The latest welcome bonus from Marriott and Chase are almost impossible to resist. Marriott is rolling out 5x 50,000-point free night certificates as a sign-up bonus for the Amex Marriott Bonvoy Business credit card, while Chase World of Hyatt credit card is stepping up with 5x 1 ~ 4 Free Night Certificates sign-up bonus. These can be redeemed for free nights stays at incredible hotels worldwide, giving you tons of flexibility. Therefore, It got me thinking – how different would our Japan trip this past July have looked if I had these five free nights certificates up my sleeve? Let’s dive into the “what-if” scenario!
Why These Five Family-Friendly Hotels?
If you’re like me and traveling with family, these are the top five things I’d consider when choosing where to stay:
Family Travel First:
Sure, Japan has its share of sleek, modern hotels, but I’m all about finding spots that work for a range of family types, whether you’ve got toddlers, teenagers, or somewhere in between.
Convenience is Key:
My must-haves are hotels that are easy to access, with great transportation links, outdoor spaces, nearby activities, and amenities that make traveling with kids a breeze.
Stretching Those Awards:
With Category 1 ~ 4 hotels, you can find some real gems. I’m always on the hunt for properties where my free night awards give me the biggest bang for my buck (or points).
Cutting Costs:
Rooms in Japan tend to be small and you most likely need two rooms, but using free night awards can help slash your hotel costs by 50% or more – even when traveling with a family of four!
Tokyo: Hyatt Regency Tokyo
For families planning to visit Tokyo, the Hyatt Regency Tokyo is a total win, especially if you’re using Hyatt free night awards. Located in Shinjuku, Tokyo’s bustling heart, it’s in one of the city’s most exciting and well-connected areas. Whether you’re hopping on the JR trains, catching the Shinkansen to your next destination, or taking a quick ride to the airport, you’re in the middle of it all.
What really sets this hotel apart for families is the Regency Club. While it’s not over-the-top luxurious, it offers a relaxing space to recharge with the kids after a day of exploring. You’ll get breakfast, snacks throughout the day, and even evening cocktails for the grown-ups – perfect for winding down after sightseeing.
I’ve got a special place in my heart for this hotel. During the pandemic, my family traveled to Hong Kong to visit their grandparents, and I managed to score business class awards from San Francisco to Hong Kong via Tokyo. After a long 11-hour flight, we landed at 5 AM, and Hyatt’s “Guest of Honor” perk came in clutch. Thanks to my Hyatt Globalist status, the hotel let us check in early and enjoy breakfast in the Regency Club. It was the perfect pit stop for my family to rest and refuel.
And if that wasn’t enough, there’s a 7-Eleven convenience store right on the ground floor. For those unfamiliar with Japanese convenience stores, this isn’t your average corner shop. They’ve got everything from snacks and drinks to full-on meals, making it a lifesaver for busy families who need a quick bite. Even though the hotel is undergoing renovations (which has made standard twin room redemptions a bit trickier – it was where we redeem and stayed), this spot is still a fantastic choice for families looking to stay in the heart of Tokyo without blowing their budget.
Points redemption and value: The Hyatt Regency Tokyo is a Category 4 hotel, meaning you can redeem your Free Night Certificates for anywhere between 12,000 and 18,000 points per night, depending on availability. If you’re paying cash, expect to spend $300 ~ $500 per night.
Tokyo: Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya
When it comes to family-friendly hotels in Tokyo, there’s one thing that always tops my list – laundry facilities. That’s why I love Hilton Tokyo Bay, but Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya might just steal the crown. Why? Because every single room – from cozy singles to roomy suites – comes with its very own 2-in-1 washer and dryer. This feature is a total lifesaver, especially after a long, adventure-packed day exploring Tokyo with the kids.
Now, you might hear some travelers mention that the hotel isn’t attached to the metro or JR lines, but here’s the thing: it’s very close to the JR stations, which only takes 5 ~ 10 minutes by walking! This is one of Tokyo’s liveliest neighborhoods. Just stroll down the street and boom – you’re at iconic spots like Shibuya Hikarie and the Shibuya Scramble.
Got kids who get cranky after a long day? No worries! You’re surrounded by a ton of cozy cafes where you can grab a coffee (or a sweet treat) and let the little ones take a breather before diving back into Tokyo’s buzz. But the real kicker is still the in-room laundry facility. Trust me, this is the secret weapon for any family staying here. No more overpacking or worrying about dirty clothes piling up. You can refresh your wardrobe right in your room, which is pure gold for parents like me on a longer trip in Asia.
Points redemption and value: The Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya is a Category 4 hotel, meaning you can redeem your free night awards for anywhere between 12,000 and 18,000 points per night, depending on availability. If you’re paying cash, expect to spend $450 ~ $600 per night.
Tokyo: Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay
If you’re heading to Tokyo with the family, whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teenagers, there’s one place you absolutely can’t skip – Tokyo Disney Resort. With Tokyo Disneyland and the one-of-a-kind Tokyo DisneySea, it’s a dream come true for kids and adults alike. While I’ve always had a soft spot for Hilton Tokyo Bay when visiting the parks, let me tell you – Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay is a serious contender, especially if you have the Hyatt Globalist status.
