Now the former center of government bears witness to that history with more than 2000 temples and shrines, but with significantly fewer people and less urban development than the current capital of Tokyo.

And because so many of these shrines are surrounded by tranquil parks, evergreen gardens, and Zen landscapes, Kyoto is a wonderful destination for exploring Japanese culture with children. Here’s how I suggest you get started.

Activity 1: Start On a Path of 10,000 Gates

No visit to Kyoto with kids is complete without exploring the gates at Mt. Inari.

Thousands of cinnabar-red torii gates encase a path to the summit of Mount Inari at Fushimi Inari, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines and headquarters for 30,000 Inari shrines in Japan. The Inari are Shinto religion deities of foxes, fertility, agriculture, and industry which explains the many fox statues and sake bales. But there’s no explaining the surreal impact of those gates tunneling through verdant forest—you just have to see it to believe it.

The entire round-trip hike can take 2-3 hours, yet multiple return paths means you can bail at any time. Grab water at the base souvenir shops and keep the kiddos moving with promises of ice cream at the Yotsusuji overlook (about 30-45 minutes up the mountain). If you happen to bring your appetite, there are a couple of spots for a bite as well—including a traditional noodle shop with an amazing city view.

Activity 2: Wander Through a Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove.

Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove is a natural wonder. Sky-high bamboo limbs converge along an otherworldly walking path connecting multiple temples—including UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji, an important Zen Buddhist temple, and part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

In addition to several temples, the trail passes a traditional Japanese home and delightful gardens at Okochi-Sanso Villa, a curious hermit’s hut at Rakushisha Poet’s Hut, and the hilltop Kameyama-koen Park where, if you’re lucky, you may spot monkeys.

Hire a human-powered rickshaw or rent a bike to travel the path, and if you have time, book a short trip on the Sagano Romantic Train. A short 25-minute ride each way aboard an open-sided rail car passes jaw-dropping scenery in the Hozugawa Ravine.

Activity 3: Go for the Gold

The Golden Pavilion at Kinkakuji.

The main attraction at Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, is without question the Zen temple itself. Pure gold covers the top two floors, and the entire building literally glows on the edge of lake. Strolling the grounds is quite pleasant, particularly if you include a stop at the garden teahouse for Matcha tea and gold leaf adorned Kinkaku sweets. Do pack coins to have on hand for tossing at pots and statues; it’s reputed to bring good fortune.

Activity 4: Ascend to Enryakuji

Spectacular views from Mt. Hiei, Kyoto.

Traveling to Enryakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its “marathon monks,” can be an adventure in itself. The temple is perched amidst pine trees at the top of Mount Hiei, and while you could take a bus directly from Kyoto, you’d miss the thrill of riding gondolas and funiculars. Instead, take the city subway to Eizan Electric Railway, and connect to the Eizan Cable and the Eizan Ropeway. Both offer incredible views, culminating in the sight of Kyoto and Lake Biwa when you arrive at Hiei Garden Museum.

The gardens are a bit of a surprise as they replicate impressionist painting such as Monet’s Water Lilies series. You soon catch on as replicas of the original paintings are posed next to the gardens. Head to the opposite entrance to catch the shuttle to Enryakuji.

Tip: You might want to save exploring the garden until the return as it closes later than the temple.)

1 Great Place to Stay: Piece Hostel Sanjo

The kitchen and dining area at Piece Sanjo, Kyoto.

Stay where Japanese travelers stay, at a traditional Japanese “ryokan” recently reimagined (as of July 2015) as a boutique hostel. The stylish update includes a variety of room types (from family suites to dormitories,) garden-facing dining/kitchen area, laundry room, and an onsite independent coffee shop.

Check the bulletin boards for current festivals and other fun things to do; English-speaking staff will direct you. Bike rentals and airport shuttles are available (for a fee.) Best of all, Piece Hostel Sanjo is conveniently located in Kyoto center within walking distance from many attractions, restaurants, and great little shops.

