⚡ Before You Go — Essentials
🚫 Pork-Free Dining
This entire itinerary is pork-free. Every restaurant recommendation avoids pork. For ramen, we suggest chicken shio/shoyu broth (Afuri, Soranoiro, Ayam-Ya). For yakitori, order tori (chicken) or beef skewers. Okonomiyaki can be made with seafood/chicken — just say "buta nashi" (no pork). Konbini onigiri: salmon, tuna, umeboshi, and kombu are safe picks.
👶 Toddler Essentials
Japan is incredibly family-friendly. Most train stations have elevators (look for signs). Strollers are welcome everywhere except some temples with stairs. Baby rooms (授乳室) with changing tables, hot water for formula, and nursing privacy are in every major mall, department store, and train station. Bring a lightweight umbrella stroller for crowded streets; use a carrier for temples with steps.
🚄 Getting Around
Buy a 7-day Japan Rail Pass (covers Shinkansen Tokyo→Osaka, JR lines in Tokyo, Nara). Children under 6 ride free on all trains. Get a Suica/Pasmo IC card for subway and buses. In Osaka, a 1-day Osaka Amazing Pass covers metro + attractions. Taxis are affordable for short hops with tired toddlers — just show the driver your destination in Japanese on your phone.
🍵 Matcha Mornings
Start each day with matcha at a carefully chosen café. Highlights: SASAYAIORI+ inside Shinjuku Gyoen (300-year-old Kyoto confectioner), Chacha no Ma in Harajuku (single-origin flights), Rokujuan Tea House in Kyoto (stone-ground ceremonial grade), and Atelier Matcha in Omotesando (by 160-year-old Yamamasa Koyamaen). Most open by 10am.
🌙 Late-Night Guide
Don Quijote stores are open until midnight or 24hrs. Konbini (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson) are 24/7 — perfect for late-night onigiri, ice cream, and drinks. Omoide Yokocho, Kabukicho, Golden Gai, and Dotonbori stay lively until late. Many ramen shops (Ichiran, Afuri) are open past midnight.
☀️ May Weather
Mid-to-late May is ideal — warm (20–26°C/68–79°F), low humidity, occasional light rain. Cherry blossom season is over but fresh green everywhere. Pack layers for cool mornings, sunscreen for park days, a compact rain jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Bring sun hats for the toddlers.
Landing in Tokyo — Shinjuku After Dark
Touch down at Narita at 1pm and ride the Narita Express straight to Shinjuku. By the time you clear customs, collect bags, and reach your Airbnb, it'll be late afternoon. Settle in, then step into the electric maze of Shinjuku's west side for your first taste of Tokyo nightlife — smoky yakitori alleys, neon towers, and sensory overload in the best possible way.
Narita Express to Shinjuku
The Narita Express (N'EX) is the fastest, most comfortable way to reach Shinjuku — reserved seats, luggage space, and direct service. Buy tickets at the JR ticket counter in Narita Terminal 1 or 2. The 90-minute ride gives the family time to decompress after a long flight.
Check in to Shinjuku Airbnb
Drop your bags, set up the stroller, let the toddlers stretch out. Take a moment to walk to the nearest konbini (convenience store) for water, snacks, and diapers if needed. FamilyMart and 7-Eleven are everywhere in Shinjuku.
Omoide Yokochō (Memory Lane)
Just steps from Shinjuku Station's west exit, this narrow alley of tiny yakitori stalls is pure old-school Tokyo. The smoke, the lanterns, the sizzling skewers — it's atmospheric heaven. Order chicken yakitori (negima, tsukune, kawa) and beef skewers. Many stalls have counter seating only, so take turns with the kids or find one of the slightly larger spots.
Kabukichō & Golden Gai
Walk through the blazing neon gateway of Kabukichō — Tokyo's most famous entertainment district. The massive 3D digital billboards and Godzilla head on the Hotel Gracery are stunning at night. Then peek into Golden Gai, a labyrinth of 200+ tiny bars in ramshackle buildings. Some welcome families in the early evening — just pop your head in and ask.
