Why Tabinoko Exists
Planning a trip to Japan with kids sounds exciting — and it is. But it also comes with a lot of questions.
Which neighborhoods are stroller-friendly? Which shinkansen seats work best for families? What do you do when your toddler melts down at a temple gate?
Tabinoko was created to answer exactly those questions.
I cover Japan travel specifically through the lens of families with children — practical guides, honest recommendations, and the kind of insider tips you only learn from actually being here.
Who I Am
I’m Tabinoko Papa — a dad of twins based in Tokyo.
I write from experience, not just research. I know what it’s like to navigate Tokyo with a stroller, to hunt for high chairs at restaurants, and to find that one playground that makes the whole afternoon magical.
My goal is simple: to help your family make memories in Japan without the stress of figuring it all out alone.
What You’ll Find Here
Tabinoko is organized around the full journey of a family trip to Japan:
Planning — Itineraries, budgeting, what to pack, and how to prepare before you arrive.
Getting Around — Trains, buses, IC cards, renting strollers, and navigating Japan’s transport system with kids in tow.
Fun & Experiences — Theme parks, kid-friendly temples, nature spots, and activities your children will actually love.
Stay — Family-friendly hotels, ryokan with kids, and what to look for when booking accommodation.
Eat — Where to eat with children, allergy considerations, convenience store snacks, and how to handle picky eaters in Japan.
Our Approach to Information
I rely on firsthand experience, official Japanese sources, and real local knowledge — not just what’s already floating around in English on the internet.
When something changes (and in Japan, things sometimes do), I update the articles. If you spot something that’s out of date, please let me know via the Contact page.
I hope Tabinoko becomes your go-to guide for every trip to Japan — not just the first one.
— Tabinoko Papa