1 Great Place to Eat: Nishiki Market

Dining in Kyoto with kids is easy at Nishiki Market, a 400-year-old “food court.”

Snack your way through Nishiki Market or pick one of several restaurants; with more than 120 booths, the 400-year-old food market offers lots of choices. Stalls sell exquisite fruit, fresh grilled fish, omelets, roasted chestnuts, and the prettiest candy you’ll ever see. The market is famous for Beef Manju Bun—a kid-approved option—but adventurous diners with older children won’t want to miss the stand-up counter only sushi bar.

You might also like:

Nine Amazing Family Vacations Abroad + Tips for When You Get There

Ten Things You Should Always Pack for Travel

Langkawi with Kids – Malaysia Family Vacation Guide

Review of Siren Sport 2 Women’s Hiking Shoes

The Best Travel Purse for a DSLR Camera I’ve Found

Six Great Travel Toys & Games for Tots to Teens

Screen-Free, Battery-Free Travel Toys & Games

Six Amazing Ireland Family Vacation Destinations

The post Kyoto with Kids – Japan Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

Though originally built by the Portuguese in the late 1500s, the Dutch later fortified Galle extensively. Many of the original buildings remain, including historic churches, ancient mosques and 18^th-century merchants’ houses. Today, the narrow streets brim with cool shops, boutique hotels, and buzzy cafés–and it’s a wonderful place to simply wander.

Far from just a tourist town, however, Galle Fort is still a living, breathing, working community, which only adds to its appeal. If you’re planning a Sri Lanka family vacation and paying a call to Galle, these are my top 4 recommended activities to do while you’re there, along with 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat during your family’s visit.

Activity 1: Walk the Walls

Walk the walls at sun set or with an animated tour guide when you visit Galle, Sri Lanka with kids.

The best way to get a feel for Galle Fort is to wander the ramparts that surround the town. From the lighthouse you can walk clockwise all the way to the bastions that face the new part of town. You can do this at any time of day but I would recommend taking a stroll at sunset and mingling with the locals.

A handful of resident daredevils occasionally hurl themselves off the town’s defensive walls into the waters below. If you do watch them perform their acrobatic tricks, be prepared to donate some rupees.

Juliet Coombe, a British writer living in Galle, offers fun 90-minute walking tours of the Fort according to different themes. There’s a Meet the Artists tour as well as a range of culinary walks. These can be booked at the Serendipity Arts Café.

Activity 2: Release Baby Turtles

Take your tykes to the turtles!

The southern coast of Sri Lanka in the Galle District is the major nesting habitat for five species of sea turtle; the Olive Ridley turtle, Loggerhead turtle, Green turtle, Hawksbill turtle, and Leatherhead turtle. A number of local turtle hatcheries  protect these creatures and they can be found along the coastal road, from Bentota onwards.

The hatcheries are nothing fancy (don’t come expecting a high-tech aquarium!) but they perform extremely valuable conservation work and it’s well worth stopping by a turtle farm at least once. Kids can learn about the dangers turtles face, conservation efforts in place as well as meet turtles. Visit at the right time and they may even be allowed to help release baby turtles into the ocean – an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience! Click here to visit the Sea Turtle Farm online.

Activity 3: Learn to Surf

Year round surfing and kid-safe swells await on Sri Lanka.

Surfers flock to Sri Lanka for its consistent swells and uncrowded line-ups. Because of the island’s two seasons, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll find barrels and breaks somewhere; try the the south west coast between November and March and the east cost from May to September.

But Sri Lanka is not just for pro surfers, it’s a great place for beginners to learn, too. Weligama, just south of Galle, is a sheltered bay home to small, kid-friendly waves all year round. There are a number of local surf schools where you can book a lesson or simply rent a board. You’ll find the surf schools neatly positioned under the trees at the right side of the bay.

