Japan with Teens: A Perfect December Trip or a Parental Overreach?
Every parent knows the delicate art of planning a family vacation: you need just enough excitement to keep the kids off their phones but not so much that you’re Googling “cheap flights home” by day three. For December 2024, Japan seems like the dream destination—if that dream involves navigating bullet trains, ancient temples, and the eternal question: Will they eat that?
As a family of four with two teens and a vegetarian lifestyle, we’re weighing the pros and cons of this ambitious trip. Here’s what we’ve learned so far about exploring Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka in eight days during the holiday season.
Why Japan is Great for a Family Trip in December
Japan seems to have something for everyone:
- For teens: The tech-savvy streets of Tokyo, bustling Osaka and theme parks like Universal Studios Japan.
- For parents: Serene temples, cultural heritage and Instagram-worthy landscapes in Kyoto.
- For everyone: A sprinkle of winter magic, with festive lights and maybe even snow.
Tokyo offers futuristic attractions and quirky experiences (hello, vending machines that sell umbrellas and ramen), while Kyoto promises peace and history. Osaka, known for its food scene, adds a touch of fun with its neon lights and bustling street life.
But the question remains: Can we squeeze all this into just eight days?
8-Day Japan Itinerary for Families: Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka
Here’s our tentative plan for making the most of an 8-day trip:
- Days 1-3: Tokyo
Start with the energy of the capital city. Highlights include Shibuya Crossing, the Meiji Shrine and Harajuku for trendy shopping. Teens will love teamLab Planets and Akihabara, while a day at Tokyo Disneyland might bring out the child in all of us. - Days 4-6: Kyoto
Slow things down in Kyoto, where culture takes center stage. Walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, marvel at the Golden Pavilion and experience a traditional tea ceremony. Renting a kimono for family photos could add a touch of fun and authenticity. - Days 7-8: Osaka
Wrap up the trip in lively Osaka. Universal Studios Japan promises thrills, while the neon-lit streets of Dotonbori offer exciting sights and (hopefully) vegetarian-friendly eats.
Vegetarian Food in Japan: Can Families Eat Well?
As vegetarians, we know that navigating Japan’s food scene will require some creativity. Here’s what we’ve uncovered:
- Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants: Apps like HappyCow are lifesavers, pointing us to veggie-friendly spots in major cities.
- Traditional Dishes: Dishes like vegetable tempura, zaru soba (cold noodles), and yudofu (hot tofu) seem widely available.
- Convenience Store Snacks: Onigiri (rice balls with seaweed or umeboshi fillings) and fresh salads are quick, affordable options.
- Pro Tip: Learn to say “Niku nashi, kudasai” (No meat, please) to help with special requests.
While it might not be as easy as at home, exploring vegetarian options could become part of the adventure.
Is Japan the Right Destination for Us?
On paper, Japan looks like the perfect destination. It offers tech and history, excitement and calm, and a holiday atmosphere that feels magical. But we’re still considering a few key factors:
- Will our teens enjoy the balance of tradition and modernity, or will they just roll their eyes?
- Can we fit Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka into eight days without feeling rushed?
- Will the vegetarian options keep us happy and fed?
Despite these questions, we’re excited about the possibilities Japan offers. Whether it’s seeing the kids marvel at Tokyo’s tech wonders or introducing them to Kyoto’s timeless beauty, we hope this trip will create lasting memories.
If you’re also dreaming of Japan with your family, hopefully, our planning inspires your journey. Stay tuned as we finalize our itinerary—and cross our fingers for happy, well-fed teens!