I have a few Japan-specific packing tips for travelling with children in Japan: (for my more detailed and more general packing and prep tips for Japan see my post here.)
I also have a blog post on how to start planning a family holiday to Japan.
I have compiled a list of places and experiences to reserve before your Japan holiday here.
Here are also the dates when Japanese school aged children are on holidays.
Here is a detailed list of what to pack for Japan depending on the month you are travelling.
Easy on & off shoes
Almost all play areas (and even sections of toy shops and parks) & some restaurants require shoes off. So it’s best to leave the laces and tricky-to-squeeze on shoes at home.
Good shoes for walking
Sneakers are best – but I recommend having two pairs per person. When feet are sore its a good idea to have a way to mix up the parts that make the foot sore – as shoes wear differently. If you have a blister from one shoe, for example, it’s good to have a different shoe for the next day that doesn’t rub on the same spot.
Masks
Although masks are mostly off now in Japan, it’s good to have some in your bag for moments where you can’t social distance (or incase you just feel you’re in a germy spot.)
It’s also a good idea to have some incase YOU get sick while you are in Japan.
Baby Carrier
If your children (or at least one of them) are light enough to carry in a baby carrier I highly recommend as it will make walking through crowds, jumping on-and-off trains and climbing up stairs in gardens and temples so much easier. I have a carrier for children up to 4 years old and take it, just in case, when we travel or are out a full day.
Personally, this is my criteria for stroller selection for travel in Japan:
- It needs to fold
Japan isn’t great at providing elevators and ramps in all parts of town (Rumour has it that hosting the upcoming Olympics with help with some of this though. Yay.) Also, you’ll be limiting restaurant selection if your stroller doesn’t fold and fit in a corner. - It needs to be light for carrying
- It needs to not be your favourite/most expensive stroller
Japan is a very, very safe country. For that reason, it isn’t at all unusual for restaurants, parks, tourist attractions etc. to have a “stroller parking” section. It is highly unlikely that it would be stolen but you need to be comfortable to leave it for hours at a time.
I talk a lot more about why I think a stroller is so important ( even for kids that are walking already) in Japan .
If you decide to rent a stroller while in Tokyo, I recommend reaching out here.
Snacks
Don’t get me wrong, Japan has the most amazing array of snacks for all ages, however, when the entire world looks, feels and tastes a bit different to what they’re used to, kids may rely more heavily than normal on familiar snacks from home.
Also, if you have a no sugar household – you might struggle to find healthy snacks right away so it’s better to give yourself options before you ‘hunt and gather.’
I almost always have a box of cornflakes in my suitcase as most cornflakes in convenience stores are the frosted type that my kids don’t really love.
I also have rollups, crackers and I buy bananas and carrots at a convenience store to always have on hand once in Japan.
*One more snack tip? The vegetables you may be served at restaurants might not be cooked in the same way kids are used to so you may want to make sure you bring some high in fibre options with you. Recently, some parents have said that their kiddies have been quite constipated on holidays in Japan – especially if they stick with lots of rice and bread while they adjust to new flavours. You could also go to the supermarket and convenience stores to grab veggies or cereal after you arrive. For convenience food snacks that aren’t just junk food see my post here.Also, these are the restaurants I like to go to when I’m craving lots of vegetables.
Baby Food
In rural areas, baby food and snacks aren’t always found in supermarkets.
You will have more luck in a drugstore, a baby goods store like Toys R Us, Akachan Hompo, or even some stores like Yodobashi Camera or BIC Camera.
I suggest packing lots of baby food you are used to – regardless- as many Parents dislike the amount of sugar in most Japanese baby food items. Lots are jelly form. So I recommend bringing your own if you are very particular over what your baby eats OR bringing a hand blender and making your own with fresh fruit and vegetables.
For more things that may surprise you about Japanese supermarkets you might like this post here.
See here for tips on buying baby food in Japan.
Download the Google Translate app
This is fab for in restaurants, checking ingredients ..everything.
Download the Ecbo Cloak app
This app shows you were the empty coin lockers are and what other tourist offices etc will store your luggage ( while you shop or while you wait to check into your accommodation.)
The link to the Echo Cloak app
Download the MamaPapamap App
This will show you where the breastfeeding rooms ( I have an article on my experience breastfeeding in Japan here) and changing tables are (I also have some of our tried and tested spots at the bottom of my suggested Tokyo itineraries for families with children )
The link to the Mamapapamap Nursing Room Map app is here. It will also tell you if there are microwaves and boiling water around.