My kids were really little when we visited Weligama so we didn’t get the chance to surf ourselves, but the following surf schools come highly recommended: Surf ‘n Lanka and Surf Discovery/Sri Lanka Surf School.

Activity 4: Catch a Game of Cricket on your Sri Lanka family vacation

Catch a cricket match at Galle on your visit to Sri Lanka with kids.

It’s safe to say that Sri Lanka is cricket crazy. The British sport first found its footing in the area then called Ceylon, when it became a British colony in 1802. It didn’t take long for the game to take off and today it’s the most popular sport in the country. No fewer than eight grounds have been used to host international cricket matches. Not bad for a small island.

The Galle International Stadium first opened in 1829 as a horse-racing track. However, it quickly transformed into an oval of emerald green. Today it’s one of the prettiest Test grounds in the world with view of Galle Fort from the stadium. If you fancy catching an “over” or two, then check the schedule for matches. If you can’t get tickets, then join the locals and watch from the fort ramparts. Click here to check for upcoming matches.

1 Great Place to Stay in Galle with Kids: Apa Villas

Stunning and family-friendly Apa Villas.

There are plenty of chichi boutique hotels within Galle’s walls, but if visiting Galle with kids then I recommend staying just outside the fort at Apa Villas. Located in the small village of Thalpe, just 8km and a short auto-rickshaw ride away from Galle Fort, this is a wonderful family-friendly option.

Apa Villas is positioned on a private strip of beach. The property splits into three villas that house seven individual suites. These well-appointed suites open onto a private terrace where all your meals are served. That’s the other great thing about staying here, the food is absolutely delicious! Beyond the veranda you’ll find a grassy lawn, dotted with spindly palm trees, and the blue ocean beyond.

Although the current is too strong to swim here, there is a lovely 25m-infinity pool on site instead. Click here to read my detailed review of Apa Villas, and find out more at the official site for Apa Villas at Thalpe.

1 Great Place to Eat in Galle with Kids: Pedlar’s Inn Cafe

Pedlar’s Inn Cafe at Galle, Sri Lanka.

With the arrival of more and more boutique hotels in Galle, so too has the restaurant scene exploded. Expect to find lots of good places to eat and drink within the fortified walls. We became quick fans of Pedlar’s Inn. This café claims to be the first coffee shop to open inside the fort and is almost always busy – be prepared to wait for a table.

Food is a mixture of local favorites and Western staples, and there’s even an ice cream bar, which made our kids happy! Best of all, the service is great and always comes with a beaming, Sri Lankan smile. Click here for the Pedlars Inn site.

You might also like:

Nine Amazing Family Vacations Abroad + Tips for When You Get There

Langkawi with Kids – Malaysia Family Vacation Guide

Ten DEET-Free Ways to Help Prevent Mosquito Bites

Santa Cruz Island with Kids – Galapagos Family Vacation Guide

Ten Things You Should Always Pack for Travel

Travel with Teens: Tips for Getting and Renewing U.S. Passports

Six Great Travel Games & Toys for Tots to Teens

California with Kids: Ten Unforgettable Family Vacation Ideas

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

The post Galle with Kids – Sri Lanka Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

There are many tours offered where you can get up close and personal with these beauties and even explore their jungles and caves–all worth doing. There is also no shortage of gorgeous, white sand beaches to explore throughout the archipelago.  And best of all, these natural surroundings aren’t overrun with resorts and tourists. But if you want to see Langkawi, go now–before everyone knows about it.

Here are my top 4 recommendations of what to do when you get there, plus 1 great place to eat and 1 great place we recommend staying on your family vacation in Langkawi.

Activity 1: Soar to the Top of the Island on the Langkawi Skycab

A ride on the Langkawi Skycab is a must when visiting Langkawi, Malaysia, with kids.

The Langkawi Skycab is the longest free span for a single rope cable car, which is about 950 meters long, and it has 2 viewing areas. The highest is at 650 meters above sea level.  Be prepared for some incredible views.

