Japan is one of the best destinations for family travel. Clean, safe, and full of amazing experiences. But choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time visiting. We paid $3126 CAD for 17 nights in Japan which averages out to $183 CAD per night for our family of five, and every place we chose helped keep our trip affordable, comfortable, and easy to navigate. Here are family-friendly places to stay in Japan and what I think other families should know before booking.
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To help plan your own trip, I’ve broken down what we paid, what each place included, and what’s nearby for families in each city!
One thing to know about Japan hotels:
A lot of accommodations in Japan don’t open their calendars until a few months before travel. Sometimes it’s 6 months out, sometimes it’s only 3. So if you’re planning a year ahead and can’t find availability… it’s not you! Dates just might not be released yet.
And just for context, our trip was in July 2024, so some prices may look a little different now. I share exactly what we paid so you can compare, but expect a bit of variation depending on season and demand.
Where to Stay in Tokyo With Kids: Asakusa – Hanakawado Area
Asakusa Family Apartment | 6-minute walk to Asakusa Station
Cost: $1142 CAD for 5 nights (family of five)
Closest Grocery: OK Store Asakusa (8-minute walk)
Check it out here: Asakusa-Hanakawado Apartment
If you’re visiting Japan with kids for the first time, Asakusa is a fantastic home base. The location is excellent. For our first stop in Japan, landing in the early evening and being very unsure of ourselves, we weren’t overwhelmed when we arrived. Although it is a popular area for tourists during the day because of Sensoji Temple, at night it’s a lot quieter.
The train dropped us off just a few blocks from the apartment, the station location is very convenient and there are a ton of restaurants in the area. There was a 7-11 right across the street from the apartment and we ate from there every morning (if that sounds odd, you haven’t been to a 7-11 in Japan!).
Check in was easy and straightforward. The apartment itself was small but not tiny. We had a kitchen, living area and bedroom with two queen size beds – on the floor, which is typical. The living room had two sofa beds. We even had a balcony which was a nice addition and our first step out on our balcony gave us a view of the Tokyo Skytree lit up at night! Our first evening we just walked to Sensoji Temple – about 5 minute and look at what we saw, see below, just breathtaking.
What We Loved About This Apartment
- Excellent location close to major sights
- Just a few blocks to the train station
- 7-Eleven right across the street
- Smooth and easy check-in
- A kitchen and living space so we weren’t crowded
- Two queen beds (floor style, which is common in Japan)
- A balcony with a night view of Tokyo Skytree
We stayed here for five nights and would absolutely choose it again.
Check prices and availability for this Asakusa family apartment
Things to Do Near This Apartment
You can easily fill a few days without ever needing to leave this neighborhood.
Sensoji Temple (5-minute walk)
You have GOT to make two visits here. One at night and one during the day. It is literally just around the block from the apartment. Nighttime is simply breathtaking and also much quieter, you can really take in the beauty. During the day visit the temple, try your luck at Omikuji, a written fortune you draw out of a metal box – your kids will have fun doing this. Bring cash because they might want to do it multiple times!
Nakamise Shopping Street (5-minute walk)
Tons of shopping, souvenirs, local snacks. Leads right up to Sensoji Temple. If you get there really early, like we did for our family photos – you can explore it without the crowds and see the beautiful paintings and murals on the store fronts.
Asakusa Hanayashiki Amusement Park (5-minute walk)
The oldest amusement park in Japan! We were so bummed we never made it here! We walked past it at night but it was closed already (closes at 6pm). Looks super fun for kids and only a 5 minute walk from the apartment!
Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Solamachi (20-minute walk)
Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world. Tokyo Solamachi is at the base of the tower is a large shopping, dining and entertainment complex. If you have a beer lover in your family you need to add the World Beer Museum to your list of dining spots to hit! We had our first sushi in Japan at Kura Sushi – a conveyor belt restaurant! Your kids will LOVE this and it’s VERY affordable!
