travel tokyo with baby

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Tokyo With A Baby: The Essential Guide

Savvy mamas on the road.

No need to stress over the crowds, the uphills and the escalators — maneuvering around Tokyo with a baby can be comfortable, affordable, and enjoyable.

Try these tips from an experienced savvy mama on how to manage your way through the city with your little ones.

Depato Fever

Every department store has at least one “Baby Room,” which are amazing spaces with clean and cushioned changing tables, private areas for breastfeeding, hot water dispensers for formula, microwaves, high chairs, sinks, and vending machines that sell diapers, wipes, and juice boxes.

Some even have play areas for crawlers or beginning walkers. Dads are allowed in all areas except the nursing rooms. To find them, look at the directory or ask someone at the information desk.

There’s Always Room on the Elevator

Think no one else can fit? Worrying about bumping into everyone with the stroller? Think again! I’ve seen women with strollers push their way into elevators, and people inside go out of their way to make room for them. Try it next time instead of waiting for the next ride. Just make sure to politely say “ Sumimasen, ” and return the favor to a fellow mama.

Say “Yes” to Packaging

Japan is known for over-packaging but with a baby, this has saved me in many situations. Save plastic bags for dirty clothes, dirty diapers, and general trash, as it is not always easy to find public waste bins. Save product packages, which are usually really nice cardboard boxes, and give them to your little one as a toy.

Conbini to the Rescue

Conbini , the savior! I really didn’t appreciate the availability of convenience stores until I brought my hungry son to Tokyo. When he wants food, he needs it right away. His favorite snacks were the onigiri , or rice balls (or should I say triangles?) and the nikuman , which is a fluffy bread filled with tender meat. Convenience stores also help with any other objects you may need, including hand towels, wet tissues, baby food and more. Some even have rest areas, where you can sit and hide from the heat.

Train Access

When waiting for the train, look on the platform for priority access signs, which have a bit more space for you to enter. Sometimes, the priority access cars have a whole section, void of seats, for wheelchairs and strollers.

Once inside, don’t hesitate to tap the snoozers on the shoulders and politely remind them that the seats are for you not for them.

Rainy Day? Plan Anyway

Rainy days shouldn’t stop you from going out. Many department stores have direct access from the train stations, and many museums are located not too far from them either. Both museums and department stores have baby changing and nursing facilities, not to mention baby-friendly restaurants. Check out a few great areas perfect for a rainy day here .

Picnic Like a Pro

What’s the 4-letter magic word? Tarp. Pick one up at the ¥100 shop. Keep it in your stroller. Take part in Tokyo’s picnicking culture and enjoy the advantages of being outdoors with your baby. Use it to sit wherever and whenever without the anxiety of getting your clothes covered in mud or grass.

Cut your baby essentials down to a minimum and consider what you may be able to purchase while you are out; food at the c onbini , toys and wipes at the ¥100 store, and drinks from vending machines. As for strollers, it is helpful to not have one that is too bulky because the streets are busy and narrow. When choosing a stroller , I suggest finding the smallest one that has a basket underneath and a reclining back. One thing I left at home was the baby carrier. I walked too much and too far in Tokyo, and having the weight of a baby on me was too much for my back.

Hoard Tourist Pamphlets

I would read tourist information out loud to my son as if I were reading a book. He loved the photos and maps, and I learned about areas I have never been to. After I was finished, the pamphlets became his, and he would point and babble as if he was reading them himself.

And finally…

Use these phrases to express your needs and locate useful spots.

ハイ・チェア ( hai chea ; “high chair”) ベビー・ルーム ( bebii ruumu ; “baby room”) ベビーカー ( bebii kaa ; as in “baby car” or “stroller”) ベビー・フード ( bebii fudu ; “baby food”) おむつ ( omutsu ; “diaper”)

The most important thing to remember is to be flexible and have a sense of humor. With the above advice, I hope that traveling with your baby will be fun and exciting. Enjoy the food, parks, and all of the kawaii characters. You and your baby will love Tokyo!

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Things to do in Tokyo With Kids: Itinerary for 4 Days of Old and New

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Are you ready to explore one of the world’s greatest cities? Tokyo is a true feast for the senses, and despite its massive size it’s surprisingly kid-friendly! In this family-friendly Tokyo itinerary for 4 days, you’ll capture the best that the city has to offer without going overboard or having to drag bored kids around. You’ll sample amazing food, explore fascinating history, enjoy modern Japanese culture and more.

I’ve organized these best things to do in Tokyo with kids to visit (roughly) one area of the city each day. That will help you make the most of your time while keeping your transportation as efficient as possible. One important thing to keep in mind is that many of the best Tokyo activities for families book up early, so it’s important to make reservations in advance.

Tokyo with kids 4 day itinerary summary

If you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the big picture, here’s a quick summary of what to do in Tokyo with kids in 4 days.

Where to stay

Hyatt Regency Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Mimaru Tokyo Hatchobori (Nihonbashi) OR Mimaru Tokyo Ueno East (Taito)
Hotel Gajoen (Meguro)

Things to do in Tokyo with kids

In particular, these best things to do with kids in Tokyo need to be booked in advance to make sure you can get a spot:

Tokyo cooking class
TeamLab Planets Tokyo
Tokyo food tour
Pokemon Cafe
ChikuChiku hedgehog cafe

Transportation

Tokyo subway pass

Where to Stay in Tokyo with Kids

There’s plenty of debate over the best place to stay in Tokyo with kids! There are thousands of hotels in Tokyo, but not all of them can accommodate more than two or three guests per room. This isn’t an exhaustive list of the best Tokyo hotels for families, but a starting point that offers options for everyone. You can also check out my extensive guide to the best hotels in Tokyo for families .

Hyatt Regency Tokyo

I’ll start with the Hyatt Regency Tokyo in Shinjuku, which is where we stayed. The hotel is very conveniently located above a relatively quiet Tokyo metro station, but it’s also only a 10 minute walk to the world’s busiest train station! From Shinjuku Station you can get anywhere, and there are tons of great restaurants surrounding (and inside) the station.

Thankfully the area right around the Hyatt Regency is very quiet. It’s next to the Municipal Government Building, which offers a free observation deck.

