Family of 5 in Japan.

We are a family of 5 in Japan for 1 month. 2 weeks skiing in Niseko already booked. Any suggestions for some Japanese experiences that would be interesting for the children(5,9 13yrs)Any suggestions for family hotels or apartment to stay in in Tokyo. We have accommodation sorted in Osaka.
Is it possible to explore Kyoto from Osaka or would it be worth booking accommodation in Kyoto.
Thanks,
Kat

Kyoto is only a short train ride away from Osaka. I believe it is like 45 minutes to an hour, but it doesn't feel that long. Osaka's subway system is easy to navigate, you should have no problem getting to Kyoto at all from just about anywhere in the city.

It really depends on how much time you want to spend in Kyoto versus Osaka... for instance, if you are planning to see more things in Kyoto than Osaka it would make more sense to stay there instead.

---------We have accommodation sorted in Osaka.
Is it possible to explore Kyoto from Osaka or would it be worth booking accommodation in Kyoto. ----------

I would just take a train from Osaka to Kyoto since you already have accomodation in Osaka. and maybe hire a taxi tour when you get to Kyoto which would make it easier on the tour with three children. however it is time consuming with three children (breakfast, lunch etc) so you may need more time to explore and go back to Kyoto again. For this reason, some people do stay over in Kyoto. But I would keep accomodation in Osaka so you don't have to move around with luggages and three children in tow from hotel to hotel.
Japan guide has this info for train transportations in that vicinity.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2357_011.html

Example for taxi tour:
http://www3.ocn.ne.jp/~doitaxi/

You can also look into bus tours.

Thanks so much for your advice. The taxi link is a great idea! thanks, Katrina

Hi
Got to take kids to Nara on fine day.
It's 40 minutes from Kyoto
station. Spend 4-5 hours
there. Think kids would really like the place.
Kiwi