Tokyo With Kids

Planning a trip to Japan with kids? Tokyo is a must-visit destination! This comprehensive guide covers everything from must-do activities and family-friendly hotels to the best neighborhoods and getting around. From bustling streets to serene gardens, Tokyo is a fascinating blend of traditional and modern attractions.

Why Visit Tokyo With Kids?

Tokyo, the vibrant capital of Japan, is a city like no other. It seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology, offering a unique and exciting experience for both adults and children. Beyond the bright lights and bustling crowds, Tokyo offers several reasons why it’s a perfect destination for families:

1. Unique cultural experiences: Immerse yourselves in Japanese culture by:
   • Visiting ancient temples and shrines: Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and Tokyo Tower offer glimpses into Japan’s rich history and religious traditions.
   • Learning about traditional crafts: Participate in workshops to learn about calligraphy, origami, or kimono-wearing, creating lasting memories and souvenirs.
   • Trying on kimonos: Dress up in traditional Japanese attire and capture unforgettable family photos.
2. Kid-friendly activities galore: From character cafes and theme parks to interactive museums and nature walks, Tokyo offers countless activities specifically designed for children:
   • Enjoy character cafes: Indulge in themed food and drinks inspired by popular anime and manga characters, like Hello Kitty or Gundam.
   • Experience theme parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea offer magical experiences with iconic characters and thrilling rides.
   • Explore Kidzania Tokyo: This unique edutainment facility allows children to role-play different professions, sparking their creativity and imagination.
   • Learn through play: Interactive museums like the Tokyo Science Museum and the Tokyo Toy Museum make learning fun and engaging for children of all ages.
3. Safe and efficient transportation: Tokyo boasts a clean and well-organized public transportation system, making it easy and safe to get around with kids:
   • Extensive train network: The extensive network of subways and trains allows you to reach most destinations conveniently and efficiently.
   • Family-friendly features: Many train stations have elevators, escalators, and designated family areas, making traveling with young children easier.
4. Delicious and diverse cuisine: From kid-pleasing ramen and sushi to unique street food and international options, Tokyo’s culinary scene caters to all palates:
   • Explore local food stalls: Sample delicious street food like takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled skewers) at lively festivals or food markets.
   • Enjoy character-themed restaurants: Indulge in themed restaurants featuring popular characters, like Pokemon or Hello Kitty, offering fun and delicious meals for children.
   • Discover international cuisines: Tokyo offers a wide variety of international cuisine, from Italian and French to Indian and Thai, catering to diverse preferences.
5. Family-friendly accommodations: Many hotels in Tokyo offer amenities and services specifically designed for families:
   • Spacious rooms: Choose hotels with larger rooms or connecting rooms to accommodate families comfortably.
   • Amenities like cribs and high chairs: Many hotels provide cribs, high chairs, and other baby essentials upon request.
   • Kids’ clubs and activities: Some hotels offer dedicated kids’ clubs with supervised activities and play areas, allowing parents some relaxation time.

Things to Do in Tokyo With Kids

• Visit Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea: These two theme parks offer a magical experience for kids and adults alike. From thrilling rides to live entertainment, there’s something for everyone.
• Discover Odaiba: Odaiba is a man-made island with a variety of family-friendly attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel, a replica of the Statue of Liberty, and a Legoland Discovery Center.

While iconic landmarks and theme parks are popular choices, explore these hidden gems and unique experiences to make your Tokyo trip truly special:

• Take a rickshaw ride: Explore the historic district of Asakusa in a traditional rickshaw, offering a unique and memorable sightseeing experience.
• Catch a sumo wrestling tournament: Immerse yourselves in Japan’s national sport by attending a sumo wrestling tournament, witnessing the strength and skill of these impressive athletes.
• Experience a tea ceremony: Learn about the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, a peaceful and enriching experience for both adults and children.
• Enjoy a picnic in a park: Pack a delicious picnic lunch and head to a scenic park like Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden or Yoyogi Park for a relaxing afternoon in nature.
• Go stargazing in Okutama: Escape the city lights and head to Okutama, a mountainous region outside Tokyo, for a chance to see a breathtaking night sky.
• Visit a cat cafe: Relax and unwind in a unique cafe filled with adorable cats, offering a purrfectly cozy experience for cat lovers of all ages.

Best Places to Visit in Tokyo With Kids

Tokyo caters to diverse interests, so choose destinations that align with your family’s preferences:

For history and culture buffs:

• Tokyo National Museum: Explore Japanese history and culture through a vast collection of artifacts, including samurai armor, ancient paintings, and archaeological finds.
• Edo Tokyo Museum: Step back in time and learn about Tokyo’s history from the Edo period (1603-1868) through interactive exhibits and historical reconstructions.
• Imperial Palace East Garden: Explore the serene gardens surrounding the Imperial Palace, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
• Meiji Jingu Shrine: Immerse yourselves in the spiritual atmosphere of this Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, offering a glimpse into Japanese religious traditions.