Nappies
If your babes are still in nappies, I recommend bringing enough for the first 3-4 days until you find your local supermarket or drugstore with the size and kind of nappies that you need. Here are places to easily find nappies/diapers in Central Tokyo.
If you’d like to know which baby/kid related products I purchase in Japan, I’ve started a list
And if you’d like to see what I carry in my Tokyo diaper bag, see my post here.
*For newly toilet trained kids I would still pack a few nappies. It’s really handy for busy places like Disneyland or even for when flying ( as I talk about in my Flying with Kids tips) for those moments when you’re stuck on a runway and kids aren’t allowed to go to the bathrooms. At times like that we had pull-up nappies and asked the kids to treat them like underwear and still make it to the toilet ( but with that little safety net.)
Tissues & Plastic Bags
If you plan on venturing out to temples or off the beaten track it may be handy to have some tissues handy as Japanese-style restrooms don’t always have toilet paper.
Also, due to Japan’s fantastic recycling system where resident’s take responsibility for their own waste, there are hardly any garbage bins around town. It’s handy to have a plastic bag or two on hand to store your wrappers and cans until you do find a bin (I wait for restroom bins nearby.)
Pacifiers/ Dummies
These can be found at stores like Nishimatsuya, Akachanhompo and Babies r Us in Japan but it’s not so easy to find for babies older than 6-12 months – so best to bring your own stash just in case.
Packing for the season/events
If you will be going to Disney would you like to throw in a princess dress or a mickey t-shirt? ( My Tokyo Disney posts/ advice are here. )
If it will be Halloween while you’re here maybe throw in a costume? (Japan goes all out for Halloween)
If you’re here for Easter you may want to put some chocolate eggs in the suitcase. (Although I live in a very international part of Tokyo Easter Eggs are very hard to come by.)
For rainy and summer season you will DEFINITELY need mosquito repellant and light raincoats/ponchos.
During the start of my “Japan with Kids” stint my baby boy was just 4 months old. I was so worried about him overheating when we walked everywhere. So I used an empty spray bottle (from my hospital/labour bag, actually!) and filled it with water and I would give him a little spray- shower every now and then.
AirTags?
I have never done this but more and more people seem to be keen on putting an AirTag in their toddler ( or older child’s) backpack.
For the record, I have written here some useful Japanese phrases on what to do if your child did get lost in Japan.
I have had some parents tell me that their AirTags didn’t work in the big Japanese cities.
Your own medication
I’m always a complete worry wart with new medicine so I find it easier to pack the brands I know my family don’t have a reaction to. Same goes for nappy creams etc. Don’t forget the grown up headache tablets. Please see here for medication that is allowed into Japan.
Eczema Medication
I’m lucky to not suffer from eczema but friends who do have told me that the Japanese water makes theirs worse. Please pack ointment or whatever works for you – just in case.
Before packing any medication to take to Japan, I recommend making sure it is allowed into Japan first.
Fibre supplements or powder
You might think I’m being over the top but almost every friend and family member who has visited me in Japan has experienced constipation while their stomachs adjust. Japanese food is healthy but when food is unfamiliar, many people forget to not just lean on rice and bread. Also, different types of vegetables are found in restaurants and it takes a while to adjust. Having a fiber powder to add to a fruit juice to help kids out can really change the quality of your holiday.
If you are constipated in Japan and need to know how to ask for assistance in Japanese I have a blog post here that will help.
PLEASE read what to do in a medical emergency in Japan
The system is different to just running to an ER or any hospital if baby gets sick. Please read here before you travel so you know what to do if your child gets sick.
Ziplock bags
Yes, Japan has ziplock bags but who wants to spend their holidays shopping for the practical things? I recommend bringing these as Japan doesn’t provide “doggy bags” or take out boxes for unfinished dinners. Yes…I’m that Mum smuggling noodles into her handbag to eat later in a hotel….. It’s a waste not to, right?
Picnic blankets/ plastic table cloths
We often pack a picnic blanket or table cloth for eating on hotel floors. Then we don’t need to worry quite as much about spilling.
The kids love it because we call it an indoor picnic!
Gifts
If you are visiting and/or catching up with Japanese friends, it is customary to give a gift.
The culturally correct thing to do is give a gift in a gift bag that is wrapped beautifully.
Being from Australia, when I was an exchange student, I automatically assumed that everyone would just love koala toys but, actually, Japanese friends are always most excited by edible gifts especially if they are made in your home country or contain a unique ingredient from home.
