Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Sapporo are some of the most popular destinations in Japan. And with good reason – these places are packed full of culture, history and amazing food.
Kyoto offers a range of fascinating temples and shrines to explore. You can also take part in traditional experiences such as tea ceremonies and calligraphy lessons.
Osaka is known for its delicious food – from savoury okonomiyaki to sweet takoyaki balls – but it also has plenty of kid-friendly attractions. The city’s aquarium is one of the largest in the world.
Sapporo is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors. Families can explore the picturesque countryside or take a cable car up to the top of Mt. Moiwa for stunning views of the city below.
However, expenses can add up quickly, but fret not, here’s a list of family-friendly activities to do in Japan. With a little planning ahead, visitors of all ages can enjoy an incredible trip to Japan without the need for deep pockets!
- 1. Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)
- 2. Kyoto Sightseeing Pass
- 3. Nikko Day trip from Tokyo (Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Waterfall and Lake Chuzenji Tour)
- 4. ABENO HARUKAS 300 Observatory Osaka
- 5. Sanrio Harmonyland, Kyushu
- 6. Umeda Sky Building Osaka
- 7. Saitama Moomin Valley Park
- 8. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo
- 9. Sanrio Puroland Tokyo, Japan
- 10. Have Fun in Tokyo Pass 1 Week Pass (Most Value for Money)
- 11. teamLab PLANETS TOKYO
- 12. Tokyo Tower Observatory
10 Family-Friendly Activities in Japan under SGD$100
1. Universal Studios Japan (Osaka)
Located in Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is home to a wide variety of rides, shows, and attractions, all based on some of the most beloved characters and stories in pop culture. Whether you’re a fan of Harry Potter or Minion from Despicable Me, there’s something for everyone at Universal Studios Japan. And that’s just scratching the surface. The park also features an incredible array of restaurants, shops, and other amenities, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring.
Fans of Super Mario Party™ most definitely should check out the latest addition to Universal Studios Japan that is the Super Nintendo World, a theme park based on the iconic video game franchise. The park features several rides and attractions, as well as an interactive world where visitors can collect coins and power-ups. One of the most popular rides is the Mario Kart: Koopa’s Challenge, which lets visitors race each other in go-karts around a track inspired by the game.
Ticket for Adult starts from SGD$83+
Ticket for Children (age 4 to 11) starts from SGD$55+
Address
554-0031
2-1-33, Sakurajima, Konohana-ku, Osaka-shi, Osaka Prefecture
Get tickets for Universal Studios Japan here!
2. Kyoto Sightseeing Pass
Whether you’re looking to explore traditional temples and shrines, stroll through picturesque gardens, or simply sample the local cuisine, you’ll find everything you’re looking for in Osaka and Kyoto. And with the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass, you can enjoy unlimited travel on the Keihan line and Otokoyama Cable Line (except Otsu line), making it easy to see all the sights these cities have to offer.
Insider Tip: Show your pass at a variety of locations to receive special discounts, services, and gifts! For details, please scan the QR printed on the front of the pass.
There are 1 Day Pass (SGD$8+) and 2 Day (SGD$13+) Pass to choose from.
- During the validity period, you can travel an unlimited number of times within the specified travel zones for one or two days
- For 2-day passes, non-consecutive usage is allowed.
Get the Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass here!
3. Nikko Day trip from Tokyo (Nikko Toshogu Shrine, Kegon Waterfall and Lake Chuzenji Tour)
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Escape Tokyo’s bustle for a day of cultural immersion in Nikko! This guided tour whisks you away, handling transportation and itinerary, so you can focus on exploring Nikko’s must-sees, like the awe-inspiring Nikko Toshogu Shrine and the cascading Kegon Waterfall.
Get tickets to Nikko Day Trip From Tokyo here!
4. ABENO HARUKAS 300 Observatory Osaka
The ABENO HARUKAS 300 Observatory is one of the best places to take in the views of Osaka. Located on the top floor of the city’s tallest building, the Observatory offers 360-degree panoramic views of the cityscape.
On a clear day, you can even see as far as Mount Rokko in Kobe. In addition to the incredible views, the Observatory also housed a cafe and bar, so you can relax and enjoy the view with a delicious drink in hand. Admission ticket to ABENO HARUKAS 300 Observatory is priced at SGD$14++.
Get tickets to ABENO HARUKAS 300 Observatory here!
5. Sanrio Harmonyland, Kyushu
Fans of Sanrio and all things cute will certainly have a magical time at Harmonyland! Meet Hello Kitty, Cinamoroll, My Melody, Kuromi and friends! You’ll be entertained by the park’s many attractions, performances, and food options. It’s the perfect place to spend a day of fun with the whole family!
At Sanrio Harmonyland, there are attractions for everyone! For the young ones, they can hop on cute-themed rides such as the Harmony Train, Sky Jet and many more! Even though the rides are designed to suit the younger crowd, grownups can have a ton of fun too! There is the Rhythmic Coaster, which is suitable for thrill-seekers! The ferris wheel is also a crowd favourite and offers panoramic views of the surroundings that should not be missed. You can see the Beppu Bay from a height of 60 meters above the ground!
Admission ticket to Sanrio Harmonyland is priced at SGD$21++
- Free admission for children aged 3 and below.