To get to the top, you’ll actually take two cable cars. The trip up to the top takes approximately 25 minutes. Once you’re at the top, the views are gorgeous. Hopefully it will be a clear day for you so that you can see the surrounding areas and get some good videos/pictures.

From the second viewing area, you may also walk along a trail out to the Sky Bridge, which connects the tops of two of the mountains. It takes approximately 20 minutes to venture out to the bridge, but you are in for a treat. It is amazing how the bridge was engineered, and they have several Plexiglas panels where you can stand and see the trees/land far below. It’s kind of spooky, but the bridge also provides great views.

Activity 2: Float through the Kilim Geoforest Park

Soaring eagles and secluded bat caves await in Kilim Geoforest Park.

Kilim Geoforest Park makes for an excellent day tour for adults and kids alike, which will allow you to see beautiful animals and scenery. If you’ve never seen mangrove forests, you’re in for a treat as they grow in spooky formations, and actually help protect against erosion. You will meander the Kilim Geoforest Park in a small boat and have a few places to stop off and stretch your legs as well.

You’ll see monkeys, crabs, and all manner of other critters along the way. The stop at the bat caves is pretty spectacular (not to fear the dark!) as you walk through one end and out the other. You need to be very quiet as you walk through, but when you look up with your flashlight, you will discover you aren’t the only ones in the cave. The bats are pretty amazing, and there are some nice stalactites and stalagmites that are formed within the limestone caves.

You will also see many floating restaurants throughout the day, and it is worth a stop over to have a drink. You may even request to stop at the “Hole in the Wall” floating restaurant, where they have a fish feeding session for you to watch.

Tip: Request to see the Eagle feeding. Your boat will stop along the waterway and give you a moment to enjoy the peace around you. There will likely be eagles soaring above and there are also set times when they feed the eagles. You want to be sure you are part of that experience, so request in advance so they can time it accordingly. This will provide ample opportunity for animal photographers to grab that perfect pic.

Activity 3:   Swim Above The Colorful Sea Life with Langkawi Coral Island

Ferry out to the Palau Payar Marine park for an unforgettable day trip in Langkawi with kids.

Enjoy a great snorkeling experience with Langkawi Coral Island.  Spend the day out at the Pulau Payar (Payar Island) Marine Park and the day is yours to explore.  Not to worry, everything is arranged for you. Just make your way to the pier and the rest of the day you will be guided. It’s about a 1-hour ferry ride out to the island and you will have about 4 hours to snorkel and eat the box lunches provided.  If you are a scuba diver, you can upgrade to have 1 or 2 dives.

When snorkeling, watch closely for interesting sea creatures and you won’t be disappointed. With a focused eye, you will see several nudibranchs, grouper, black tip reef sharks, angel fish, parrot fish, puffer fish, and all kinds of coral. The kids will be amazed to see all of the life under the water here.

If you would prefer not to see what is in the water, it is okay to just hang out at the beach and swim. After lunch, the crew gathers the left over scraps and they are thrown off the end of the pier.  This is shark and fish feeding time!  An amazing experience to watch with the kids!

Activity 4:   Sail Away On a Sunset Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a 2-hour tour with sunset and dinner included–and be sure to bring the camera!

A sunset dinner cruise is great for a very peaceful and relaxing evening out. This is about a 2-hour tour of the surrounding islands. You will learn quite a bit about some local culture and the myths of the pregnant maiden.  One of the islands appears to be the shape of a pregnant woman lying on her back. On this island there is a lake believed by some to help with fertility if you swim or drink the waters. The dinner is usually a boxed type meal, so nothing too fancy for the kids.

Of course the name gives it all away; you are also in for a spectacular sunset too. The boat will stop out at the tip of the bay and allow you time to soak in all of the colors Mother Nature has in store for you. There is no doubt you will be in for a nice view. Take notice of the eagles flying above and around you as well. We would recommend booking with Naam Adventure.