The Hyatt itself has a striking lobby and comfortable, if simple, rooms. We booked the “twin room with a view” and it offered two beds plus an ample seating area for our family (the couch even converts to a sleeper which we didn’t realize at the time). It was the perfect spot to sample and trade our 7-11 hauls – there’s one right under the hotel, which is convenient if you need anything! Like many Japanese hotels, our room came with slippers and yukatas to wear while we relaxed.

The concierge and front desk were very helpful in meeting all our needs, from forgotten charging cables to arranging for our luggage to be shipped to our hotel in Kyoto .

The price for booking several months in advance was very reasonable, but I also could have transferred points from our Chase Sapphire Preferred card to book this Tokyo hotel for free. It ranges from 12,000 to 18,000 points per night, which is a real bargain! If you’re a Hyatt loyalist, know that as of this writing it’s a Category 4 so this is a great choice if you have a free night certificate in your account.

After you book your room, be sure to drop the hotel a note requesting a view of Mt. Fuji! That was a welcome surprise on a clear morning.

Mimaru Tokyo Hatchobori or Mimaru Tokyo Ueno East

We didn’t stay at one of these location but did have an excellent experience at their sister property in Kyoto with kids . Why should you stay at Mimaru Tokyo Hatchobori or Mimaru Tokyo Ueno East ? Because these are the Tokyo Pokemon hotels! There are plenty of Pokemon things to do in Japan , but this was a favorite for our family as you can see.

If you book early enough, you can snag a Pokemon themed room in this “aparthotel”. You’ll have ample sleeping space for four people plus the option to add a crib for free. There’s also a compact but fully-functional kitchen in case you want to have breakfasts or snacks in the room.

The entire Mimaru chain is extremely family-friendly, even if you don’t choose a Pokemon room. They offer several configurations that accommodate families perfectly, including options with bunk beds. My daughter loved the child-sized slippers, kid toothpaste and board game loans! This is also the best place to stay in Tokyo with a baby because you can reserve a baby-friendly room that includes gear like a baby bath tub, toddler potty seat, baby toys, high chair, feeding set and more.

The Hatchobori location is a great choice for all-around convenience. It’s just a 15 minute walk to Tokyo Station, and the even-closer Hatchobori Station is on the same line as the Tokyo Disney Resort. If we were planning our trip again, I’d strongly consider this hotel instead of the Hyatt Regency.

The Ueno East location is great for visiting Tokyo with a family because you can walk to the lovely namesake park, which is home to the zoo. The Ueno Station provides excellent connections to the rest of the city since it is served by multiple subway companies and offers a quick connection to Tokyo Station.

Hotel Gajoen

If you’re looking for a peaceful refuge from the overload of Tokyo, consider Hotel Gajoen in Meguro. The hotel was suggested by a member of our Facebook group who loved her stay there! We visited the Meguro neighborhood twice during our family trip to Tokyo because it was such a lovely area.

The rooms at Hotel Gajoen are enormous – they start at 750 square feet! There are plenty of choices that will accommodate a family of four. There’s plenty of opportunity to find tranquility thanks to the “living lobby” as well as the beautiful outdoor garden.

While Meguro isn’t as central as the other locations above, that doesn’t mean it’s inconvenient: the hotel is just a three minute walk from the robust Meguro Station, which gives you access to all of Tokyo’s major subway lines. It’s also really close to Shinagawa Station, which is the transfer point for a day trip to Hakone or the long-distance train to cities further south like Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima .

Best Things to do in Tokyo with Kids Itinerary

MONEY SAVING OPPORTUNITY: Depending on exactly which activities you choose to do, your family may save plenty of money with the Greater Tokyo Klook Pass . It includes TeamLab Planets , all of the observation towers mentioned below and many more attractions plus you have the option to add on a discounted premium ticket like your 7 day JR Pass , DisneySea or even just a Tokyo subway pass . I wish we had known about it before our trip!

Tokyo with kids: Day 1

Welcome to Japan! If you’re reading this article, you’ve probably flown from North America. Hopefully you got some rest on the flight, because the best way to tackle crossing so many time zones is to lean into it.

Today will focus a lot on outdoor activities to help your body “reset”. Be sure to drink lots of water and exercise plenty of compassion for your exhausted family members. Hopefully the excitement adrenaline will keep you going all the way until evening.

Start the day with a visit to one of Tokyo’s lovely gardens. These are some of the highlights of the city and they’ll help you fight the jet lag. We opted to visit Ueno Park on the northern side of Tokyo.

Ueno Park offers lovely cherry trees and pagodas, and don’t miss the Tokyo National Museum in the afternoon. It has an incredible collection of art and artifacts tracing through thousands of years of Japanese history. It was a hit with our 11 year old, especially the samurai swords and armor! Be sure to check out the tea houses in the back, which are a great way to see traditional Japanese architecture up close.

For families visiting Tokyo with toddlers, an alternative afternoon option is the Ueno Zoo – it’s the country’s oldest zoo and a bargain at just 600 JPY per adult. Kids are free!

If you opt to stay in Shinjuku for the day, you may want to start at the Tokyo Municipal Building to enjoy the free observation deck. The line can be long here depending on when you visit, but will be shortest if you arrive before opening or near closing. You’ll enjoy amazing views all across the city, and potentially even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji on a clear day.

Get some fresh air at the Shinjuku Gyoen National Botanical Garden in the Shinjuku neighborhood. Though we didn’t make it there, it’s reported to be one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan.

In the late afternoon, it’s time for the day’s first structured activity: a Tokyo food tour . I recommend a private tour if you can arrange one, as you can ensure that it’s family-friendly and should be able to schedule an earlier start time than usual.

It may sounds crazy to take your jet-lagged family on a food tour the first night, but it was actually a perfect introduction to the Tokyo food scene. Your guide will expose you to a variety of different foods and types of eateries and show you the ropes when it comes to eating in a Japanese restaurant! Since we were all tired, it was nice not to have to fumble around figuring out what we were doing. We learned so much during our time together and ate some delicious food!

Tokyo with kids: Day 2

Now it’s time to get into the heart of exploring Tokyo, which is truly one of the world’s greatest cities.