Don Quijote (10-minute walk)
This is a discount chain store in Japan. They have EVERYTHING. If you forgot something, this is your place. Food, toiletries, luggage, toys, you name it and it’s only a 10 minute walk from the apartment.
Familiar Food Options (5–10 minutes)
Starbucks, McDonald’s, KFC, Denny’s, and of course 7-Eleven are nearby if you need something quick or familiar.
We didn’t come close to seeing everything this area offers. It’s a wonderful mix of convenience, culture, food, and calm evenings.
See updated prices and more photos of the apartment HERE.
Where to Stay in Nagoya With Kids: Grand Base Osu
Grand Base Osu | 15-minute walk to Fushimi Station
Cost: $448 CAD for 2 nights (family of five)
Closest Grocery: Amica Osu (7-minute walk)
Check it out here: Grand Base Osu
Grand Base Osu was more of a typical hotel, not an apartment, but we were only in Nagoya for 2 nights so we didn’t need a full kitchen. It did include a small fridge, microwave and kettle. The room had two double beds, one twin bed and a sofa – nice and spacious for our family of five. They even have Family Suites that sleep up to 8 if you have a big family!
The hotel was really nice and modern, very clean, they did have laundry facilities if you need them and if you want to try something fun, there is a sneaker washing machine at the laundromat next door. The location was spot on. Again, close to a convenience store for breakfast, this time Lawson’s (very similar to 7-11). But actually we discovered the most AMAZING bakery just a 6 minute walk from the hotel. Osu Bakery had the most delicious selection of baked goods – my mouth is watering just thinking about it!
What We Loved About Grand Base Osu
- Spacious room layout with two double beds, one twin bed, and a sofa
- Modern design and very clean
- Small fridge, microwave, and kettle included
- Laundry facilities available
- Family suites that sleep up to 8 for larger families
- Lawson convenience store nearby for quick breakfasts
- Incredible bakery (Osu Bakery) just a 6-minute walk away
This was an easy and comfortable stay for our family, especially given we were only there for 2 days!
Check prices and availability for Grand Base Osu HERE.
Things to Do Within Walking Distance
There is a lot to explore in this area, especially if you enjoy shopping, history, and hands-on attractions.
Osu Shotengai Shopping Street (6-minute walk)
Just a 6 minute walk from the hotel, this is a huge shopping area. If you have someone in your family that loves thrifting and vintage clothing they’re going to LOVE this area. My teenage son couldn’t get enough of all the vintage stores and found some treasures for himself. We had caricatures drawn of the kids here. Something I’ve always wanted to do and it’s well worth it (about $75 CAD for all 3 kids)! Try it at Caricature Japan.
Nagoya City Science Museum (8-minute walk)
We only paid about $16CAD for the five of us. It’s a really large museum, tons to see and very interactive.
Shirakawa Park (8-minute walk)
A large park surrounding the Science Museum, great for wandering with a coffee or enjoying a simple lunch outdoors.
Samurai Museum Nagoya Touken World (3-minute walk)
We didn’t have time to go, but reviews are great.
Admission is reasonably priced and it’s extremely close to the hotel.
Where We Ate Nearby
- Shinpachi Shokudo Osu Kannon Ekimae – We had a really delicious lunch here, only 7 minutes from the hotel. A simple grilled salmon with rice and miso soup but I still remember it today! Lunch sets were only $8-$9CAD.
- Gorakutei – Another great meal and just down the block from our hotel. We had Katsu-don, pork cutlet with onions and egg served over rice and wow, it was SO good and SO filling! Real comfort food! Only about $10CAD.
Grand Base Osu is a solid choice for families visiting Nagoya. Good space, easy amenities, and plenty to do right outside the door.
See updated prices and more photos of Grand Base Osu.
