From February 25th through March 8th, 2026, our family of three set off on an unforgettable adventure across Japan, exploring the vibrant streets of Tokyo, the historic charm of Kyoto, and the incredible food scene of Osaka.

This trip was especially meaningful because it marked both Jenny's and Lany's very first time in Asia. Experiencing Japan through the eyes of a curious toddler made every moment feel even more magical, from riding trains and wandering through centuries-old temples to discovering hidden alleyways filled with delicious food and soaking in the country's unique blend of tradition and innovation.

We spent our days eating some of the best meals we've ever had, sipping incredible coffee and cocktails, getting lost in colorful neighborhoods, and immersing ourselves in a culture that left us constantly inspired. Whether it was watching Lany marvel at the neon lights of Tokyo, strolling through Kyoto's peaceful gardens, or indulging in Osaka's famous street food, every city offered something unforgettable.

Japan exceeded every expectation we had, and before we even boarded our flight home, we were already talking about when we could return.

If you're considering a family trip to Japan, or simply want a glimpse into what it's really like traveling there with a toddler, keep reading below. We'll share our favorite experiences, must-visit spots, travel tips, memorable meals, and the moments that made this one of our favorite trips yet.

🏨 Where we Stayed

Tokyo—Airbnb: A charming and cozy apartment that had everything our family needed for our stay in Tokyo. Located in the Ueno area, it was quiet, peaceful, and conveniently located near transit, making it the perfect home base for exploring the city. We would definitely stay here again. ✨

Osaka—Conrad: We opted for a five-star luxury skyscraper hotel in Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan. We used our credit card points and would do it all over.

🍽️ Where to Eat / Drink

TOKYO

Hikiniku to Come Shibuya: a popular Tokyo restaurant specializing in freshly charcoal-grilled Japanese beef hamburger patties (hambagu) served with freshly cooked rice (make reservations online ahead of time!)

Lawsons/7-ELEVEN/Convenience stores: Make out of this world healthy smoothies in minutes (went viral), the gel packs for immunity and picking up egg sandos. and snacks on the run

Coco Curry Ichibanya: A comfort staple for us, it’s a famous Japanese restaurant chain that specializes in customizable Japanese-style curry rice

Lucent Coffee: is a sleek, minimalist specialty coffee shop and roastery located in the Kuramae neighborhood of Tokyo

Taste the World: if you’re craving some food other than Japanese food

Ramen Kai: Seafood broth based ramen, the noodles were perfection and it was a flavor bomb

Chigaya Bakery: a charming, storybook-style neighborhood bakery famous for its freshly made, fluffy American-style doughnuts and nostalgic ambiance

Binzou Pancakes: arguably the most famous, viral, ultra-fluffy soufflé pancake shop in Tokyo (make sure to get there early in the morning to grab a place in line, they will had you a ticket and reservation time based on availability)

Suke6 Diner: Cute and delish brekkie spot in the Asakusa neighborhood of Taito

Ninoya: Dinner spot offering seasonal dishes and 9 course options in Shinjuku

KYOTO

MOTOI Gyoza Popular gyoza spot near the Karasuma area of Kyoto, Japan

Nishiki Market: a narrow, five-block-long shopping street in downtown Kyoto known as "Kyoto's Kitchen," featuring over 130 stalls and shops selling local food, seafood, and cookware. If you are brave, try Fugu a potentially poisnious pufferfish if not prepared properly.

Gyukatsu Motomura: a famous Japanese restaurant chain specializing in breaded and deep-fried beef cutlets served rare with a personal stone grill

OSAKA

Ichiran Namba Midosuji branch: This location offers a 100% pork-free ramen option in Osaka, we highly recommend it if you don’t eat pork

🎟️ What to Do

Tokyo

Go to Senso ji temple, it’s the oldest temple in Tokyo
Explore Tsukiji Nippon Fish Market
Venture around Ginza, Harajuku, a great neighborhood with tons to do
Take the metro as often as possible, easy to top off a digital metro card
Take the bullet train from Tokyo to Kyoto > Oaska (apparently called the Golden Route). Grab a bento box before you board!
If you like beauty products and random things to buy go to Don Quijote!!!
Check out all the vending machines, each one is different and you’ll never know what you’ll find
Go to all the parks, so many around
If you like photography, check out the viral, highly photographed fish shop in Tokyo with glowing warm lantern and neon lights at night at Uonami Fish Bar in Shiinamachi
Try Takoyaki it’s the most famous ball-shaped food in Japan, featuring crispy savory batter on the outside and tender octopus inside

Kyoto

Go to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, Japan is a famous, 500-meter scenic pathway winding through towering stalks of mōsō bamboo then walk around the neighborhood, so much to see
Otagiji Nenbutsuji Temple a quiet Tendai Buddhist temple famous for its collection of 1,200 unique, moss-covered stone statues
Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine shrine, renowned for its thousands of vibrant vermilion torii gates

Osaka

Dotonbori is Osaka's most famous entertainment and street food district, running alongside the Dotonbori Canal in the Namba/Minami area definitely check this area out
Tamade Supermarket is a famous, highly eccentric discount supermarket chain found exclusively in the Osaka region of Japan

🎥 JetSet Film—Coming soon!

💡 Jet Set Tip

"Keep a bag with you to throw your trash—there’s no trashcans on the street to keep Japan clean. Also, keep a coin purse with you as you’ll want some cash/coins on you at all times in case you want to do some shopping or grab a drink on the run."