Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is a good choice for families wanting a trip that mixes the historical with the modern. Therefore, the first stop should be Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea. Here, both children and adults can escape into the magic of Disney and, as such, feel young again. Exceptional rides, pretty parades, and special attractions are what make these parks so special.
To get into the cultural part more, go to the old district of Asakusa and visit the incredible Sensō-ji Temple. One perfect family photo opportunity will be at the temple’s main entrance, Kaminarimon, which means “Thunder Gate,” with a giant red lantern hanging. Then stroll down Nakamise Shopping Street, where many colors come from the traditional snacks and souvenirs that the stalls offer.
One of the largest green spaces in Tokyo, Ueno Park will surprise you with its variety of museums, a zoo, and even a lovely lotus pond. The educational wonderland Tokyo National Museum feels like heaven for children because it has lots of Japanese artifacts — such as samurai swords — and art. Ueno Zoo, which it shares with the Tokyo National Museum, is a must-see for every family outing, especially since it is home to the adorable giant pandas.
To see Tokyo’s modern side, dive into the hustle and bustle in the areas of Shibuya and Shinjuku. In Shibuya, see the world’s busiest intersection, Shibuya Crossing, where thousands of people cross the road every minute. Nearby, fashion lovers will not want to miss Shibuya 109, a towering shopping palace filled with designer boutiques. In Shinjuku, the observatories of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building will offer awe-inspiring views of the city, with a distant glimpse of Mount Fuji visible on clear days.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, still has peaceful and historical grandeur, which is perfect for family tours. Begin at the Fushimi Inari Shrine, which has gained fame for its scenic pathway of thousands of bright-red torii gates leading up Mount Inari.
The Golden Pavilion, also known as Kinkaku-ji, is another place that must be seen. This Zen Buddhist temple, whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, looks stunning when mirrored in the pond beside it, and families will be in awe of such a picture-perfect scene. Be sure to walk around the beautiful gardens that surround the temple.
Nijo Castle, the former home of the Tokugawa shoguns, is a historical site with interactive qualities. Its Ninomaru Palace, decorated with intricate designs, has sliding doors, and one floor, like a nightingale, chirps underfoot. Thus, it is a great place for children, who will be eager to learn about the Japanese feudal system.
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto is a magical area offering a peculiar walk among Nature. Here, one walks beneath the swaying heights of bamboo stalks. Near this attraction is Iwatayama Monkey Park, where families can play with wild monkeys and admire the sweeping views of Kyoto City.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok, Thailand’s lively capital, fuses hustle and bustle with tranquil cultural sites. Start at the Grand Palace, a dazzling complex that was home to the royal family. Within the palace grounds is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, a site of great reverence that showcases an impressive amount of intricate architectural detail.
Next to the palace, Wat Pho is the home of the Reclining Buddha, a magnificent sight in itself: a huge statue covered in gold leaf that will surely draw the eyes of children. The temple grounds also offer traditional Thai massage, providing an opportunity for families to rest.
Feel the thrill of the floating markets, like Damnoen Saduak, where vendors sell fruits, snacks, and souvenirs from boats. These lively markets showcase a unique aspect of culture and offer a great chance to sample delicious local food.
Make sure you stop by Lumpini Park. People can rent paddleboats and watch monitor lizards in the wild. Families can also have a relaxed picnic in the pretty green areas of the park.
Singapore
Singapore, where cleanliness is a way of life and public transport runs like clockwork, is a place where family travel is free of stress and enjoyable. First stop—Sentosa Island, a haven for families that boasts Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and S.E.A. Aquarium—all of which guarantee hours of fun in the form of exciting rides, water activities, and enormous displays of sea life.
Gardens by the Bay families will find a futuristic Eden in which the Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest—signature attractions—show vertical gardens and cool misty environments surrounding an indoor waterfall. One more conservatory, the Flower Dome, displays numerous flowers and plants from different climates.
Singapore Zoo, famous for its open-concept enclosures, allows visitors to have an up-close encounter with wildlife from around the world. Interactive exhibits, such as Rainforest Kidzworld, invite children to splash in the water play area, take pony rides, and meet farm animals.
The marvelous Marina Bay Sands complex is home to the SkyPark Observation Deck, which offers breathtaking views. At night, families can enjoy the Spectra–A Light & Water Show, an outdoor extravaganza that combines fountains, lasers, and light projections in a stunning display along the Marina Bay waterfront. For more spectacular views, take the Singapore Flyer, one of the tallest observation wheels in the world, which gives riders a panoramic view of the city.
Hong Kong
When you reach the top of Ngong Ping 360, it’s time to relax and learn something. The Giant Buddha on Lantau Island, which can be accessed via Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, is such a place. At the top, discover more and be spiritually enriched by the Po Lin Monastery and Wisdom Path.
Another must-see is Ocean Park, which presents a thrilling array of rides, animal exhibits, and educational shows. Its interactivity and cable car rides through the mountains make the park especially popular with families.
To see the city’s famous skyline in its entire splendor, definitely take the Peak Tram, which makes its way to Victoria Peak. The Sky Terrace presents spectacular views—especially at sunset—which will be unforgettable for your family.
Take a walk through the lively streets of Tsim Sha Tsui and enter the Hong Kong Space Museum, where you can interact with the exhibits and watch shows at the planetarium. The Avenue of Stars, which resembles Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, celebrates the stars of the Hong Kong film industry, and your walk here will be engaging as you stroll along the waterfront.
Seoul, South Korea
Seoul, the capital of South Korea, is an active city where modern technology and history coexist. Begin your visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace, where the changing of traditional guards’ ceremonies and historical architecture vividly bring Korea’s royal past to life. Families can rent Hanbok outfits for memorable photographs.
The new Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a place where you’ll see modern art, new installations, and themed exhibits—so it’s a cultural visit that’s not very tiring but still engaging. Lotte World, an indoor amusement park, lets families have fun with themed rides, skating rinks, and entertaining shows, and is good for any kind of weather.
Visitors can take a cable car or a hiking route to Namsan Seoul Tower, where panoramic views of the city await. Kids will enjoy the hands-on experiences in the digital observatory, which provides a unique view of the city. Namsan Hanok Village, located nearby, is home to several traditional Korean houses, providing a perfect mix of cultural exploration and beautiful scenery.
Myeongdong, a shopping district, is filled with eateries, serving everything from delicious street food to quaint cafes. In the neighborhood of Hongdae, families can visit the Trickeye Museum and interact with optical illusions to take fun pictures.
For a peaceful escape, step into Bukchon Hanok Village, where traditional Korean houses are preserved in great beauty. Get lost in the maze of narrow streets, and find artisans’ shops, cultural workshops, and tea houses.