Tip: Parents, this is the perfect opportunity to sneak in a little romance!  The older kids are safe to explore the boat and feel the wind at the bow. Waste no time heading to the back to enjoy a little wine and the gorgeous scenery.

1 Great Place to Stay: Meritus Pelengi Beach Resort & Spa  

The family-friendly Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, Langkawi.

This is all about location and service! The Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa is located just 15-minutes from the airport and it is right on Chenang Beach. They have an open air lobby, where you will be greeted upon your arrival. Their check in process is very efficient and you can enjoy a complimentary drink while they get your keys.

For a family, this is really an ideal style of accommodation; the rooms are very spacious and have amazing terraces.  There is easy beach and pool access and the staff is very welcoming and helpful.  The kids will love the pools as well as the splash zone.

The resort is within walking distance to town and just a 5 minute walk away from the public section of Chenang Beach. There you’ll find many water sports activities available, as well as shopping, and international dining options.

1 Great Place to Eat in Langkawi with Kids:  Seashells

Eat in your own private palapa above the rice paddies at Seashells.

Seashells is located on Chenang Beach, just across from the Meritus Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa.  The food is a local Malay menu and it is absolutely delicious, but the ambiance is to die for. They have a unique setting where you will eat at your own private palapa, above the rice paddies. They have a raised sidewalk leading out to the palapas and it is as if you are floating. The kids will be very excited about this meal, no doubt.

Find out more: For more of our tips and recommendations for family travel to Langkawi, see our Ultimate Guide to Langkawi and 15 Things to Do in Langkawi with Kids.

You might also like:

Nine Amazing Family Vacations Abroad + Tips for When You Get There

Chiang Mai with Kids – Thailand Family Vacation Guide

Ten Things You Should Always Pack for Travel

Kyoto with Kids – Japan Family Vacation Guide

Travel with Teens: Tips for Getting and Renewing U.S. Passports

The post Langkawi with Kids – Malaysia Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.

This slower paced city is surrounded by nature and plenty of educational opportunities for the kids. If you have the opportunity to visit Chiang Mai with kids, here are our top 4 recommended family friendly activities, accommodation with nature activities for the kids and our favorite place for you to eat while you are there.

Activity 1: Experience Elephant Nature Park

You can feed and even bathe with the elephants while visiting Chiang Mai with kids.

There are few words to describe how magical, educational, and special this place is.  If you don’t do anything else in Chiang Mai, you really need to visit Elephant Nature Park.  This is a full-day adventure and you will experience over 39 rescued elephants.  Your hearts will be touched forever.

The day begins with pick up at your accommodation in Chiang Mai in a mini bus.  You will venture about 75 minutes to the northeast of the city into the lush green mountains.  Along the way, you may pass some elephant camps providing rides for tourists, but that isn’t what Elephant Nature Park is about.  Here they rescue elephants from poor living conditions, being overworked or being mistreated.  Your day will be spent leaning how to care for elephants and then actually taking part.

You will feed each herd and experience the excitement of letting them take that fruit right from your hands with their trunk.  You will then feed another herd of elephants and even bathe them in the river.  They really enjoy eating and being bathed, so prepare to splash that water around and have a good time.

During your time, you will also learn about the history of the founder and the elephant trade in northern Thailand.  After feeding the elephants all morning, your tummy may be rumbling.  Not to worry as a full vegetarian buffet lunch is also included in your day.

Activity 2: Tantalize Your Senses at the Saturday Night Market & Silver Temple

Start your visit to Chiang Mai’s night market with a dusk view of the Silver Temple (Wat Sri Suphan).

As with most cities and towns in Thailand, you should experience the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of the Saturday Night Market in Chiang Mai.  Of course the market itself is free, but I would have some cash handy and be prepared to negotiate for your goods.  If you want to try some new foods, this is the place to give it a go.  You will find many things to eat here that will stretch your comfort zone, but you will also find some comfort foods, even mini ice cream cones.