For nature lovers:

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Stroll through this beautiful park, featuring traditional Japanese gardens, English landscapes, and a greenhouse filled with exotic plants.
• Inokashira Park: Explore this scenic park, offering a swan boat lake, a Ghibli Museum branch, and the Inokashira Park Zoo, perfect for a family outing.
• Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city and enjoy a glimpse of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
• Tokyo Sea Life Park: Discover the underwater world at this aquarium, featuring diverse marine life from around the globe.

For tech and innovation enthusiasts:

• Miraikan National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation: Explore interactive exhibits showcasing the latest advancements in science, technology, and space exploration.
• National Museum of Nature and Science: Immerse yourselves in the wonders of the natural world through interactive exhibits on dinosaurs, ecosystems, and human biology.
• Sony Explora Science: Engage in interactive experiences that showcase the world of technology and innovation, including robotics and artificial intelligence.
• TeamLab Borderless: Immerse yourselves in a digital art museum featuring interactive installations that blur the lines between art, technology, and the physical world.

For anime and manga fans:

• Akihabara: Explore this vibrant district known for its electronics stores, anime and manga shops, and cosplay cafes.
• Ghibli Museum: Delve into the world of Studio Ghibli, the renowned animation studio behind beloved films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.
• Pokemon Center: Visit this flagship store dedicated to all things Pokemon, offering a wide range of merchandise and interactive experiences.
• Sanrio Puroland: Enter the enchanting world of Sanrio characters like Hello Kitty and My Melody at this theme park with rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets.

For foodies:

• Tsukiji Outer Market: Explore the bustling outer market of the former Tsukiji Fish Market, offering fresh seafood, local produce, and a variety of delicious street food.
• Ginza: Indulge in a luxurious dining experience at one of Ginza’s renowned restaurants or explore the district’s high-end food halls and department store food courts.
• Odaiba: Enjoy a variety of international cuisine at Odaiba’s restaurants and food courts, offering options from Italian and French to Korean and Thai.
• Harajuku: Explore the trendy streets of Harajuku and discover unique cafes, crepe shops, and colorful candy stores, perfect for a sweet treat.

Remember, this is just a starting point, and Tokyo offers countless other attractions and experiences waiting to be discovered.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Tokyo

Choosing the right neighborhood can enhance your family experience:

For central location and convenience:

• Shinjuku: Offers excellent access to public transportation, major attractions, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
• Shibuya: A vibrant district with iconic landmarks like Shibuya crossing, family-friendly restaurants, and shopping opportunities.

For a quieter and more traditional atmosphere:

• Asakusa: Home to Senso-ji Temple and traditional shops, offering a glimpse into historic Tokyo.
• Bunkyo: A quiet residential area with easy access to the city center, parks, and museums.

For luxury and high-end amenities:

• Ginza: Offers luxurious hotels, upscale restaurants, and designer shops.
• Minato: Home to the Tokyo Tower and several family-friendly hotels with stunning views.

For proximity to specific attractions:

• Odaiba: Ideal for families wanting easy access to theme parks, museums, and shopping centers.
• Maihama: Perfect for staying close to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea.

Consider your family’s priorities and preferences when choosing a neighborhood to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Tokyo

Finding the perfect hotel for your family trip is crucial. Here are some options catering to different budgets and needs:

Luxury:

• Andaz Tokyo: Located in Toranomon, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a kids’ club, a rooftop pool with stunning city views, and proximity to the Imperial Palace.
• The Peninsula Tokyo: This luxurious hotel in Marunouchi boasts spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a dedicated kids’ club with various activities, and close proximity to Ginza district.
• Mandarin Oriental Tokyo: Situated in Nihonbashi, this hotel offers stunning views, a family-friendly spa, and a dedicated kids’ club with activities and amenities.

Mid-Range:

• Hilton Tokyo: Located in Shinjuku, this hotel offers family rooms, a swimming pool, a variety of on-site restaurants with kid-friendly options, and easy access to public transportation.
• Sunroute Plaza Shinagawa: Located in Shinagawa, this hotel offers spacious rooms, laundry facilities, and a convenient location near the Shinagawa Station, making it a good option for exploring different areas of Tokyo.
• Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo: This hotel in Shinjuku boasts beautifully furnished guest rooms, an on-site Italian restaurant, a private nursing room, a full shopping floor for souvenirs, and the perk of free accommodation for two children under six.

Budget-Friendly:

• APA Hotel Shinjuku Gyoenmae: This affordable hotel in Shinjuku offers basic but comfortable rooms and is close to the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
• Hotel Rose Garden Shinjuku: Located in Shinjuku, this hotel offers basic amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, making it a good budget option for families seeking a central location.
• Mimaru Tokyo Ueno North: This aparthotel in Ueno offers spacious apartments with kitchenettes, ideal for families who prefer self-catering options and a more residential feeling.

Remember to consider factors like room size, amenities like cribs and high chairs, location, and proximity to desired attractions when choosing a hotel.

