Top Mexico All Inclusive Resorts for families of 5
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Top Mexico All Inclusive Resorts for families of 5
Top Mexico All Inclusive Resorts for families of 5
By Lia Vincent
A common request is, “We love this resort. What is the price for a family of 5?” Rooms or suites that accommodate a family of 5 can be a challenge especially at all inclusive resorts. As a family of 5 myself, I know this first hand. It can be such a challenge finding resorts with bedding to accommodate but still have the kids close. We put together a list of our favorites in Mexico which our clients have loved, I personally have loved, ones that have more than just a couple suites so it’s realistic to be able to book and are rated a minimum of a 4 star all inclusive.
Dreams Playa Mujeres –
Located - Playa Mujeres, Mexico
With more room options than most, Dreams Playa Mujeres did it right when building this resort with multiple categories with 2 queen beds and a sleeper sofa to accommodate the family of 5. They also have a variety of water slides and a water park geared toward kids 5 and under.
Pro tip - Parents have the option to go next door to adults only, Secrets Playa Mujeres for dinner while the kids enjoy a buffet of all their favorites in the Explorers Club (ages 3 – 12).
Hard Rock Riviera Maya –
Located – Riviera Maya, Mexco
Unique family suites with nonstop fun from an onsite waterpark , indoor skatepark and private beach cove at Hard Rock Riviera Maya make this a top pick for families looking for an all inclusive that will keep everyone happy. The Deluxe Family Suites are guaranteed adjoining rooms with a room with 1 king and a room with 2 double beds. Another great suite that accommodates a larger family are the Deluxe Platinum Connecting Sky Terrace Suites which offer 1,928 square feet with 1 king, 2 double beds and an outdoor terrace with lounge chairs and a hydro spa tub.
Pro tip – Normally this resort is divided to create half for adults only. A chunk of summer, Christmas and Easter do not have restricted adults only areas so kids can have the run of the entire property.
Marival Armony –
Located – Punta Mita, Mexico
A brand new build which opened in 2019, Marival Armony had families in mind when they built this luxury all inclusive in Punta Mita just north of Puerto Vallarta. The resort has a variety of two bedroom suites which include a king master, living room and an adjoining room with 2 double beds. These suites include 3 bathrooms.
Pro tip - Book the Family Emotions category of suite. This will include a custom picnic on the beach, additional kid friendly amenities in your room and a family portrait session.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
Located Playa del Carmen, Mexico
For families of 5 looking for the ultimate in luxury but still an all inclusive environment look no further than the Grand Velas Riviera Maya. The AAA Diamond Award recipient resort since 2010 boasts top dining options, a world class spa and a perfect choice for upscale families seeking adventure and/or relaxation.
The Two-Bedroom Zen or Ambassador Suites feature 1 king and 2 queen size beds to accommodate up to families of 6. Parents will love the variety of drinks and snacks the suites are stocked with as well as 24 hour butler concierge service.
Included Children’s Activity Program: Grand Velas´ exciting Kid´s Club is an innovative program where children can play and learn through fun activities in a safe, friendly environment supervised by highly qualified personnel. The program provides numerous fun activities such as flying kites, table games, soccer and treasure hunting for young children ages 4-12.
There are English-Spanish classes to help kids learn the names of colors, clothing, and body parts; arts & crafts; live shows with animals where children will appreciate the importance of ecology and care for nature. There are endless outdoor activities and watersports at the pool in addition to indoor fun at the video area that includes a home theater and X-Box.
The Kid´s Cooking classes is a favorite among the young crowd who love to decorate miniature cakes using multi-colored whipped cream and later enjoy the taste of delicious muffins from our bakery.
Pro tip – No need to over pack! Items such as baby monitors, strollers, walkers, and illuminated mobiles can all be requested thru the baby concierge!
Cozumel Palace
Located – Cozumel, Mexico
Traditionally known as a scuba divers paradise, Cozumel Palace has set the bar when it comes to family options people love. The Loft Suite features a king bed with private bath and shower on the lower level and an upper level with 2 double beds also with private bath and shower! Amenities like 24 hour room service, nightly turndown service and stocked minibar make this truly a vacation for everyone.
