3 Japan experiences with kids – Roam If We Want To

Whenever we are planning to jet off to a foreign land I take the lead on the plans. I love to do it (mostly). And what’s most rewarding for me is that I learn so much in the planning that it enriches our experience once we arrive. Each trip-planning unveils new experiences, quirks, foods, places, customs that I know we have to try on our trip. Here are a few from Japan-

ONSEN: this is a Japanese hot spring or bath often located in a traditional inn that is situated around a hot spring. These are part of Japan’s present and past because it is a volcanically active country. Not only are onsens divine because of their super hot water for soaking and relaxing, but they also come with a very interesting set of rules.

First, when you onsen, you onsen au naturale. I mean naked if you’re feeling confused. I’m sure a few people will think I’m weird here but I really kinda dig that part. Why? American culture and attitude about naked bodies sometimes feels so very off. When I’ve visited other countries and observed their relaxed attitudes about nudity I’ve been inspired to let go of what inhibits me. And, I dig passing that relaxed vibe to my kids. They are just bodies. We all have them. It’s OK to be discretely naked.

Once you’re naked you have to wash yourself before you get into the onsen. Usually there is a station set up with a shower or similar. You will likely be given a small (read: hand) towel. This is not to touch the water. In fact, many will place it on top of their heads while soaking.

There are private onsens (that you can enjoy with whomever), public onsens (often divded by gender), indoor onsens and open air onsens. Not all onsens allow children so take care to double check. And be realistic about your kids too. Onsens are about peace and relaxation. This isn’t time for splashing and shouting. Another note: tattoos are generally not permitted at onsens. If you have ink search around for one that is accomodating.

Our kids had fun watching this video about onsens featuring super kawaii Kumamon who is the mascot for Kumamoto Prefecture.

Check out or day trip to Hakone (part 1 and part 2) when we enjoyed an onsen experience at Hakone Yuryo.

RYOKAN: this is a traditional Japanese inn which often have an onsen as part of the experience. If you can swing it, I highly recommend at least one night in a ryokan. This is a great way to be immersed in Japanese culture. From the get-go you’ll appreciate differences from a typical hotel. A nakai-san (personal room attendant) will show you to your room.

Unlike a Western hotel, ryokans offer rooms with minimal furniture. Likely there will not be a “bed” as you know it. Instead the room with be covered in tatami mats. Upon arriving you will remove your shoes and put on provided slippers and change into your yukatas (robes).

Generally your nakai-san will set up a a service of green tea and a sweet for you to begin your relaxation.

Important to note that en suite bathrooms are not the rule at ryokans so if that’s important to you read the details carefully (or ask). On your agenda should be to visit the on site onsen and relax like the Japanese do! But, don’t worry. There’s another perk of ryokans: the food! Most ryokans will offer service of a special dinner (sometimes, like for us, it is served in your room) called a kaiseki. Not only is this delicious but the experience is amazing.

In the morning, a traditional breakfast is also often offered. Once your bellies are full it’s time to prepare to sleep. This part is so fun! The staff will come and set up plush and comfy futon mattresses on the floor. The 5 of us surprisingly had an amazing sleep all together on our mattresses on the tatami mats.

We loved our stay at the Kyoto Watazen Ryokan. Not all ryokans allow children so be sure to check!

MATCHA: this is becoming somewhat mainstream in America (well, the Starbucks version) but in Japan, green tea is serious business. Matcha is finely ground green tea leaves that make a powder that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

There are traditional tea ceremonies in Japan (some lasting hours!) that tourists can partake in. The preparation of matcha tea involves mixing the tea with hot water and then whipping it into a froth with a whisk. Often it is served with a sweet treat.

One of my favorite matcha experiences was when we explored Ōkōchi Sansō outside of Kyoto. These grounds were so beautiful and tranquil and such a diversion from the nearby bamboo forest. A serving of green tea was included in the admission. A light breeze blew through and caused a rain shower of sakura blossoms. The otherwise quiet visitors gasped in delight.