Given it was the first time we've travelled with a baby I spent a lot of time researching what was available, accepted practice and challenges we might face. So here are our top learns or tips:
Pram: Take a lightweight pram and a baby carrier. We read so many mixed opinions on to have one or not, especially in Kyoto. In the end we purchased a new compact pram (Babyzen Yoyo - now our "travel pram") that folded small enough to be carry on luggage for the flight, fit above us on trains, and when we did have to carry it (eg. temples, castles, customs) weight wasn't an issue. Some of the terrain we covered with it wasn't ideal and some train stations lifts are nowhere to be found so carrying is the only option; however for 80% of our time in Japan it was home for our baby.
Food: Bananas and Onigiri from 7-11 are the go to options. We brought a lot of food from home as research suggested it was hard to find baby food on Japan - and it is. Department stores may have a limited selection, some pharmacies as well but don't bank on your child liking them. Fruit is very expensive except for bananas from 7-11 (and other places). Onigiri are great for lunch but can make a mess. Restaurants in department stores probably can accomodate babies but beyond that it really is pot luck, many places just can't accommodate them.
Nappies: Japanese nappies are sensational. Like baby food, nappies can be hard to find. We brought a lot from home but by the end of our journey started running low. Our godsend was a children's clothing store in Himeji that had a baby store in the back half of the shop. The nappies are very similar to home but with a few little differences that made changing a wriggling 9 month old so much easier.
Changing: Train Stations and Department stores are the places to go. It could be difficult to find change facilities in some areas (around Higashiyama in Kyoto especially) but most train stations and department stores have facilities. Look for disabled toilets if you can't find a baby change sign as most have changing facilities in them.
We did find it difficult at times and the unpredictable nature of a 9 month old does shape your day, but it was worth it.
Special mention to Julie and her website "Tokyo Urban Baby" that provided a lot of advice, and confidence, for us to do this trip.
Finally be prepared for you baby to be a "celebrity" in Japan - it was quite surreal the number of strangers that waved, spoke, touched and took photos of our baby.
