A perfect blend of theme park thrills, cultural wonders, and snowy adventures for an unforgettable week.

Start of the week: Thrills at Universal Studios Japan

For families visiting Osaka, Universal Studios Japan is an absolute must. This world-class theme park offers an exciting mix of rides, attractions, and beloved characters, creating an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. While similar to its Los Angeles counterpart, USJ adds a unique touch with all signage and announcements in Japanese, making the visit feel even more immersive.

To make the most of the day, pre-booking an Express Pass is highly recommended. These passes sell out quickly, and purchasing one on the spot can be difficult. With long wait times for popular attractions, having an Express Pass ensures more time enjoying the rides rather than standing in queues.

Reaching Universal Studios Japan is simple and convenient. The dedicated train from Osaka Station takes visitors straight to the park entrance, making transport effortless—especially for families traveling with young children.

Evening in Osaka: Local Flavours & City Vibes

After a thrilling day at the theme park, exploring Osaka’s vibrant streets is the perfect way to wind down. Known for its lively atmosphere and authentic character, Osaka has a more laid-back, edgy charm compared to Tokyo. The city’s narrow laneways are filled with small eateries and local izakayas. For families, it may take a bit of searching to find the right spot, but options catering to both Japanese and Western tastes are available, with some restaurants even offering English-speaking staff.

For those with extra energy, a visit to Dotonbori is highly recommended. This famous entertainment district comes alive at night, with neon lights, giant billboards, and some of Osaka’s best street food. Signature local dishes like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) make for an exciting culinary adventure, and the bustling atmosphere provides plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Early in the week: Exploring Kyoto & Nara – A Journey Through History

After the excitement of Osaka, a short train ride transports visitors to Kyoto, a city where history and tradition blend seamlessly with modern convenience. With its stunning temples, charming laneways, and deep cultural heritage, Kyoto is a dream destination for families wanting to experience Japan’s past while enjoying easy access to sightseeing spots.

For a comfortable and well-located stay, Rihga Royal Hotel Kyoto is a great choice. It provides easy access to the city’s sights, train system, and a complimentary shuttle from Kyoto Train Station, making it ideal for those with kids in tow.

A Guided Adventure: Kyoto & Nara Day Tour

A guided day tour is an excellent way to take in the highlights of Kyoto and nearby Nara without the hassle of planning transport and schedules. This full-day experience covers some of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks:

• Nijo Castle – A stunning example of shogun-era architecture, complete with intricate woodwork and impressive fortifications.
• Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – One of Kyoto’s most breathtaking temples, this shimmering gold-leaf-covered structure is a must-see, reflecting beautifully over the surrounding pond.
• Kyoto Imperial Palace – A fascinating insight into Japan’s imperial history, offering glimpses into the elegance of the country’s former royal residence.

The tour includes a lunch stop in Kyoto’s historic Gion district, famous for its well-preserved streets, traditional wooden buildings, and excellent souvenir shopping.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Nara, where two key attractions stand out:

• Todai-ji Temple & Nara Deer Park – Home to the Great Buddha, Todai-ji is one of the world’s largest wooden structures. Outside the temple, Nara Park is a family favourite, where friendly (and cheeky!) deer roam freely. Visitors can purchase special deer crackers (JPY 150) to feed them—a fun and memorable experience for kids.
• Kasuga Taisha Shrine – A beautiful, lantern-filled shrine nestled in the forest, adding a serene end to the day’s explorations.

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour conveniently drops visitors back at Kyoto Station. A great option for dinner is the Kyoto Station Mall, where restaurants on the first and eighth floors serve everything from Japanese specialities to Western-style meals—perfect for a relaxed evening with family.

Gion & the Magic of Fushimi Inari

The following day, families can dive deeper into Kyoto’s charm with a morning visit to Gion, the city’s famous geisha district. Wandering through the narrow alleyways, historic buildings, and hidden shrines feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s elegant past.

No trip to Kyoto is complete without experiencing the Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates that wind through the hills. The 4km trail offers a mix of scenic beauty and spiritual atmosphere, but to avoid crowds, an early morning visit is recommended. Most visitors only walk the first section, so continuing further up the trail provides a more peaceful experience.

For a well-earned break, Vermillion Café, located near the shrine’s entrance, is a hidden gem serving delicious Western-style breakfasts and excellent coffee. A perfect way to refuel before the rest of the day’s adventures!

