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Tokyo, Japan
Start in Akihabara for cheap second-hand Nintendo DS, Switch games, retro cameras, vintage watches, and Suruga-Ya for second-hand Pokemon. Hit Shinjuku's Tokyu Hands and Itoya in Ginza for premium stationery shopping. Don't miss Nakamise-dori in Asakusa for cheap ceramics, chopstick rests, and the iconic Senso-ji temple — easy and free for kids.
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Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea, Japan
Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are side by side in Urayasu — dedicate one full day to each park. DisneySea is unique to Japan and has incredible theming that older kids will love. Book tickets well in advance as they sell out, and arrive early to grab free timed entry passes for popular rides.
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Hakone, Japan
Hakone is your base for the classic Mount Fuji view with the Chureito Pagoda or the iconic torii gate reflection at Lake Kawaguchi — late March cherry blossoms may still be blooming. Take the Hakone Ropeway over volcanic Owakudani for a dramatic family experience. Stay in a budget ryokan (traditional inn) for an authentic onsen experience the kids will never forget.
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Kyoto, Japan
Visit Nijo Castle for a must-see authentic Japanese castle complete with nightingale floors that squeak to detect intruders — kids love it. Arashiyama's bamboo grove is free and stunning, and the area has great budget ceramic and chopstick shops. Book a make-your-own chopsticks experience at Miyajima Kousaku in Higashiyama — a perfect hands-on family activity.
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Osaka, Japan
Osaka is Japan's food capital — eat cheap and well on Dotonbori street with takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and ramen all under 1000 yen. Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Japan is an absolute must for the family, with immersive Mario Kart rides and exclusive Nintendo merchandise. Den Den Town is Osaka's answer to Akihabara — great for hunting second-hand games, retro Pokemon cards, vintage cameras, and exclusive board games at Suruga-Ya Osaka.
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Nara, Japan
Nara is an easy and cheap day trip from Osaka or Kyoto and the free-roaming deer in Nara Park are an unforgettable experience for young kids. Todai-ji temple houses Japan's largest bronze Buddha statue and entry is very affordable. Pick up deer-themed ceramics and chopstick rests from the budget souvenir shops lining the approach to the temple.
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Tokyo, Japan
Return to Tokyo for final shopping, any missed Akihabara hunting, and to drop off items for Japan Post shipping home before your flight. Harajuku's Takeshita Street is great for quirky cheap vintage thrifting and kids' fashion. Use this buffer day to visit TeamLab Borderless if it has reopened, or explore Shibuya Scramble and the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo in Ikebukuro.