Planning a family vacation to Japan? You’re in for a treat! Japan happens to be one of the safest countries in the world, is easily navigable, and offers a variety of family-fun activities. Whether you are seeking introduction to another culture or enjoying modern attractions, Japan has something to offer for everyone in the family. Parents may want to visit historic temples, lively festivals, and lush gardens, while children will look forward to Japan’s majestic castles, theme parks, and snow monkeys. Listed below are family-friendly places to visit in Japan, so you can begin planning the perfect family trip.

Japan is an amazing country with rich culture and history. Museums are highly recommended for families eager to learn another country’s background and traditions. They are also great exposure for people fascinated in modern technologies, science, space, and other special interests. Both children and adults alike will enjoy the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum, the National Museum of Emerging Science, the Miho Museum, the Ghibli Museum, and the Edo-Tokyo Museum.

Lovers of animals and the sea will enjoy Japan’s spectacular aquariums. Since Japan is an island country, its culture and history will always be tied to the ocean. One of the best aquariums in Japan is the Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa. Other spectacular and popular aquariums include the Aquamarine Fukushima in Iwaki, the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan in Osaka, and Marine World Uminonakamichi in Fukuoka.

Japan holds world-famous brand name amusement parks, such as Universal Studious, as well as theme parks unique to only its country. One of the most sought-after theme parks in Japan is of course, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea, home to wondrous attractions and character-shaped foods that Japan is renowned for. Since ninjas and samurai are iconic in Japan, Nikko Edomura (Edo Wonderland) is a perfect way for families to explore historically based attractions, dress up in costumes, and watch live-action shows. Hello Kitty fans will love the indoor theme park Sanrio Puroland.

Festivals take place all over Japan during every season. This is a great way for families to indulge in Japanese culture while introducing a new experience to the young ones. Depending on the event, many festivals in Japan consist of delicious street food, traditional music performances, and ornately decorated floats. Check out the illuminated Sapporo Snow Festival in winter, the stunning Takayama Sanno Festival in spring, the colorful Nebuta Matsuri during summer, and the historical Jidai Matsuri in the autumn season.

When the average person thinks of castles, they may immediately think of European medieval-style castles. However, Japan happens to be home to several impressive castles that are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Be sure to visit the elegant Himeji Castle, an original-standing structure and a perfect example of traditional Japanese castle architecture. Kids will love to visit the former residences of high ranking samurai warriors and war lords. Other magnificent castles include the Matsumoto Castle (Crow Castle), the Osaka Castle, and the Hirosaki Castle.

The whole family will love the unique experience of meeting Japan’s famous snow monkeys. These onsen-bathing monkeys, Japanese Macaques to be exact, are found at the Jigokudani Monkey Park located deep into the forest. They are accustomed to humans, allowing a special close-up experience. The park is best visited during the colder seasons, where a snowy backdrop makes for an excellent photo-taking opportunity.