Japan Summer Holidays: Fun Activities for Kids During Summer Vacation in Japan

Summer vacations are a time for relaxation, fun, and adventure, especially for children. In Japan, the summer season is a vibrant and exciting time that is full of unique opportunities for families to make lasting memories. Whether you're looking for a laid-back beach holiday or a thrilling amusement park adventure, Japan has something for everyone. With so many options to choose from, planning your summer vacation can seem daunting, but worry not! In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best summer activities for kids in Japan. At Activity Japan, we understand the importance of keeping children engaged and entertained during the summer break. Our team has conducted extensive research to curate a list of the most exciting and memorable activities across Japan. We hope that this guide will inspire you to explore the country's diverse summer offerings and create unforgettable memories with your family.

Outdoor Adventures

Japan's beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems provide a perfect setting for outdoor adventures during summer vacation. These activities offer opportunities for kids to connect with nature, learn new skills, and have a blast with family and friends.

Water Sports For Kids In Japan

Water sports for kids

With its extensive coastline and numerous lakes, Japan is an ideal destination for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you're on the ocean or a calm lake, there are plenty of options to keep your kids entertained and active:

Surfing lessons for children

Surfing lesson for kids

Introduce your kids to the exciting world of surfing at beginner-friendly beaches with gentle waves. Surf schools offer lessons and equipment rental, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

NATTY(ナティ)
Kids can experience surfing (2 hours and a half x 1 time)
Hazu, Makinohara, Shizuoka
See u
Parents & Kids Can Go Surfing `{`1 minute walk to Qingdao Beach`}`
1-chōme-4 Aoshima, Miyazaki

SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding)

Stand Up Paddling (SUP) in Okinawa with kids

A great low-impact activity for kids of all ages, SUP allows participants to enjoy scenic views while improving balance and core strength. Rental shops are available in many waterfront locations.

GLIDEPADDLEグライドパドルサービス
Stand Up Paddling (SUP) With Family
Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture
西表島 ADVENTURE PiPi(ピピ)
Enjoyable tour for families! Mangrove SUP / Canoe & Star sand snorkel `{`Super summer sale in progress`}`
Yaeyama-gun, Okinawa

Parasailing with kids

Parasailing with kids

For a thrilling adventure, try parasailing with your kids. Fly high above the water and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline while safely harnessed to a colorful parachute.

スカイウォーカー(Sky Walker)
Superb view with parasailing `{`From 4 years old`}` - Selectable heights 60m/120m/200m
Ginowan, Okinawa
Parasailing NOA
Ishigaki's longest parasailing course with a magnificent view
Ishigaki, Okinawa

Banana boats: A fun family adventure

Banana boats: A fun family adventure

Enjoy a fun and exhilarating ride on a banana boat, an inflatable watercraft towed behind a motorboat. This activity is perfect for families seeking a fast-paced adventure on the water.

スカイウォーカー(Sky Walker)
Superb view with parasailing `{`From 4 years old`}` - Selectable heights 60m/120m/200m
Ginowan, Okinawa
Parasailing NOA
Ishigaki's longest parasailing course with a magnificent view
Ishigaki, Okinawa

Snorkeling & sea walks suitable for children

Snorkeling & sea walks suitable for children

Explore Japan's vibrant marine life with snorkeling or guided sea walks. Crystal-clear waters and diverse underwater ecosystems make for an unforgettable experience for kids.

沖縄ダイビングショップ シーフリー(Sea Free)
Blue cave snorkeling for kids
Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa
沖縄ダイビングショップ シーフリー(Sea Free)
Blue Cave Puka Puka Snorkeling - With fish feeding and underwater photography for kids
Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa
合同会社M‘zOcean
Boat Sea Walk Tour From Kariyushi Beach `{`From 6 years old can participate`}`
Kise, Nago City, Okinawa Prefecture
セブンオーシャンズクラブ(SEVEN OCEAN'S CLUB)
Underwater walk/sea walk - Special guidance course `{`From 8 years old can participate`}`
Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa
Fishing & fish feeding with kids

Teach your kids the joys of fishing, or simply spend a relaxing day feeding fish at sea.

