Japan isn’t just safe and clean—it’s an absolute wonderland for families.
With a seamless train system, spotless streets, and a blend of futuristic tech and ancient charm, it’s easy to explore with kids in tow.
As someone who was born and raised here—and has seen Japan through the eyes of both child and adult—I’m sharing the best spots that kids love and parents appreciate.
Let’s dive into 10 unforgettable places your family will treasure.
1. Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea
If you’re visiting Japan with kids, this is the ultimate theme park experience. From classic Disney rides to Japan-exclusive shows and insanely polite staff, kids and adults alike will have unforgettable memories. DisneySea is especially loved by older kids and teens for its adventurous charm.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1‑1 Maihama, Urayasu‑shi, Chiba 279‑0031 |
| Access | 5‑minute walk from Maihama Station (JR Keiyō Line) |
| Hours | 9 AM–9 PM (check the website for seasonal variations) |
| Website (EN) | Tokyo Disney Resort |
2. Ghibli Museum (Mitaka)
This magical stop brings Studio Ghibli films to life. Crawl into the Catbus, explore whimsical exhibits, and enjoy an exclusive animated short film. Adults will appreciate the nostalgic charm, and Inokashira Park nearby is perfect for a family picnic afterward.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1‑1‑83 Shimorenjaku, Mitaka‑shi, Tokyo 181‑0013 |
| Access | 15‑minute walk or bus from Mitaka Station (JR Chūō Line) |
| Hours | 10 AM–6 PM (closed Tuesdays) |
| Website (EN) | Ghibli Museum |
3. Ueno Zoo & National Museum of Nature and Science
A true one-stop family zone! Meet pandas, see dinosaur skeletons, and even board swan boats. All within lush Ueno Park, with food stalls and playgrounds nearby.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Zoo Address | 9‑83 Uenokoen, Taitō‑ku, Tokyo 110‑8711 |
| Museum Address | 7‑20‑3 Uenokoen, Taitō‑ku, Tokyo 110‑8718 |
| Access | 3‑minute walk from Ueno Station (JR & Metro) |
| Hours | Zoo: 9:30 AM–5 PM / Museum: 9 AM–5 PM |
| Website (EN) | Ueno Zoo & Science Museum |
4. ASOBono! Indoor Playground (Tokyo Dome City)
The perfect indoor playground featuring ball pits, pretend play kitchens, interactive trains, and toddler zones. Great for rainy days or youthful energy bursts!
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | MICS Bldg 5F, 1‑3‑61 Koraku, Bunkyō‑ku, Tokyo 112‑0004 |
| Access | 2‑minute walk from Korakuen (M,N lines) or Suidōbashi (JR) |
| Hours | 10 AM–6 PM (check for holiday hours) |
| Website (EN) | ASOBono! |
5. Odaiba: TeamLab Planets, Legoland, and More
Odaiba is a sensory playground. Wander through glowing art installations, meet Lego heroes, ride the Ferris Wheel, and watch the Unicorn Gundam light up—all with stunning bay views.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Area | Aomi & Daiba, Kōtō‑ku, Tokyo |
| Access | Daiba or Tokyo Teleport Station (Yurikamome / Rinkai lines) |
| Hours | Varies per attraction (typically 10 AM–8 PM) |
| Website (EN) | Odaiba Guide |
🐉 Aichi (Nagoya Area): Regional Gems for Families
As someone who was born and raised in Nagoya, I’ve had the chance to explore these places not just as a tourist, but as a local sharing my hometown with family. My cousin from Canada lives here with her Japanese husband and two kids, and we’ve spent countless weekends discovering fun, kid-friendly spots all across the city. These are the five places that the whole family—kids, parents, and even I—enjoyed the most.
6. LEGOLAND Japan Resort (Nagoya)
Bright, colorful, and tailor-made for families, LEGOLAND is one of Japan’s most interactive theme parks for kids aged 2–12. With mini trains, building zones, and splash rides, this is hands-on fun in a LEGO world!
