Let’s explore Kansai this summer! Discover 5 family-friendly destinations in Nara and Mie 🚇

It’s time to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take your family to the ancient capital of Nara and the rich nature of Mie this summer! Today, we’re recommending some interesting places in this article, ‘5 Family-Friendly Destinations’ that you can travel easily accessible by Kintetsu Train.

Index

• Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park
• Ninja Museum of Igaryu
• Ise Sea Paradise
• Suzuka Circuit
• Shima Spain Village
• Family Adventures in Special Train Travel

1.Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park

Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park is a large, classic style amusement park situated on a mountain that rises over 642 meters. Originally established as a recreational area, it has since been developed into a major amusement park featuring rides suitable for all ages. The park is also easily accessible, located just a 30-minute drive from both Osaka and Nara.

If you’re visiting as a family, you cannot miss the incredible ‘PLAY PEAK ITADAKI’ zone. This open-air playground is specifically designed for children and families to engage in activities together, emphasizing outdoor fun to enhance children’s learning potential.

Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park provides diverse entertainment options. Whether you seek thrilling rides or family-friendly attractions, Ikoma Sanjo has something for everyone. Those looking to explore Nara from a new angle, not just nature and history, must visit this place!

And of course, you absolutely must take the cable car to Ikoma Sanjo station. Kintetsu Ikoma Cable Car, is the oldest in Japan, built in 1918 and still in operation today. It also has a very distinctive appearance.

More Information about Ikoma Sanjo Amusement Park

Address

• 312-1 Nabatacho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0231

Tel.

• 081 743-74-2173

Price (Fee)

*Please purchase tickets below to use the rides.

• Ride Free Pass (Unlimited Rides)
  • Adult (High School Student and Above): 4,200 yen
  • Child (Elementary School Student and Above): 4,000 yen
  • Infant (2 years old – Preschooler and Above): 3,600 yen
• Value Ticket Book (12 Rides): 3,600 yen

Opening Days and Times

• Open: Saturday, March 7, 2026 ~ Sunday, December 6, 2026
• Closed: Every Thursday (except August 13), and including Friday May 8, Wednesday August 12, Tuesday September 8, Wednesday September 9, Friday September 25, and closed for winter break from Monday December 7 onwards.
• Opening Hours: Varies seasonally

*Please check the opening hours calendar on the website for more information.

Website (Japanese)

http://www.ikomasanjou.com/

How to get there

• Take Kintetsu train from Osaka Namba Station to Ikoma Station (takes approximately 30 minutes) After that, take the cable car from Toriimae Station to Ikoma Sanjo Station (about 15 minutes) In total, the travel time is approximately 45 minutes.

Map

Back To Index

2.Ninja Museum of Igaryu

Ninja Museum of Igaryu tells the history and culture of the most famous Iga ninjas. Inside, there is a recreated ninja village filled with traps, exhibitions, and over 400 ninja weapons and equipment.

This museum is more than just a usual spot to learn about ninja but it’s a whole ninja adventure! You can get hands on with activities like throwing shurikens and practicing various ninja techniques, all with the support of a friendly trainer. Plus, there are plenty of other fun activities for you to enjoy. It’s a great place to unleash your inner ninja!

This location not only offers a wide variety of interesting activities, but it also features a café and relaxation areas, making it perfect for senior citizens. Meanwhile, children can have fun while learning ninja skills. Overall, it’s truly a family-friendly destination.

And if you’re lucky, you might even get to hop on the special ‘Ninja Train’ It’s completely decked out in a ninja theme, adding an extra dash of excitement to your trip to the village.
※The Ninja Train runs between Iga-Kambe and Iga-Ueno Stations on the Iga Tetsudo line, with regular trains operating throughout the day.

More Information about Ninja Museum of Igaryu

Address

• 117 Uenomarunouchi, Iga City, Mie, Japan

Tel.

• 081 595-23-0311

Opening Days and Hours:

• Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Last entry at 3:30 PM)
• Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM)
• Closed during New Year holidays: December 29th – January 1st every year.

Price (Fee)

• Adults (High school students and above): 1,000 yen
• Children (4 years old – Junior high school): 700 yen

*Additional show fees apply.
**Discounts available for caregivers of disabled individuals.

