A Halal-Friendly Guide to Staying in Japan With Your Family

From its ultra-efficient transport system to its safe, clean cities and endless attractions, Japan continues to be one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Families are especially drawn to seasonal highlights like cherry blossom viewing in spring and exciting summer festivals, along with theme parks, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks that appeal to travellers of all ages.

For Malaysian Muslim families, however, travelling comfortably often depends on more than just good sightseeing. Finding accommodation that supports religious needs while offering enough space for group travel can make a big difference. This is where MIMARU, a Japanese apartment hotel brand created specifically for families and groups, becomes a reliable and stress-free choice.

What sets MIMARU apart from other options

Image credit: MIMARU

Traditional Japanese hotel rooms are often compact, which can feel challenging when travelling with children or extended family members. MIMARU’s apartment-style rooms, however, are designed with families in mind, offering at least 40 square metres of space so everyone can stay together comfortably without feeling cramped.

Each room comes with a kitchen, dining area, and laundry facilities, making daily routines much easier. Parents can prepare simple meals, wash clothes without searching for laundromats, and enjoy proper family mealtimes in a relaxed, private setting. This level of convenience is especially useful during longer stays or busy periods such as sakura season and school holidays, when comfort and flexibility matter most.

Image credit: MIMARU

Beyond space and practicality, MIMARU also offers a wide variety of room types across its 27 branches in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. Larger families and groups can opt for apartments and suites with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and even two toilets, while travellers with special needs can choose from accessible rooms designed for a more inclusive stay.

With so many options available, families can easily find accommodation that suits their size, travel style, and comfort preferences, all while enjoying the reliability of hotel-level cleanliness and on-site support.

Did you know? MIMARU’s family-focused concept has earned strong recognition from international travellers. In the TripAdvisor 2025 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Hotels awards, MIMARU Tokyo Ginza EAST ranked second in the “Japan’s Most Popular Hotels” category, while MIMARU Tokyo Ueno North received its fourth consecutive selection in the B&B/Inn category.

With an average Google rating of 4.0 and above, the brand continues to be praised for its service, comfort, and well-designed spaces for group travellers.

A Halal-friendly stay for Muslim travellers

Image credit: MIMARU

MIMARU stands out as a practical choice for Muslim families because it combines spacious, apartment-style living with thoughtful Halal-friendly touches. Guests can request a complimentary Halal set at the reception, which includes Halal kitchenware, a prayer mat, and a Qibla compass. These simple but meaningful items make it easier to maintain daily prayers and prepare Halal meals while travelling.

Note: the Halal set is available in limited quantities. We advise travellers to contact the hotel in advance to enquire about the availability.

With a fully equipped kitchen in each room, families have the freedom to source Halal-certified ingredients from local supermarkets or specialised stores to prepare their own meals without worry. This is especially reassuring in a country where Halal restaurants may not always be easily accessible, particularly outside major tourist hubs. Being able to dine together in the comfort of a private room provides the flexibility that family travel demands, making meal times both stress-free and child-friendly.

What’s more, Thanks to MIMARU’s diverse global team and their commitment to understanding Halal culture, the front-desk staff are on hand to recommend nearby Halal-friendly eateries and grocery stores, ensuring guests are never short of options. This internal culture of care fosters a deep respect for the specific needs of Muslim travellers, making it easy to navigate the local food scene with confidence.

More importantly, MIMARU’s apartment-style rooms give families the space they need to rest, pray, eat, and spend time together comfortably. Instead of squeezing into a small hotel room, parents and children can enjoy separate beds, proper dining areas, and enough room to move around freely. This balance of religious convenience and family comfort makes MIMARU a natural fit for Malaysian Muslim travellers exploring Japan.

Staying close to the action

Another major advantage of staying at MIMARU hotels is the location. The brand operates properties in some of the most convenient neighbourhoods in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, all within a short walking distance from major train stations. This makes moving around the city much easier, especially when travelling with kids, strollers, or luggage.

With direct access to Japan’s efficient rail network, families can reach popular attractions, shopping areas, and cultural sites without long or complicated journeys. Many of the country’s must-visit spots are within 30 minutes of MIMARU’s locations, allowing travellers to spend more time exploring and less time commuting.

