The Ultimate Guide to Kyoto Family Trip: Top Things to Do in Kyoto with Kids (2024)

Planning a Kyoto family trip? Looking for exciting things to do in Kyoto with kids? You’re in the right place! Kyoto is packed with amazing experiences that delight children of all ages—from toddlers to teens. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or indoor fun, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly attractions in this historic city. To make planning easier, we’ve put together a helpful guide to Kyoto for kids, ensuring your family trip is enjoyable for everyone.

Contents

• Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto
• Monkey Park Iwatayama and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
• Nara Deer Park
• Kimono Experience and Tea Ceremony for Families in Kyoto
• Universal Studios Japan
• Learn Japanese Crafts at Maikoya
• Kyoto Railway Museum
• Kyoto Aquarium
• Hirakata Park
• Create Beautiful Wagashi Sweets at Maikoya Kyoto
• FAQs for Your Kyoto Family Trip

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1- The INTERACTIVE Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto

Samurai Ninja Museum Kyoto is the #1 ranked kids’ museum in Kyoto—and it’s completely interactive! It’s the perfect way to start your Kyoto with kids adventure. Families can enjoy a free guided English tour, try on authentic ninja and samurai outfits, and participate in fun activities like ninja star throwing and swordsmanship lessons.

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2- Monkey Park Iwatayama and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Located near the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to over 100 Japanese monkeys—the same species often seen in iconic photos soaking in hot springs during winter. These fascinating monkeys are native to Japan and make for a memorable experience during your Kyoto with kids adventure.

To explore the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Forest with ease, consider joining a guided walking tour. A local guide will share valuable insights, point out the best photo spots, and ensure a hassle-free experience without the worry of navigating on your own.

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3- Nara Deer Park 

Nara Deer Park is a fantastic destination for families and kids, located less than an hour from Kyoto. It’s nestled next to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and features the world’s oldest pagoda, making it a culturally rich spot to explore. The park’s main highlight, however, is the free-roaming wild deer, which are a delight to meet and feed—a unique experience kids will love! Read here about the best things to do in Nara.

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4- Kimono Experience and Tea Ceremony for Families in Kyoto

Dressing up in a traditional kimono is a fun and memorable experience for the whole family, and it’s free when you join a tea ceremony at Maikoya. It’s a great way to introduce your kids to Japanese culture and take beautiful family photos in these stunning outfits. During the tea ceremony, you’ll learn about this elegant tradition while enjoying a fun and educational experience together. It’s a perfect cultural highlight for your Kyoto with kids trip.

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5- Universal Studios Japan 

Universal Studios Japan, located just a short distance from Kyoto, is one of Japan's top theme parks, offering a wide range of attractions for all ages. Experience thrilling rides like the Winter Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jaws, Spider-Man, and Jurassic Park. For younger visitors, there are fun attractions featuring Sesame Street, Elmo, Moppy, and Hello Kitty. Don’t miss Nintendo World, where you can immerse yourself in the world of Mario, Luigi, and friends with interactive rides and experiences. It’s a must-visit destination for families traveling to Kyoto with kids!

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6 - Learn Japanese Crafts at Maikoya

A great activity for families and kids when traveling to Kyoto is learning a traditional Japanese craft or game. At Maikoya, you can experience a variety of fun and educational cultural activities. Start by learning Origami, a fun craft that also teaches kids in Japan the importance of time management. Next, a calligraphy expert will guide you through the art of Shodo, Japanese brush writing. The experience wraps up with Ken-dama, a classic Japanese game that's perfect for the whole family. Best of all, you’ll leave with unique souvenirs to remember your cultural adventure!

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7- Kyoto Railway Museum

The Kyoto Railway Museum is a great destination for train lovers of all ages. This museum offers plenty of attractions and hands-on activities, making it a fun experience for the whole family. Explore the driving simulator, check out the many exhibits, and learn about the history of Japan’s railways. It’s a fascinating and interactive way to discover the evolution of trains in Japan, making it a perfect addition to your Kyoto family trip.

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8- Kyoto Aquarium 

Opened in 2012, the Kyoto Aquarium is a fascinating destination that highlights the unique marine life of Kyoto’s waterways, along with a variety of saltwater animals. The aquarium features river biomes from Kyoto, vibrant coral reefs, exciting dolphin shows, penguins, fur seals, and the impressive Asian giant salamanders. It’s a great place for families to learn about the local aquatic life and enjoy fun, interactive exhibits.

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9- Hirakata Park 

Located between Osaka and Kyoto, Hirakata Park may not be as famous as Tokyo Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan, but it offers plenty of fun for the whole family. Opened in 1912, the park features a range of rides for all ages, from small kiddie attractions to thrilling roller coasters. Since it's a bit underrated, you’ll enjoy shorter lines, making it an excellent choice for families with kids who prefer avoiding long waits!

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10- Create Beautiful Wagashi Sweets at Maikoya Kyoto

Wagashi cooking at Maikoya Kyoto is a traditional Japanese art of making beautiful and delicious sweets. These treats are made with natural, seasonal ingredients and are designed to reflect the changing seasons. Perfect for families, Wagashi is not only a delight to taste but also a feast for the eyes, offering a unique cultural experience in Kyoto.

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FAQs For Your Kyoto Family Trip

• What are the top family-friendly activities in Kyoto?
  Kyoto offers plenty of activities for families, such as the Samurai Ninja Museum, Kimono Tea Ceremony at Maikoya, Kyoto Aquarium, and the Iwatayama Monkey Park. Families can also enjoy a visit at the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

• What is the best time to visit Kyoto with kids?
  The best time to visit Kyoto with kids is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the city's beautiful natural surroundings are in full bloom or vibrant with fall colors.

• Are there any outdoor activities in Kyoto for kids?
  Yes! Families can explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest or visit the Iwatayama Monkey Park. The Nara Deer Park is another fun outdoor activity where kids can interact with wild deer.

• What cultural experiences can kids enjoy in Kyoto?
  Kyoto offers a variety of cultural experiences for kids, including the chance to make traditional Wagashi sweets at Maikoya Kyoto. This hands-on activity allows children to create beautiful Japanese confections while learning about seasonal ingredients. Another great option is a calligraphy course (Shodo), where kids can try their hand at the art of Japanese brush writing, making it both a fun and educational cultural experience.

• How do I get to Universal Studios Japan from Kyoto?
  Universal Studios Japan is located in Osaka, about 30-45 minutes away from Kyoto by train. It's a convenient day trip for families looking for thrilling rides and attractions.