Best Time to Visit Tokyo

The best time to visit Tokyo with kids depends on your preferences:

Spring (March-May):

• Pros: Pleasant weather with blooming cherry blossoms, exciting festivals like the Sanja Matsuri (Asakusa Shrine Festival).
• Cons: Can be crowded and expensive, unpredictable weather with occasional rain showers.

Summer (June-August):

• Pros: Long daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities and water parks.
• Cons: Hot and humid weather, not ideal for sightseeing, typhoon season.

Fall (September-November):

• Pros: Comfortable temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, fewer crowds compared to spring.
• Cons: Occasional typhoons in early fall.

Winter (December-February):

• Pros: Mild temperatures with occasional snowfall, unique winter experiences like illuminations and Christmas markets.
• Cons: Some outdoor activities might be limited due to colder weather.

How Long to Stay in Tokyo

The ideal length of your Tokyo trip depends on your interests and travel style:

• Short trip (3-4 days): This allows you to visit the most popular attractions and get a taste of the city, ideal for families with limited vacation time or those wanting a quick getaway.
• Medium trip (5-7 days): This gives you more time to explore different neighborhoods, try diverse activities, and immerse yourselves in Japanese culture, ideal for families wanting a more balanced experience.
• Extended trip (10+ days): This allows for a more leisurely pace, day trips to nearby destinations like Hakone or Kamakura, and opportunities to experience local festivals and events, ideal for families seeking an in-depth exploration of the city and surrounding areas.

Tokyo Family Itinerary (7 days)

This sample itinerary offers a more detailed and diverse exploration of Tokyo:

Day 1:

• Morning: Explore the iconic Shibuya crossing and enjoy shopping in the surrounding area.
• Afternoon: Visit the Ghibli Museum and immerse yourselves in the world of Studio Ghibli.
• Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at a character cafe, themed after your kids’ favorite characters.

Day 2:

• Morning: Take a rickshaw ride through the historic Asakusa district and visit Senso-ji Temple.

• Afternoon: Immerse yourselves in the world of technology and innovation at the Miraikan National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and take in the beautiful scenery.

Day 3:

• Morning: Head to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea for a day of magic and excitement.
• Afternoon: Take a break from the theme park and cool off at the Tokyo Tower, enjoying panoramic views of the city.
• Evening: Experience the vibrant nightlife of Shinjuku and explore the diverse restaurants and bars.

Day 4:

• Morning: Visit the Tokyo National Museum and learn about Japanese history and culture through its vast collection of artifacts.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch in Yoyogi Park and rent bicycles to explore the park’s various gardens and attractions.
• Evening: Attend a traditional Kabuki performance and witness the unique art form of Japanese dance and drama.

Day 5:

• Morning: Travel to Odaiba and visit the TeamLab Borderless, a digital art museum offering interactive installations.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a variety of international cuisine at Odaiba’s restaurants and food courts, catering to diverse preferences.
• Evening: Experience the dazzling illumination displays of Tokyo Skytree, offering stunning views of the city skyline at night.

Day 6:

• Morning: Take a day trip to Kamakura, a charming coastal town known for its historical temples and shrines, and explore the Great Buddha of Kamakura.
• Afternoon: Return to Tokyo and explore the trendy streets of Harajuku, discovering unique cafes, vibrant fashion stores, and colorful candy shops.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant and experience authentic Japanese cuisine.

Day 7:

• Morning: Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and ascend to the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views.
• Afternoon: Catch a glimpse of Japanese pop culture at the Tokyo Tower and explore the surrounding entertainment facilities.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing evening at your hotel, reflecting on the memories and experiences of your Tokyo adventure.

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can customize it based on your family’s interests and preferences.

Getting Around Tokyo

Tokyo boasts a comprehensive and efficient public transportation system:

• Subways and trains: The Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines offer extensive coverage and efficient access to most areas of the city. JR trains connect Tokyo to other cities and suburbs and provide convenient access to some major attractions.
• Buses: Buses are a good option for shorter distances or reaching specific destinations not easily accessible by other means.
• Suica card: Purchase a Suica card (prepaid transportation card) for hassle-free access to public transportation. This card is rechargeable and can be used on subways, trains, and buses.

Additionally:

• Taxis: Taxis are a convenient option for short trips or late-night travel, but they can be expensive.
• Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and discover hidden gems. Many areas in Tokyo are pedestrian-friendly and offer a safe and enjoyable experience.

Remember to factor in travel time when planning your itinerary and consider using a combination of transportation options for a smooth and efficient journey.

Tokyo offers a unique and unforgettable experience for families with children of all ages. From exploring historical landmarks and character cafes to experiencing cutting-edge technology and delicious cuisine, Tokyo has something to offer everyone. With careful planning and this guide as your resource, you can create a memorable and enjoyable trip to Tokyo with your family.

Beyond the itinerary suggestions, remember to:

• Embrace the unexpected: Be open to exploring hidden gems and unplanned experiences, allowing your family to create lasting memories.
• Respect local customs: Learn a few basic Japanese phrases and be mindful of cultural norms to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone.
• Have fun: The most important thing is to relax, have fun, and enjoy your time together as a family in Tokyo!