The best shrine to visit with kiddies, for us, is Heian-Jingu in Kyoto as it has a playground in Okazaki Park just near the entrance. It has a slide, some small play equipment, a sand pit and also an old tram for children to climb in and out.
Heian Jingu opens at 6am (playgrounds are always open.)
京都左京区岡崎西天王町97
97 OKAZAKI NISHITENNOCHO, SAKYO-KU, KYOTO
HEIAN JINGU SHRINE WEBSITE
*Also, if someone in your group has mobility issues or you are stuck for time to see the temples in Kyoto, it is possible to rent an English speaking taxi driver/tour guide. I can recommend booking with sightseeing taxi Hiroshi Taxi (prices listed on this website.)
If you are in need of an indoor option for kids near Heian Jingu Shrine, I recommend popping into the Kyoto Handicraft Centre (6 mins walk from Heian Jingu Shrine). Here there are handicrafts to purchase, restaurants and also a small play area with lots of Japanese toys for children to play with .