Stays of 5 nights or longer include a $1500 resort credit which can be used for scuba diving, spa or tours on the island. (16% service fee applies)
Pro tip – Playacar Palace is just across the way on the ferry. Guests of Cozumel Palace can journey over and have a change of scenery for the day with just the cost of a ferry ticket. Food and drinks included at Playacar Palace.
Riu Sante Fe –
Located - Los Cabo, Mexico
This resort is a go-to for traveling with teens but wanting them to stay close by. Riu Sante Fe saves their 2 Bedroom Suites to only be booked with a minimum of 4 guests that are over the age of 13. This is a great option for parents traveling with teens! The onsite waterpark, Splash Water is included with the all inclusive.
Pro tip – Book early! This resort has very few of these suites and is often sold out during school holidays.
Royalton Riviera Cancun –
Located – Rivera Maya, Mexico
This increasingly popular Canadian resort chain has thought of families with all their rooms sleeping 5 or more. Royalton Riviera Cancun appeals to active families with their endless variety of activities for all ages. Included kid’s club and even a teen’s club for the hardest to please guest makes Royalton a great choice for a wide range of ages.
Pro tip – Ask about Diamond Club! Some of the resort areas are exclusive to Diamond Club and the upgrade is sometimes very minimal.
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
Located – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
This resort is tucked away just south of the town of Puerto Vallarta on the private beach cove of Mismaloya Beach. Almost all the rooms at the resort have an ocean view!
The Hyatt Club Level Suites feature 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa for families up to 5. The Club tower a private check in in an exclusive area, VIP in-suite refreshment center and access to exclusive club lounge with continental breakfast, table games, books and premium brand liquors.
Pro tip – Select the club suite with hot tub! The hot tub is on your balcony with great views. It’s perfect for an escape after the kids crash from a day of fun!
Generations Riviera Maya
Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico
Unique swim up suites and upscale dining options make Generations Riviera Maya a perfect resort for what a lot of families are looking for. All rooms are oceanfront and the resort features 1, 2 and even 3 bedroom suites that can sleep up to 12!
Pro tip – Guests 18 and up are welcome to dine at El Dorado Royale which is just a short stroll away.
Barcelo Karima
Located – Manzanillo Bay, Mexico
For travelers looking for something different consider Manzanillo on the Pacific side of Mexico. Barcelo Karima is located only 15 minutes from town and 30 from the Playa de Oro International Airport. The resort offers 6 interconnecting pools with waterfalls, 5 bars, 4 restaurants, 24 hour room service and sits on a private cove beach. There is a kid club for ages 4 – 12 with supervised activities
We love the Master Suites which are 2 bedroom suites. They have 1 king, 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa to sleep up to 6. These suites are 1259 square feet.
Pro tip – Upgrade to the Master Suite with private pool!
On a budget? Here are some great options that won’t break the bank!
Dreams Puerto Adventuras
Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico
Dreams Puerto Adventuras prices one of the lowest for families of 5 or even 6 in Riviera Maya with their Family Suite options which include 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa. Families love the dolphins on property, 24 hour room service at no additional charge and the included Explorer’s Club for ages 3 – 12.
Pro tip – Part of Sip, Savor and Dine Program! You can dine for dinner at nearby Dreams and Now Resorts for no additional charge. (transportation not included)
Riu Dunamar
Located – Costa Mujeres, Mexico
Located north of Cancun in the newly popular Costa Mujeres, this family friendly all inclusive was built in 2017. The 2 bedroom suites consist of 2 guaranteed adjoining rooms which can have up to 4 double beds and accommodate up to 8 guests. There are 5 pools, a children’s pool, water park with slides and an expansive beach area make this a great choice for families traveling on a budget.
Pro tip - Children’s Activity Program: 'RiuLand' for children 4-12 years old. Children are divided into two groups - ages 4-7 and 8-12, and each group features its own entertainment team and programs. Kids will enjoy exciting themes, such as Games Day, Riu Holiday, Pirate Day, Aqualand and Olympic Games.
Barcelo Maya Grand Resort
Located – Riviera Maya, Mexico
This huge complex boasts one of the most amazing beaches in the Mexican Caribbean with a stay at one, play at four experience that includes a wide variety of activites in the resort complex.
