Japan has always been on our travel bucket list but as we step into parenthood, planning overseas trips naturally took a backseat. By chance and a little determination, we finally made it happen in January this year for our very first our first Japan trip and our very first overseas family trip with kids.
The adventure began with a surprisingly stress-free Solo flying experience with kids, that thanks to Singapore Airlines' excellent support. We then spent four fun-filled, free and easy days in Tokyo.
If you are planning a short family getaway to Tokyo with kids, here is our itinerary and some tips that made our trip smoother.
Tips for Parents Traveling with Kids
Fill Up the Electronic Customs Declaration Forms in Advance
Save time at immigration by completing your forms on Japan Visit Web. Once done, simply present the 2D code from your smartphone or tablet upon arrival for a faster, hassle-free experience.
Stay Connected by Getting Your eSIM Online
Thanks to the advance of technolody that now Android and Apple smartphones are fully supporting the eSIM feature, traveling with mobile data is much easier without the fuss of installing physical sim card. I got mine from on KLOOK website before the trip, followed the simple steps in the order guide, and was instantly connected once I landed. Remember to us our Klook code CRISPLIFE for extra savings!
Carry Enough Cash
While Japan is modern and convenient, cash are still widely acceptable in Tokyo, especially small eateries, local shops, and some transport options. Make sure you exchange enough yen before your trip.
Get your Welcome Suica at the Airport
The Welcome Suica Card is a rechargeable e-money card for tourist, valid for 28 days. It is super handy for public transport and shopping. You can get it at:
- Haneda Airport, we got ours at Terminal 3 (Tokyo Monorail Station)
- Narita Airport, go to Terminal 1 Station or Terminal 2_3 Station.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re an iPhone user, you can add the Suica directly to your Apple Wallet.
Stroller-Friendly Travel
Tokyo is generally stroller-friendly, though some older train stations may not have elevators. A lightweight, foldable stroller is your best friend.
Apps to Download
Google Maps and Google Translate
Rest Matters
Plan downtime. Kids and parents need rest, so balance sightseeing with easygoing activities.
At the end of the day. what mattered most was not ticking every spot off the list. It was watching our kids' faces light up at new discoveries. Tokyo gave us a family adventure full of laughter, challenges and unforgettable memories.
Our 4 Days Tokyo Itenerary
Day 1: Explore Asakusa & Shibuya
- Sensoji Temple, Nakamise Street (Asakura)
- Lunch at Ichiran Ramen
- Shibuya Crossing- the world's busiest intersection
- Disney Store Shibuya & Shake Shack
- Odaiba Seaside Park
- DiverCity Tokyo Plaza & Unicorn Gundam
- Evening stroll around vibrant Shinjuku
A breathtaking day trip with iconic views of Mount Fuji.
A magical finale to our trip - Tokyo Disneyland with the kids was an basolute highlight.
Where We Stayed
We stayed at Comfort Hotel Tokyo Higashi Kanda, which offered cozy family-friendly rooms, great breakfast and convenient access to public transport and convenient stores like Lawson.
Tips: hotel can help book taxi and ten train to airport to Narita International Airport
Traveling to Tokyo with kids does not have to be stressful. With some prep work and a flexible itenerary, it can be an incredibly fun and memorable trip for the whole family.
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