Matcha, Meiji Jingū & Shibuya Sky
Start with matcha in Harajuku, then worship at one of Tokyo's most sacred shrines surrounded by ancient forest. Spend the afternoon bouncing between Takeshita Street's candy-colored chaos and Shibuya's iconic crossing. End the day 230 meters above the city at Shibuya Sky as the sun sets over Tokyo.
Matcha at Chacha no Ma
This serene Harajuku matcha café offers single-origin matcha flights — taste the difference between Uji, Yame, and Nishio regions. Beautifully presented in ceramic bowls with wagashi sweets. A calm, meditative start before the Harajuku madness begins.
Meiji Jingū Shrine
Walk under the massive torii gate and into a 175-acre forest in the middle of Tokyo. This shrine, dedicated to Emperor Meiji, is one of Japan's holiest. The gravel paths are stroller-friendly (use wide tires or carry the kids). Write wishes on an ema wooden plaque and watch for traditional Shinto wedding processions.
Takeshita Street & Harajuku Shopping
The most colorful street in Tokyo — packed with crepe shops, kawaii fashion, candy stores, and character goods. It's overwhelming, exciting, and the toddlers will love the cotton candy, giant rainbow crepes, and toy capsule machines (gachapon). Hit the One Piece Mugiwara Store and Brandy Melville while you're here.
Yoyogi Park
A massive green oasis right next to Harajuku — perfect for the toddlers to run free after the stimulation of Takeshita. In May, the park is lush and green with open lawns. Bring a blanket, grab konbini snacks, and let the kids burn energy. You might catch street performers or a weekend festival.
Café Reissue (Latte Art)
Adorable Harajuku café famous for latte art — they'll draw any character on your drink. The toddlers will go wild watching the barista create Pikachu, Hello Kitty, or even their own faces on the foam. Small space but very Instagram-worthy.
Shibuya Crossing & Hachikō
Walk from Harajuku south to Shibuya (15 min) and witness the world's most famous intersection. Stand on the Shibuya Station pedestrian bridge or the Starbucks Reserve above to watch up to 3,000 people cross at once. Pet the Hachikō statue — the loyal dog who waited 9 years for his owner.
Pokémon Center Shibuya
Inside Shibuya PARCO (6F), this Pokémon Center is themed around Mewtwo with a neon cityscape aesthetic. Exclusive Shibuya-only merchandise, plushies, trading cards, and clothing. The toddlers will love the giant Pikachu displays.
Shibuya Sky (Sunset)
The rooftop observation deck of Shibuya Scramble Square — 230 meters above the crossing. An open-air sky stage with 360° views of Tokyo at sunset. On clear May evenings, you can see Mt. Fuji glowing orange. Book tickets online in advance for the sunset time slot.
Tsukiji Market, Sensō-ji & Tokyo Skytree
An east-side Tokyo day hitting three iconic destinations connected by subway. Start with the freshest sushi and ichigo daifuku (strawberry mochi) at Tsukiji, dive into Ginza's Art Aquarium, then explore ancient Asakusa and its thundering Sensō-ji temple. End with panoramic views from 450 meters up at Tokyo Skytree.
Tsukiji Outer Market
The legendary fish market's outer market is a sensory feast — rows of stalls selling the freshest sushi, tamago (egg omelette on a stick), grilled seafood, and seasonal fruits. This is where you find the famous ichigo daifuku (strawberry wrapped in mochi and red bean). Go hungry. Go early.
Art Aquarium Museum
A mesmerizing fusion of art and aquarium — goldfish swim in illuminated glass sculptures that shift colors and patterns. It's dark, cool, and dreamlike — toddlers will be transfixed by the glowing fish. Located in the Ginza area, a short walk from Tsukiji.
Sensō-ji Temple & Nakamise-dōri
Tokyo's oldest and most visited temple — the massive red Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) with its giant lantern is an instant classic. Walk through Nakamise-dōri, a 200-meter shopping street selling traditional snacks, chopsticks, and souvenirs. The temple complex itself is vast, colorful, and stroller-friendly on the main paths.
Samurai Ninja Museum
Interactive museum in Asakusa where you can handle real katanas (supervised), try on samurai armor, watch ninja shows, and practice throwing stars. The toddlers might be too young for the full experience, but the armor photo ops and ninja show are visually exciting for all ages.