沖縄海うさぎ・海あしび
Easy fishing tour that even beginners can enjoy easily from small children
Kadena-cho, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa
知床アルパ株式会社
Children's most popular - catch fish in the wilderness
Kiyosato-cho, Shari-gun, Hokkaido
初心者専門釣り船フィッシュソング
Summer sale! - Half day big game fishing course
Shineichō, Ishigaki, Okinawa
青の洞窟専門 沖縄ダイビングショップ和
Onna village glass boat excursion with a spectacular view `{`Free for preschoolers`}`
Onna, Kunigami District, Okinawa

River Activities

Japan's rivers offer a range of exciting activities for kids to enjoy, from adrenaline-pumping sports to tranquil paddling excursions:

River rafting for children

River rafting for kids

Experience the thrill of navigating Japan's rapids on a guided rafting trip. With skilled guides and appropriate safety equipment, kids can safely enjoy this exhilarating adventure.

むぎ青空プロジェクト
Wajiki family rafting for elementary and middle school students
Naka-cho, Naka-gun, Tokushima
TOPS  四国・吉野川ラフティング
Exciting course of river rafting with family in Kochi
Otoyo-cho, Nagaoka-gun, Kochi
HappyRaft(ハッピーラフト)
Family Rafting Tour (half-day)
Otoyo-cho, Nagaoka-gun, Kochi

Kayaking & canoeing for child age group

Kayaking & canoeing for children

Explore Japan's rivers, lakes, and coastal waters with a kayaking or canoeing excursion. This activity offers kids a chance to develop paddling skills and enjoy nature from a unique perspective.

Cheerful 宮古島
Clear Kayak or Clear Sap `{`Selectable 1 hour plan`}`
Okinawa, Miyakojima, Gusukube
ワンドロップ アウトドアガイドサービス
Kanto's blue lake ``Shimanko`` Packraft canoe half-day experience `{`Children and pets are OK`}`
Nakanojo, Agatsuma District, Gunma
ユニバーサルスポーツ協会
Lake canoe tour (half day) - Free photos during the tour `{`From 3 years old can participate`}`
Minakami, Tone District, Gunma

Canyoning with kids and family

Canyoning with kids and family

Embark on a canyoning adventure, where kids can slide down natural water slides, jump into clear pools, and navigate their way through beautiful river canyons.

リバージョイ(River Joy)
Canyoning experience from 5 years old
Tonemachi Oigami, Numata, Gunma

Land Adventures

Japan's diverse landscapes provide countless opportunities for land-based adventures that kids will love:

Farm experience for children

Farm experience for children

Visit a local farm to learn about agriculture and participate in hands-on activities like fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, and animal care. This is a great way for kids to connect with nature and learn about where their food comes from.

二本松市東和地域グリーンツーリズム推進協議会事務局
Seasonal farm work and harvest experience with farmers `{`Children are welcome`}`
Ota, Nihonmatsu City, Fukushima
オルタナティブファーム宮古
Sugarcane cultivation-brown sugar making experience for kids
Online

Kids can experience nature

A summer vacation package for kids, from July 20th to August 31st, a one-night, two-day nature experience tour

野川自然学校
Summer vacation special edition - Children only 2 days with nature experience
Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu-shi

Trekking & fun activities for kids to enjoy

Fun adventure activities for kids to enjoy

Discover Japan's stunning scenery on family-friendly treks, nature walks, and fun outdoor activities like zip-lining, rope courses, and rock climbing.

ロッテアライリゾート
One-day pass that allows you to play all-you-can
Ryozenji, Myoko, Niigata
冒険島
Family trekking for small children
Ōgimi, Kunigami District, Okinawa
Shiga painting sculptures for cultural experiences

Immerse your kids in Japan's rich cultural heritage by participating in traditional arts and crafts. These activities allow children to gain a deeper appreciation for Japanese customs while engaging in creative expression.