The Market starts on Bumruung Buri Road, near the south gate (Chiang Mai Gate) of the old city, and runs along Wua Lai Road.  They begin setting up about 4:30 or 5:00 pm and it will be buzzing until at least 10:00 pm.  I would recommend arriving just before dusk, so you can also see the colors of the beautifully lit silver temple (Wat Sri Suphan), which is located at the far southwest end of the market.

Activity 3:  Quench Your Curiosity with a Monk Chat

Ask away! Monks stand ready for your questions in Chiang Mai.

During your visit to Chiang Mai with kids, you will notice men in the orange-colored robes all around town. This will no doubt peak the curiosity of your kids.  Not to worry as many of the temples around offer a free Monk Chat for you.  A monk chat can last 5 minutes or a couple of hours.  It is a time when the monks are available for anyone to ask them anything.  The chat we attended was very informal and we could ask whatever we liked.

Don’t feel like you are asking too many questions, as you will find the Monks are also very curious about you.  The Monks participating are usually part of the university program and are attending these chats to improve their English and learn about others.  So don’t be surprised if they ask you about your life as well.

Monk Chat at Wat Suan Dok

• Free – Monday, Wednesday, Friday 5-7pm
• MCU Buddhist University Chiang Mai Campus, Suthep Road (opposite Chiang Mai Neurological Hospital)
• Tel: 053-278-967, ext. 210; 084-609-1357
• Website: http://www.monkchat.net/

Activity 4:   Take an Interactive Scorpion Tailed River Cruise

You can float in many a boat in Chiang Mai, but the Scorpion Tailed River Cruise provides a boatload of information as you travel.

If you are looking for a standard float along the river in a boat, you can select a day cruise from just about any tour agency in town.  If you are looking for something a little more memorable and educational, then the Scorpion Tailed River Cruise is the one for you.

Not only will you enjoy your tour along the Ping River, with an English-speaking guide, you will also experience the extra bonus of having a stop over at the owner’s property along the river.  Here he will serve you mango sticky rice and juice, but that’s not all.  You will also get a private tour and history lesson in his garden.  You will learn about the indigenous plants of Northern Thailand and their common uses, such as citronella.  This really is a great afternoon activity and the kids will be mesmerized.

How to book with Scorpion Tailed River Cruise:

• Website: Scorpion Tailed River Cruise Chiang Mai
• Landing at: Sri Khong Port,opposite Wat Sri Khong , 200 meters north of Nakorn Ping Bridge
• Contact: Booking Hotline +66 (08) 1960 9398

1 Great Place to Stay in Chiang Mai: Chai Lai Orchid

One hour from the city feels like a world away when you stay at the Chai Lai Orchid eco resort.

Nestled in the lush jungle, just 50 meters across a suspended bridge from the road, you will find an oasis like no other.  Only one hour out of Chiang Mai, you will find the affordable family friendly Eco Resort, Chia Lai Orchid.  But this is far more than just a resort, it is a place to enjoy nature.  The river babbles below your tree house like rooms and the elephant trek route runs right through the resort.

You can spend your day playing in the river by tubing, kayaking or taking a ride on the bamboo raft.   Both the staff and the accommodation are lovely.  There is one restaurant on site and all of the food is enjoyable, but we especially loved the cashew chicken and the Asian salad.  This is a nice break from the city and transportation is easily arranged through the hotel.

1 Great Place to Eat in Chiang Mai: Blessed Food

Simple, straightforward meals abound at Blessed Food restaurant in Chiang Mai.

Blessed Food is a very simple, clean and low cost place to eat in Chiang Mai.  There is nothing fancy about it, but you will love the food.  It is traditional Thai food at street food prices.  There are only 8 tables in the family-friendly restaurant, but they are almost always full.  Blessed Food is located off of Nimman Road, about one block down on Soi 6.  Try the cashew chicken; it is absolutely wonderful.

You might also like:

The post Chiang Mai with Kids: Where to stay, eat and play appeared first on Family Travel 411.