We are considering going to Japan on holiday with the family. There would be 2 adults 2 children (6 and 9 years old). we would probably go fro 14 days and visit Tokyo and Kyoto. We would want to do a few children based things as well as gardens,shrines etc. We would not have a problem finding places to go and that would be a question further down the road. My question is whether it is "children friendly" in hotels and restuarants? Whether the trains/metro is practical for families with young children? I think you know where I am coming from.... Thanks
Matt
2006-08-23 07:32:06 · 13 answers · asked by Matt B 2 in Travel ➔ Asia Pacific ➔ Japan
Our kids (4 and 6) love Japan! We have taken then a number of times (mainly to visit family) and find Japan more 'child friendly' than the UK, although there are some things to avoid...
Firstly, the worst thing about Japan is getting there - it's a very long flight. I would highly recommend United Emirates as being fantastic for kids, with each seat having it's own TV/games console (they are also the cheapest)! But travel once you are there is fun, especially the shinkansen.
We usually go in the spring (Easter holidays), as summer is way too hot and humid (and there are the mosquitos to battle with, too) and winter is cold (although pretty) with evry little heating in the family home - of course hotels would be heated!
I would avoid using public transport on a public holiday (especially the start and finish of Golden Week) and during the rush hour - scary! Sooo busy, you've never seen anything like it - definately a worry when you have children with you.
Japanese people absolutely adore 'foreign' children, you will hear cries of "kawaiii! (cute) wherever you go. But they love kids in general. During the holidays there are often free outdoor events and shows (Power Rangers!). Restaurants do provide children's menus (and there are always plastic models and photos of the food so they can pick it out themselves). We have never been anywhere our children were not made welcome!
People do assume that Japan is expensive, but we find the UK way more costly! And you might as well take advantage of the exchange rate at the moment...
2006-08-23 20:34:09 · answer #1 · answered by anchan 4 · 3⤊ 2⤋
You know, I've never really thought about the child issue... I mean, I've lived in Japan for a while, but I never had to worry about children. I would suggest you have a flick through 'Lonely Planet Japan', it's packed with that kind of information. I'm sure that Tokyo has child related stuff, I think I remember things like a whole building devoted to Charlie Brown, that could be fun, of course there's Tokyo Disneyland, if that wouldn't feel too much like selling out to you...
As for Kyoto, it's hard to remember... possibly less kid's stuff there at a guess, but then I wasn't on the look out for that... you'd want to make sure it was open when you went- plus, I'd advise using the bus there, I walked for miles and hardly saw anything.
Trains can be packed, it depends on the train, but Tokyo subway trains at rush hour are vicious. Consider using them at off peak times. Depends on the line too, I think. Cross country trains- like the Shinkansen- aren't so bad because you'll each have your own seats- or you could fly, depends which is the most competitive. On the subject of restaurants, I do seem to recall that many will serve a children's menu, but it may be hard to get your kids to 'eat native'. I think the only way to tell would be to try when you get there... at the very least though, you can fall back on 'Maku Donarudo', or one of its Japanese equivalents ;)
Sorry I can't be more helpful... do try the Lonely Planet guide, they're really good, and will help you to make your choice. Also, think about asking the consulate if you could take part in a home stay for a couple of days- it's a great experience.
2006-08-23 07:57:46 · answer #2 · answered by Buzzard 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Japan is different but a great place to go, most of the intelligent answers given so far are accurate. My wife is from Japan, a country girl from an Island between Honshu and Okinawa. We visit Japan quite often. Your kids will probably like the Ginza seeing Japanese teenagers and their lifestyle. It is quite expensive but if you are frugal you will find what works for you. I suggest taking tours and staying in western style hotels, as Japanese local hotels are smaller, hard beds and pillows. If you book in advance i.e. Holiday Inn Narita (Airport) you can get specials and have what you are use too with perks such as free buffet breakfast, gym and free airport transportation that runs one after the other. Remember no tipping in Japan. They have grocery stores and shops all over that sell bento's, a packaged breakfast, lunch and dinner at reasonable prices. The food may look a little different but its only the way its prepared, if your kids are fussy there is the familiar fast foods all over, i.e. McDonald's, etc.
A safe bet to avoid to much culture shock maybe two weeks is too long, but that's a personal decision knowing what your children can handle. Get trip insurance, traveling when someone is ill is a bummer, I'm still going to the doctor for not taking that advice, chronic sinusitis.
Have fun
2006-08-23 14:59:55 · answer #3 · answered by ole_gimlet_eye 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I grew up in Japan and it is one of the safest countries in the world. You can walk down the street at night feeling perfectly safe. Kids ride the trains every day alone to get to school. And most people will look after children if they see them alone because they feel a sense of duty to protect them. Children will have a GREAT time in Japan. There are so many exciting things to do. Video games, electronics, Tokyo Disneyland, parks, etc. If cost is an issue, there are well-priced hostels as well. But I think your family will like Japan.
2006-08-23 08:30:23 · answer #4 · answered by tankgirl190 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I think it can be very interesting for both adults and children. In Tokyo, there are a lot of amusement parks with things you can`t see in Europe. But, indeed, Tokyo is expensive. Kyoto would be more fascinating for the adults, but it can be for children as well. Try visiting Nara as well, to see the deers. Have a nice hollyday.
2006-08-23 07:42:21 · answer #5 · answered by ioana 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Mmm I dont know about the kids in particular.. I have an aunty & uncle who have lived out there for over 20 yrs. My grandparents have visited there and comment at how lovely the people are, how hospitable, how clean the place is, etc etc.
However everyone I know who has been there says that you need to have a basic knowledge of japanese.
2006-08-23 07:40:23 · answer #6 · answered by ell_hayden 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Best place in U.K. Wales, is Tenby area Pembrokeshire, plenty of hotels, Manorbier County Park is a private park 5 Star, indoor heated pool, lots of other facilities. We have a private caravan on there and it is really nice. High security. Loads to do around the area, activity parks, castles, walks, all sorts - loads. Lots of harbours - really enjoy going! Saundersfoot village is lovely in the evening with the harbour working.
2016-03-27 02:38:16 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
My husband and I went to Japan to visit our son in March last. The Japanese are friendly and helpful and, as long as you have really researched your holiday it should be fine..
2006-08-23 07:43:38 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
It can be expensive but it's definatly worth it + you have another adult to share the costs and worries with so i think you should go for it.It's something you wont forget,
2006-08-23 07:39:57 · answer #9 · answered by sheep_and_cows_go_quack 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Sure is, especially if North Korea starts lobbibg missiles over. Think of all the great adventures you'll have to tell ur friends when you get home.
2006-08-23 07:34:27 · answer #10 · answered by stevekc43 4 · 1⤊ 3⤋