Planning a family trip to Japan? In this episode, Melissa shares honest insights from her family's 10-day Japan adventure with kids ages 8 and 11. She covers what worked, what didn't, and why Japan became one of their most memorable trips despite being the hardest to plan.

In this episode:

• Why you need to plan early
• Transportation strategy
• Kid-approved Japan activities
• Real talk about jet lag, language barriers, and managing expectations
• Why you can't see everything in one trip (and why that's okay)

Whether you're dreaming about Japan with kids or actively planning your itinerary, this episode gives you the realistic, practical guidance you need.

Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome to Family Travel Unpacked
02:31 Challenges of Planning a Japan Trip
08:46 Must-Try Activities and Experiences
13:00 Japanese Cuisine: A Culinary Adventure
15:02 The Realities of Traveling in Japan
20:12 Final Thoughts and Resources

Activities:

• Buy your Japan Rail Pass
• Tokyo cooking class
• teamLab Planets
• Tea ceremony

Japan planning resources:

• 9 Tips for Japan Travel You Can’t Afford To Miss
• Essential Japan Itinerary: 10 Days of Family-Friendly Travel (Plus Optional Extension)
• Best Things to do in Japan With Kids: A Kid’s Take
• What to Pack for Japan in Spring
• Things to do in Tokyo With Kids: Itinerary for 4 Days of Old and New
• The Best Hotels in Tokyo for Families
• Visiting Kyoto With Kids: 2+ Day Itinerary + Must-Read Travel Tips
• Best Family Hotels in Kyoto
• Pokemon Things to do in Japan

Don't miss this inspiring, practical travel with kids podcast hosted by family travel expert Melissa Conn, founder of The Family Voyage, certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, and mom of two who proves family travel is achievable for everyone.

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