Days 2, 3 and 4 of this Tokyo itinerary for families can really be done in any order and will depend on when you’re able to book certain activities like TeamLab and a cooking class . In this outline of the best things to do in Tokyo with kids I’ll assume that you schedule the cooking class on Day 2 and TeamLab on Day 3.

Get everyone’s bellies full to start the day at Suke6 Diner near the Sumida riverwalk. There’s no part of it that’s Japanese, but the food is absolutely delicious and includes wonderful house-baked pastries, eggs, avocado toast and more. We’re all about encouraging travelers of all ages to try local food, but when everyone is still so jet lagged you may want to offer an opportunity for a familiar hearty breakfast. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of new food to try all day long! It opens at 8am, which is great if your bodies have woken you up early.

After breakfast you’ll be doing some heavy sightseeing in the Asakusa neighborhood. Enter through the impressive Kaminarimon Gate and stroll through the gauntlet of Nakamise-dori Street as you make your way to the ancient and iconic Sensō-ji Buddhist temple complex. You don’t need to rush through Nakamise-dori, just take it for what it is: a busy street for buying souvenirs and trying Japanese sweets and treats.

If you’re concerned about your kids asking to buy every item they see (they will, I promise) this is a good place to give each of them ¥1,000 or ¥2,000 and let them choose what they want to use it on. Our kids made some thoughtful choices here, like a stuffed shiba inu and some beautiful but affordable furoshiki wrapping cloths as gifts.

Eventually you’ll make your way to the inner gate of Sensō-ji and the neighboring five-story pagoda. The original temple on this site was Tokyo’s oldest, dating from 645, but it was destroyed during the most devastating air raid of World War II – to read more about the impact that night had on Tokyo’s history and transition to modernity, I recommend reading this work of historical fiction .

Plan to spend at least an a half hour in the temple complex. You can enter the main building (shoes off!), admire the pagoda from the outside and stroll through the various gardens and small shrines

When you leave the complex, you’ll want to exit behind the pagoda rather than going back through Kaminarimon Gate. This will give you an opportunity to explore the shops and restaurants of Hoppy Street and Denboin Street. If you’re a cooking aficionado like my better half, you can snag amazing quality knives on nearby Kappabashi-dori at the Tsubaya shop – just keep in mind that you’ll have to check a bag to bring them back to the US!

If the afternoon is nice and you have a few hours before your Japanese cooking class , return to the banks of the Sumida River to enjoy walking in the park. Sumida Park is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo if you’re visiting in Spring! Quick note: If you don’t intend to go to Skytree, visit Sumida Park right after breakfast.

With enough time, you can also walk across the river on the pedestrian bridge to take in the sweeping views from Tokyo Skytree . It’s the tallest structure in the city and you can even see Mount Fuji on a clear day! We opted not to visit Skytree, as our day in Taito City was very cloudy.

Important note for Pokemon lovers: there is a Pokemon Center in Sky Tree Town. It’s not the biggest or most beloved, but it’s right near the Skytree metro station so you’ll probably walk right by it. Check out more Pokemon things to do in Japan for lots of fun ideas!

A fun alternative to Skytree is paying a visit to the electrifying Akihabara neighborhood. It’s a total feast for the eyes and a must-visit for manga and anime lovers. If you kids are into Pokemon – or even if they aren’t but want a fun, adorable, inexpensive souvenir – you’ll want to swing by Hareruya 2, which is the best place to buy Pokemon cards in Tokyo.

Wrap up your day with a fun, personal, low-key cooking class at Buddha Bellies Cooking School . Owners Ayuko and Shugo make a great team as they welcome you into their home for several hours of learning about traditional Japanese foods and cooking styles. This is a great Japan cooking class for kids and the dishes can be tailored to your family’s interests and dietary needs (particularly if you are the first party to book for that day’s session).

Ignore the title of the class you see when you go to book – as you scroll down you’ll see lots of different menu options, and they were happy to let us tailor the class to our preferences. We let each kid choose a dish, which was a great way to invest them in the experience! Our daughter chose for us to learn to make udon noodles – which was more fun than any of us could have imagined – while our son surprised us by choosing okonomiyaki “pancakes”.

We walked away delighted with the experience and with very full bellies. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Japan with kids , so I encourage you to schedule a session for yourself!

If you’re staying in Shinjuku and your family has some gas left in the tank, you can consider an evening visit to the observation deck of the Tokyo Municipal Government Building. It’s completely free and when we visited at night there was no wait at all. The best part? It’s right next door to the Hyatt Regency Tokyo where we stayed!

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Tokyo with kids: Day 3

Today is a day for early birds… maybe. You’ll start off at the Toyosu market in Tokyo Bay if you’re intrigued by the fish business. This is the newer fish market in Tokyo and is the primary wholesale market in the city now. While the famous tuna auction wraps up by 6:30am, visitors can still see both fish and produce wholesale markets from upper level observation windows for several hours after that. Most of the action is done by 9am, but you can still eat in the various on-site restaurants or check out the rooftop deck through mid-day.

Moment of truth: We opted to skip Toyosu. We weren’t excited enough about fish transactions to get up extra early to schlep all the way out there (taxi is by far most efficient, but it’s expensive and requires you to think about folding car seats ). I’m not sorry.

Instead we had a hearty breakfast at Denny’s – yes, Denny’s! I initially balked at the idea but the family insisted we try since it’s right across the street from the Hyatt Regency Tokyo and Japan’s frequent spring rains were out in full force. Not gonna lie, I walked away a very happy camper with a belly full of hearty rice porridge with chicken and eggs and the kids’ choices ranged from a really nice piece of grilled salmon served with rice and miso to American-style pancakes and scrambled eggs. We always encourage our kids to try local foods when available, but I never want them to get hangry – especially when everyone is still adjusting to the massive time change from North America.

But enough about Denny’s. If you’ve opted to skip Toyosu market, head directly to TeamLab Planets . If you started your day at Toyosu market, it’s just a 10 minute walk! I recommend getting tickets around 9 or 10am to make the most of the rest of your day.

It’s hard to describe TeamLab… it’s sort of an immersive, interactive art experience . TeamLab is very sensory in all the ways. There are mirrors everywhere, there’s water, there are sounds and pleasant smells. Sometimes it’s dark, sometimes it’s bright. Thankfully most of the sensory inputs are calming rather than overwhelming, but keep your kids’ needs in mind as you plan your visit which will last around 90 minutes.