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 2-2-1 Kinjōfutō, Minato-ku, Nagoya 455‑8605 |
| Access | 5-minute walk from Kinjo-Futo Station (Aonami Line) |
| Hours | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season) |
| Website (EN) | LEGOLAND Japan |
7. Higashiyama Zoo & Botanical Gardens
This zoo is a classic spot for families in Nagoya—and I’ve been coming here since I was a kid myself! I brought my cousin’s children here, and it was such a nostalgic moment. They loved seeing the polar bears and koalas, and we even went up the small amusement park rides. I recommend walking through the botanical gardens afterward—it’s surprisingly peaceful and beautiful.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 3‑70 Higashiyama Motomachi, Chikusa‑ku, Nagoya 464‑0804 |
| Access | 15‑minute walk or bus from Higashiyama Station |
| Hours | 9 AM–4:50 PM (closed Mondays) |
| Website (EN) | Higashiyama Zoo |
8. Port of Nagoya Public Aquarium
We’ve been here multiple times—it’s one of the kids’ favorite places. The dolphin show was a big hit, and watching the killer whales swim felt almost surreal. The layout is spacious and stroller-friendly, which made things easier when we went as a group. After the aquarium, we often take a walk along the port—it’s quiet and relaxing, especially around sunset.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1‑3 Minato‑cho, Minato‑ku, Nagoya 455‑0033 |
| Access | 5‑minute walk from Kinjo-Futo Station (Aonami Line) |
| Hours | 9:30 AM–5 PM (check for seasonal changes) |
| Website (EN) | Port of Nagoya Aquarium |
9. SCMAGLEV and Railway Park
Train fans big and small will love this hands-on museum. Kids can sit in real Shinkansen cars and enjoy train simulators, while history buffs admire old locomotives.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 3‑2‑2 Kinjōfutō, Minato‑ku, Nagoya 455‑0848 |
| Access | Near Kinjō Futoshi Station (Aonami Line); free shuttle available |
| Hours | 10 AM–5:30 PM (closed Mondays) |
| Website (EN) | SCMAGLEV Park |
10. Meiji Mura (Inuyama)
Not just for kids—adults will really enjoy Meiji-mura too. It’s an open-air museum preserving original buildings from Japan’s Meiji period (1868–1912), including schools, churches, tea rooms, and even an old prison. I went with my mom two years ago, and we both had such a relaxing, meaningful day. We enjoyed the historical atmosphere, rode the vintage bus, and had lunch at a nostalgic café. It’s a beautiful mix of culture, scenery, and quiet time—perfect if you want something calmer but still fun.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Inuyama Kitamachi Minami 8 Chome, Inuyama‑shi, Aichi 484‑0000 |
| Access | 20‑min bus from Meitetsu Inuyama Station |
| Hours | 9:30 AM–5 PM (check seasonal schedule) |
| Website (EN) | Meiji Mura |
🎌 Osaka: High-Energy Family Excitement
11. Universal Studios Japan (USJ)
When I was in elementary school, USJ had just opened, and I remember how exciting it was. Now, it’s even bigger—Minions, Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World—you name it. I recently went again with my cousin’s family, and we all had a blast. The kids were screaming (in a good way) on the Mario Kart ride, and I was secretly more excited than them.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 2‑1‑33 Sakurajima, Konohana‑ku, Osaka 554‑0031 |
| Access | 5‑minute walk from Universal City Station (JR Yumesaki Line) |
| Hours | 9 AM–9 PM (seasonal variations) |
| Website (EN) | USJ Official |
12. Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
As a Nagoya kid, going to Osaka Aquarium was a huge treat. I remember being completely hypnotized by the giant whale shark tank as a child—it felt like being inside the ocean. Recently, I returned with my cousin’s family, and guess what? I was still just as amazed. The jellyfish room is beautiful, and the interactive touch pools were a hit with the kids.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1‑1‑10 Kaigandōri, Minato‑ku, Osaka 552‑0022 |
| Access | 3‑minute walk from Osakako Station (Chūō Line); near Tempozan Ferris Wheel |
| Hours | 10 AM–8 PM (check for holidays) |
| Website (EN) | Kaiyukan |
13. Kids Plaza Osaka
This interactive kids’ museum features hands-on science exhibits, play zones, and creative workshops—ideal for children aged 0–10.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 2‑1‑7 Ōkawa, Kita‑ku, Osaka 530‑0036 |
| Access | 5‑minute walk from Osaka-Umeda Station (multiple lines) |
| Hours | 10 AM–5 PM (closed Mondays) |
| Website (EN) | Kids Plaza |
14. Osaka Castle Park & Moat Boat Ride
Around the castle, expansive green lawns, playgrounds, and boat rides provide a laid-back day out with historic flair and space for relaxation.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1‑1 Osakajo, Chuo‑ku, Osaka 540‑0002 |
| Access | 10‑minute walk from Osakajokoen Station (JR Osaka Loop) |
| Hours | Park always open; castle tower 9 AM–5 PM |
| Website (EN) | Osaka Castle |
15. Ninja Museum of Igaryu (Mie, near Osaka)
I’ve always been a big fan of Naruto—I watched all the episodes and even own the manga books. So visiting the Ninja Museum was kind of like fulfilling my childhood dream. I went with the kids from my cousin’s family, and we had the best time watching live ninja shows and trying out shuriken throwing.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1121‑1 Ueno‑cho, Iga‑shi, Mie 518‑0873 |
| Access | 10‑minute walk from Iga Ueno Station (Kintetsu/NJR) |
| Hours | 9 AM–5 PM (check for seasonal events) |
| Website (EN) | Iga-ryu Ninja Museum |
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