Yes, this is a train travel blog. And yes, I’m about to recommend a bus. When it comes to travelling from Narita Airport to central Tokyo, most visitors immediately think of the Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner. Both are excellent, but there is another option that can be much cheaper if you are heading toward … Read more
One of the best parts of travelling by train in Japan is eating an ekiben — a boxed meal made especially for railway journeys. Ekiben are sold at major stations, inside station shopping areas, and sometimes on station platforms. Many feature local ingredients and regional specialties, so they are more than just a convenient meal … Read more
Japan is not always a cheap destination, but travelling around the country can cost far less than many visitors expect. With a little planning, you can reduce the cost of trains, accommodation, meals, luggage, attractions, and everyday purchases without sacrificing the experiences that make a Japan trip special. The biggest savings usually come from making … Read more
Miyajima may be best known for Itsukushima Shrine and its famous floating torii gate, but food is another big part of the experience. The island has several specialties that are well worth planning into your visit rather than simply grabbing whatever is convenient. The three foods I would prioritize are anago-meshi, Hiroshima oysters, and momiji … Read more
Traveling around Japan by train with children and large suitcases is completely possible, but families benefit from planning their luggage more carefully than solo travelers. The difficulty is rarely getting a suitcase onto a train. It is managing children, strollers, elevators, ticket gates, station transfers and several bags at the same time. Quick Answer: Can … Read more
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