- Tickets are open-dated and valid till 30 June 2023
- The park’s operating hours may vary. Please refer to their calendar to plan your visit and avoid disappointment.
Click here to find out how to get there.
Get tickets to Sanrio Harmonyland here!
6. Umeda Sky Building Osaka
Looking for a place to enjoy some stunning night views of Osaka? Then head on over to Umeda Sky Building Osaka!
This unique building is divided into Tower East and Tower West, and the two roofs are connected to form the doughnut-shaped Kuchu Teien Observatory. From here, you’ll be treated to a rare 360-degree view of the cityscape all around you. Whether you’re watching the sunset or taking in the dazzling night sights, this is definitely one of the most popular places to go in Osaka.
The Umeda Sky Building is also a popular spot for romantic date nights. Home to the Yumi Katsura Lover’s Sanctuary – lovers can purchase a set of heart-shaped locks to lock their eternal love there at the top.
Do note that food is not allowed up at the observatory. However, you can head down to the basement level, where you will find the Takimi Lane of Restaurants.
Ticket for Adult starts from SGD$14+
Ticket for Children (age 4 to 11) starts from SGD$6+
Admission is free for children aged 3 and below.
Get tickets to Umeda Sky Building here!
7. Saitama Moomin Valley Park
If you’re a fan of all things Moomin, then you’ll be excited to know that the first-ever Moomin Valley Park is located in Saitama, Japan. It is the first one outside of Finland and gives visitors a look into the world of artist Tove Jansson and her work.
The park features all of your favourite Moomin characters, as well as replicas of the iconic Moomin House and Inspector Willam’s house. There is also a Moomin museum where you can learn about the history and artwork of the Moomins. And of course, no visit to the park would be complete without taking a ride on the Moomin Valley Railway.
Ticket for Adult starts from SGD$29++
Ticket for Children (age 4 to 12) starts from SGD$17+
Get tickets to Saitama Moomin Valley Park here!
8. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo is the perfect place to take the family for a day of fun!
With more than three million Lego bricks and unlimited building possibilities, there’s something for everyone. From the Lego Factory to the diorama cityscape of Tokyo, the dynamic 4D theater, and more, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. And because it’s indoors, you don’t have to worry about the weather. So come on down and enjoy a day at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo.
Ticket for Adult starts from SGD$24+
Ticket for Children (3 to 15) starts from SGD$24+
Admission is free for children aged 2 and below.
Get tickets to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tokyo here!
9. Sanrio Puroland Tokyo, Japan
Sanrio Puroland is a theme park in the Tokyo suburb of Tama City. The theme park features a wide variety of themed rides and attractions that are kids-friendly. Be sure to check out Hello Kitty’s house, where you can explore her rose garden, tea room and more! Be entertained by the parades and live shows performed by Sanrio characters. There are also gift shops retailing exclusive memorabilia and official Sanrio merchandise.
Themed foods such as Hello Kitty-shaped pancakes are served in some of the restaurants. Many of the attractions are also interactive, making it a great place for kids to learn and explore. If you are looking for a fun day out with your kids, Sanrio Puroland is the perfect place to go.
Admission ticket to Sanrio Puroland is priced at SGD$25++.
Free admission for children below 3 years old.
Get tickets to Sanrio Puroland Tokyo here!
10. Have Fun in Tokyo Pass 1 Week Pass (Most Value for Money)
If you only have a week in Tokyo, consider getting the Have Fun in Tokyo Pass to make the most out of your trip and stretch your dollars! The Have Fun in Tokyo 1 Week Pass allows visitors to book up to 3 different attractions and/or facilities at a singular price.
Pro tip: Remember to check the opening hours for each of the places of interest you’re planning to visit in advance!
Have Fun in Tokyo Pass is SGD$92+ per pax.
Get Have Fun in Tokyo Pass 1 Week here!
11. teamLab PLANETS TOKYO
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“Pics or it didn’t happen” – is the mantra of our times and that makes this museum more relevant than ever.
You’ve probably seen plenty of photos taken at teamLab Planets on Instagram and think that is all to it, but I can say with confidence that you will be greeted with a stunning atmosphere of multimedia art that will have you walking barefoot, sinking onto beanbags, and even standing in knee-deep water!
If you are planning to spend a few days in Tokyo, be sure to include teamLab PLANETS TOKYO in your itinerary because this is truly a creative and immersive art experience that’s unique to Tokyo!
Ticket for Adult starts from SGD$36
Ticket for Youth (13 to 17) starts from SGD$22
Ticket for Child (4 to 12) starts from SGD$12
Get tickets to teamLab PLANETS TOKYO here!
12. Tokyo Tower Observatory
Tokyo Tower is a communications and observation tower in the Shiba-koen district of Minato, Tokyo, Japan. At 332.9 meters (1,092 ft), it is the second-tallest structure in Japan. The structure is an Eiffel Tower-inspired lattice tower that is painted white and international orange to comply with air safety regulation.
It is an iconic landmark and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tokyo, offering stunning views of the city from its two observation decks. The tower also houses a number of shops and restaurants, as well as a small amusement park.
Admission tickets start from SGD $5+
Get tickets to Tokyo Tower Observatory here.
Looking for shopping experiences in Tokyo? Check out the best premium outlets near Tokyo here.
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