Where to Stay in Kyoto With Kids: Ben’s Guesthouse Kyoto
Ben’s Guesthouse Kyoto | 12-minute walk to Kitano Hakubai-Cho Station
Cost: $475 CAD for 3 nights (family of five)
Closest Grocery: Mesa Kitano (2-minute walk)
Check it out here: Ben’s Guesthouse Kyoto
Ben’s Guesthouse are more apartment-style accommodations. It had a small kitchen, bathroom, washing machine and balcony. The bedroom had 2 double beds and 1 single bed. I’m not going to lie, it was tight. If you bring more than carry-on luggage I wouldn’t recommend it. But the price was right at only $158CAD/night, especially in Kyoto. If you’re on a small budget, it’s clean, there’s enough beds for five (depending on how many are in your family) and it has a kitchen if you want to make any meals at home.
There is a 7-11 a 6 minute walk away. At this point in the trip I am fully invested in my daily latte and egg salad sandwich as breakfast (trust me, you’re going to want to try this). There is also a McDonald’s a 5 minute walk down the road – yes, I give you permission to get McDonald’s in Japan. Sometimes we just need a BIG coffee and egg mcmuffin don’t we? Luminare is a nice bakery down the road as well. Good for breakfast but doesn’t open until 8am so if you’re an early bird that might be too late. We didn’t make it here but ALOHADAYS Cafe & Stay looks like a fun Hawaiian-themed pancake place that would be really kid-friendly and it’s just a 7 minute walk from the apartment.
Check prices and availability for Ben’s Guesthouse Kyoto HERE.
What’s Nearby (Walkable)
We used transit for most major sights in Kyoto, but here are a few walkable options worth mentioning:
Kyoto Imperial Palace (30-minute walk)
Free admission and a great place for a stroller-friendly wander.
There’s also a playground at the north end if your kids need some play time.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (6-minute walk)
On the 25th of each month, the shrine hosts a lively flea market with antiques, crafts, toys, and great street food.
Kamishichiken Kabukai (nearby)
A small theatre offering traditional Geisha performances in an intimate setting.
For families who want a budget-friendly spot with everything you really need, this is a solid option. As long as you’re okay with the space being tight, it’s a great home base.
See updated prices and more photos of Ben’s Guesthouse Kyoto HERE.
Where to Stay in Hiroshima With Kids: Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi Minami
Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi Minami | 5-minute walk to Hiroshima Station
Cost: $398 CAD for 2 nights (family of five – two rooms)
Closest Grocery: Food Grand Nichie EKI CITY Hiroshimaten (5-minute walk across the river)
Check it out here: Toyoko Inn Hiroshima
Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi Minami. You’re really in the center of everything with this hotel. The hotel doesn’t sleep five so we had to book a twin room and a double room. I don’t mind doing this once in awhile during a trip as long as it’s not for too long. In this case for 2 nights it was fine. And let’s be honest, a little separation always makes the heart grow fonder doesn’t it?!
The rooms were basic hotel rooms (remember we have 2 rooms, so basically each room is only $100/night). They had a small fridge but no cooking facilities. However the hotel did include a free breakfast. I got the impression this hotel was for Japanese business people, it wasn’t catering to tourists which is completely fine but just keep that in mind for your breakfast expectations. Where do we go if we want a nice, big coffee and….an egg salad sandwich? That’s right, 7-11, now you’re catching on! 😉 There’s one just 2 minutes down the street.
Check prices and availability for Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi Minami HERE.
What’s Nearby (Walking Distance)
We chose this hotel for its transit access and walkable sightseeing. Hiroshima is best experienced slowly, and many major sites can be reached on foot.
Atomic Bomb Dome (30-minute walk)
You could take transit, but the walk allows you to take in the city.
This site is powerful, emotional, and important to see. Our kids (ages 10, 13, and 16) understood the significance and handled it well, but every family will differ.
Peace Memorial Park (30-minute walk)
Just across the river from the Dome. A beautiful and reflective space dedicated to remembrance and peace.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (30-minute walk)
Be mindful of what your children are ready to see. The museum includes graphic history, but the message is one of peace and education. It is an impactful and well-done experience.
Hiroshima Castle (23-minute walk)
We passed by at night, but if you visit during the day the interior is open 9–5. Admission is affordable, and kids are free.