Ōyokogawa Shinsui Park
A hidden gem — a long, narrow waterway park in Sumida perfect for toddlers. Shallow wading areas, small waterfalls, bridges, and shaded walking paths. In May the greenery is lush. A perfect palate cleanser between temples and observation decks.
Tokyo Skytree
At 634 meters, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest tower in the world. The Tembo Deck (350m) and Tembo Gallery (450m) offer mind-bending views of the Tokyo sprawl. On a clear May evening, you can see Mt. Fuji. The base (Tokyo Solamachi) is a massive shopping mall with character stores and restaurants.
Shinjuku Garden, Character Cafés & Ikebukuro
A morning of zen in Shinjuku Gyoen's gardens with matcha from a 300-year-old Kyoto confectioner, followed by an afternoon in Ikebukuro — the mecca of character cafés, anime stores, and Sunshine City. End the evening at Toyosu Manyo Club, a luxurious onsen with Tokyo Bay views.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
One of Tokyo's most beautiful parks — 144 acres of Japanese gardens, English landscapes, and French formal gardens. In May, the roses and irises are in full bloom. The wide paved paths are perfect for strollers, and the expansive lawns let the toddlers run. Inside the park, visit the SASAYAIORI+ matcha café.
Shinjuku 3D Cat Billboard
Just outside Shinjuku Station's east exit, the massive curved LED screen displays a hyper-realistic 3D cat that appears to pop out of the building. It's a quick 5-minute stop but the toddlers will be delighted. The cat "wakes up" at the top of each hour.
Sunshine City (Ikebukuro)
A massive entertainment complex in Ikebukuro that's basically a full day of character heaven. Under one roof: Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo (the biggest in Japan), Pikachu Sweets café, Ghibli Store (official merch), Naruto store, and the Sunshine Aquarium on the rooftop. This is THE destination for anime-loving families.
Kirby Café Tokyo
The permanent Kirby Café inside Tokyo Solamachi at Skytree — wait, actually it's in the same Sunshine City complex! Adorable Kirby-themed food: waddle dee burger steaks, Kirby curry, and dream land desserts. Every dish is a work of art. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED — book online 1 month before your trip.
Toyosu Manyo Club (Onsen)
A luxurious hot spring resort on the 24th–25th floor of a Toyosu skyscraper with views of Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and the city skyline. Multiple baths, saunas, relaxation rooms, and a restaurant. Kids are welcome (unusual for Japanese onsen). A perfect way to soak away the day's adventures.
Tokyo Disneyland — The Full Magic Day
Your last full Tokyo day before heading to Osaka — and it's going to be pure Disney magic. Tokyo Disneyland is consistently rated the most magical Disney park in the world, and with two toddlers, you'll find an incredible number of rides with no height restriction. Plan around the parade times, use the stroller parking areas, and lean into the Baby Centers for diaper changes and feeding breaks.
Park Opening & Fantasyland
Arrive at Maihama Station by 8am (park opens 8:30 or 9am). Head straight to Fantasyland — the heart of toddler Disney. "It's a Small World," Dumbo the Flying Elephant, Castle Carrousel, Pooh's Hunny Hunt (use Standby Pass), and the Alice in Wonderland teacups are all no-height-restriction rides perfect for ages 2–3.
Toontown & Parade
Toontown is designed for little kids — Goofy's Paint 'n Play House, Chip 'n' Dale's Treehouse, Donald's Boat, and Minnie's house. The area is colorful, interactive, and safe for wandering toddlers. Claim a parade viewing spot 30 minutes early along the route — the Dreaming Up parade is spectacular.
Adventureland & Westernland
Jungle Cruise (bilingual boat ride), Western River Railroad (train ride), Pirates of the Caribbean (dark ride — may be too intense for the 2yo), and Tom Sawyer Island (playground island). These areas have great theming and lots of shaded walking paths.
Tomorrowland, Shopping & Fireworks
End the day in Tomorrowland — Buzz Lightyear (shooting ride, all ages), Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek (flashlight ride, toddler-favorite), and Star Tours (may be too intense for under-3). After rides, shop at the World Bazaar for Disney exclusive merch. If the toddlers can hang on, the nighttime fireworks are unforgettable.