Website

• https://www.iganinja.jp/en

How to get there

• Take Kintetsu train from Osaka Namba Station to Iga-Kambe Station (takes approximately 1 hour). Then, transfer to Iga Tetsudo line and get off at Ueno Station (takes approximately 30 minutes) In total travel time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Map

Back To Index

3.Ise Sea Paradise

If you’re bored with traveling on the surface of the Earth, you might want to explore the Ocean World. This is Ise Sea Paradise an aquarium built on the concept of “interaction” with marine life. Here, you can interact closely with various marine mammals and fish!

Let’s hold an otter’s paw! This is a popular activity where many visitors get the chance to hold the tiny paw of an otter. Everyone can interact closely with the adorable otter by reaching their hand through a tube, and rest assured, it’s 100% safe.

After visiting the ocean world, if you’re feeling hungry, make your way to Ise Meotoiwa Meoto Yokocho, which is located in the same building. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities, from leisurely sampling local Ise-Shima cuisine to purchasing unique souvenirs and handicrafts from the area. There are also beautiful spots for taking photos. It’s an indoor shopping center where everyone can fully enjoy themselves.

More Information about Ise Sea Paradise

Address

• 580 Futamichoe, Ise, Mie 519-0602, Japan

Tel.

• 0596-42-1760

Opening Days and Hours:

• You can check on the official website >> https://ise-seaparadise.com/opening-hours/

Price (Fee)

•  Adults: 2,500 yen
• Children (Elementary – Junior High): 1,200 yen
• Children (Under 6 years) : 600 yen
• Seniors (65 years and older): 2,400 yen

*Prices may vary between normal and peak seasons. Please check before booking.  >> https://ise-seaparadise.com/price/

Website (Japanese)

• https://ise-seaparadise.com/

How to get there

• Take Kintetsu train to Toba Station. From there, you can take CAN Bus to Ise Sea Paradise bus stop in approximately 40 minutes. (from Osaka Namba Station approximately 2 hours 40 minutes, and from Nagoya Station approximately 1 hour)
  

Map

Back To Index

4.Suzuka Circuit

The Suzuka Circuit is famous for hosting the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from around the world each year. In 2026, the F1 Japanese Grand Prix took place in March. If you’re a speed fan, this is definitely an event you won’t want to miss next year!

In the same area, you’ll find Suzuka Circuit Park, a racing-themed amusement park that offers a variety of activities and rides for the entire family. It’s an ideal destination for parents who love speed because it provides thrilling experiences for adults while also offering plenty of activities for children of all ages. Rest assured, safety is a top priority, with expert supervision throughout the park

More Information about Suzuka Circuit

Address

• 7992 Inoucho, Suzuka, Mie 510-0295 Japan

Website

• https://www.suzukacircuit.jp/eng/

Price, Opening Days and Hours

• You can check the price and opening days at this website >> https://www.suzukacircuit.jp/eng/park/fee/#cal

How to get there

• Take Kintetsu train to Kintetsu-Shiroko Station then transfer to a Mie Kotsu bus that will take you to Suzuka Circuit bus stop about 20 minutes. (from Osaka Namba Station takes approximately 2 hour, from Nagoya Station takes approximately 1 hour)

Map

Back To Index

5.Shima Spain Village

Welcome to Shima Spain Village! A fantastic theme park nestled in Shima. Here, you’ll find an amusement park, day-trip onsen (hot springs), a luxury hotel, and various other amenities all in one place. It’s a popular tourist destination offering a wide range of fun activities.

Get ready for some unforgettable entertainment! Enjoy lively flamenco dancing, exciting parades, and breathtaking fireworks shows. And don’t forget to treat your taste buds to some delicious Spanish dishes at our wonderful restaurants.

Once you’re here, you absolutely can’t miss the thrilling rides, the onsen (hot springs), and the beautiful photo spots with views of flower gardens that bloom in every season. The atmosphere is so relaxing, it’s like you’re actually standing in a Spanish town. This makes it a perfect place for the whole family to enjoy themselves, regardless of age.

More Information about Shima Spain Village

Address

• 952-4 Sakazaki, Isobe-cho, Shima, Mie, 517-0212, Japan

Tel.