Without spoiling too much, I’ll give you a few logistical tips to plan your visit to TeamLab Planets . First, don’t expect to get in early even if you’re there! However, it’s ok if you’re a little late. Second, you’ll be wet up to nearly adult knee height so either wear your own shorts or borrow the free ones that are available. But the free shorts don’t have pockets, so you’ll be carrying your phone if you want to take photos. Finally, everything except your phone goes in a locker – including your socks and shoes.

If you’re visiting Tokyo with a baby or toddler, you are permitted to use a carrier like this one but not a stroller. You would need to take the accessible path around the first room rather than going through it. The rest of the experience is carrier-friendly!

All I can say is take your time and enjoy the experience! TeamLab Planets is fun and immersive for all ages. You must must must reserve tickets in advance.

After TeamLab it’s time to explore Tokyo’s original fish market, Tsukiji market. While you’ll no longer see fish wholesaling (which took place at the Tsukiji Inner Market) you can still buy fish or watch some restauranteurs buy fish inside the building.

The real reason to visit the area is the Tsukiji Outer Market, which is the collection of vendors surrounding the original Tsukiji fish market. Many of these restaurants and stalls have been there for years! This is one of our favorite places to eat in Tokyo, and you’ll find plenty of options.

There are many excellent sushi restaurants at varying price points in the area, often with some of the freshest fish you can eat in Tokyo. There are also stalls selling everything from mouth-melting wagyu beef skewers to perfectly red strawberries and sweet red bean filled cookies. Stroll around and try it all!

The next stop is one for the kids: Tokyo’s legendary Pokemon Center DX, located in Nihonbashi. This is one of the largest Pokemon stores in Tokyo and it’s also connected to the Pokemon Cafe . I recommend trying to snag a reservation (31 days in advance, remembering to account for the day difference) even if you just go for dessert and the exclusive merchandise. Chef Pikachu even comes out to do a little dance and greet diners, and it’s much cheaper than character dining at a theme park.

There are plenty of great options for how to spend the rest of your afternoon and evening in Tokyo, which will depend on your interests, the season and the weather:

Catch a baseball game at the Tokyo Dome – Our son rated this as one of his favorite things to do in Japan for families . Pre-season begins in late February and championships wrap up in early November, so most visitors will have a chance to catch a game! Check the schedule here . If you want to experience the famous Tokyo Dome you’ll be watching the Yomiuri Giants, but if they aren’t in town you could also root for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows over at Shinjuku’s open-air Meji Jingu Stadium.
Enjoy the beautiful Japanese garden of the Hotel New Otani Tokyo – There may be no prettier garden in all of Tokyo. This is one of the best free things to do in Tokyo with kids, who will love the waterfall, bridges, koi and more. We didn’t make it there but won’t miss it on our next trip!
Take in the views from Roppongi Hills Sky Deck – Grab your tickets in advance for one of the best views of Tokyo! You can enjoy the view either from inside the huge glass observation desk or from the roof. Roppongi also offers a modern art museum and rotating activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Tokyo with kids: Day 4

Your final day in Tokyo with kids will take you to the Shibuya neighborhood, southwest of the city center. Shibuya is an interesting mix, as you’ll find everything from sprawling green spaces amid residential neighborhoods to the always-packed commercial areas of Harajuku and “Shibuya scramble square”. Lace up your comfy shoes because you’ll be racking up a lot of steps.

After breakfast, make your way to lovely Yoyogi Park. It’s a popular spot for Japanese families and young people alike. In this spring this is an incredible place to see cherry blossoms in Tokyo! You can even pick up bento boxes or simple foods at a 7-11 to bring with you for an impromptu hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnic. It’s a peaceful way to kick off what will otherwise be a frenetic day.

Eventually you’ll make your way outside of the park and around to the Meji Jingu Shinto shrine. It’s situated in a beautiful forest past a massive wooden torii gate. The shrine is dedicated to the early 20th century Emperor Meji and his wife Shōken, though as with much of Tokyo the original was destroyed during World War II air raids.

Be sure to take a moment to appreciate the ornate sake barrels that have been donated for ritual offerings. We visited the Meji Jingu Inner Garden as well, but I don’t recommend it unless you’ll be there in May or June. Unfortunately there wasn’t much to see in March!

You’ll exit Meji Jingu along the same path you followed in, winding up next to the Harajuku train station. Pro tip: If you need to reserve additional tickets with your Japan Rail Pass for later in your trip, it may be easier to do here than at the huge, busy Shinjuku station.

Set your sights on one of the most kid-friendly things to do in Tokyo: the fun, quirky Harajuku district. It’s full of all things kawaii (“cute”) and themed, from Hello Kitty shops to dog cafes and more.

If your kids like cotton candy, don’t miss a stop at the Totti Candy Factory! It can be tricky to spot as it’s upstairs.

Just a word of warning: Harajuku is packed with both tourists and young Japanese people. If you’re visiting Tokyo with toddlers or babies, this is a great time to use a carrier. Everyone will stay together and safe, plus your kids will have a better view than if they’re walking on their own!

You’ll eventually make your way to Jingūmae, one of the biggest streets in the area, to walk through the heart of Shibuya. There are plenty of interesting places to stop along the way! One of our favorites is Tokyu Plaza, which has an incredible mirrored escalator at the bottom and a Starbucks with incredible views and a beautiful terrace at the top. It’s also home to Oh My Cafe , which offers rotating Disney theme dining in Tokyo!

Deep in the heart of Shibuya City you’ll find my daughter’s pick for her favorite thing to do with kids in Tokyo: ChikuChiku hedgehog cafe . It’s definitely more hedgehog and less cafe, so don’t expect to get a coffee here. But that’s ok! ChikuChiku offers a delightful introduction to these little creatures along with panda mice and a few other small creatures. Be sure to reserve in advance to ensure a spot and avoid a long wait, and I recommend choosing the 60 minute option so that you can meet several hedgehogs. This activity is great for calm kids but may not be ideal for some toddlers (though they are allowed).