Options include guaranteed adjoining rooms or families with smaller children love this option for the Oceanfront Junior Suites which have 2 double beds and a sleeper sofa all in one room.
Pro tip – Ask your Vincent Vacations agent about booking with All Inclusive PLUS which includes express check-in, unlimited ala carte dining and upgraded in-room amenities.
Marival Emotions
Located – Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Beachfront resort located on a large stretch of beach, Marival Emotions is the ultimate in suite options for large families. The resort does a great job with nightly shows, playground and children’s water play area.
The resort features 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites with the ability to sleep up to 9! The two bedroom suites sleep up to 7 with a king in each bedroom as well as a sleeper sofa in the living room. A unique feature is these include 3 bathrooms!
Pro tip – You can pre-reserve dining reservations in advance. Inquire with your Vincent Vacations agent!
Sunscape Sabor
Located – Cozumel, Mexico
Located on the south side of Cozumel on one of the best beaches, Sunsape Sabor features 2 swimming pools, a kids club for ages 3 – 12 and 4 restaurants.
The family suites will sleep a maximum of 5 with guaranteed connecting rooms offering approximately a total of 1,250 square feet. Each room has a king and a sleeper sofa. There is not an age minimum or maximum so works great for all ages of families.
Pro tip - Located very close to the island’s main reeds for snorkeling and scuba diving. Snorkel gear is available at no additional charge or bring your own!
Sunscape Dorado Pacifico
Located – Ixtapa, Mexico
Located on the Pacific Coast in the beautiful town of Ixtapa, Sunscape Dorado is a great choice for active families.
Kids love the onsite waterpark with slides and splash zone. Teens have their own supervised social group - The Core Zone to escape to. Movies on the beach and Monday night tailgate parties are just some of the included activities
Parents love the guaranteed adjoining rooms with 1 room with a king and the connecting room with 2 double beds.
Pro tip – Watch for kids stay free! This is a common promotion this with property.
Get in touch with Lia Vincent
Lia Vincent
Lia Vincent is the founder and owner of Vincent Vacations, All Inclusive Weddings, Magical Vacations, TravelAgentPro, Vincent Cruises and Vincent Events.
Vincent Vacations is an award-winning travel agency established in 2013 that is based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. All Inclusive Weddings is an affiliate of Vincent Vacations and was established in 2019.
Lia has been recognized for her own work as a travel advisor since 2002 but has transitioned her focus to managing the brick and mortar location as well as a team of over 250 independent advisors across the country. She is passionate about marketing and enjoys planning incentive travel and events for her team. She hosts an annual awards gala for the top in sales as well as recognition travel for agents with over 1 million in annual sales on her independent team. While being a sales powerhouse is of course a motivation, the culture of her agency is one of the things she is most proud of. The team loves to travel together, attend events and be in each other’s corner.
Lia was recognized as a Trendsetter with TravelAge West in 2021 for her agency growth during the pandemic offering training classes to dive into the travel industry. She took it as a positive and let’s get ready for when travel is back. Lia is a regular guest travel speaker on Oklahoma NBC news, member of American Airlines Vacations Advisory Council, Delta Vacations Emerging Leaders, Hilton Advisory, Marival Advisory and La Coleccion’s Think Tank.
Lia Vincent
Top Mexico All Inclusive Resorts for families of 5
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Lia Vincent is the founder and owner of Vincent Vacations, All Inclusive Weddings, Magical Vacations, TravelAgentPro, Vincent Cruises and Vincent Events. Vincent Vacations is an award-winning travel agency established in 2013 that is based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. All Inclusive Weddings is an affiliate of Vincent Vacations and was established in 2019. Lia has been recognized for her own work as a travel advisor since 2002 but has transitioned her focus to managing the brick and mortar location as well as a team of over 250 independent advisors across the country. She is passionate about... Read More >>>
An expert destination wedding travel agent near me with five star luxury travel packages with a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.