• 0599-57-3333

Price, Opening Days and Hours

• You can check the price and opening days at this link >> https://www.parque-net.com/foreign

Website (Japanese)

• https://www.parque-net.com/

How to get there

• Take Kintetsu train from Osaka Namba Station to Ugata Station (takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes) From there, you can take a shuttle bus to Shima Spanish Village ( about 13 minutes) In total travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes.
• Take Kintetsu train from Kintetsu Kyoto Station to Ugata Station (takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes) From there, you can take a shuttle bus to Shima Spanish Village (about 13 minutes) In total travel time: 3 hours.
• Take Kintetsu train from Nagoya Station to Ugata Station (takes approximately 2 hours) From there, you can take a shuttle bus to Shima Spanish Village (about 13 minutes) In total travel time: 2 hours 15 minutes.

Map

Back To Index

Family Adventures in Special Train Travel

For family travel to Mie and Nara, Kintetsu Limited Express trains provide the most convenient and comfortable experience. Today, we will introduce two trains that are ideal for this journey.

•  Premium Express Shimakaze

This premium express train connects Ise-Shima Peninsula with several major cities. Its exclusivity is evident in its luxurious design and interior, as well as in the incorporation of state-of-the-art technology to provide passengers with ultimate convenience.

All seats are spaced 125 centimetres apart for comfort. The seats are covered in genuine leather and include headrests, air cushions, footrests, and adjustable reclining backrests.

Additionally, there are Salon Seats for passengers traveling in large groups. These seats feature a large table and ample luggage space, ideal for passengers travelling together.

And of course, there are private rooms for those who desire privacy, divided into two styles, Japanese and Western rooms.

Don’t miss it! The train features a built-in cafe and restaurant area with counter seating offering stunning views from the double-decker train. Passengers can sample food and drinks made with ingredients sourced from various locations along the train route.

For those who wish to book tickets online, please visit this website >> https://www.ticket.kintetsu.co.jp/vs/en/e-ticket/

• The Limited Express “Ise-Shima Liner” 

Ise-Shima Liner is a train that connects Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, and Ise-Shima. The Ise-Shima Liner celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2024.

There are three types of seats on this train: Standard Seats, which, while basic, are comfortable and can be reclined as needed.

Deluxe Seats, which offer added convenience with footrests, power outlets, and reclining seats for a more comfortable journey.

For groups of families, we recommend Salon Seats (4 seats) or Twin Seats (2 seats), which offer greater comfort with a large table, storage compartments, and power outlets. These seats are premium seating, perfect for enjoying the beautiful views through the large windows.

In addition, Ise-Shima Liner Limited Express train also has seating for passengers requiring wheelchairs and a large restroom for wheelchair users.

Explore Kansai with ‘Kintetsu Rail Pass’

Kintetsu Rail Pass offers convenient and cost-effective travel, allowing unlimited rides on Kintetsu trains across Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Mie. 

Features of the Kintetsu Rail Pass include:

– Unlimited rides on Kintetsu trains (please note that extra tickets are required for limited express trains)

– Unlimited rides on buses in Nara (only 5-Day Plus Kintetsu Rail Pass)

– Discounts and special offers at participating tourist attractions

– Coverage of Nagoya and Ise (only available with the 5-Day and 5-Day Plus passes)

Watch full video guide on Kintetsu Rail Pass here (English) :

You can purchase Kintetsu Rail Pass online through the Kintetsu website at https://www.kintetsu.co.jp/foreign/english/ticket/index.html

It is a convenient digital pass that can be purchased online and easily scanned for use each time.

🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸

Here are 5 family-friendly destinations you can easily reach by Kintetsu trains! They all sound great, right? 

This shows that both the ancient Nara and the naturally beautiful Mie offer 5 types of family-friendly joy that have a variety of charms, making them perfect for family trips. If you’re curious about our next amazing destination, stay tuned!

Kintetsu Railway Official Website

Read more articles

• Kintetsu Rail Pass Digital Ticket Guide : How to Buy, Use, and Where to Go
• Explore the beauty of Nara and its surroundings with a cute Narashika Train!
• See the seasonal flowers at Nabana no Sato, a large-scale floral park in Mie

Back To Top