Hondōri Shopping Street (25-minute walk)
Large covered pedestrian shopping area with restaurants and shops. A great place to explore after visiting the major memorial sites.
Where to Eat Nearby
Hiroshimaakayakien Ekinishi Honten – Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki cooked in front of you. Delicious and a fun experience for kids.
Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi Minami is a solid budget-friendly option for families who want to be near Hiroshima Station and within walking distance of the city’s most important historic sites.
See updated prices and more photos of Toyoko Inn Hiroshima Ekimae Ohashi Minami HERE.
Where to Stay in Osaka With Kids: Gallery Compass
Gallery Compass | Short walk to Yaenosato Station
Cost: $545 CAD for 4 nights (family of five)
Closest Grocery: Life Yaenosato (7-minute walk; large and well stocked)
Check it out here: Gallery Compass
Gallery Compass was our most spacious accommodation on the trip. We had a good sized kitchen, balcony, bedroom with a double bed (off the floor) and a living room that doubled as the kids’ sleeping room that had 3 futon beds to lay out on the floor. The kitchen was well equipped with everything you’d need and it had a washing machine and dryer. The area was quiet, more residential but the train station is very close. To get from Yaenosato Station to the main area, it’s about a 20 min train ride.
The big plus at this accommodation were the hosts. Very lovely people, always happy to chat (with the help of Google Translate!) and make recommendations. The main floor is an art gallery and for the included breakfast, you’re set up to dine in the art gallery.
Check prices and availability for Gallery Compass HERE.
What’s Nearby
You won’t find tourist attractions right outside your door here, and that was actually part of the charm for us. We took the train to the big Osaka highlights, but coming “home” to this quieter neighbourhood was such a nice change from the busier spots earlier in the trip.
We really enjoyed just walking around and soaking up regular life in Japan – tiny cars, neat gardens, kids heading to school, people grabbing groceries after work. It felt relaxed, safe and super local.
If you’re looking for more space and a slower pace, and want to see a side of Osaka most tourists don’t, Gallery Compass is a great choice.
See updated prices and more photos of Gallery Compass HERE.
Where to Stay Near Narita Airport: HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Narita
HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Narita | Free airport shuttle
Cost: $188 CAD for 1 night (family of five)
Best For: Last-night stay before flying home
Check it out here: Hotel Mystays Premier Narita
Since Tokyo’s main international airport is actually in Narita, not Tokyo, we chose to stay close by for our final night in Japan. HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Narita is a large and efficient airport hotel that made our departure day incredibly smooth.
The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the hotel has a few great perks for traveling families: a pool for one last splash before the long flight home, a free airport shuttle, and even a small convenience store inside the hotel for easy snacks and breakfast.
There isn’t much within walking distance, but the hotel also runs a free shuttle to a nearby mall, which was perfect for picking up a few last-minute souvenirs and snacks to take home.
Check prices and availability for HOTEL MYSTAYS PREMIER Narita HERE.
I know how overwhelming travel planning can be when you’re trying to keep everyone happy and stay on budget. Hopefully these recommendations give you a solid head start for your Japan family accommodation. Be sure to check out my full Japan itinerary to help you map out your days.
Feeling inspired to start planning? Let’s do it!
My Family Japan Guide is coming soon with:
✔ Daily itineraries
✔ Booking timelines
✔ Affordable places to stay
✔ Meals your kids will love
✔ Budget tips that saved us money
✔ Printable checklistsJoin the waitlist + get the Japan Day One Survival Guide free!
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exploring:
Love your info. How come your price is so much lower than hotel.com?
Thanks Carlos! We went July 2024 so the prices may have increased since then. Also, it depends on the time of year you’re going. Many Japanese guesthouses and hotels don’t open their bookings until 3-4 months out so you may not be able to see your preferred dates yet. I would suggest also checking other booking sites for the same places, sometimes you’ll find a better price for the exact same place. Hope that helps!