Bullet Train to Osaka & Nara Deer Park
Say goodbye to Tokyo (for now) and rocket to Osaka on the Shinkansen — a thrilling experience in itself. Drop your bags at the Osaka hotel, then take a quick train to Nara to meet the famous sacred deer, visit the colossal Great Buddha, and explore the charming town. Return to Osaka for your first taste of the Kansai food capital.
Shinkansen: Tokyo → Shin-Osaka
The Tōkaidō Shinkansen is one of the great travel experiences in the world. The Nozomi train covers Tokyo to Shin-Osaka in 2 hours 27 minutes at 285 km/h. Book reserved seats (Car 12–16 for the most space) and enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji from the right side (seats E/D). Kids under 6 ride free on laps or in free seats.
Check in to Osaka Accommodation
Drop bags at your Osaka hotel or Airbnb. Namba or Shinsaibashi area is ideal — central to Dotonbori, easy subway access to Nara and Kyoto. Take 30 minutes to settle in before heading to Nara.
Nara Park & Sacred Deer
Just 45 minutes from Osaka by train, Nara is home to over 1,200 sacred deer that roam freely. Buy shika senbei (deer crackers, ¥200) and the deer will bow to you before eating from your hand. The toddlers will be in absolute heaven — but keep a close eye, as the deer can be pushy when they smell crackers.
Tōdai-ji Temple (Great Buddha Hall)
Home to Japan's largest bronze Buddha statue (15 meters tall) inside the world's largest wooden building. Walking through the giant Nandaimon gate with its fierce guardian statues is awe-inspiring. Inside, try squeezing through the "Buddha's nostril" pillar hole — said to grant enlightenment (adults might not fit, but toddlers will slide through!).
First Walk Through Dōtonbori
Return to Osaka and take an evening stroll along the Dōtonbori canal — the most famous food street in Japan. The neon signs, giant crab robots, and Glico Running Man sign are a feast for the eyes. Tonight is just a preview — you'll do a deeper food crawl on Day 8.
Kyoto Day — Torii Gates, Bamboo & Geisha Streets
A full day in Kyoto — Japan's ancient capital and spiritual heart. Start at the famous vermillion torii gates of Fushimi Inari, sip ceremonial matcha at a historic tea house, wander through the otherworldly Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and explore Gion's geisha district as lanterns flicker on at dusk. This is the Japan of your imagination.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
The iconic shrine with thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up Mount Inari. You don't need to hike to the summit (2 hours) — the first section through the Senbon Torii (thousand gates) takes just 15 minutes and is the most photogenic. Go early to beat crowds. The gates are mesmerizing for toddlers — they love running through the "orange tunnel."
Rokujūan Tea House (Matcha)
A traditional Kyoto tea house near Fushimi Inari serving stone-ground ceremonial matcha with seasonal wagashi. This is matcha the way it's been drunk for centuries — whisked by hand in a quiet tatami room. One of the customer's must-visit spots.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The towering bamboo stalks create a natural cathedral of swaying green — the sound of wind through bamboo is unlike anything else. The main path is paved and stroller-friendly. Combine with Tenryū-ji Temple's beautiful garden (¥500) just steps away.
Miffy Kitchen Bakery (Arashiyama)
An adorable Miffy-themed bakery in the Arashiyama shopping street. Miffy-shaped breads, pastries, and drinks. Everything is cute and the toddlers will love pointing at the Miffy faces on every pastry. A sweet afternoon snack stop.
Iwatayama Monkey Park
A 20-minute uphill hike brings you to a mountainside park where 120+ Japanese macaques roam free. At the top, YOU'RE inside the cage-like feeding area while the monkeys play outside. Stunning views of Kyoto from the summit. Important: the hike is steep with no stroller access — use carriers for the toddlers or split the group.
Nishiki Market
Kyoto's "kitchen" — a 400-year-old covered market street with 100+ stalls selling pickles, mochi, fresh tofu, matcha everything, and grilled skewers. Grab snacks as you walk: dango (sweet rice dumplings), yuba (tofu skin), and roasted chestnuts. The narrow covered street is easy to navigate with a stroller.
