9 Days Central Japan Family Tour

Central Japan Family Tour Overview

Explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and scenic beauty of Central Japan on this family-friendly 9-day tour. Journey through iconic cities like Tokyo, Osaka, Kawagoe, Niigata, Kanazawa, and Kyoto, where every day offers something new and exciting for all ages.

• Tokyo: Dive into Japan’s bustling capital with kid-friendly attractions, futuristic technology hubs, and cultural experiences.
• Osaka: Enjoy vibrant street food scenes, fun theme parks, and lively entertainment districts perfect for families.
• Kawagoe: Step back in time in this charming “Little Edo” town, famous for its traditional architecture and sweet shops.
• Niigata: Discover a coastal city known for its fresh seafood, scenic bay views, and peaceful riverside spots.
• Kanazawa: Explore one of Japan’s best-preserved samurai and geisha districts, alongside stunning gardens and museums.
• Kyoto: Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Japan with majestic temples, beautiful shrines, and serene nature.

This thoughtfully crafted itinerary balances cultural discovery with family-friendly activities, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for all members of your family.

Places Covered: Tokyo, Osaka, Kawagoe, Niigata, Kanazawa, Kyoto

9 Days Central Japan Family Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Singapore – Tokyo

Meals: Meal on Board

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your flight to Narita or Haneda International Airport, Tokyo. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the in-flight services as you begin your exciting journey to Japan.

Day 2: Tokyo

Highlights: Asakusa Kannon Temple, Nakamise Shopping Street, Shinjuku
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Sunshine City Prince Hotel or similar

Upon arrival in Tokyo, begin your journey with a visit to the historic Asakusa Kannon Temple (Senso-ji) — Tokyo’s oldest and most revered temple with over 1,300 years of history.

Stroll through the lively Nakamise Shopping Street, a vibrant walkway leading to the temple, lined with traditional snacks, handicrafts, and unique souvenirs — perfect for finding keepsakes for friends and family.

Later, make a brief photo stop to capture the charm of Nakamise before heading to Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most dynamic districts. Enjoy some free time to explore its endless shopping options, neon-lit streets, and sleek skyscrapers.

Day 3: Tokyo

Highlight: Tokyo Disneyland (or Tokyo DisneySea)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sunshine City Prince Hotel or similar

Step into a magical world of wonder at Tokyo Disneyland, where fairy tales come to life! Spend the day enjoying thrilling rides, captivating shows, and heartwarming encounters with your favorite Disney characters.

Alternatively, if your itinerary includes Tokyo DisneySea, be inspired by ocean legends and nautical adventures set in beautifully themed ports of call — a unique Disney experience found only in Japan.

With your full-day passport, explore all the exciting attractions, from classic rides to spectacular parades, making unforgettable memories with your family.

Day 4: Tokyo – Kawagoe – Yuzawa

Highlights: Toki no Kane, Yuzawa Kogen Alp no Sato, Ponshukan Marketplace, Seasonal Fruit Picking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: NASPA New Otani or similar

After breakfast, journey to Kawagoe, often referred to as “Little Edo” for its nostalgic charm and preserved Edo-period architecture. Take a relaxing stroll along Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower) and enjoy the quaint streets lined with traditional kurazukuri (storehouse-style) merchant houses. Browse delightful local treats like Japanese candies, sweet potato cakes, and rice crackers — a taste of old Japan sure to delight both young and old.

Continue to Yuzawa, a scenic town nestled in the Japanese Alps, famed for its seasonal beauty and natural hot springs. Whether it’s spring blossoms, vibrant autumn foliage, or winter snow, Yuzawa offers breathtaking landscapes year-round.

Take a ropeway ride up to Yuzawa Kogen Alp no Sato, a charming alpine botanical garden. Depending on the season, enjoy blooming lilies, kochia, or other alpine flowers.

Later, shop for Niigata’s regional specialties at Ponshukan Marketplace, offering everything from local snacks and sake to artisan kitchenware and souvenirs.

Cap the day with a rejuvenating soak in a traditional onsen (hot spring), surrounded by tranquil mountain views — the perfect way to unwind.

Seasonal Bonus: Enjoy seasonal fruit picking at a local farm – strawberries (April to mid-May).