Why you ask? Two words: Regency Club. If you’ve got Globalist status, this hotel is a hidden gem. The Regency Club is nothing short of phenomenal, with sweeping views of Tokyo Bay that will melt away any stress from a long day of Disney fun. It’s the perfect spot for parents to relax while the little ones recharge. Imagine this: after a day spent diving into Disney magic, you’re kicking back in a cozy Regency Club with a refreshing drink, watching the sun set over the bay, which is a pure bliss! So, if you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel with that extra touch of luxury, Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay should be on your list. The combo of a killer Regency Club and close proximity to Disney makes it an unforgettable stay for families.
Points redemption and value: The Hyatt Regency Tokyo Bay is a Category 3 hotel, meaning you can redeem your free night awards for anywhere between 9,000 and 12,000 points per night, depending on availability. If you’re paying cash, expect to spend $400 ~ $600 per night.
Yokohama: Hyatt Regency Yokohama
You’re probably thinking, “Why Yokohama? Isn’t it a little off the beaten path compared to hotspots like Osaka or Kyoto?” Well, let me tell you – Yokohama is the ultimate hidden gem, especially for families! Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Compact and Cozy: Yokohama is like a breath of fresh air! This city is super easy to explore with kids, thanks to its relaxed vibe and beautiful, stress-free harbor walk. Think gorgeous waterfront views, spacious walkways, and a peaceful atmosphere that lets you slow down and really enjoy your time.
- Yokohama Chinatown: Right around the corner, you’ll find the famous Yokohama Chinatown – a perfect blend of Chinese and Japanese cultures. It’s an adventure in itself! Wander the colorful streets, savor the fusion of flavors, and dive into the intriguing mix of history and culture that’ll keep both you and the kids entertained.
- Cup Noodles Museum: Yes, you read that right! Just a 15-minute stroll from Hyatt Regency Yokohama, you’ll hit the quirky and fun Cup Noodles Museum. It’s the kind of place where your kids (and you, if we’re being honest) can create custom cup noodles, turning a snack into a whole creative experience!
So, why wouldn’t I shout out Hyatt Regency Yokohama as the perfect family-friendly stay? This hotel truly has it all. The warm service, the prime location, the cozy Regency Cub – it’s the full package. Oh, and it’s great value for money too when I (and you) compare it with those in Tokyo! And it’s not as far as you think. If you’re flying in or out of Tokyo Haneda Airport, getting to Yokohama takes about the same time as heading to Shinjuku. No detour needed – just a smooth, fun-filled journey to one of Japan’s most underrated gems.
Points redemption and value: The Hyatt Regency Yokohama is a Category 4 hotel, meaning you can redeem your free night awards for anywhere between 12,000 and 18,000 points per night, depending on availability. If you’re paying cash, expect to spend $145 ~ $250 per night.
Fukuoka: Grand Hyatt Fukuoka
Japan is a magical destination for entire family, no matter the season. From the breathtaking cherry blossoms in spring to the thrill of skiing on powdery snow in winter, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning your next family adventure, Fukuoka is a must-visit! As I shared in my Cherry Blossoms Family Guide 2024, my heart belongs to this vibrant city, and Grand Hyatt Fukuoka is the perfect spot to base your family exploration.
Why you’ll love Grand Hyatt Fukuoka? This hotel is a family’s dream come true, nestled near several outdoor parks and iconic landmarks that will keep both kids and adults entertained. Here’s a sneak peek of the fantastic spots just waiting for you:
- Anpanman Children’s Museum: Step into a world of fun at this whimsical museum dedicated to the beloved character Anpanman! Your little ones will be captivated by the interactive exhibits and play areas, making it a highlight of your trip.
- Fukuoka City Castle: Explore the picturesque grounds of this historic castle, where you can marvel at stunning architecture and enjoy leisurely walks with the family. Don’t forget your camera – the views are breathtaking especially at night!
- Sanno Park and Ohori Japanese Garden: Pack a picnic and head to this expansive park, perfect for letting the kids run wild while you relax and soak in the beauty of nature. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
- Canal City Fukuoka: This lively shopping and entertainment complex is a must-visit! With its charming canal, eclectic shops, and delicious dining options, it’s the ideal place to spend a fun family day. And the most important thing is that Grant Hyatt Fukuoka is just next to it!
Points redemption and value: The Grand Hyatt Fukuoka is a Category 4 hotel, meaning you can redeem your free night awards for anywhere between 12,000 and 18,000 points per night, depending on availability. If you’re paying cash, expect to spend $200 ~ $350 per night.
Final Thoughts
These five Hyatt hotels are my top picks for traveling with families if I could plan it all over again. I chose them based on factors that families value most: ease of location, transportation options, outdoor space, and excellent in-house facilities. I hope my recommendations inspire you as you plan your family journey through Japan! And don’t forget about the fantastic 5 Free Nights Certificates sign-up bonus for Chase World of Hyatt credit card! This amazing deal makes it even easier to explore vibrant cities like Tokyo, Yokohama, and Fukuoka, where unforgettable experiences await your family.
How many of these hotels have you stayed at? If you’re eyeing or planning your next vacation in Japan, how would you use those five coveted Free Night Certificates at Hyatt properties?