Gion District Evening Walk
The historic geisha district comes alive at dusk when the lanterns light up and the wooden machiya townhouses glow warmly. Walk along Hanami-kōji and keep your eyes peeled for a real geiko (geisha) or maiko (apprentice) heading to an evening engagement. Yasaka Shrine at the end of Shijō Dōri is beautiful lit up at night.
Osaka — Pokémon Café, Aquarium & Dōtonbori Feast
Full Osaka day hitting the big three: Pokémon Café (book well in advance!), the magnificent Kaiyūkan Aquarium (one of the world's best), and a proper late-night Dōtonbori street food crawl. Osaka is Japan's kitchen — and tonight you feast.
Pokémon Café (Reservation Required)
An utterly adorable café where every dish is Pokémon-themed — Pikachu curry rice, Eevee pancakes, Gengar parfaits. A giant Pikachu chef appears tableside. Reservations open exactly 31 days before your date at pokemoncafe-reservation.com (noon JST). This WILL sell out — set an alarm.
Kaiyūkan Aquarium
One of the world's largest aquariums — the centerpiece is a massive Pacific Ocean tank with whale sharks, manta rays, and sunfish. The spiral walkway descends 8 floors around this central tank. Touch pools at the bottom let the toddlers pet sharks and rays. In May, the outdoor area has sea otter and seal shows.
Tempozan Giant Ferris Wheel
Right next to Kaiyūkan, this 112-meter Ferris wheel offers views of Osaka Bay, Osaka city, and on clear days, Mt. Rokko. Choose a see-through gondola if you're brave — the toddlers will either love it or hide.
Dōtonbori Street Food Crawl
Tonight is THE food night. Walk the length of Dōtonbori and eat everything (pork-free edition): tako-yaki (octopus balls) from Takoyaki Jūhachiban, chicken karaage from street vendors, kushikatsu chicken and shrimp skewers, beef yakisoba, and finish with matcha soft-serve. The neon signs reflect on the canal, the hawkers call out, and the energy is electric.
Osaka Castle, Shopping & Final Kansai Night
Your last full day in the Kansai region — start with the majestic Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry tree-lined moats, explore Shinsaibashi's covered shopping arcade, and spend a relaxed afternoon letting the toddlers play in a park. Tonight, have a farewell Kansai feast before heading to Guam tomorrow.
Osaka Castle & Nishinomaru Garden
The gleaming white-and-gold Osaka Castle sits atop a stone wall surrounded by moats. Inside is a museum of Osaka history (elevator to the 8th floor observation deck for panoramic views). The surrounding Nishinomaru Garden has open lawns perfect for toddler running, and the castle is stunning against a blue May sky.
Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade
Osaka's premier covered shopping street stretching 600 meters from Shinsaibashi to Namba. Department stores, Uniqlo flagship, drug stores (Daikoku Drug for Japanese cosmetics and snacks), character goods shops, and Don Quijote. The covered arcade means it's weatherproof and comfortable.
Utsubo Park (Toddler Playtime)
A tranquil city park 15 minutes from Shinsaibashi with a rose garden (in full bloom in May!) and playground equipment. Give the toddlers a solid hour of free play before the evening. The adults can take turns browsing nearby Horie's trendy boutiques.
Farewell Kansai Dinner & Night Walk
Last night in the Kansai region before Guam tomorrow. Take a final walk along the Dōtonbori canal, watch the street performers, and soak in the chaotic energy of Osaka. Pick up last-minute omiyage (souvenirs) from the food stalls — Osaka's famous 551 Horai sells pork-free chicken shumai to take home.
Sayonara Osaka — Off to Guam
A relaxed departure morning — no need to rush. Enjoy a final breakfast in the Namba area, pick up last souvenirs from the airport, and catch your flight to Guam. You'll be back in Tokyo on May 29 for the final chapter of your Japan adventure.
Final Osaka Morning
Sleep in if the toddlers allow it. Take a last morning walk around your neighborhood — pop into a konbini for onigiri breakfast, visit a shrine you may have passed but never entered, or simply sit at a café and watch Osaka wake up. Check out and head to the airport.