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Lia planned my destination wedding in May to El Dorado Royale and it was the most amazing experience! -Haley McCarthy
3 week custom trip to New Zealand, Australia and Fiji
Lia went above and beyond planning a 3 week custom trip to New Zealand, Australia and Fiji for us. She even let us drive her car to Dallas when our OKC flight got cancelled at the last minute. Thank you. -Candace Adolphson Haggard
Disney Cruise for our Group! Amazing!
We just got back from our Disney Cruise through Vincent Vacations and had a blast! Lia walked through the details with me and answered all my questions! She prepared us for what we could expect so we were delightfully prepared for fun things like Pirate Night and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. We had a blast!! Thanks Lia! -Justin and Erin Cornell
Vincent Vacations is the best travel agency you can find. Lia Vincent has been planning our vacations for over ten years. I can't tell you how many times she has gone the extra mile to help my husband and me. One time we were headed to Europe. All flights were cancelled. Lia got on the phone and when a flight on a different airline opened up she got us booked. Lia even checked in us to make sure we made it. In Europe she researched and researched to find us perfect accommodations and restaurants. She and her staff learn about your likes and plans the perfect vacation. I don't know when she sleeps. She plans the best vacation for each client. Her clients are like family. If you want a top notch travel agent and vacation call Vincent Vacations. I can't tell you how many times I have referred her to other people. Thank you Vincent Vacations! You truly are the best! -Debbie Straughn
Destination Wedding Puerto Vallarta
We had an amazing experience with our destination wedding trip to Puerto Vallarta. We especially loved the resort with its great views and terrific food/service. It was the best trip we have ever been on! -Cary & Tiffany Hawkins
50+ Group Destination Wedding!
Lia Vincent and team booked and coordinated booking and travel for 53 guests and my husband and I for our destination wedding November in Montego Bay Jamaica! They were amazing to work with and helped us pick the best all-inclusive resort that was perfect for our group! I don't know what we would do without them! -Leah Flynn-Smalley
Are you thinking about booking a cruise or have just booked one and aren’t sure what to expect? We know you may have questions about taking a vacation at sea which is why we’ve created this guide. We’ll explain everything you need to know about sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line!
Take advantage of the best value at sea with Norwegian’s all-inclusive Free At Sea. This offer includes Free Airfare^, Free Unlimited Open Bar, Free Specialty Dining and more!
Savor up to 20 incredible culinary experiences with the freedom to dine when and where you choose.
Enjoy award-winning entertainment including Broadway musicals, dinner shows and themed parties.
Choose an accommodation to suit your style and budget including luxurious Suites in The Haven by Norwegian®, Balcony Staterooms with ever-changing views and stylish Studios, designed and priced for solo travelers.
Thanks to Norwegian’s award-winning fleet and highly personalized service, you can book with confidence knowing your cruise vacation will be incredible.
CRUISE MYTHS. BUSTED.
I'LL GET BORED ON THE SHIP
With so much to do on board, you'll have to book another cruise just to experience it all! We have a seemingly endless choice of activities such as go-karting, wine tastings, sports games, arcades, the spa, pools, Aqua parks, and so much more. Choose from multiple superb entertainment options each and every night including Broadway shows, comedy clubs, nightclubs, live bands, karaoke, kids and teen clubs, and multiple bars and lounges!
IT’S TOO EXPENSIVE
Experience the best value at sea with Norwegian’s Free At Sea promotion where you can take advantage of free offers. Enjoy Free Airfare^, Free Unlimited Open Bar, Free Specialty Dining, Free Excursions, Free WiFi, and Free 3rd and 4th Guests. Plus, with worldwide cruises of varying lengths and a wide range of staterooms, you’ll find the vacation that’s perfect for you and your budget.
I’LL GET SEASICK
Due to the ship’s size and the use of stabilizers when needed, you may not even feel that you are moving! However, if it is a concern, you can book a stateroom mid-ship where there is the least movement, and there are many medicinal and natural remedies available.
I’LL HAVE TO EAT WITH STRANGERS / EAT ON A SCHEDULE
We offer you the freedom and flexibility of dining when, where, and with whomever you want. With a variety of incredible restaurants — up to 20 dining venues — to please any palate, Feel Free to be a little epicurious and follow your mood, not a schedule.
