If you’re considering a family trip to Tokyo, you might be wondering if the city is a suitable destination for kids. The answer is a resounding yes! Tokyo is a vibrant city with plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions to keep both kids and adults entertained.
ASAKUSA – for both adults and children
Asakusa, located in the Taito ward of Tokyo, Japan, is a lively and historic district that offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. One of the most iconic landmarks in Asakusa is the Sensoji temple dating back to the 7th century. The temple is dedicated to the Bodhisattva Kannon and is famous for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Kaminarimon Gate and the impressive five-story pagoda.
“Nakamise” street (meaning stores on the street), the 250-meter approach to Sensoji temple is lined on both sides with souvenir, snack and sweets shops, clothes and accessories, and traditional arts and crafts.
Children will enjoy walking down this street to find so many different types of goods and food-to-go.
Dressing up in kimono
Visitors to Asakusa can also immerse themselves in a wide range of cultural experiences, such as trying on traditional Japanese garments like kimonos and yukatas (summer cotton kimonos). Many rental shops in the area offer visitors the chance to dress up in these beautiful and colorful garments, allowing them to explore the streets of Asakusa in style.
Riding the ricksha
Riding the ricksha is also a popular activity. These traditional Japanese two-wheeled carts are pulled by friendly and knowledgeable drivers who offer guided tours of the area, providing visitors with a unique and enjoyable way to explore the neighborhood while learning about its history and culture.
How to get there
3-5 minute walk from Asakusa station on the Tobu, Toei and Tokyo Metro lines.
If you’re not pressed for time, water bus is also recommended. There is service to Odaiba, Toyosu, Hamamatsucho (Hamarikyu&Hinodesanbashi)
There are no family-oriented hotels in Asakusa. Why not stay at Hilton Tokyo Odaiba (Odaiba) or Mesm Tokyo Autograph Collection (Hamamatsucho) and go to Asakusa which is easily accessible.
TOKYO TOWER & THE TOKYO SKY TREE
Two of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks, the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Sky Tree are great places to visit with children. Both of the towers offer breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks. The observation decks, located at a breathtaking height, provides stunning panoramic views of Tokyo, with Mount Fuji visible on a clear day. They are great places to experience the beauty and wonder of Tokyo from above.
Tokyo Tower, a symbol of Japan’s post-war rebirth and success, stands at 333 meters tall. The Tokyo Sky Tree, the world’s tallest free-standing broadcasting tower, is a modern marvel at a towering 634 meters.
Both towers offer a unique and unforgettable experience for kids, providing them with a chance to marvel at the cityscape and learn about Japan’s rich history and culture.
Shibuya and Harajuku
You can encounter the latest pop culture, many cute characters and animal cafes.
KidZania TOKYO – A KID-SIZED CITY
Kidzania Tokyo is a miniature city where children can take on the roles of various professionals and engage in hands-on activities to learn about different careers. From being a pilot, doctor, or pizza chef, to working in a bank or a TV studio, the options for role-playing are endless. The park is designed to be both fun and educational, offering children a chance to learn about the world of work in a playful and engaging way.
Once you get to KidZania, you will have to line up and get timed tickets for activities. The popular activities, such as the “Hi-Chu” sweets making activity, fill up fast so arrive early to snag tickets.
Information
- For children ages 3-15
- Reservations online highly recommended
- Many activities are conducted in English on Wednesdays
- Adults can relax at the parent’s lounge while children enjoy the activities
- There are two work shifts: the first shift is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the second shift is from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
- Easily accessible by train or bus from central Tokyo. 8-minute walk from Toyosu Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho line or Yurikamome line. Several bus lines also stop at Urban Dock Lalaport Toyosu shopping mall where KidZania is located.
TEAM LAB – “Life is an ephemeral light that blooms in the dark”
Teamlab Borderless, the renowned digital art museum in Tokyo moved to a new location in Azabudai Hills on February 9, 2024 to expand its magic. This innovative and immersive art experience has been a huge hit with visitors of all ages since its debut in 2018, and the new location is poised to bring even more wonder and enchantment.
One of the most appealing aspects of Team Lab Borderless is its universal appeal to visitors of all ages, especially children. The museum’s interactive and mesmerizing digital installations have captivated the imagination of countless young visitors, sparking their creativity and sense of wonder.
Children are drawn to teamLab Borderless like moths to a flame, as they can fully engage their senses and explore the boundless creativity within each exhibit. The interactive digital waterfall, an enchanting forest of glowing lanterns, or the mesmerizing floating flower garden – each installation is designed to transport visitors to a new realm of fantasy and imagination. Just walking around the brand new complex at Azabudai Hills housed which opened in late 2023 is also a lot of fun for adults and children.
*Get off at Kamiya-cho station on the Hibiya line to get there. The Azabudai Hills complex is connected in the basement with the station.
*Reservations required online
*Admission prices range from ¥3800 to ¥4800 depending on date
TOKYO DISNEYLAND RESORT
*Reservations required
Tokyo Disneyland Resort is a magical destination for families seeking a fun and exciting adventure in Japan. Located in Urayasu, Chiba, just outside of Tokyo, this resort is home to two amazing theme parks: Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.
Disney Sea
One of the main highlights of Tokyo Disneyland Resort is DisneySea, a one-of-a-kind theme park that is exclusive to the Tokyo location. This park features seven distinct “ports of call,” each with its own theme and attractions. Visitors can explore a re-creation of the Mediterranean harbor, travel to the Lost River Delta, and even journey to the Arabian Coast. DisneySea also features outdoor play areas and attractions, such as the AquaSphere, a water play area perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Expect big crowds, especially during school holidays, so be prepared to arrive early to get the most out of your day at the park.
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