Exploring Tokyo from MIMARU Tokyo Ueno North

Image credit: MIMARU

For families visiting the Japanese capital, MIMARU Tokyo Ueno North is a particularly convenient and comfortable base. Located just a short walk from Ueno Station, one of Tokyo’s major transport hubs, the hotel offers excellent connectivity to almost every corner of the city.

From here, travellers can easily access Narita Airport via the Keisei Line, hop on the Shinkansen for day trips to other regions, or use multiple local train lines to explore Tokyo’s famous neighbourhoods. This level of accessibility is especially helpful for families travelling with children, elderly members, or luggage, as it reduces the stress of navigating long or complicated journeys.

Image credit: beymarty via Canva Pro

Staying in the Ueno area also means being close to some of Tokyo’s most family-friendly attractions. Ueno Park, home to museums, a zoo, and wide open green spaces, is just nearby and becomes particularly beautiful during cherry blossom season. Some rooms at MIMARU Tokyo Ueno North even offer views of passing trains and glimpses of the park, adding a uniquely Tokyo touch to the stay. For families who enjoy shopping, the surrounding neighbourhood is packed with convenient options, including Takeya’s multi-storey discount store, Bic Camera for electronics and toys, and the bustling Ameyoko market street for snacks, souvenirs, and local finds. With so many essentials and attractions within walking distance, families can enjoy Tokyo at a relaxed pace without constantly relying on public transport.

For Muslim travellers, the convenience of the location also makes it easier to find supermarkets and food stores to purchase Halal-friendly ingredients. Combined with the hotel’s in-room kitchen and prayer amenities, families can maintain their daily routines comfortably while enjoying everything Tokyo has to offer.

Experiencing Osaka from MIMARU Osaka Namba North

Image credit: MIMARU

In Osaka, MIMARU Osaka Namba North places families right in the heart of the city’s most vibrant and energetic districts. The hotel is within easy walking distance of Dotonbori and Shinsaibashi, two of Osaka’s most famous areas known for their bright neon signs, lively atmosphere, and endless shopping options. From street performances to souvenir shops and fashion stores, there is always something happening in this part of the city, making it an exciting area for families to explore together.

Image credit: Marco_Piunti via Canva Pro

Being able to walk to these popular spots is a big advantage for family travellers. Parents don’t have to worry about catching the last train or navigating crowded public transport late at night. Instead, families can enjoy dinner, shopping, and sightseeing at their own pace before strolling back to the hotel for a good night’s rest. The central location also makes it easy to access other parts of Osaka, whether you’re heading to cultural landmarks, theme parks, or nearby cities like Kyoto and Nara.

Image credit: MIMARU

For families travelling with children, MIMARU Osaka Namba North offers an extra touch of fun with its special Pokémon-themed rooms. These rooms feature playful décor and character designs that instantly delight younger guests, turning the hotel stay into a highlight of the trip. For parents, it’s a great way to keep kids entertained while still enjoying the comfort of a spacious, family-friendly room. With its prime location, practical facilities, and unique themed rooms, MIMARU Osaka Namba North makes exploring Osaka both convenient and memorable for the whole family.

Why the right hotel makes all the difference

When travelling with family, especially in a country with different cultural norms, a comfortable and supportive hotel can shape the entire experience. For Muslim families, having access to prayer space, Halal-friendly facilities, and a private kitchen removes much of the stress that can come with international travel. It allows parents to focus on what really matters: spending quality time together and creating meaningful memories.

MIMARU’s combination of Halal-conscious amenities, spacious room layouts, and convenient city locations makes it easier for families to enjoy Japan without compromising on their lifestyle or religious practices. Whether it’s finding time for daily prayers, preparing familiar meals for children, or simply having enough space to unwind after a day of sightseeing, the right accommodation turns a good trip into a great one.

A stress-free way to travel Japan with your family

Travelling in Japan with your family doesn’t have to be complicated. With its spacious rooms, convenient locations, Halal-friendly amenities, and award-winning service, MIMARU provides a comfortable and reliable home base for Malaysian Muslim families.

Whether you’re admiring cherry blossoms in Tokyo, shopping in Osaka, or simply enjoying quality time together in a new country, MIMARU helps make your Japan trip both smooth and memorable.

Brought to you by MIMARU