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5 Reasons Why Japan Is Great for Family Vacations

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Japan is a fantastic destination for a family vacation. It is safe, filled with kids' attractions, convenient to navigate, and clean.

Mother and son having fun under cherry blossoms

1. Japan has a low crime rate.

Japan is one of the safest places in the world. The country's high rate of literacy, efficient police force, stringent control regulations, and cultural norms emphasizing a strong sense of community have kept its crime rate impressively low. Barring very few reports of pickpocketing and petty theft, the crime situation in Japan is nothing to worry about at all. However, it is prudent to be vigilant of your surroundings in any unfamiliar place, especially when travelling with kids.

2. Japan is an anime paradise and has unique theme parks.

In Japan, you're in anime heaven. Tokyo has the most anime venues of all locations in Japan, which include Ghibli Museum, Pokémon Center, and Akihabara. Tokyo and Osaka are home to world-class theme parks, including the world's only DisneySea and Super Nintendo World. Adults needn't get bored. At Fuji-Q Highland, you can ride death-defying roller-coasters, and the kids can enjoy Thomas the Tank Engine, Lisa and Gaspard, and Naruto.

3. Japan is home to a dazzling number of pet cafes.

At Japan's cafes, kids and adults can interact with furry, feathery, and prickly creatures, from cats, pugs and miniature piggies to owls, lovebirds, and hedgehogs. Most pet cafes allow kids aged 11 years old or up to pet and cuddle the creatures, which are used to being around humans. You can also observe animals in their natural habitat. In the city of Nara, the kids can pet the deer that freely roam the streets. At Jigokudani Wild Monkey Park in Nagano, you can see wild snow monkeys soaking in hot spring baths.

Brother and sister trying to catch fish in the lake.

4. It’s easy to get around in Japan.

Japan has an impressive public transportation network, especially within metropolitan places and between large cities. You can get anywhere quickly and inexpensively by bus, train, or the metro. Bullet trains ("shinkansen") are the fastest and most convenient way of exploring the country. The Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) offers unlimited travel on express, fast, and local trains, high-speed trains, and some bus lines. It can be a more cost-effective way to travel with kids in tow.

5. Japan has awesome food.

Japan is a culinary paradise. Famous dishes include miso soup, which is light and delicious, and perfect for any time of the day. Dig into gyoza, dumplings filled with meat and herbs, and pan-friend. Enjoy curry and rice, requesting it in a style you prefer, and tempura, which is available in a choice of deep-fried meats (chicken, fish, or shrimp) or vegetables. Edamame is another nutritious and tasty snack that everyone in the family will enjoy.

Check out Japan family vacations at Goway. Our well-thought-out itinerary ensures memorable experiences for the entire family.

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What do the experts say?

Steve Hope

Steve Hope

Team Lead
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You should try a Zen meditation session. Imagine slipping into a silk kimono for the day—carefully tied by an expert dresser, every fold precise, every colour chosen to suit the season. It’s a ritual that feels as personal as it is timeless.
Steve Hope

Steve Hope

Team Lead
Learn More About This Expert
What do I love about Japan? In a word - EVERYTHING. The incredible contrast that Japan offers - new/innovative vs old/traditional, the warm and welcoming people, the incredible rich culture, the culinary wonders awaiting around every corner, the cleanliness, efficiency and safety. It's one of the best places to visit in Asia in my opinion.
Patrick Carleton

Patrick Carleton

Destination Specialist
Learn More About This Expert
Every season offers something to fall in love with, but autumn feels especially magical—fewer tourists, crisp weather, and foliage that rivals the famous blossoms.

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