Discover Kyoto with Kids: Top Family-Friendly Attractions

Kyoto might be famous for its serene temples and zen gardens, but who says kids can’t have fun in this ancient city? Forget the typical adult sightseeing agenda; Kyoto is brimming with exciting spots that will keep the little ones entertained and maybe even sneak in some learning (shhh, don’t tell them that part).

Attractions

• Kyoto Railway Museum: All aboard! If your kids are fans of Thomas the Tank Engine or just love anything that goes ‘choo choo,’ this place is a dream come true. Explore everything from massive steam engines to futuristic shinkansen (bullet trains). There’s even a driving simulator where your little conductors can take the wheel—just make sure you hold on tight! Plan to spend around 2-3 hours here.

• Kyoto Zoo: Not the biggest zoo in the world, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. With pandas that might just out-cute your kids and a petting area where they can cuddle bunnies and chicks, it’s a great way to spend a few hours. Plus, it’s a perfect spot to practice your animal names in Japanese—how do you say ‘red panda’ again? Spend about 1-2 hours here.

• Toei Kyoto Studio Park: Ever wanted to be a samurai or a ninja? This theme park-slash-movie set lets your kids (and let’s be honest, probably you too) dress up in full costume and wander around Edo-period Japan. With live-action shows, ninja star throwing, and sword fighting lessons, it’s basically like stepping into your favorite Japanese action movie. Plan for 2-3 hours.

• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove & Monkey Park Iwatayama: A stroll through towering bamboo and a trek up to meet the cheekiest monkeys in Kyoto—it’s like a nature hike and a mini zoo all in one! Just keep an eye on your snacks; these monkeys are known for their grab-and-go tactics that put airport thieves to shame. Expect to spend around 2-3 hours here.

Tips for Families

• Best times to visit: Mornings tend to be less crowded, especially on weekdays. Arrive early to beat the rush, especially at popular spots like Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

• Stroller accessibility: Many places, like the Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto Zoo, are stroller-friendly. However, attractions like Monkey Park Iwatayama and some temples involve steep paths or steps, so it’s a good idea to bring a baby carrier.

• Baby-changing facilities: You can find baby-changing areas at most major attractions, but it’s always a good idea to ask the staff when in doubt.

• Snack breaks: Kyoto has a variety of kid-friendly cafes with everything from fluffy pancakes to cute bento boxes, perfect for a quick snack break.

Mini Itineraries

Mini Itinerary 1: Cultural Exploration

• Morning: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine early in the morning. Spend about 1.5-2 hours exploring the torii gates.

• Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a nearby family-friendly restaurant offering Japanese dishes like tempura or udon.

• Afternoon: Head to Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) for stunning views and serene gardens. Spend about 1-2 hours wandering the grounds.

Mini Itinerary 2: Wildlife & Nature

• Morning: Take a trip to Nara Park. Feed the deer and visit Todai-ji Temple. Plan to spend 2-3 hours.

• Lunch: Stop by a family-friendly restaurant in Nara before heading back to Kyoto.

• Afternoon: Visit the Kyoto Zoo for some relaxed animal watching. Spend about 1-2 hours here.

Mini Itinerary 3: Adventure Day

• Morning: Start with Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Monkey Park Iwatayama. Expect to spend about 2-3 hours.

• Lunch: Enjoy a riverside meal in Arashiyama.

• Afternoon: Head to the Kyoto Railway Museum and spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits and simulators.

Family-Friendly Restaurants:

• Isetan Kyoto Station: A family-friendly dining hub with a variety of options like ramen, sushi, and tempura.

• Arashiyama Rilakkuma Tea House: A cute, character-themed café near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, perfect for little Rilakkuma fans.

• Kissho Caramel Parfait & Café: Close to Kinkaku-ji, this café offers delightful caramel treats and pancakes that kids will love.

• Nara’s Deer Café: Overlooking Nara Park, this café offers light meals and sweets in a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families visiting Nara.

So, whether your little ones are aspiring ninjas, animal lovers, or future train conductors, Kyoto has something for every kid (and kid at heart). From interactive museums to scenic hikes with monkeys, Kyoto’s blend of fun and culture makes it an ideal family destination. Ready to explore Kyoto with your crew? Pack those cameras, curiosity, and a sense of adventure—Kyoto is waiting to show your family an unforgettable time!

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Kyoto with kids?

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal times to visit due to pleasant weather. Early mornings are the best to avoid crowds at major attractions.

Are the attractions in Kyoto stroller-friendly?

Many attractions, like the Kyoto Railway Museum and Kyoto Zoo, are stroller-friendly with wide paths and elevators. However, places like Monkey Park Iwatayama and some temples have steep paths, so bringing a baby carrier might be more convenient.

How long should we plan to spend at each attraction?

On average, plan to spend 2-3 hours at major attractions like the Kyoto Railway Museum, Toei Studio Park, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Temples like Kinkaku-ji typically take 1-2 hours, while Nara Park could take 2-3 hours, especially if visiting Todai-ji Temple.

Is breastfeeding in public accepted in Japan?

While breastfeeding is not illegal in Japan, it is generally considered more discreet to do so in designated nursing rooms, which can be found in most large shopping centers, train stations, and family-friendly attractions. It’s advisable to bring a nursing cover if you prefer to breastfeed in public.

How can I communicate about food allergies in Japanese?

If your child has food allergies, it’s useful to know the phrase “アレルギーがあります” (Arerugī ga arimasu), which means “I have an allergy.” You can specify the allergen, such as peanuts (ピーナッツ, pīnattsu), eggs (卵, tamago), or dairy (乳製品, nyūseihin). It may also help to carry a card listing the allergies in Japanese to show at restaurants.