOT and humid 25-35°C (77-95°F), rainy season June. Best for Hokkaido (cool summers) and beach destinations. Festivals abound. Indoor attractions (teamLab, aquariums) popular escapes from heat.
- Autumn (September-November): Fall foliage (October-November), comfortable temperatures 18-25°C (64-77°F), lower humidity. Arguably BEST season for families—great weather without spring crowds. Sports days and school breaks mean some attractions busier mid-October.
- Winter (December-February): Cold 5-12°C (41-54°F) in Tokyo/Kyoto, snowy in Hokkaido/Nagano. Christmas illuminations gorgeous. Lowest tourist numbers and hotel prices. Good for skiing families. Some attractions have reduced hours.
Avoid if possible: Golden Week (late April-early May), Obon Week (mid-August), New Year's (Dec 29-Jan 4) when domestic tourism peaks, prices double-triple, and attractions overwhelmingly crowded.
Essential Family Travel Tips
What to Pack
Lightweight stroller (if kids under 4), baby carrier for crowded areas, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, reusable water bottles, snacks from home (familiar comfort foods), basic first-aid kit, electrical adapters, portable phone charger.
Japan is clean and safe—don't overpack. Buy diapers, formula, snacks locally. Pack layers for variable temperatures (air-conditioned buildings vs outdoor heat).
Helpful Apps
Essential: Google Maps (navigation), Google Translate (camera function for menus), Hyperdia or Japan Transit Planner (train schedules), Suica app (train payments). Useful: Tokyo Disney Resort app (wait times), Universal Studios Japan app, tabelog (restaurant reviews).
Language Tips
English spoken at major tourist attractions, hotels, some restaurants. Many signs in English at stations. Learn basic phrases: "Arigatou" (thank you), "Sumimasen" (excuse me), "Oishii" (delicious). Kids enjoy learning simple Japanese words.
Google Translate camera function life-saving for restaurant menus. Picture menus common at family restaurants. Point and smile works remarkably well!
Cultural Considerations
Remove shoes when entering homes, some restaurants, temples. Teach kids this custom. Quiet on trains—bring headphones for devices. Bow slightly when saying thank you. Don't eat while walking (sit down or stand still).
Public bathing etiquette: Wash thoroughly before entering onsen. Young children allowed in gender-appropriate baths with parents (rules vary by facility).
♿ Accessibility in Japan
Accessible Travel 2026
Japan leads in accessibility with high-tech aids, wheelchair-friendly trains, and inclusive design. Major cities prioritize universal access with elevators at stations, audio/tactile guidance systems, accessible toilets, and wheelchair taxis. Rural areas less accessible but improving. Tourist information centers provide accessibility maps and assistance.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains & Shinkansen: Wheelchair spaces on all JR lines, ramps at major stations, priority seating clearly marked. Request assistance via station staff or JR East app. Staff will set up portable ramps for boarding.
- Subways: Tokyo Metro and Osaka Metro have elevators at most stations (marked on maps), tactile paving for visually impaired, audio announcements. Elevators sometimes distant from platforms—allow extra time.
- Buses: Many city buses have low floors and ramps for wheelchairs. Priority seating near front. Announce need for assistance to driver.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-accessible taxis (UDTaxis) available via apps in major cities. Standard taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs. Book accessible taxis 1-2 hours in advance.
- Airports: Narita and Haneda offer comprehensive accessibility services including wheelchairs, priority lanes, accessible restrooms, and staff assistance. Reserve assistance when booking flights.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums: Tokyo National Museum, Miraikan, teamLab facilities offer wheelchair access, elevators, accessible toilets, audio guides for visually impaired. Some provide tactile models.
- Temples & Shrines: Historic sites challenging due to steps, gravel paths. Osaka Castle has elevator to top. Some shrines offer alternative wheelchair-accessible paths. Call ahead to verify accessibility.
- Theme Parks: Disney and Universal provide detailed accessibility guides, wheelchair rentals (¥500-1,000 per day), accessible ride queues, companion restrooms. Reserve accessibility services in advance.
- Parks: Major parks (Yoyogi, Ueno, Osaka Castle Park) have paved paths suitable for wheelchairs. Some trails uneven—check park maps for accessible routes.
Accommodation Accessibility
Search for accessible hotels with roll-in showers, grab bars, and wider doorways on Booking.com. Filter by "Wheelchair accessible" and read reviews from other travelers with mobility needs. Major chains (Hilton, Hyatt, ANA) typically offer several accessible rooms per property.