Be sure to stop by Shibuya Scramble crossing, which you’ve seen in every movie about Tokyo! There are just as many people as you can imagine, so hold hands and stay close – but also know that there’s plenty of time to cross and get photos or videos. We probably crossed five or six times just for fun, and we made sure that each parent kept track of one kid (which was good since we got separated a few times).

While it’s fun to be part of the action, for the best perspective of the Scramble head up to the adjacent Shibuya SKY observation deck . Yes, another one! Don’t feel compelled to go up if you’ve already visited one of the other options, but SKY offers amazing views especially leading into sunset.

Cap off your incredible 4 day Tokyo itinerary with kids in the charming neighborhood of Meguro. The area is largely residential but offers an absolutely stunning place to see cherry blossoms along the Meguro River walk, particularly in the evening – the blossoms are illuminated until 8pm. There are also wonderful restaurant options – as with most places in Tokyo, prepare to put your name on the list and then go for a pleasant stroll at peak times. We had an amazing and budget-friendly yakitori meal at local favorite Kushiwakamura. The Meguro neighborhood is so lovely that we went there two evenings in a row during our family trip to Tokyo!

Getting Around Tokyo With Kids

Getting around Tokyo with kids requires some thought and advance planning! Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

Be sure you have Google Maps installed and consider downloading the Tokyo map to use offline. Supplement it with the excellent JapanTravel app. Google Maps does a good job overall of providing both walking and transit directions, as well as comparing travel time versus taking a taxi/Uber. But JapanTravel has a key advantage: you can select which train passes you have activated on a given day to find out which routes are covered, partially covered or not covered.
The subway system is efficient but can take a few tries to understand. For historical reasons, Tokyo has several subway companies with overlapping maps. Some stations are shared, while others are not. We found the 72 hour subway pass to be a great value and very easy to use, but know that it doesn’t include the popular JR Yamanote line. We purchased single-ride tickets when we needed to use that. DO NOT waste your pricey Japan Rail Pass on Tokyo – you’ll need it for the rest of your Japan itinerary, when you’re taking long-distance train rides.
The huge stations like Shinjuku and Tokyo station have many connections but are harder to navigate. We often preferred using the smaller stations even if the Google Maps directions said the route could take a few extra minutes. It’s much easier to find the correct part of the station and platform at a “local” stop!
Sometimes a taxi or Uber is much more efficient than public transportation. Japanese trains are great overall, but on some routes you’ll find that a car is much faster. Be sure to bring a folding car seat with you in case you need to take a ride.

One quick note: At some point early in your trip, you’ll need to visit a Japan Rail office to exchange your JR Pass voucher for the physical passes. You can and should do this before the first day you’ll be using the pass, as it’s best to reserve seats on some of the busier trains at few days in advance – once you have the pass you can reserve at a kiosk.

The airport arrival areas have offices and those will be the easiest options if they’re open when you arrive. If they’re not, you can exchange at the JR building next to the main Shinjuku station – it’s outside and around the back, not inside the station. Lines may be long, so if you have to go to Shinjuku to do this I recommend going as early as possible and bring entertainment for your kids!

Prepare your family for lots and lots and lots of walking in Tokyo. Despite using plenty of trains and taxis ( with vests for the kids ) we clocked 8-10 miles on foot every day! We made sure to bring plenty of water with us, allow ample convenience store snack stops – an experience unto itself – and even took family stretch breaks.

Many families wonder if they should bring a stroller to Tokyo for babies or toddlers. While our kids were too old for that question, the consensus in our Facebook group is a resounding no to strollers in Tokyo. Most traveling families vote that it’s much more convenient to bring a carrier like this one . Restaurants and trains are often cramped and elevators may be tricky to find.

If you absolutely feel like you need a stroller, consider an ultracompact folding stroller . It fits in the overhead bin on your flight, and if you can’t use it in a particular location you’ll be able to fold it and sling it over your shoulder!

Mapping the Best Things to do With Kids in Tokyo

Putting together your Tokyo itinerary can be so overwhelming! Use this day-by-day color-coded map of the best things to do with kids in Tokyo to help you organize your time. You can even download it to your Google Maps app to use offline while you’re there – that’s exactly what we did.

Planning Your Family Trip to Tokyo

I hope this Tokyo itinerary and travel guide has given you all of the information you need to plan an incredible visit to Tokyo with kids! Let me know in the comments if you have any more questions as you plan your own family trip.

Don’t miss these resources to plan your family trip to Japan:

Buy your Japan Rail Pass
The Best Hotels in Tokyo for Families (and How to Choose Yours)
Essential Japan Itinerary: 10 Days of Family-Friendly Travel
Visiting Kyoto With Kids: 2+ Day Itinerary + Must-Read Travel Tips
Best Family Hotels in Kyoto
9 Tips for Japan Travel You Can’t Afford To Miss
What to Pack for Japan in Spring (and What to Leave at Home)
Best Things to do in Japan With Kids: A Kid’s Take
Awesome Pokémon Things to do in Japan
Visiting the A-Bomb Sites in Hiroshima with Kids
10 Japan Cultural Activities & Attractions For Your Bucket List

Still planning? Pin this for later!

What to read next

31 Best Things to Do in Tokyo with a Baby or Toddler

Tokyo is a great destination for families with babies or toddlers. You will feel absolutely spoiled by the facilities as they’re all family-friendly and designed with convenience in mind.

Public playgrounds have clean family restrooms. Every mall is stroller-friendly and has nursing facilities. Most restaurants have kid’s meal sets and highchairs. The cities themselves are incredibly clean. It’s one of the absolute safest countries in the world. And best of all, Disneyland exists!

Aside from this guide, check out our resources for traveling in Japan with your baby:

Where to buy baby formula in Japan
Where to buy baby diapers in Japan
The best family-friendly hotels in Tokyo

Best Tokyo Tours that are Baby and Toddler-Friendly

Mt. Fuji Scenic Bus Tour from Tokyo .
Studio Ghibli Museum Tour .

Best Baby and Toddler-Friendly Museums in Tokyo

1. mori building digital art museum by epson teamlab borderless.

Your babies will love this digital art museum. It’s designed to flood your senses with lights, sounds, and texture. Note that strollers are not allowed so bring a baby-carrier.

Make sure to get your tickets here in advance as they sell quickly within the day.