THERE WILL BE TOO MANY PEOPLE
Our contemporary ships are designed for comfort and space, giving you plenty of room to roam at sea. From relaxing at the Mandara Spa and reclining poolside to strolling along The Waterfront® on select ships and enjoying delicious room service on your own private balcony in your stateroom or Suite, finding your happy place on board is a breeze. Also, Suites in The Haven by Norwegian® offer exclusive access to a private courtyard with pool, and their own bar and restaurant on select ships.
Freestyle Cruising: Offers flexibility in dining times, seating arrangements, and attire, catering to a relaxed vacation atmosphere.
Wide Range of Destinations: Sails to diverse destinations including the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Alaska, appealing to various traveler preferences.
Award-Winning Entertainment: Boasts Broadway shows, live music, comedy clubs, and more for top-tier onboard entertainment.
Accommodation Options: Provides a range of staterooms from luxurious Haven suites to studio cabins for solo travelers.
Comprehensive Dining Choices: Features numerous dining options, from fine dining to casual eateries, satisfying all tastes.
Innovative Ships: Norwegian's fleet includes some of the most modern and innovative ships in the industry, offering unique amenities like water parks and racetracks.
On February 1st, 2024, for the first time, Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres, opened their doors to guests. I was there first hand to witness this. When I say first hand, I was literally the first guest to check-in to the resort. Here’s how it all played out…..
I was with some of our sales team at a different resort in the destination. When I saw I would be checking out the day one of the most highly anticipated resorts would be opening, I couldn’t pass up this opportunity. I had our agency’s preferred transportation company in the destination, Amstar, pick me up early so I could hopefully be the first guest on property. I did travel to opening day of Secrets Moxche in 2022, and I was the 6th guest to check in. I had to beat my record and we did it!
Let me paint the picture for you.
We are pulling up to the resort and hanging out the window asking the security guards if anyone had arrived yet and then squealing.
When we got out of the transportation, we were met with a mariachi band, executive team, and so many more hotel employees. They played music, cheered, clapped…..it was like we were celebrities arriving for the Academy Awards.
We were invited to join for the ribbon cutting, which of course we said, yes. They passed out scissors with the resort engraved and all cut at the same time. We spent time with the social media team doing interviews of what we thought of the resort. We also did some great drone shots with the pool. We felt like real influencers. This was so eye opening on how much work goes into the Grand Opening day of a hotel. There were so many moving parts. The team did a great job.
Now was time to enjoy the resort. Let me tell you all about it. This is a large resort and they were supposed to open in December. They are doing a phase opening as there are a few things not quite open yet. The tune of this blog will be June. There will be 5 months without some things but there is still most things everyone will do especially for a resort that won't be at capacity right early on.
There were 3 amazing pools open. There is one more pool – the Jungle Pool – that will open by June. They are building a massive spa and gym. It’s going to be 2 stories. It sits in the back of the property. They are well underway but it will be June before guests can do hydrotherapy for example. They are offering massages and facials in some hotel rooms set up like spa cabins. We went and saw the set up and it’s a perfect set up in the meantime. The rooms even smell like you’re in the spa.
The resort will have a theatre by June 2024 as well as the popular Desires nightclub that you might have seen at other Secrets Resorts. Right now they are having nightly entertainment around the round bar. This will be the hub of people coming for a drink to hang out before dinner and sunset cocktails. It has a great atmosphere. The chairs were made by Mexican artists. Each of the chairs took 24 hours to make and were made in the state of Oaxaca. The pillows were also made by artisans. The attention to detail at this resort is impressive. When we stayed they did a casino night, DJ, live band and Cirque type show. Each night they change it up. The butlers send out the schedule but there is also an App you can find the information on.
Our room we enjoyed was so spoiling. They put us in a Preferred Club Oceanfront Master Swim Out Suite. This room is so spacious and has a double balcony that connects to a wrap around shared pool with other swimouts. It faced straight onto the beach and ocean. The sunrise view was perfection. There’s a living room and bedroom, half bath and then large bathroom. It is a very open concept so not super ideal for more modest friends traveling together but we made it work. One amazing perk that was such a pleasant surprise for February travel is the swim out pool is heated. I’ve experienced some ice cold swim out rooms and this was perfection. We were also spoiled by our butler, Frank. He was assigned to us. He would send us the daily activities via Whatsapp. He also did things like help us with extra pillows or when you forgot your key and were locked out of your room (the hike to the lobby would be long in this category) and we also drew a fun bubble bath. He asked us what time and was there on time with a special tea oil that made it smell so good.