Back in Tokyo — Temples, Towers & teamLab
You're back in Tokyo! Fresh from Guam, spend this day hitting the attractions that didn't fit in the first visit. Start at the magical cat temple of Gotokuji, then work your way through Hie Shrine, Prince Shiba Park with its Tokyo Tower views, teamLab Planets (the barefoot immersive art experience), and end with sunset from the free TMG Observatory.
Gotokuji Temple (Lucky Cat Temple)
The birthplace of the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) — thousands of white lucky cat figurines cover every surface of this serene temple. Buy your own maneki-neko (¥300–3,000), make a wish, and leave it among the sea of cats. The toddlers will be fascinated by the sheer number of cat statues.
Hie Shrine
A striking Shinto shrine in Akasaka with a beautiful tunnel of red torii gates (mini Fushimi Inari vibes). The main approach has a dramatic stone staircase, but there's an elevator for strollers. The shrine is the spiritual guardian of Tokyo and hosts one of Japan's three great festivals.
Prince Shiba Park & Tokyo Tower
Shiba Park is an underrated green space with perfect views of Tokyo Tower. Let the toddlers play on the lawns while the adults admire the 333-meter tower. Then visit Tokyo Tower itself — the main observation deck at 150m gives classic Tokyo views, and the tower's retro orange-and-white design is more photogenic than Skytree.
teamLab Planets
A full-body immersive art museum where you wade barefoot through ankle-deep water, walk through infinite mirror rooms, and lie in fields of digital flowers. It's sensory magic for all ages — the toddlers will squeal with delight at the water rooms and light projections. One of the most unique experiences in Tokyo.
TMG North Observatory (Free Views)
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku has a FREE observation deck at 202 meters. The north observatory is open until 10pm — perfect for a nighttime visit. The views of the Shinjuku skyline and distant Tokyo landmarks are stunning. No reservation needed, just show up and take the elevator.
Anime Shopping, JJK Pilgrimage & Farewell Dinner
The final full day in Japan — dedicated to hitting every character store, anime reference, and shopping spot on your list. SURUGA-YA for vintage collectibles, Seria for ¥100 treasures, JJK photo ops at Shinjuku Station, and Shibuya's character stores. End with a memorable farewell dinner overlooking Tokyo's glittering skyline.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Since the garden was closed on Monday (Day 4), today is your day. Stroll through the Japanese, English, and French gardens in May's lush greenery. Visit SASAYAIORI+ inside the park for matcha and wagashi from a 300-year-old Kyoto confectioner. Let the toddlers run on the wide lawns while you sip tea.
SURUGA-YA Shinjuku
A multi-floor treasure trove of used anime figures, manga, retro games, trading cards, and collectibles. Think of it as the nerdier, more curated alternative to Akihabara. Prices are fair and the selection is enormous. Look for vintage Pokémon cards, One Piece figures, and JJK merch.
Seria Shinjuku (¥100 Shop)
Japan's most stylish ¥100 store — everything is ¥110 (including tax). Unlike the chaotic Daiso, Seria has a curated, aesthetic selection. Stock up on Japanese stationery, bento accessories, cute kitchen items, and seasonal decorations. The best souvenir shop you didn't know existed.
JJK Pilgrimage — Shinjuku Station East Exit
Jujutsu Kaisen fans, this is your moment. The Shinjuku Station East Exit area is where the epic Domain Expansion battle took place in the manga. Stand at the iconic intersection and recreate the scenes. The large open plaza in front of Studio Alta is the recognizable backdrop.
Shibuya Character Street & Shopping
Final shopping blitz in Shibuya. Hit the character stores in Shibuya PARCO (Pokémon Center, Nintendo, Capcom), browse Shibuya 109 for fashion, and explore the backstreets of Udagawachō for vintage and streetwear. Don Quijote Shibuya for final souvenir hauls.
Uniqlo Shibuya (Flagship)
Three floors of Uniqlo with Japan-exclusive designs — UT graphic tees featuring anime collaborations (JJK, Pokémon, Studio Ghibli), AIRism innerwear, and kids' clothing. Prices are cheaper than US Uniqlo and the designs are often Japan-only.