→ Click here to book your tickets to the teamLab borderless

Getting there: 5-min walk from Aomi Station

2. Ghibli Museum

A trip to Tokyo with kids is never complete without a visit to the Ghibli Museum, which showcases the work of the famous Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli. Its museum is like walking into one of its animated films with facilities such as a Bouncing Totoro 3D zoetrope and a Cat Bus room on the 2nd floor.

There are also baby-friendly facilities and a nursing rdoom available on the 1st floor for those bringing toddlers and infants. This is no exaggeration but Ghibli Museum tickets are easily sold out so you have to make sure to book way ahead of time.

→ Click to learn on how to book your tickets to the Ghibli museum in advance

Getting there: 15-min walk from Mitaka Station or Kichijoji Station

3. National Museum of Nature and Science

The National Museum of Nature and Science is one of the biggest science museums in the country with over 10,000 exhibits. Among these are authentic artifacts that include the stuffed body of Hachiko and two famous pandas.

For the little ones, there is a ComPaSS exhibition room on the 3rd floor, designed for kids aged 4 to 6 although kids 0-12 years old can still enter. For parents bringing small kids, a diaper changing table can be found on each floor. A nursing station is also located on the floor B1 of the Japan Gallery.

Three strollers are also available for rent at the Central Information Desk.

→ Click here to learn more about the National Museum of Nature and Science

Getting there: 5-min walk from Ueno Station

4. National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (also known as Miraikan)

More popularly known as the Miraikan, this museum is most appealing to families with young children because of the variety of fun yet educational activities that it offers. Its main exhibits can be found on the 1st, 3rd and 5th floors, with the one on the 5th having themed sections: Earth, Lab, Life, and the Universe.

It also has a baby-friendly cafe on the 5th floor and a theater on the 7th. For families bringing infants or toddlers, strollers can be rented but there are only four available inside the museum. There are also 11 diaper changing facilities inside as well as a nursing room behind the cafe on the 5th floor. Free admission for kids on Saturdays. Free admission for preschoolers.

→ Click here to get discounted tickets

Getting there: 4-min walk from Telecom Center Station

Best Indoor Play Spaces for Babies & Toddlers in Tokyo

5. sanrio puroland.

This place has everything Hello Kitty including fun rides, parades, restaurants, souvenir shops, and more Sanrio Puroland is pretty much designed to be extremely baby-friendly. All restrooms are equipped with diaper changing table.

You can head to the Baby Center on the 1st floor where there are more changing tables, children’s toilets, tables, baby food, and nursing rooms. Take note though, strollers are not allowed on the 1st and 2nd floors where it is uneven. So it might be best to use baby slings and carriers in Sanrio Puroland.

→ Click here to get discounted tickets to Sanrio Puroland

Getting there: 10-min walk from Tama Center Station

6. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower Tokyo City View & Sky Deck

→ Click here to get tickets to Mori Tower & Sky Deck

Roppongi Hills itself is a very family-friendly area. Why not visit the Mori Tower Sky Deck? Kids 3 and under are free of charge!

Getting there: 9-min walk from Roppongi Station

7. Duplo Village in Legoland Discovery Center

Lego toys might be a pain to step on and clean up after but if it’s helping your kids develop their motor skills and imagination, it’s really such a small price to pay. Located inside DECKS Tokyo Beach Mall, The Duplo Village is truly made just for toddlers – adults cannot get in if they aren’t accompanied by kids.

Families will also love this place because it has complete amenities such as a family restroom, diaper changing areas, and stroller accessibility. Be sure to book ahead because they only allow a limited number of visitors each day.

→ Click here to get EXCLUSIVE discount to Duplo Village Tokyo

Getting there: Duplo Village is located in DECKS Tokyo Beach Mall, which is a 5-min walk from Tokyo Teleport Station.

8. Aneby Trimpark

If you are a parent who chose the Montessori way, you will love Aneby Trimpark. Aneby Trimpark has every play equipment and activities for infants to 12 years old.

9. Asobono in Tokyo Dome City

Asobono has a kids toilet and a breastfeeding room. The toilets have 2 sizes for 1-2 years and 3-6 years. The breastfeeding room is equipped with two large sofas and two diaper tables. They also provide water which can be used for milk formula.

Getting there: 10-min walk from Suidobashi Station

10. Tokyo Toy Museum

A few minutes walk from Yotsuya San-Chome station, the Tokyo Toy Museum was originally an elementary school that was converted into a museum to house various toys and games from all over the world. It now has several rooms with different themes, and there’s an attendant who will help you figure out the toys and games.

Among everyone’s favorite room is the baby room which comes with various wooden toys that they can play and interact with. Parents will love the fact that the room also has changing and nursing facilities available.

Getting there: 6-min walk from Yotsuya San-Chome station

11. Amazing World (various branches)

From its name, the Amazing World is an all-weather indoor play facility for families. It can be found in many locations all over the country. The place has several facilities that allow kids to explore and pursue their interests, catering to all senses. They have a baby corner especially for kids 0-2 years old, as well as space for changing diapers and breastfeeding. Diapers can be bought at the reception desk.

12. Hakuhinkan Toy Park

While Ginza is better known for the high-end fashion boutiques that line up its streets, it actually has a huge toy shop that’s open all year round. The place is a haven for the kids and kids-at-heart with more than 200,000 toys – party goods on the 1st, stuffed animals and traditional Japanese toys on the 2nd, infant and young kids’ toys on the 3rd, video and card games on the 4th.

There are also restaurants on the 5th and 6th and a theater on the 8th floor. Parents and babies are free to test some of the toys on display. For those bringing infants and toddlers, the nursing room is located on the 4th floor. Admission is free.

Hakuhinkan Toy Park is about a 5-min walk from Shimbashi Station .

13. Lego Clickbrick, Roppongi

We can’t deny the fact that they’re really great toys, especially for encouraging kids’ imagination and creativity. The Lego Clickbrick in Roppongi Hills is full of all sorts of Lego pieces that they can mix and match.

There is even a Lego School nearby where kids can enroll in Duplo building classes as well as more advanced ones involving programming and robotics. Lego Clickbrick is located on the B2F of Roppongi Hills mall, about a 7-min walk from Roppongi Station.