Dried fruit, Chocolates or Cookies etc.
If you are struggling for ideas, I recommend bringing your favourite sweets from home. It will be so well received. Trust me.
Throw a few extra in the suitcase too – you never know when a kind person here may hand you a gift and it will help reciprocate if you’re all organized.
Where to find westernized versions of sushi in Japan?
Items to keep your hotel room safe
I have a post on about what to pack to keep your hotel room as safe as possible for children and babies (and what to make to make sure that you don’t go insane in the mornings and evenings. )
Car seat harness ?
I know it’s not ideal but, unfortunately, it’s not illegal to have a child or baby ride in a car without a restraint.
Just for peace of mind (although its never going to be as good as a real car seat) you may want to consider bringing a travel carseat harness for your little person if the idea of no child car seats makes you feel uneasy.
Paper, Metal or Bamboo straws
Japan is slowly, slowly coming around to the no-straw options ( or environmentally friendly alternatives) BUT you WILL be offered or, most-likely given a plastic straw 95% of the time. If your family needs a straw while travelling in Japan perhaps consider throwing in a stash of sustainable options ?
There ARE some cafes with other options but they are, unfortunately , still in the minority, so its better to come prepared for your own peace of mind and to save you frustration.
For phrases such as politely refusing a plastic straw, see my Zero Waste article here.
PokemonGo app?
Clearly, this isn’t a must but if your kids are in to hunting for Pokemon, then … you’re literally going to be in the home of the Pokemon !!!!
Make sure you have your PokemonGo app ready to go ! Sometimes when using it in a new country you will need to reset the app before it will work (tip: there are lots and lots of Pokemon to find in Sunshine City Ikebukuro.)
Things to consider before packing:
Anything that plugs into an electrical socket. The voltage here is very low so your hairdryer is probably going to be about as effective as someone blowing lightly on your head. So just double check before packing any bottle warmers, plug-in nightlights or baby monitors.
As a little FYI, my hair straightener does work in Japan though.
Plan on how to move you AND your luggage around Japan
I wrote a post here on moving your luggage ( and luggage storage) options in Japan.
Another random thing to work out before you travel
It’s handy to know the height (and probably weight) of your children in centimetres and kilograms.
The clothing here is mostly set by height and amusement park rides may have height restrictions and it’s just easier to have that info handy, ahead of time.
Also nappies are sold by weight as well. So it’s just handy to have that information easily on hand.
Also, if any of the grown ups in your group are very very tall it is handy to know their height ahead of travelling too for places like Disneyland ( the maximum height for rides at Disney in Japan seems to be 195cm but it does depend on the ride itself and they may want to measure you again anyway.)
Extra tip: I would focus less on clothing for kids over adults if the adults traveling are over a size 10-12 Australian size. Children’s clothing can always be purchased ( here are my favourite spots to grab clothing options for kids) but bigger sizes for adults – even larger shoe sizes – can be difficult.
Did you know that you could booking your own Tokyo family photos is an option?
You can do a family shoot, couples shoot, engagement shoot, personal portrait shoot while in Japan?
These recommendations are not at all sponsored but I recommend taking a look at these Tokyo based photographers to see which style and aesthetic best suits your needs.
Ippei & Janine Photography
Bruna Luise
Bianca Toeps (Author and photographer who also offers tours as well as photography services)
If you’re looking for English speaking photographers in other parts of Japan, I recommend reaching out to @photomytokyo
Something else to consider…
Have you thought about hotels vs airbnb?
Airbnb laws have changed and there are less to choose from. However, there are still some treasures out there.
Here is a list of Airbnb’s that The Tokyo Chapter readers have tried out for themselves and loved.
Before you arrange an airbnb in Japan please make sure that the property has excellent recent reviews (including if the location is easy to find and keys easy to get your hands on) and preferably they should be a super host.
Also, because of the language issue; realize that if you are at Airbnb you will not have a concierge or checkin guest to assist you with restaurant bookings, cheaper local recommendations in the area and there wont be anyone to help you call a doctor if a member of your family/ travel group falls ill. (For medical emergencies and doctor visits in Japan, see my post here.)
I have written a post on what to check before booking accommodation with Airbnb Japan.
Guest blogger Carla Middleton recently stayed mostly at Airbnb in Japan ( Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Tokyo) and wrote in great detail about their fabulous trip here.
Here is my list of accommodation (mostly hotels) that I have tried and tested personally.
And have you considered spending one night in a ryokan ( traditional Japanese-style accommodation ) ?