Mid-week: Nozawa Onsen – A Quintessential Japanese Ski Village

For those seeking an authentic Japanese ski village experience, Nozawa Onsen offers a perfect blend of rich culture, traditional onsens, and excellent skiing. With cobblestone streets, historic shrines, and natural hot springs, this charming destination captures the essence of a winter retreat in Japan.

Exploring the Village

Nozawa Onsen is famous for its public hot springs, known as onsens, which are scattered throughout the village and free to use. At the top of the village, a particularly unique onsen doubles as a place where locals cook food in the natural hot water. Just next to it, a local market sells fresh produce and regional specialties, making for an interesting stop after a day on the slopes.

The narrow laneways of Nozawa are filled with hidden bars, family-run restaurants, and tucked-away onsens, making an evening wander highly recommended. Visitors should also try Oyaki, a traditional steamed bun filled with either sweet or savoury ingredients, a specialty in the region.

Where to Eat & Drink

• Tanuki – A multi-level dining experience featuring a teppanyaki restaurant, a café, and a bar in the basement.
• The Corner Steakhouse – A great spot for hearty meals after a long ski day.
• Heaven – Known for its extensive margarita selection and free karaoke rooms during happy hour (4-7 pm).
• Libushi Tap Room – A must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts, located opposite Sakaya, with an excellent selection of local brews on tap.

A Traditional Stay at Ryokan Sakaya

For those looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, Ryokan Sakaya offers a traditional stay with tatami-mat rooms, futon bedding, and outstanding hospitality.

What sets Sakaya apart?

• Beautifully maintained gardens and rock pool onsens.
• Spacious, traditional rooms with both Japanese and English-speaking staff.
• A personalised dining experience, with guests assigned a private dining room for the duration of their stay. Breakfast alternates between Japanese and Western styles.
• Impeccable service – Staff set up futons in the evening while guests are at dinner and pack them away in the morning, ensuring maximum comfort and space.
• Prime location – A 5-minute walk to either the Yu-Road (an escalator-like system) or the Gondola, though the walk is steep.

Skiing in Nozawa

With a mix of terrain for all abilities, Nozawa offers a fantastic skiing experience. Late in the season, some off-piste and tree skiing areas may be closed, but the resort still provides plenty of exciting runs.

Recommended areas:

• C Chair at the top – Features steep terrain and tree skiing.
• Skyline Area – Offers a variety of enjoyable runs.
• Nagasaka Station to Yu-Road – A snowmobile sleigh service operates every 10 minutes, making it easy to move between the two base areas.

For added convenience, ski lockers are available at both base areas, allowing guests to store equipment overnight—a great option for those wanting to avoid carrying skis back and forth. Some accommodations even offer complimentary storage.

Later in the week: Tokyo Stay with a Magical Day at Disneyland

A short stay in Tokyo allows for a quick introduction to the city before immersing in the magic of Tokyo Disneyland.

Where to Stay – Keio Plaza, Shinjuku

Located just five minutes from Shinjuku Station, Keio Plaza is a top choice for a short Tokyo stay. The hotel offers spacious, modern rooms, a rarity in the city, and sits within walking distance of numerous restaurants and bars, making it a convenient and comfortable base.

A Full Day at Tokyo Disneyland

A highlight of the trip, Tokyo Disneyland offers a seamless and well-organised experience. Keio Plaza’s Disney Good Neighbor Shuttle provides easy transport, ensuring a stress-free journey to the park.

Why Tokyo Disneyland is Worth It:

• Impeccable theming – Every detail is meticulously designed, immersing visitors in the magic of Disney.
• Iconic attractions – Classics like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Big Thunder Mountain deliver the full Disney experience.
• Efficient systems – The Express Pass system helps maximise ride time, making it easier to enjoy the park without long waits.
• Unique Japanese touch – Familiar attractions take on a new charm with Japanese voiceovers, exclusive snacks, and local cultural influences.
• Fantastic dining – From Mickey-shaped treats to authentic Japanese dishes, the food offerings add to the experience.

A Perfectly Balanced Japan Adventure

From the adrenaline-pumping thrills of Universal Studios Japan to the tranquil charm of Kyoto and Nara, and the snow-covered magic of Nozawa Onsen, this itinerary offers a well-rounded mix of excitement, culture, skiing and relaxation. Ending the journey with a touch of Disney magic in Tokyo makes for an unforgettable week that caters to families, adventure seekers, and culture lovers alike.

To book a dream holiday to Japan including flights, transfers, accommodation, lift passes and activities call the Ski Travel Experts at travel&co NZ Toll-Free: 0800 555 035 or click here to see our latest featured offers