The rooms are pretty easy to figure out and I all of them face into the resort or straight onto the beach or ocean. The inside of the junior suites are all the same as far as the layout. There are a very limited number of rooms with 2 beds so just keep that in mind. This resort is more geared toward couples. The Preferred Club rooms have a tub on the balcony in addition to a more desirable location. The swimout rooms do not have the tub though.
One big question I have seen is if the Preferred Club level rooms are worth the extra cost. This is the resort group’s version of Club Level or Concierge Level at other hotels. To be perfectly honest I don’t think it is worth the extra cost at a lot of the resort group’s hotels. This one is one you will want to spring for. Preferred Club gives you access to the top pool. It’s a gorgeous infinity pool with cushy pool chairs and waitstaff ready to bring you frozen cocktails or food while you lounge. Another big perk of Preferred Club is the special beach club which is only for these guests. There’s going to be a beach bar and restaurant for the beach club and I know it will be the popular spot with upgraded chairs and service. The beach bar and restaurant are still under construction but by the looks of it will be finished before June. The Bali beds are also up for reservation specifically for Preferred Club guests. They are located in the PC beach club. The way they do the reservations is with the pool concierge and you need to do bottle service. The prices range from $150 - $250 depending on what kind of bottle you want and then this gives you the Bali bed for the day. They are set up for 2 people.
How was the food? This is always a question with a new resort. We had such a great food experience. The Market Café had all the typical fresh omelets, chilaquiles, and French toast anyone would be looking for. I would also like to give a shout out about the bacon. It was so good. I think we experience such blah bacon at most all inclusives and I was like, “Wow it’s just like restaurants at home!”
The Grand Opening Day there were a total of 88 guests. They did not need all the restaurants open. They will all be open by the end of February 2024. We really enjoyed the Seaside Grill which is up by the pools with a great firepit for pre or post dinner hanging out. I had the Catch of the Day which was a Sea Bass. It had great flavor sitting on a yummy sweet potato mash. Another food shout out needs to go to the spinach dip appetizer. It comes with wonton chips and we all couldn’t stop talking about it. The other restaurant open for Grand Opening was El Patio. This is their Mexican restaurant and you also can get a really good filet. The filet was the favorite here as well as the corn soup. El Patio also has a Mezcal and Tequila cellar which can be used for private dinners. It has such a cool atmosphere.
One unique dining experience I was able to have with my co-worker Becky was at the Chef’s Table. This experience is at an additional cost but oh my goodness please do this if you have time. You are taken in the back to the kitchen where there is a special table with a window into the kitchen. This is a wine pairing meal and when you book they will go over the options of wine which will dictate the cost. The chef came out and explained about the food and a sommelier spoke of the Mexican wine he paired. The lava cake had a spice sauce with it that I am still thinking about. We all kept saying we couldn’t believe how good it was.
We loved the resort and are already planning a trip back. The resort is set on such a nice stretch of beach in Costa Mujeres. You can see the island of Isla Mujeres so it seems the island is blocking the sargassum. I know it’s mother nature but the resort had such perfect turquoise water and white sand beach that I know is what so many people are looking for.
We would love to help you plan your vacation to Secrets Playa Blanca
We took 3 kids under 12 to Japan for Thanksgiving 2023. I would like to start off with saying my kid’s are very use to travel. They are use to long flights so this wasn’t a far fetched idea for my family. We did not do an escorted tour and explored on our own. It’s very navigable but his blog is going to give you tips and tricks for traveling with your family to Japan!
Our family loves theme parks so of course we had to hit up Universal Studios in Osaka, Disneyland and DisneySea in Tokyo. Here’s what I thought about the 3 parks:
Universal Studios Japan – Our hotel was in Kyoto and Universal Studios is in Osaka. This is such an easy train ride. There are trains leaving all the time from Kyoto so it was so easy. There is just 1 train change from the main train station in Kyoto and then the train takes you right to CityWalk. It couldn’t be closer.