I wrote a post here on why a ryokan can be a lush and truly unique experience for families.
Have you decided on which area you will be staying?
Here are my recommendations for Tokyo areas for travelling with small children.
Here are my favourite hotels to stay in Tokyo for families.
Thinking of staying out near Tokyo Disney? Here are my preferred options for hotels.
And for accommodation suggestions in Kyoto, this blog post may interest you.
And…
Here are some questions to ask before you book a hotel with a swimming pool ..
If you arrive early in the morning, have you thought about what you will do between arrival and check-in?
Japanese hotels/ airbnbs/ hostels are very conservative when it comes to early check-ins. You will almost always not be able to enter your room until 3 or 4pm ( see the hotel’s website for the exact time, of course.)
Have you thought about what you will do with those hours? You might be jet lagged? You will have lots of luggage so, even if you are feeling ok, you might not be able to sightsee right away…
Almost all hotels will store luggage for guests but not often will airbnbs. So you will need to do some coin locker research for your area ( start with the train stations first.)
Maybe you’d prefer to courier your luggage from the airport instead? ( Details on how to use the courier service in Japan)
I know it sounds radical but have you considered booking the night before your arrival too so you can check in whenever you like? If you’re travelling with small kids or you just don’t function well without a decent night’s sleep, this could be your best option.
Have you made sure your transfer from the airport to your accommodation is all planned?
Kids will be tired and jet lagged. These are my favourite airport transfer options that are economical and still comfortable for everyone involved.
Have you checked when the national holidays are during your holiday period?
In Japan, it is most common for smaller shops and museums to be closed on a Monday and Tuesday. BUT THEN… if that day of closure falls on a national holiday, the day AFTER that will become the weekly “day off” instead. Check the websites of places or call ahead – just to prevent wasting time.
Have you slotted in the best days of the week to do certain activities?
Obviously, first thing in the morning on weekdays is always the best time to do the truly touristy activities ( if you DON’T want crowds! I do think that you SHOULD try and experience Shibuya Crossing and some of Harajuku at it’s most busy to get right in the thick of it – even if you just do a tiny bit and come back the next day for a more chilled take on the same spot. ).
Also, did you know that I talk about the benefits of visiting Harajuku on a Sunday as you will get to see the Rockabilly dancers in Yoyogi Park and catch a food festival in the park? Here are more Harajuku with kids tips
And, another example , did you know that the main road in Ginza is closed to traffic on weekends ? This means you can really get that “Lost in Translation” shot in the middle of the street!!! Here are all of my Ginza with kids suggestions (and there are LOTS) .
Also, did you know that there is a crowd prediction calendar for Disneyland and Disneysea that will tell you the days which will be the least busy? If Disney is on your to-do list, I advise starting with the selection of this particular day and trying to work the rest of the central Tokyo itinerary around it.
Please note that it is NOT possible to buy tickets for Tokyo Disneyland or Disneysea at the gate. This is why their crowd prediction calendars are so accurate.
See here for where to buy Tokyo Disneyland tickets.
Are you wanting to prebook shows and dining for Tokyo Disneyland & Disneysea? See how in my Disneyland post here – and for Disneysea? Here!)
Are you thinking of visiting Universal Studios Osaka? If so, did you know that you need to pre-book your express passes -even if you just wanted to enter Super Nintendo World? (Warning: the introduction of express passes which need to be purchased prior to arrival in the park makes a trip to Universal Studios in Japan with kids a MUCH more expensive exercise than a trip to Tokyo Disney Resort.)
Mindful travel/ train etiquette
If you’re interested in talking to kids beforehand about train etiquette in Japan, you might like my post here.
Extra TIP ! If you are getting a JR Pass ( more info here) please be aware that you don’t HAVE to start it the moment you arrive at the airport. Everyone will be cranky and tired after the flight and then getting through immigration etc. Just wanted to put it out there and start your pass for the next day ?
Check out my post here for other, non-kiddie specific, suggestions for packing and planning for Tokyo.
Here is my article on packing the practical hand luggage items.
See here for tips on reserving bullet train seats with and without JR passes.
There are some things I find tricky in Tokyo with my two small kiddies. See here for my article on those tricky points and what I do to try and make them a ‘non-problem’ when settling into life in Tokyo with children.
And do you need some travel tips for the plane on the way here? I have posts of what we do to make international travel easier with babies, toddlers and pre-school aged kiddies.
And if you want to know what things I buy ahead of time as I find hard to find in Japan …I hope that you find these tips to be helpful.
