Josh

Traveling Japan by train with a stroller is very manageable, but it becomes much easier when you know what to expect at stations, on local trains and on the Shinkansen. Most families do not need to avoid bringing a stroller. The bigger challenge is usually navigating crowded stations, elevators, narrow spaces and luggage at the … Read more

Reserving train seats as a family in Japan is usually straightforward, but it becomes more important when you want several seats together, are traveling with young children or are visiting during a busy holiday period. On many Shinkansen and Limited Express trains, you can reserve specific seats in advance. For families, this can remove a … Read more

One of the most useful money-saving rules for families traveling Japan by train is that children ages 0–5 can often ride JR trains for free. However, “free” does not mean that every child under 6 automatically receives their own seat. The rules depend on the child’s age, how many young children are traveling with each … Read more

Traveling around Japan by train with children is easier than many families expect. Shinkansen are spacious and reliable, major stations have useful family facilities, and Japan’s rail network makes it possible to travel between cities without renting a car. However, family train travel becomes much easier when you understand a few important rules in advance … Read more

Japan is a rewarding destination at almost any time of year, but some travel periods are much more challenging than others. Major Japanese holidays can mean crowded Shinkansen, expensive hotels and fully booked attractions, while summer heat, rainy season and typhoons can make sightseeing less comfortable or disrupt travel plans. The “worst” time to visit … Read more