Day 5: Kawagoe – Niigata

Highlights: Nishikigoi no Sato, Rice Cracker Kingdom, Fukushimagata Lagoon
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Okura Niigata or similar

Begin your day with a visit to Nishikigoi no Sato in Ojiya, the heart of Japan’s world-renowned koi fish culture. Discover the fascinating history and breeding techniques behind these prized ornamental fish — known for their vivid colors and high auction value. Enjoy a peaceful moment by the beautifully landscaped Japanese garden, where vibrant koi glide gracefully through serene waters.

Next, head to Rice Cracker Kingdom for a fun and flavorful experience. Learn about the traditional process of making Senbei (rice crackers), and get hands-on by crafting your own personalized snack. Browse a wide selection of savory and sweet rice crackers in unique flavors like soy sauce, sugar, cheese, salad, and lemon — there’s something to suit every palate.

In the afternoon, visit the scenic Fukushimagata Lagoon, a natural haven known for its seasonal floral displays. Depending on the time of year, enjoy a colorful carpet of blossoms. In winter, the lagoon becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise as flocks of migrating swans arrive, creating a picturesque and peaceful scene to end your day.

Day 6: Niigata – Kanazawa

Highlights: Northern Culture Museum, Oyashirazu Pier Park, Higashi Chaya-gai
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Kanazawa New Grand Hotel Premier or similar

Start your morning with a visit to the Northern Culture Museum, a former mansion of wealthy farming families, showcasing the elegance and traditions of old Niigata. Admire the refined architecture, beautiful Japanese gardens, and an impressive collection of regional art and antiques — a perfect glimpse into the lifestyle of Niigata’s prosperous past.

Spring/Summer Special:
If you’re traveling between April and mid-May, don’t miss the enchanting wisteria tunnel in full bloom within the museum grounds — a truly magical sight.

Continue your journey towards Kanazawa, with a scenic rest stop at Oyashirazu Pier Park. Enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and panoramic views of the rugged coastline and pebbled beach — a serene break along your route.

Upon arriving in Kanazawa, take an evening stroll through the atmospheric Higashi Chaya-gai (East Geisha District), one of the city’s most picturesque historic areas. Wander through charming streets lined with traditional wooden teahouses, some of which still host geisha performances today. The nostalgic setting offers a perfect end to your day.

Day 7: Kanazawa – Kyoto – Osaka

Highlights: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Shinsaibashi Shopping Street
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: La’gent Hotel Osaka Bay or similar

Today, enjoy a scenic drive to Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart and the former imperial capital. Known for its geishas, serene Zen gardens, and centuries-old temples, Kyoto offers a perfect blend of history and elegance.

Make a stop at one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks — Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Famous for its wooden veranda that juts out over a lush valley, the temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city below. As you explore the temple grounds, take in over a thousand years of spiritual and architectural heritage.

In the late afternoon, continue to Osaka and head straight to the vibrant Shinsaibashi Shopping Street, one of the city’s oldest and most popular shopping districts. Here, you’ll find a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and quirky Japanese shops — perfect for a shopping spree or simply soaking in Osaka’s dynamic urban vibe.

Afterwards, check in to your hotel and enjoy a restful evening — another exciting day awaits tomorrow.

Day 8: Osaka

Highlight: Universal Studios Japan
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: La’gent Hotel Osaka Bay or similar

Get ready for a day of thrills, fun, and nostalgia at Universal Studios Japan, one of Asia’s most exciting theme parks! Spanning 140 acres, the park is packed with over 25 rides, shows, and immersive attractions for the whole family.

Start your adventure at Universal Wonderland, where beloved characters come to life in three themed zones: Hello Kitty Fashion Avenue, Sesame Street™ Fun World, and Snoopy Studios™ — perfect for younger guests and the young at heart.

Don’t miss The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, where the magic of Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, and spellbinding adventures await. Then, join the chaos at Minion Park, where the lovable yellow creatures deliver laughs and excitement on their wild rides.

The fun doesn’t stop there — step into the revolutionary SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, the world’s first interactive Mario-themed zone. Compete in a high-octane Mario Kart ride, collect coins, and battle rivals in a fully immersive digital playground that brings your favorite Nintendo games to life.

It’s a day of unforgettable fun and fantasy that the whole family will treasure.

Day 9: Osaka – Singapore

Meals: Breakfast, Meal on Board

If time allows, enjoy some last-minute shopping or simply take in the local sights at your leisure before transferring to the airport for your return flight to Singapore. Depart Japan with cherished memories of a fun-filled family adventure through Central Japan.