One of Japan’s liveliest and most vibrant cities, Osaka is known for its energetic atmosphere. To help you plan an exciting family trip to Japan in 2023, we’ve invited one of our writers, who has made Osaka her home, to share valuable travel tips and advice for parents traveling with children in the city.
Not only that, but she has also provided a 5-day Osaka itinerary that includes popular family-friendly attractions such as Universal Studios, the aquarium, the zoo, and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
The itinerary strikes a balance between indoor and outdoor activities, and you can expect firsthand insights and strategies for a fantastic experience. So, let’s follow in the footsteps of a local and get ready for an exciting adventure in Osaka!
(*Cover image provided by the interviewee)
A New Mom’s Guide to Osaka!
(Photo provided by the interviewee)
We interviewed Nini, a Taiwanese writer for LIVE JAPAN, who has lived in Japan for over eight years. She’s a new mom with a 2-year-old son. Nini initially came to Japan to study, and after graduating, she married an Osakan.
After living in Osaka for three years, she welcomed her child into the world. With the arrival of her little one, Nini now explores the familiar streets of Osaka with a fresh perspective. She is currently learning to travel and experience Osaka’s rich, vibrant charm with her son.
6 Tips for Family Travel in Osaka
1. Avoid Lengthy Trips
Beautiful Pink Butterflies at Osaka Maishima Seaside Park (Photo provided by the interviewee)
Nini: “To be honest, traveling with children can be exhausting. As a local, I find that 3 to 4 days of outdoor activities is the limit for me (laughs). Considering the energy levels of both parents and children, I recommend that tourists who are traveling with kids plan their trip for around 4 to 5 days, which strikes a good balance. Allocate three days for outdoor attractions and keep 1 to 2 days for a more relaxed and leisurely pace. This way, adults won’t feel overwhelmed and tired from all the fun.”
2. Prepare Snacks and Plan a Backup Itinerary
Nini: “It’s really heartwarming when children cooperate well at restaurants (laughs).” (Photo provided by the interviewee)
Many people might think bringing children to restaurants is as simple as ordering a kids’ meal. However, Nini suggests that parents should anticipate that children may not want to eat at the restaurant but suddenly feel hungry once they start sightseeing.
Nini advises, “It’s a good idea for parents to carry some bread or small snacks. If the child suddenly complains of hunger, you can take them to a park or any place with seating for a picnic.”
Nini also reminds parents to plan a backup option for outdoor attractions in case of unexpected rain. This ensures the trip won’t be dampened by sudden lousy weather and maintains a positive mood for the outing.
What to Do In Osaka When It’s Raining: 10 Fabulous Weather-Proof Tourist Hotspots
3. Ensure Sufficient Space and Mobility for Strollers
“Priority Space” inside a Japanese train. (Photo: PIXTA)
When trav…