Make sure to not pick a local train and then it just takes about 30 minutes. I was so thankful for the Premiere Access pass you can purchase in advance. There are many different levels and we chose the top tier one that gave the most rides. They do it differently than in Florida or California. We had specific times we had to go to each ride. You are going to want to purchase this as early as you know what day you are doing Universal. The more the day fills up then the later the ride time slots will be. With the jet lag we were all waking up early so staying up late was rough. The lines can be intense so please just spend the money on this. We bought it on Klook as the Universal Studios App wasn’t as US credit card friendly.
The kid’s really enjoyed the Minon Land and they even have banana flavored popcorn. The popcorn buckets in Japan at all the theme parks are so unique. They also have a single rider lines for some of the ones that are not included in Premiere Access such as the Flying Dinosaur. I think this one might be more intense than Velocicoaster in Orlando!
Tokyo DisneySea – Ok – let me start out by saying I had extreme jet lag on this day so my opinion of this park might be more negative than normal. This is the only park like this in all of the Disney parks. One thing that is different about the Asian parks is they are not owned by Disney.
Positives – The employees here are very nice and accommodating. You know how the employees in Orlando will give your kids a hard time for hanging on the railings, etc. I travel with 3 rowdy boys and it was not like this at all. I’m not saying my kid’s should hang on the railings but I’m so use to telling them to stop and then having the employees tell them give minutes later. It was just different. The employees don’t all speak English. Some do but a lot of them it was very minimal.
It is so much less expensive! The YEN was not strong when I was there so that is part of this but the tickets were about $65 when I factor the exchange rate. I thought this was a pleasant surprise. The prices in the gift shops I found to be shockingly less. Example – they had unique Mickey ears. They averaged in cost to be about $15 USD instead of $40 in the USA. I found a pair of Belle inspired ears that I’ve never seen before.
The characters just mingle around. It was not uncommon to see fur characters walking around the park. Guests just walked up and got autographs and picture. There were a couple that you knew where they would be like Duffy who seems to be more popular than Mickey in Japan. I was in shock and then after some research realized he was kind of created in Japan. He originally was just “The Disney Bear” in 2002 at Walt Disney World. A couple years later he was brought to Tokyo DisneySea and they added a story for him to make sense with the location. People had Duffy swag like I’ve never seen swag before. It was neat.
Constructive Criticism – I always feel bad critiquing as I know this is just my perspective. I am a spoiled traveler so my annoyances might not even be noticed by other people. It’s also just because it’s different than I am use to.
The lines at both Disney parks are insane. I was in everything. We arrived at the park early and the line for rope drop was intense. Everyone runs to the rides as the lines quickly went into hours long ques. Everyone told me to try the popcorn. The lines for the popcorn or any food was like 30+ minutes at every stand. I just don’t have this level of patience for things like popcorn.
If you are bringing picky American kids consider yourself warned about the food. Their version of kid meals is not the same as ours. One person explained that a lot of Japanese kids eat Japanese curry like our kids eat mac & cheese. My kids would have fought someone for some chicken strips. The pizza was pretty gross with what it looked like pieces of hot dogs on soggy pizza. We can always find something and it was a challenge here. We ended up ordering Dominos delivery when we got back to the hotel.
There is a an app to try and buy a version of Genie +. It’s not the same and you can’t purchase anything without being in the park. I was still taking it all in when we walked in and by the time I went to see about it then the times were pushed all the way to the evening. The rides were way too long to wait so we did just a few and skipped a lot. When I say long, I mean like 3 hours long. One of the most popular rides is Soarin’ and it’s just like the one at home but they fly over Tokyo in it as well.
Disneyland Tokyo – I didn’t cover this so this would be a good time to mention I did not stay at one of the official Disney hotels. I am normally a huge snob of this. It just was not possible. They only open up bookings in a close window and they sell out so fast. I was super disappointed. It worked out though. We chose Hilton Tokyo Bay. We were able to get a family suite with bunk beds. They offered free breakfast and it was right next to the Disney Toy Story hotel. We walked across the street for the monorail. The monorail does have a small fee. You can buy it per ride or a day pass.
