Family-Friendly Destinations for Design-Loving Parents
Japan offers a wealth of destinations where art, architecture, and nature come together–for design-loving families, some areas are better than others. From art islands like Naoshima and Teshima, where large-scale works are blended with the natural landscape, to historic towns like Kanazawa, where traditional gardens are seen next to contemporary art. Many areas feature interactive museums, large-scale sculptures, and minimalist luxury retreats, all while enjoying accessible and inspiring design. Here are some of the best spots in Japan to experience art and architecture with the whole family.
Naoshima & Teshima, Kagawa & Okayama
Benesse House and surrounding Museums, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, blur the lines between art, nature, and living spaces. These museums offer a chance to experience art in a natural setting, making them particularly engaging for families. Outdoors, you can explore Yayoi Kusama’s iconic Yellow Pumpkin sculpture and other pieces scattered across the islands. The Teshima Art Museum, designed by Ryue Nishizawa, is a striking dome-shaped building where water droplets gracefully move across the floor, creating a serene and immersive sensory experience for visitors.
Related Post: The Best Destinations for Families and Kids in Japan.
Kanazawa, Ishikawa
In Kanazawa, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art stands out as a family favourite with interactive exhibits like Leandro Erlich’s “Swimming Pool,” where kids can experience the illusion of being underwater. Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most famous gardens, features numerous routes and hidden areas just waiting to be found. Kids can enjoy the exploration, adults will appreciate the intricate design of a traditional Japanese garden. Afterwards, visit Kintsuba Nakata Ya, a traditional Japanese confectionary shop of over 80 years in the Higashi Chaya District. Here you can try some traditional Noto Dainagon azuki bean confectionaries, before visiting another popular traditional wooden Japanese teahouse. Finally, pop into Hakuichi Higashiyama Store for a souvenir to remember your time.
Kamakura, Kanagawa
Kamakura, just a short train ride from Tokyo, offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and design for families. Residing on ‘Kannon-zan’ mountain, Hasedera Temple is an impeccable example of ancient Japanese architecture, with stunning views over Kamakura city. On the other side of the city, the Kamakura Museum of Modern Art, housed in minimalist architecture, offers constantly rotating exhibits. After lunch, head to the beach where the whole family can surf, paddle board, wakeboard, and sea kayak.
Hakone, Kanagawa
Slightly further than Kamakura but equally as accessible, Hakone is the ideal area to put on your design itinerary if you’re travelling with kids. The Hakone Open-Air Museum features works by Picasso alongside design by Bukichi Inoue–expansive glass walls and open spaces. For kids, the Woods of Net and Symphonic Sculpture areas combine hands-on experiences with unique design aspects and are a definite ‘must-visit’ of the area. For a more active experience, take the Hakone Ropeway or visit Owakudani Valley, the area around a crater made during the last eruptions of Mount Hakone over 3000 years ago.
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Karuizawa, Nagano
Just an hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen, Karuizawa blends modern design with nature, making it an ideal escape for families. The Hiroshi Senju Museum, designed by Ryue Nishizawa, features over 100 works by the artist flanked by glass walls that dissolve the boundary between art and forest. Nearby, the Stone Church by Kendrick Kellogg, built in 1988, is a blend of stone and light, offering a quiet contrast to the area’s modern resorts. Finally, the Karuizawa Picture Book Museum provides a tactile, interactive experience for younger visitors, while Harunire Terrace, with its riverside cafés and boutiques, makes for a relaxed afternoon stop for every one.
Takasaki, Gunma
Takasaki is renowned as the birthplace of the Daruma doll, a symbol of good luck and perseverance. Families can visit the Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple, founded in 1697 to learn about the history and craftsmanship behind these iconic figures. A visit to the area wouldn’t be complete without viewing the towering Byakue Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) statue. Climb her 147 steps and you’ll be provided panoramic views of Takasaki and surrounding landscapes. For a touch of contemporary design, the Takasaki City Gallery offers rotating art exhibitions over 7 rooms inside a modern brutalist structure. After exploring, families can relax at the Takasaki Kannonyama Family Park, which features playgrounds, large areas of green fields, and walking trails.
Asakusa, Tokyo
With direct subway links from Haneda, Asakusa, Tokyo's historic district, offers a blend of traditional culture and modern attractions, making it a highly accessible destination for families, especially those with an appreciation for design. The iconic Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, welcomes visitors with its majestic architecture and the bustling Nakamise Shopping Street, where families can explore traditional crafts and street food. For a unique experience, Asakusa Hanayashiki, Japan's oldest amusement park, has a nostalgic atmosphere with rides suitable for those old and young. The Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center, designed by Kengo Kuma, is housed in a contemporary building of timber and glass – one of the most visually impressive structures in the area. Conclude your day with a Sumida River cruise, offering panoramic views of Tokyo's illuminated skyline and the historic Asakusa district.
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Tips & Tricks for Travelling as a Family
Involve Your Children in Planning - Engage your kids in the trip planning process to boost their excitement and ensure the itinerary includes activities they'll enjoy. There are bound to be areas in which you can combine your interests for a family-friendly itinerary.
Don’t Be Afraid of Public Transport - Japanese transport is second to none, and a great choice if you’re travelling as a family. Do your best to avoid rush hour, limit transport on the weekends, and keep in mind public holidays.
Choose Family-Friendly Accommodations - Select accommodations that cater to families, such as those offering kitchen facilities, laundry services, and child-friendly amenities. There are an abundance of hotels and Airbnb across the country that will fit these needs.
Prepare for Downtime - It’s no surprise that travelling across Japan can be tiring, even more so with a bigger family. Incorporate rest periods into your itinerary to prevent burnout and give you and the kids some time to recharge.
Pack Essential Items - Bring along comfort items like their favourite konbini snacks, toys, or blankets to help children feel secure and content during travel. Anything you can bring to help reduce stress during periods of travel will make for an overall better holiday experience for everyone.
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