Dress up kids in Maiko attire

Dress up kids in Maiko attire

Visit a traditional tea house and enjoy a unique opportunity to meet and interact with a Maiko, an apprentice geisha. Your kids can learn about their traditional arts, watch a dance performance, and even participate in fun games.

舞妓体験スタジオ四季・レンタル着物四季さくら
Parent-child/sister plan (for 2 maiko costumes)
Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
舞妓体験スタジオ四季・レンタル着物四季さくら
Kiyomizu Temple - Child Maiko Costume Plan
Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto

Shiga painting workshops for children

Shiga painting workshop for children

Introduce your children to the delicate art of Shiga painting, a traditional Japanese art form that features intricate designs on ceramics. Participate in a workshop where kids can create their own masterpieces to take home as a keepsake.

シーサー体験 琉球窯
Stucco Shisa painting experience for kids
Imadomari, Nakijin Village, Okinawa
沖縄アート体験 美ら風
Stucco Shisa painting experience for children
Makishi, Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture
Cheerful 宮古島
Shisa coloring experience - Whale shark and sea turtle coloring experience for kids
Irabu Nakachi, Miyakojima City, Okinawa

Roketsu dyeing lesson for kids in Kyoto

Roketsu dyeing lesson for kids in Kyoto

Traditional roketsu dyeing is an ancient Japanese textile technique that uses wax resist and dye to create intricate patterns and designs on fabric, resulting in stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces. Bring out the creative side of your kids with this unique activity in Kyoto.

京ローケツ やまもと染工
Enjoy a 100% craftsmanship experience of traditional rocket dyeing for kids
Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Nishikyōgoku Umazukachō

Pottery for kids

Pottery for kids

Attend a pottery class and let your kids get their hands dirty while learning the ancient art of Japanese ceramics. From shaping clay to glazing and firing, this immersive experience provides a fun and educational cultural activity.

ダルン陶芸教室
Hand-forming pottery experience for parents and children
Kanagawa, Yokohama, Naka Ward, Yamatocho
うづまこ陶芸教室(UZUMAKO CERAMIC ART SCHOOL)
Parent and child pottery experience (electric potter's wheel)
Shiba, Minato City, Tokyo

Skill-Building Fun For Children in Summer Vacation

Encourage your kids to develop new skills and interests through hands-on activities that are both entertaining and educational.

Karate tile breaking fun experience for children

Karate tile breaking fun experience for children

Enroll your kids in a karate workshop where they can learn basic techniques and experience the thrill of breaking a tile with their bare hands. This activity not only teaches discipline and self-confidence but also provides an exciting physical challenge.

有限会社谷池健司製瓦所
Anyone Can Break Tiles Like a Karatist `{`Kids can participate`}`
Minamiawaji, Hyogo

Kids can enjoy making a deco music box

Kids can enjoy making a deco music box

Kids making a deco music box engage in a fun, creative activity that involves decorating a functional music box with various materials, fostering imagination and artistic expression.

伊豆アート体験 さくら坂
Children can enjoy ``making a deco music box`` that brings back memories whenever the melody flows
Shizuoka, Itō, Yawatano

Sweets & noodle making activity for kids

Sweets & noodle making activity for kids

Give your kids a taste of Japan's culinary arts by joining a cooking class focused on traditional sweets or noodle making. They'll have fun learning new recipes and techniques, and they'll love tasting their creations.

町屋レンタルスペース*丸本屋
Clay Japanese sweets and cake making`` can be enjoyed by parents and children
Matsu, Nishinari Ward, Osaka
アトリエハナヤ(Aterier hana-ya)
Children can create a macaroon tower
Nukui, Nerima-ku, Tokyo

Craftwork for children

Craftwork for children

Japan boasts a wide range of traditional crafts, from origami and calligraphy to weaving and woodworking. Participate in workshops where kids can learn these techniques and create their own handmade treasures.