We spent a half day here. I wish I would have had time to spend a full day here but it just didn’t work in our schedule. The park is laid out very similarly to the other Disneylands. The entrance is all covered which would be so nice if the weather was bad.
I don’t want to repeat the same information again as I have very similar feedback on Disneyland as I do DisneySea. The lines are long. The souvenirs are inexpensive. The food is weird. The employees are super nice.
One thing that is different is the parade customs here. Most people had little mini tarps and they laid them out on the ground. They did this well before the parade and this saved their spot. I saw people displaying a variety of Disney plushies to also save their spot. I was like, “oh wow! Is this for real?” and yes it was. They even sold these little tarps at the shops.
One thing that was a little different is Tom Sawyers Island, “Critter Country” and “Westernland” which is their version of Frontierland. It was not a popular area so the kids had full run of this without crowds. It was done so well. They also have canoe rides you can do.
Other than theme parks –
Yes we traveled around Japan and not just to the theme parks. Here are our favorite things we did.
Checking our luggage for the train – I was so glad they had this service. It was something I have never experienced before. At each of our hotels they were able to check our luggage to our next city. We were able to take the train without buying the extra luggage type ticket. We also didn’t have to drag our bags through the train station. They do take 24 hours approximately so what we did is packed a small overnight bad and sent the luggage before we left. So for example, if we were going to Kyoto on Tuesday we sent out luggage when we left the hotel in Tokyo on Monday morning. We had our luggage in the hotel waiting for us when we got to the hotel in Kyoto the next day. It was only about $30 per bag. Best money we spent!
Ninja Training – In Kyoto we signed the kids up for a private ninja class. They rated this as their #1 thing they did while in Japan. The ninja master was so patient with the boys and he had their full attention. The studio was all tricked out with secret doors and walls. The boys were able to throw the ninja stars and blow darts. It was a little scary for me as mom but they were so into it. We came home with ninja costumes and they are still talking about this day.
Sumo Lunch – We did such a quick trip to Japan that I was trying to make all the things happen. We were not traveling during Sumo tournament season but this was a great taste. This lunch experience included 2 retired sumo wrestlers who were very entertaining. They did a match while we ate a traditional Japanese meal. They then invited the kids to dress up in a sumo costume and challenge the wrestlers. It was great fun. This is located in Tokyo and we were able to take the subway to the restaurant.
Private drivers – I am a big fan of hiring private drivers for touring days. This gives so much flexibility to be able to do exactly what you want to do. We could stay for as little or as long as we wanted. The private drivers had example itineraries or we could do our own list. This is something I recommend having us set up for you when you travel.
Shibuya Crossing – This was my 11 year old’s request to see. We had a private driver in Tokyo and he was like, “of course!” This is the busiest intersection in the world or so they claim. We had so much fun crossing the street back and forth. The people of Japan are so polite that it was still just no big deal. I don’t think this would be the case in other countries. I want to go back and grab a table at a restaurant and just watch this. It was captivating.
Bamboo Forrest – This was during our time in Kyoto. It was so neat and there were little cafes and restaurants. I wish we spent the whole day here and just enjoyed the atmosphere. I will say this place is so busy. If you want the Instagram picture without 100 people in the background you probably have to arrive very early. The kids loved running around the forest. Another awesome aspect of this trip is traveling in November the Japanese Maples were changing colors. It was gorgeous!
Animal Cafes – The kids loooooved all the animal cafes. It was so crazy how they had so many different types of animals. We did the cat café which was a lot like the ones we have at home. We are a big cat family so we felt like it was a must. The big difference is the cats are designer cats instead of rescues looking for a home. I had never been around so many fancy cats.
The other café the kids tried was an otter café. There were so many otters. They had the kids wear masks and little hospital looking robes since the otters can get sick easily. They were sitting on their laps and all over. It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before. We also saw owl cafes, dog cafes, hedgehog cafes and more.
We would love to help you plan your family vacation to Japan. There’s so much to do. I think we could go back and stay so much longer with all new activities.