Top 6 Spots to Enjoy in Kyoto as a Family

1. Pure Heart Kids Land Fushimi Momoyama Branch

You can visit this popular large-scale indoor park without worrying about the weather. Not only does it have the largest ball pool in the Kansai region, but it is also equipped with a sandbox, large playing equipment, electric cars, and even a photo studio where you can try on dresses and take pictures! You can also find other toys and picture books. The cafe corner adjacent to the park is also popular. However, this park only accepts official members, so you must register your membership for an annual fee of 315 JPY (incl. tax) per family. Guardians must present their passport.

※Minors must be accompanied by a guardian.
※Even if accompanied by a guardian, visitors from junior high school age to 19 years old cannot enter.
※Food and drink are not allowed.

Example of Fees:
Pure Kids Free Plan (1 Day Pass): 990 JPY (incl. tax) per person, applies to both adults and children
※Children who are 0 years old may enter for free. (You must present a document to confirm their birth date.)

2. Toei Kyoto Studio Park

Toei Kyoto Studio Park is a theme park that reflects the old Japanese movie scene, which is why it is reminiscent of the Edo period (1603 - 1867). The streets were actually used as a photo location for some movies. You can actually witness recording areas, as well as areas behind the scene. You can also wear samurai or ninja costumes, and then take photos at a studio. There are also attractions like trick houses and mazes! Eye-catching shows are also available.

Entrance Fee:
Adults: 2,200 JPY
Junior high and high school students: 1,300 JPY
Children (3 and up): 1,100 JPY
※Separate fee is required for attractions.

3. Kyoto Railway Museum

This railway museum opened its doors in April 2016. Here, you can enjoy different types of railway cars, archive exhibitions, dioramas, and drive simulations. Furthermore, they offer a train-themed menu at the restaurant, which is actually a non-active sleeping train. There is also a large-scale kids park.

Entrance Fee:
Adults: 1,200 JPY
High school and university students: 1,000 JPY
Elementary and junior high school students: 500 JPY
Children (3 and up): 200 JPY

4. The Kid\'s Science Museum of Photons

Next up is the first photon-dedicated science museum in Japan. Owned by the National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, it was created as a gateway for children to gain interest in science. Here, both parents and children can delve into the mysteries of different types of natural and artificial light. Families can learn a lot, starting from basic characteristics of light to how it is used in cutting edge technology today. There are several corners within the museum, with the impressive planetarium called “Hikari no Eizo Hall” being the most enjoyable one. The museum also holds several other events, such as experimental shows and recreational classrooms.

5. Kyoto City Zoo

The Kyoto City Zoo has over 100 years of history. It is home to about 140 types of over 600 animals, such as giraffes, elephants, and tigers, as well as a corner where you may pet tiny animals. There are also trains and ferris wheels at the amusement park, so families can enjoy a fun-filled day!

Entrance Fee:
Adults: 600 JPY
Junior high school or below: Free

6. Torokko, Sagano Romantic Train

On its way to Kameoka from the beautiful Arashiyama, this sightseeing train passes through Hozugawa Gorge. It travels a total of 7.3km within a span of around 25 minutes. You can view the beauty of each season - such as cherry blossoms and autumn leaves - from the window. Each seat is assigned. You may avail of a ticket ahead of time or purchase one on the day itself.

Train Fee:
Adults: 620 JPY
Children: 310 JPY

Please try visiting some of these places when you come to Kyoto.