Manga, Mario Kart, and mochi? Here are the best things to do with kids in Tokyo
You can thank anime, manga, and Mario Kart for Japan’s consistent popularity with kids. If your kids are chasing Pokémon or digging into their favorite flavor of Pocky, a trip to Tokyo, Japan’s largest city, won’t disappoint. Its distinctive architecture, fast (fun) food, and collectible culture are perfect for kids. And for families hoping to introduce their kids to Japanese history, nature, and culture, Tokyo feels like a one-stop-shop. Lure the kids in with their favorite shows and games, then surprise and delight them with a city with opportunities for intercultural connection around every corner.
Play with your food
A Kaiten-zushi restaurant serves sushi on a rotating conveyor belt at Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo. Photograph by Petr Svarc, Alamy Stock Photo
In a country known for its good manners, Tokyo makes it surprisingly easy to play with your food! Themed cafes (ranging from Alice in Wonderland to micro pigs) mean meals have entertainment built-in. Conveyor belt sushi restaurants (like popular chain, Sushiro Yurakucho) and latte art cafes like Reissue, keep the foodie fun going. You can have your favorite picture recreated on top of your hot chocolate! Plus, there are Japan snacks: mackerel mixed with a handful of slivered almonds, wasabi-covered peanuts, and crayon-shaped gummy candies. The combination of delicious bites and slightly questionable choices will keep kids engaged. Don’t leave Tokyo without stopping by one of the 7-11 stores for unique, tasty souvenirs.
(Related: A culinary guide to Tokyo.)
Sneak in some history
History lessons don’t always top kids’ vacation lists, but Tokyo is filled with living history places to visit such as temples and shrines in the heart of popular kid-friendly spots. For example, Meiji Shrine, a Torii gate dedicated to the first emperor of modern Japan. On its own, it’s less than exciting. But its location at the edge of the 133-acre, picnic-perfect Yoyogi Park means kids can explore a forest in the city before examining the 40-foot tall gate. There’s almost always something happening in the park (regional dance groups or wedding processions), so it offers a chance to see local life too.
Families with children should consider visiting the 133-acre Yoyogi Park when visiting Tokyo. There’s always something to see and do, including a fun picnic in the park. Photograph by David Guttenfelder, Nat Geo Image Collection
Other historical monuments with great parks nearby include Ueno Park, where kids will love the swan-shaped paddle boats, and the Imperial Palace grounds, currently home to Emperor Naruhito, and also where after a picnic in the garden, families can take a free palace tour. Reservations are required. Tours are not available on Sundays or Mondays.
Connect with beloved characters
A visit to the Ghibli Museum is a must if your kids love Japanese animation. Reservations are required. Created in 1985, the animation studio celebrates Hayao Miyazaki’s works, including a replica of the Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro. A café, bookstore, and rooftop garden are located on-site as well. At the indoor theme park Sanrio Puroland, kids can explore everything from Hello Kitty to Cinnamoroll through character meet-and-greets, rides, shows, and of course, the gift shop. Tokyo Disneyland has the famous characters you know but includes some high-tech experiences not available at other parks, such as The Happy Ride with Baymax. For an animation deep dive, head to the Suginami Animation Museum where, over three floors of exhibits, the genre is explained in detail. It’s free admission to the museum, too!
(Related: 10 not-to-be-missed things to do in Tokyo.)
Keep culture cool
Takeshita Street in Harajuku continues to attract cosplayers and lovers of kitsch and color. Kids will get a kick out of people-watching here: the outfits, the makeup, and the shoes. Shops here are filled with fun souvenirs and trinkets that are always a hit with kids. Remember to go before or after the lunch rush to avoid the crowds.
Families with children can visit this owl cafe in the Harajuku neighborhood of Tokyo to observe, photograph, and pet owls with safety guidelines from owners. Owls are believed to have healing qualities. Photograph by David Guttenfelder, Nat Geo Image Collection
The cultural quarter of Shimokitazawa, Setagaya is full of mural-painted lanes, vintage shops, and traditional cafes, including the popular Shiro-hige Cream Puff factory. Time your Tokyo visit with Grand Sumo, a 15-day event that happens in January, May, and September. You can introduce kids to the big-body sport that dates back to the Edo period.
Get fishy with it
Even kids who’d wince at a shopping trip at home will get a kick out of the Tsukiji Outer Market. The original Tsukiji Fish Market—a spot where fishmongers and wholesalers made big deals—moved locations in 2018. But the Outer Market remains in the same location, offering peeks into seafood tanks and features shops for traditional Japanese wares and snacks (think everything from fresh sushi to grilled scallops). While here, try the white strawberry Daifuku for a unique mochi or Japanese rice cake treat. If you’d prefer to catch your dinner, ZAUO fishing restaurants offer the chance to rent a rod, catch your favorite seafood, and have it prepared for dinner. Don’t miss stopping by the koi ponds in Japanese public gardens for a break from the urban rush.
(Related: The essential guide to visiting Tokyo.)
Impress your gamers
Japan is the home of Nintendo, Sony, and Sega, and gamers will find the game references everywhere. Pop into Pokémon Center at Shibuya Parco or over to First Avenue Tokyo Station’s Character Street to score unique gamer merch. Then head to Akihabara, also known as Electric Town, where neon signs illuminate the dozens of arcades. For manga books and products, Radio Kaikan in Akihabara is the place to go. The gachapon (capsule toy) machines throughout Akihabara are an inexpensive way to net unique collectibles.
Visit kids’ favorite museums
The full-scale train models at the Railway Museum, vintage trucks at the Tokyo Fire Museum, and the life-size helicopter at the Tokyo Police Museum are just a few kids’ favorites in or near Tokyo. The Railway Museum is about a 30-minute train ride from the city. The gift shop at the National Museum of Nature and Science is worth a visit even if you don’t choose to explore the massive museum. Kids keen on photography may like the Tokyo Trick Art Museum, an illusions museum, or teamLab Planets, where you can walk through rooms that immerse you in interactive, colorful art creations.
Immerse yourself among locals
A young girl rides on the shoulders of an adult in the Ginza neighborhood in Tokyo, usually closed to traffic on a Saturday afternoon. Photograph by David Guttenfelder, Nat Geo Image Collection
To come to Tokyo and not meet someone new would be a travesty. Several free or inexpensive walking tours in the city can help with that. Tokyo Localized offers family-friendly neighborhood tours with an insider perspective. Families with kids should skip the night options. For an intercultural exchange, consider Tokyo Free Guides. These guides are usually retired locals who want to meet foreigners and practice their English. It’s a great opportunity for the whole family to pick up some Japanese words as well.
(Related: Where to go in Japan beyond Tokyo.)
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