Japan With Kids: Tips and Advice for Getting Around

Summary

This video offers essential tips for families traveling to Japan, focusing on public transportation, best travel times, and navigating with kids. The host shares insights on using IC cards, avoiding summer heat, and selecting the most convenient airports like Haneda. Practical advice includes using Google Maps, managing peak-hour crowds, and ensuring smooth train transitions. It also covers ticketing for Shinkansen, child fares, and travel options like regional flights. The video emphasizes the importance of having reliable data, carrying cash for small purchases, and using apps to find baby-changing facilities. Overall, it's a comprehensive guide for a stress-free family holiday in Japan.

Takeaways

• 😀 Japan is a safe, child-friendly destination with excellent public transport, but it's important to know how to navigate the country.
• 🌸 Avoid traveling to Japan in the summer with kids due to the intense heat and humidity. Spring and Autumn are ideal times to visit.
• 🛬 If flying into Tokyo, it's best to land at Haneda Airport, as it’s closer to the city center compared to Narita Airport.
• 🚇 Getting IC cards (SUICA, Pasmo, ICOCA) for public transport is highly recommended for convenience, allowing easy access to trains, buses, and even vending machines.
• 📱 Google Maps is an essential tool for navigating Japan's public transport system, providing real-time information on routes, walking times, and platform numbers.
• ⏱ Try to avoid peak hours in Tokyo (7-9 am and 5-7 pm) to reduce the stress of crowded trains, especially when traveling with kids.
• 👶 Children aged 1-5 travel for free on trains if accompanied by adults. Kids aged 6-11 pay a children's fare, and those 12+ pay an adult fare.
• 🚅 For long-distance travel, Shinkansen trains are the fastest option, but consider reserved seats if traveling with kids to ensure comfort.
• ✈️ Consider regional flights for longer distances within Japan as they can be cheaper and faster than Shinkansen, especially after the price hike of the JR Pass in 2023.
• 💳 It's recommended to pay in yen to avoid conversion fees and use a card like Wise or Revolut for easier payments without extra charges.

Q & A

What are some of the best times to visit Japan with kids?

Spring and Autumn are ideal times to visit Japan with kids. The weather is moderate, and you can also experience cherry blossom season in spring and the beautiful fall leaves in autumn. It's best to avoid summer due to the brutal humidity and heat.

Why is it better to land at Haneda Airport instead of Narita when flying into Tokyo?

Haneda Airport is much closer to central Tokyo compared to Narita, making it more convenient for travelers, especially those with kids. It reduces travel time and makes getting into the city easier.

What is the importance of IC cards in Japan?

IC cards like SUICA, Pasmo, and ICOCA are essential for easy travel on public transport in Japan. They allow you to tap your way through trains, buses, and even use them for small purchases in vending machines, convenience stores, and restaurants.

What is the current issue with IC cards in Japan as of August 2023?

As of August 2023, the sale of most SUICA and Pasmo cards has been suspended due to chip shortages. However, tourists can still get specific cards like the Welcome SUICA and Pasmo Passport, which expire after 28 days.

How do you navigate the public transport system in Japan with kids?

Google Maps is a great tool to help navigate Japan's public transport system. It provides directions, platform numbers, and exit information. It's important to avoid peak hours and allow extra time when making transfers, as stations can be large and require walking between different lines.

What should you do to avoid the crowded trains during peak hours?

Try to avoid traveling during peak hours, especially between 7-9am and 5-7pm. If possible, plan your travel for later in the morning or after rush hour to reduce the chances of encountering crowded trains.

What is the policy on train fares for kids in Japan?

Children aged 6-11 pay half the adult fare, while kids aged 1-5 can travel for free if there are enough accompanying adults (usually two children per adult). Infants under 1 year old also travel for free.

What should parents know about using Shinkansen with kids?

For children aged 5 or younger, if they are using a reserved seat, they need to pay the child's fare. Otherwise, they can sit on an adult's lap or travel in an unreserved car where they may have their own seat if available.

What are some options for getting around Japan with kids beyond trains?

While trains are the most convenient way to travel, buses and taxis are also options. Highway buses are cheaper but slower, while taxis can be an easy option for short trips, though they don’t require child seats.

What additional tips should travelers consider when visiting Japan with kids?

Make sure to have data access via a Japanese SIM card, carry a hand towel as many public restrooms don't have paper towels, and avoid large suitcases which can be cumbersome in crowded areas. It’s also recommended to check for baby-changing facilities in department stores or train stations.