Cruising with children is always an adventure, and Japan is a destination that adds a special twist to it.
If you’re wondering whether Japan is a good destination to cruise to with children, let me share why it could be an excellent choice. We recently travelled there with teenagers and boarded ship Celebrity Millennium, and it turned out to be an incredible family holiday.
Cultural Immersion Meets Fun
Japan is a country in which tradition and modernity coexist smoothly. For children, this means learning about old temples, samurai, and geishas while simultaneously immersing themselves in the exhilaration of busy cities filled with bright lights, unique shops, and interactive museums. Tokyo, for example, has everything from the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine to the bustling Shibuya Crossing, which will attract youngsters of all ages. The educational opportunities are plentiful, but they are balanced with a sense of fun that keeps children and teenagers engaged.
Kid and Teen Friendly Excursions
The variety of shore excursions available on a cruise to Japan with children and teenagers is one of the benefits. There’s something for everyone, whether it’s a day trip to see the magnificent Mt. Fuji, an exploration of the lovely Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a ferry to Miyajima or a visit to Nara’s friendly deer. The excursions are well-organised, with English-speaking local guides who know how to make the experience fun for people of all ages.
Culinary Adventures
Japanese food is wonderful, and my teenagers loved the novelty of sampling new dishes. Japan’s cuisine can be both sophisticated and adventurous, from sushi (surprisingly popular among children and teenagers!) to the famous egg sandwiches at 7/11. Even finicky eaters will find something to enjoy, and there is an infinite supply of snacks, such as mochi, Pocky, and those cute bento boxes, which adds a fun element to meal times. During our cruise, our teenagers couldn’t get enough of eating local specialities onshore.
Cruise Ship Amenities
Let us not forget about the ship itself. When travelling with children and teenagers, the ship becomes part of the destination. Celebrity Millennium, for example, has family-friendly amenities like pools, kids’ clubs, and a variety of entertainment venues. Our teenagers enjoyed the balance of exploring onshore and then returning to the ship to relax by the pool and watch the nightly theatre performances. The solarium pool (for over 16 year olds), with its pleasant air conditioning, immediately became our favourite location to relax after a day of exploring.
Respectful Culture
Another aspect of Japan that makes it an excellent place for families is its culture of respect and kindness. People are generally friendly and helpful, which makes travelling with children and teenagers much easier. In addition, teaching your children about Japanese customs and traditions can be an enriching experience that they will remember for years.
Engaging for Teens
Travelling with teenagers presents unique challenges, primarily in keeping them engaged and entertained. However, Japan provides a varied choice of activities for teenagers. Whether it’s Tokyo’s high-tech wonders, anime and manga culture, or Kyoto’s historic landmarks, there’s always something that will spark their interests. Our teenagers especially liked exploring the bustling city streets, sampling local cuisine, and learning about Japan’s interesting blend of old and new.
Educational Value
Japan feels like a live history book. Children and teens can gain valuable educational experiences by visiting destinations such as Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, Kyoto’s historic temples, or the Edo-Tokyo Museum. These excursions can generate discussions about history, peace, and respect for different cultures, turning your holiday into a fantastic learning opportunity.
Conclusion
So, is Japan an excellent cruise destination for kids and teenagers? Absolutely! The combination of cultural richness and family-friendly activities makes it an excellent choice for families eager to discover something new and exciting. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto, cruising around Japan provides a well-balanced mix of adventure and relaxation that is ideal for both children and adults.
However, be advised that the August weather in Japan can be rather hot, with temperatures frequently exceeding mid-30 degrees Celsius. If your family struggles to travel in heat, you might want to plan your trip over the Easter school holidays instead. Whenever you decide to go, pack your luggage, board the ship, and prepare for an unforgettable family holiday!
