Complete Guide to Traveling Japan by Train With Kids

Is Japan Train Travel Suitable for Families?

Yes — and in many ways, it’s better than driving or flying domestically.

Japan’s trains are:

• Extremely safe and reliable

• Clean and well maintained

• Clearly signed (often in English)

• Staffed by helpful attendants

Families benefit from predictable schedules, smooth rides, and stations equipped with elevators, restrooms, and convenience stores. Children are welcome on trains, and while Japanese culture values quietness, parents are not expected to keep kids perfectly silent.

The key is understanding when and how to use trains with children — which this guide covers step by step.

Best Types of Trains for Families in Japan

Not all trains are equal when traveling with kids. Choosing the right type makes a big difference.

Shinkansen (Bullet Trains)

The Shinkansen is the best option for families traveling between cities.

Why families love it:

• Spacious seats

• Smooth, quiet rides

• Clean restrooms

• Food carts and station bento boxes

Children can sit comfortably, nap easily, and enjoy the experience. Seat reservations are strongly recommended for families.

Limited Express Trains

These connect cities and tourist areas. They’re comfortable and suitable for families, but often require seat reservations or limited express fees.

Local & Rapid Trains

These are useful for short distances but can be crowded during rush hour. Families should avoid them during weekday mornings and evenings.

Seat Reservations for Families — When You Should Book

Seat reservations are one of the most important considerations when traveling Japan by train with kids. If you’re new to Japanese trains, you may also want to read my detailed guide on the Japan Rail Pass and seat reservations for families.

Families should strongly consider reserving seats when:

• Traveling on the Shinkansen

• Traveling during peak seasons (spring, summer holidays, autumn)

• Traveling with more than one child

Reserved seats ensure your family sits together and avoids the stress of searching for seats while juggling luggage and children. While unreserved cars are cheaper, they can be risky for families during busy periods.

Green Cars (first class) offer more space and comfort, but they’re optional rather than necessary.

Traveling Japan by Train With Babies & Toddlers

Japan is surprisingly baby‑friendly.

Helpful features include:

• Priority seating areas

• Nursing rooms in major stations

• Clean restrooms with changing tables

Babies do not require tickets if they sit on a parent’s lap. Strollers are common, and parents are not judged for traveling with infants.

Try to plan rides during quieter hours so babies can nap comfortably. If you’re traveling with very young children, you may also find this guide helpful: Read this before traveling to Japan with a child under 6.

Using Strollers on Japanese Trains

Strollers are allowed on all trains, but knowing how to use them properly makes travel easier.

Key tips:

• Fold strollers during busy times

• Use elevators (available in most major stations)

• Board near the ends of cars for more space

Lightweight, foldable strollers work best. During off‑peak hours, unfolded strollers are generally accepted without issue.

Traveling With Large Luggage and Kids

Large luggage is often the biggest challenge for families — not the kids.

Japan now has oversized luggage rules on many Shinkansen lines. Families with large suitcases must either:

• Reserve luggage space in advance, or

• Use luggage delivery services

Why luggage delivery is ideal for families

• Hands‑free station navigation

• No lifting suitcases with kids in tow

• Bags arrive at your hotel the next day

Many families find luggage delivery to be one of the best travel decisions they make in Japan. I explain how this works step by step in my guide to traveling Japan with luggage by train.

Train Costs for Families — Are Trains Free for Kids?

Japan’s child fare system is straightforward once you understand it.

General rules:

• Children under 6 can ride free (with limitations)

• Children aged 6–11 pay half fare

• Children 12 and up pay adult fare

JR Passes are also available at discounted child rates. Parents with young children should also read my detailed explanation of how kids aged 0–5 ride free with the JR Pass. For a full breakdown of prices and whether a pass makes sense for your family, see my Japan Rail Pass cost guide. Depending on your route, train passes can significantly reduce family travel costs.

Best Times to Avoid Crowded Trains With Kids

Avoiding crowds makes train travel far more comfortable for children.

Try to avoid:

• Weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM)

• Golden Week (late April–early May)

• Obon holidays (mid‑August)

For a deeper look at seasonal crowds, prices, and weather, see my full guide on the worst time to travel to Japan.

Best times for families:

• Mid‑morning to early afternoon

• Late evening Shinkansen rides

• Off‑season travel (winter, early summer)

Sample Family‑Friendly Train Routes in Japan

These routes are popular, easy, and comfortable for families:

• Tokyo → Kyoto (Shinkansen, ~2.5 hours) – see my detailed guide on traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto by train.

• Tokyo → Hakone (Romancecar or JR lines) – perfect for families doing a day trip; read my Hakone train travel guide.

• Osaka → Nara (short, simple local ride) – ideal with kids; I cover this route in my Osaka to Nara train guide.

All routes have frequent departures and excellent station facilities. If Sapporo is part of your family itinerary, I’ve also rounded up the best family‑friendly hotels in Sapporo, many of which are conveniently located near major train stations.

Common Mistakes Families Make When Using Trains in Japan

Avoid these common issues:

• Traveling at rush hour with luggage

• Skipping seat reservations

• Carrying too many suitcases

• Overplanning long travel days

Keeping travel days simple is key for families.

Final Tips for Stress‑Free Japan Train Travel With Kids

• Pack lighter than you think you need

• Stay near major train stations

• Reserve seats when possible

• Travel during off‑peak hours

Japan’s train system may look complex at first, but once you understand it, it becomes one of the most enjoyable parts of a family trip.

With the right planning, traveling Japan by train with kids can be smooth, memorable, and even relaxing.

Next guides in this series will cover seat reservations, stroller rules, luggage delivery, and cost‑saving tips for families traveling Japan by train.