Getting there: Located on the B2F of Roppongi Hills mall, a 7-min walk from Roppongi Station

14. Kid-O-Kid Bornelund in Kawasaki

The Kid-O-Kid Bornelund has various locations throughout Japan but the closest first-rate Kid-O-Kid Bornelund branch is located in Kawasaki City which is 35 minutes train ride from Tokyo. It features various rooms with different themes, toys, and features.

The little ones can enjoy the jumping castle and ball pit, among many others. If you are tagging along with your baby or toddler, there is also a space where they can crawl or even climb structures.

Getting there: Located inside Le FRONT shopping mall, a 5-min walk from Kawasaki Station

15. Ai Port Station

Located in Aoyama, Ai-Port Play Center is a multi-purpose community facility which is super convenient for busy parents. It comes with both indoor and outdoor play areas, a childcare facility as well as a child-raising advice center.

This community space is basically one huge living area with three components: the Hidamari, filled with wooden toys, books and a play kitchen; Aoba; and the Kids’ Garden located outside. They make the perfect place to have play dates in Tokyo.

Getting there: 2-min walk from Exit 1B of Gaienmae Station

16. Akasaka Kids and Teens Hall Nandemo

Not all facilities in Tokyo require families to spend money every time. In fact, in the heart of Tokyo lies a convenient and free public play space called the Akasaka Kids-Teens Hall Nandemo.

The place has a lot to offer, including different rooms with different types of toys and activities. They even offer monthly activities offered per age group. While the place has no cafe, you can bring along food and beverages and eat in the main room. There is also a small kitchen and a nursing room available on the premises. Admission is free.

Getting there: 3-min walk from Akasaka Station

17. Sky Circus Sunshine60

If you decide to visit the shopping center of Sunshine60, make sure to check out their observatory and other facilities as well. Beyond getting a good view of the city, including the Roppongi Hills and Tokyo Tower, the observation deck also has other kid-friendly features such as the Sky Circus and Aerial VR.

The best part about bringing toddlers and infants here is that it allows strollers within the venue. Rentals are also available in the B1 (General Information Office and Broad Street Information Office) and the 1 (Water Fountain Information Office and Broad Street Information Office) levels of Sunshine City Alpa. Baby rooms are available on the B1, 2 and 3 levels, while one changing mat is provided within the men’s, women’s and wheelchair user priority toilets.

→ Click here to get tickets to the Sky Circus Sunshine60

Getting there: Located inside Sunshine City Shopping Center, a 6-min walk from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station

Best Amusement Parks for Babies & Toddlers in Tokyo

18. yomiuriland.

The first amusement park you should consider visiting in Tokyo is Yomiuriland, as it is just near the city center. While this place offers the usual amusement park attractions – roller coasters, free fall rides, and bungee jumps – it also has other features such as swimming pools during the summer and illumination lights in the fall and winter.

→ Click here to get discounted tickets to Yomiuriland

Getting there: 5-min bus from Keio-Yomiuriland Station.

19. Tokyo Disneyland

Although technically not in Tokyo, no trip to Tokyo with kids is complete without visiting the Happiest Place on Earth. There is really no need for introductions on this one, we all know what Disneyland is all over the world offer: fun rides, parades, and shows, shops, and restaurants.

Tokyo Disneyland is full of open spaces to accommodate large crowds. However, it is made extremely baby-friendly for families bringing little kids along. There are stroller rentals for ¥1,000, stations for changing diapers, and spaces for nursing or feeding infants. If you left your items behind, you can also purchase formula, baby food, diapers and even stroller rain covers inside.

→ Click here to get your Tokyo Disneyland 1-Day ticket

NOTE : Tokyo Disneyland appeals to babies and toddlers than Tokyo DisneySea.

Best Parks for Babies & Toddlers in Tokyo

20. imperial palace east gardens.

Not to be mistaken with the Imperial Palace Gardens, which only opens to the public during New Year and the Emperor’s birthday, the Imperial Palace East Garden’s main attractions are gardens and small museums. And, while some areas here are not stroller-friendly, they still make a good place for families with babies and toddlers to stroll around.

In fact, families can easily spend the whole day in this area alone. After exploring the entire palace, be sure to head to the Honmaru grounds to allow the little kids to crawl around while you relax. Admission is free.

Getting there: 6-min walk from Otemachi Station. NOTE : Closed on Mondays and Fridays.

21. Showa Kinen Park

Around 30 minutes away from Tokyo by train is the Showa Memorial Park, a 160-hectare park full of flowers, natural spaces, and play spaces. Many visitors come here to relax and enjoy a picnic with friends and family. However, the park is best visited during the flower festival which is held yearly every early spring as the park is abundant with beautiful cherry blossoms, tulips, and poppies.

You can also head straight to the Children’s Forest which has vast play areas for younger children such as Dragon Dunes, Bouncing Dome, Forest Birds, Rainbow Hammocks and many more. There is also a playground that can be accessed for free from April to September, then becomes a paid area during the pool period.

A limited number of strollers can be borrowed for free at the entrance. Bicycles with child seats start at ¥410 for three hours but you need to strictly bike on the bike paths. Rooms for breastfeeding and changing diapers are also available all throughout with baby beds installed in main toilet areas.

Getting there: Just outside the Nishi-Tachikawa Station.

22. Hanegi Park

Hanegi is popular during plum blossoms, but here are a few different areas here where your child can play while you sit back on a picnic blanket (or even a small tent or tables and chairs) and relax.

The play area is not a typical playground, but instead, areas dominated by wooden structures, a concrete maze, dirt, and, surprisingly, campfires*, this place is filled with activities to let your child’s imagination run wild. Your kid WILL get dirty here, so you may want to bring a change of clothes, but they’ll also have a great time. Admission is free.

* NOTE : The campfires may have been a part of a specific event going on that day and may not be a normal occurrence.

Getting there: 10-min walk from Umegaoka station

23. Sakurazaka Park (best known as Robot Park)

Robots are always such a big hit, even for the little ones, and they will surely love this robot-themed outdoor playground! This 1,539-square-meter large park was designed by Korean artist Choi Jeong-Hwa and is located in a residential area so you can expect it to fill up with kids easily, especially in the afternoons.

The area is also relatively small and does not have a bathroom so it’s best to use the baby-changing facilities inside Roppongi Hills’ malls. Admission is free.