Farewell Dinner with a View
Your last night in Japan deserves something special. Book a table at a restaurant with Tokyo skyline views — this is the dinner you'll remember. Dress up (as much as you can with toddlers), raise a glass of sake, and toast to an incredible 13 days across Japan.
Sayonara Japan — Heading Home to DFW
The final morning. Soak in one last Tokyo sunrise, grab a farewell konbini breakfast, and make your way to Narita Airport. It's been 13 unforgettable days across three cities, countless temples, dozens of character cafés, and a lifetime of matcha. Japan will miss you — and you'll be planning the return trip before you land in Dallas.
Final Morning in Shinjuku
Wake up one last time in Shinjuku. If time allows, take a quiet walk through the neighborhood — the early morning energy of Tokyo is different from the nighttime chaos. Workers rushing to trains, shop owners sweeping sidewalks, the smell of fresh bread from bakeries. One last moment to feel the rhythm of this incredible city.
Narita Express to Airport
The N'EX will take you back to Narita in 90 minutes. Book reserved seats for a stress-free ride. At the airport, use the remaining time to browse the duty-free shops — Royce chocolate, Tokyo Banana, matcha KitKats, and Japanese whisky.
💰 Budget Breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (family) | ¥10,000–20,000/night | ¥20,000–40,000/night | ¥40,000–80,000/night |
| Meals (family of 5) | ¥5,000–10,000/day | ¥10,000–20,000/day | ¥20,000–50,000/day |
| Transport | ¥2,000–5,000/day | ¥5,000–10,000/day | ¥10,000–20,000/day |
| Activities | ¥3,000–6,000/day | ¥6,000–15,000/day | ¥15,000–30,000/day |
| Shinkansen (Tokyo→Osaka) | ¥14,720/adult | ¥14,720/adult | ¥22,000/adult (Green Car) |
| 13-Day Total (family of 5) | ¥400,000–600,000 | ¥600,000–1,000,000 | ¥1,000,000–2,000,000 |
✈️ Getting There
- Narita Airport (NRT): main international hub. Narita Express to Shinjuku: 90 min, ¥3,250
- Haneda Airport (HND): closer to city center. Monorail/Keikyu to Shinjuku: 45–60 min
- Children under 6 ride FREE on all trains (JR, subway, Shinkansen free seats)
- Japan Rail Pass: consider the 7-day or 14-day pass if using Shinkansen + JR lines extensively
🏨 Where to Stay
- Tokyo: Shinjuku is ideal — central, accessible, nightlife-adjacent. Your Airbnb is perfectly located.
- Osaka: Namba or Shinsaibashi — walking distance to Dōtonbori, easy metro to Nara and Kyoto
- Look for places with washing machines (essential with toddlers) and elevator access
- Japanese apartments often have deep soaking tubs — great for toddler bath time
👶 Toddler Tips
- Baby rooms (授乳室) in every major station and department store: changing tables, hot water, nursing
- Rent a stroller in Japan if you don't want to bring one — several rental services at Narita and Tokyo
- Japanese diapers (Merries, Moony) are among the best in the world — buy at any drug store
- Most restaurants provide kids' chopsticks or spoons. High chairs at chain restaurants and family restaurants (ファミレス)
- Japanese public toilets often have child seats built into the stall wall — genius design
📱 Connectivity
- Rent a pocket WiFi at Narita (¥800–1,200/day) or buy an eSIM (Ubigi, Airalo)
- Google Maps works perfectly in Japan — use it for all train navigation
- Download Google Translate with Japanese offline pack for menu reading
- Suica/Pasmo IC card works on all trains, buses, and even vending machines
🚫 Pork-Free Quick Guide
- "Buta nashi" (豚なし) = "no pork" — say this at restaurants
- "Buta" (豚) on a menu = pork — avoid these items
- Safe bets: chicken (tori/鶏), beef (gyū/牛), seafood (sakana/魚), tofu (tōfu)
- Ramen: ask for "tori paitan" (chicken broth) or "shio" (salt-based)
- Convenience stores: salmon, tuna, umeboshi, and kombu onigiri are always pork-free
- Many dashi stocks use bonito (fish) — this is fine. Some use pork — ask at fancy kaiseki restaurants.