シーボーンアート神戸教室
Marine craft experience-Make a wonderful ``photo frame`` using gifts from the sea
Sumiyoshihonmachi, Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo

Unique and Entertaining Activities

For an unforgettable summer vacation, try some of these one-of-a-kind experiences that are sure to delight and amaze your kids.

Fun VR experience for all ages

Fun VR experience for all ages

Visit a virtual reality (VR) arcade or center and let your kids dive into immersive digital worlds. With a wide range of interactive games and experiences, this high-tech activity offers endless

Reality.Edge.VR (リアリティエッジ VR) VR Escape Room
One-hour VR mystery-solving escape game adventure with your family
Tokyo, Chiyoda City, Kanda Tachō

Mermaid theme photos for kids

Mermaid theme photos for kids

Make your child's dreams come true with a magical mermaid-themed photoshoot. Dress up in colorful mermaid tails and accessories, then pose for professional photos in a whimsical underwater setting. This enchanting experience will create lasting memories and beautiful keepsakes of your family's summer vacation in Japan.

EGGダイビング
Mermaid Experience - Free photography `{`even small children`}`
Motobu-cho, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa

Legoland discovery center

Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo

Legoland Discovery Center in Japan is an indoor family entertainment center designed to inspire and engage young minds through interactive Lego-themed experiences. Kids can enjoy immersive play zones such as building workshops, mini-landscapes, a 4D cinema, and thrilling rides that bring their favorite LEGO characters to life.

アクティビティジャパン(リンクティビティ経由レゴランド・ディスカバリー・センター大阪)
Legoland Discovery Center Osaka Ticket
Kaigan-dori, Minato-ku, Osaka-shi Tempozan Marketplace
アクティビティジャパン(リンクティビティ経由レゴランド・ディスカバリー・センター東京)
Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo Admission Ticket (Premium Ticket * Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays)
Daiba, Minato-ku, Tokyo Decks Tokyo Beach Island Mall

Summary

    FAQs

      As the summer break approaches, it's essential to plan your family vacation carefully. Japan offers a wide range of exciting activities for kids during the summer season, from traditional cultural experiences to amusement parks and marine life parks. With our guide, you can discover the best summer activities in Japan and create lasting memories that your family will cherish forever. Remember that a summer vacation isn't just about taking a break from school or work; it's an opportunity to connect with your loved ones and explore new places. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Japan. Whether you choose to explore Hokkaido's lavender fields, take a boat ride through Matsushima Bay, or experience the magic of Tokyo Disneyland, we're confident that your family will have a fantastic time. Have a safe and enjoyable summer vacation!

      Frequently asked questions

      QAre these activities suitable for kids of all ages?

      AMost activities are suitable for a wide age range, but some may have specific age or height requirements. Always check with the provider beforehand to ensure the activity is appropriate for your child's age and abilities.

      QDo the activity providers offer English-speaking instructors?

      AMany providers offer English-speaking instructors, but it's best to confirm this when booking. Some activities, such as the Maiko experience, may provide English-language materials or translation services.

      QDo we need to book these activities in advance?

      AWhile some activities accept walk-ins, it's generally a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred dates and times.

      QWhat should my child wear for outdoor activities?

      ADress your child in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. For water-based activities, swimwear, a rash guard, and water shoes are recommended. For land activities, consider lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes.

      QAre these activities safe for my child?

      AProviders take safety seriously and typically supply the necessary safety equipment and experienced guides. However, always review safety guidelines and ensure your child follows instructions to minimize risks.

      QCan I participate in activities with my child?

      AAbsolutely! Many of these activities are designed to be family-friendly, allowing parents and children to enjoy the experience together.

      QDo we need any special equipment for these activities?

      AMost providers supply essential equipment for their activities. However, it's best to confirm with the provider beforehand and ask if there's anything you should bring or prepare for the activity.

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