Getting there: 5-min walk from South Exit of Roppongi Station

24. Niko Niko Park (also known as Meiji jingu Gaien Park)

Toddlers can be especially fond of climbing and doing all the dangerous things that scare moms off. If you happen to stay in Tokyo, be sure to visit this park, which has a wide variety of equipment.

It features a tower and a slide, a sandpit, a trampoline, and many others for climbing and bouncing around. You can also bring food with you and eat lunch in the shaded tables or in one of the restaurants nearby.

Getting there: 3-min walk from Shinanomachi Station

25. Shinjuku Gyoen

Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the largest and the most popular park in Tokyo. It is among the best places in the city for cherry blossom watching in spring. The 144-acre park basically has three types of gardens: the traditional Japanese landscape garden, the French garden, and the English landscape garden.

There is even a huge greenhouse, which is home to several tropical and subtropical plants. Families love visiting this park because it is huge and has plenty of space for running, walking and crawling around. Picnic blankets are allowed inside and you can also bring small tents, tables, and chairs. The park also has baby-friendly restrooms as well as nursing rooms for moms with infants.

Getting there: 5-min walk from Shinjukugyoenmae Station Opening hours: 9:00 – 16:30. Closed Mondays, Dec 29 – Jan 3 Admission fee: 200 JPY adults, 50 JPY students, FREE for infants

26. Hibiya Park

Hibiya Park is the oldest Western-style garden in Japan and is home mainly to tulips and roses. The park has a lot of history: during the Second World War, nearly all its trees were cut and its fences taken down in order to aid the war.

Today, it is a popular place for open-air concerts as well as a place for relaxation. There are numerous benches scattered around the park and picnic blankets are also allowed inside, but only in designated areas. Families with infants and toddlers will love that the park has baby-friendly facilities such as restrooms and a nursing room. Admission is free.

Getting there: 5-min walk from Hibiya Station

27. Ueno Zoo

Founded in 1882, Ueno Zoological Gardens is the oldest in Japan and is currently home to 3,000 animals across 400 different species. The huge number of animals make it an ideal place for families, especially those with small kids, to stroll around and explore. There is even a Children’s Zoo inside.

It’s easy to get into from anywhere in Tokyo and, while there aren’t any parking lots, there are toll ones available. You can easily bring kids in strollers or rent one at the entrance, and restrooms come with diaper changing tables. There are also three nursing rooms available within the vicinity.

Getting there: 5-min walk from Ueno Station. Opening hours: 9:30 – 17:00. Closed Mondays. Admission: 600 JPY adults; starts at 100 JPY for kids 4 years and older

28. Tama Zoological Park (Tama Zoo)

Tama Zoo is made up of three different zones: Australian, African and Asian, and an Insectarium. Little kids will love the variety of animals that can be found here including deer, elephants, lions, zebras, and various insects and Japanese animals.

The zoo also has several picnic areas for families to rest and enjoy lunch, but restaurants are also available inside. Restrooms are equipped with diaper changing tables and there are three nursing rooms scattered all throughout the park. Free admission every May 4 and 5, and October 1.

Getting there: Just outside the Tama Dobutsu Koen Station. Don’t drive, there are no parking lots.

29. Inokashira Park Zoo

This park zoo is well-known for featuring indigenous creatures in Japan so if you like the little ones to learn more about uniquely Japanese animals, this is the best zoo to visit. The park is split into two areas: the Zoo Area, which is the main park; and the Aquatic Life Park, which is the lakeside park.

Aside from the animals, there is also a mini amusement park within the park, with tickets sold separately. Restrooms within the Inokashira Park Zoo are equipped with changing tables for those bringing infants and toddlers. A nursing room is also available in the Administration Office at the main entrance.

It’s always a wise choice to bring kids to museums because they are packed full of information about interesting things. While these places are usually best suited for older kids, it can still be an enjoyable day to bring infants and toddlers around – it’s great to expose them early on to these kinds of attractions, and it’s a wonderful learning experience for the parents, too.

Getting there: 2-min walk from Inokashira-Koen Station

Traveling To Japan With A Baby Or Toddler: What To Know!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » Traveling To Japan With A Baby Or Toddler: What To Know!

There’s no denying it: All countries are different. But believe it or not, Japan is somehow more different than most.

Imagine a country where tipping is considered disrespectful; English is not the national language but is widely used and understood!

For any grown-up visitor, Japan is an exotic destination. It is a unique country that offers an exciting escape from familiar surroundings, with its peculiarity being part of the captivating appeal.

🏆 Best Baby-Friendly Hotels in Japan

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here are my picks for baby and toddler-friendly hotels in Japan!

Hotel In Tokyo: Imperial Hotel Tokyo (5-Star) (Where we stayed!)
Hotel In Kyoto: Hotel Imagine Kyoto (4-Star) (Where I wished we stayed!)
Hotel In Osaka: Hotel Nikko Osaka (4-Star) (Most popular hotel for families)

The big question, however, remains; can you travel to Japan with a baby or toddler?

Is Japan safe and baby-friendly? And where can you stock up on baby supplies?

We cover all these questions in our guide below.

What You Will Find In This Article:

Click to hop straight to these sections.

Is Japan Baby-Friendly ?
Japan with a Baby: Everything You Need To Know (Tips, What to expect, where to find supplies & more!)
Where to go in Japan with a Baby or Toddler

Traveling to Japan with a Baby: Is Japan Baby-Friendly?

We have read repeatedly about how baby-friendly Japan is, yet we found the holiday a bit challenging (*honest truth).

(We have a complete guide of other ideas on the best places to go on a holiday with a baby .)

So here are my thoughts: if you are traveling to Japan with only a baby (and no other kids), I think Japan is a great destination. It is also crucial to pick one to three destinations at most to visit during your trip (we did seven different places). Keep it easy.

We were traveling with three kids, though, and together with having to drag luggage + hold hands + carry a baby up and down stairs to subways & train stations regularly ; we found the trip REALLY HARD. The same would be true if you visited Japan with a toddler.

However, I have some invaluable tips on how to ensure your holiday will be easier than ours! Learn from our mistakes and take them on board.

There are definitely many benefits to visiting Japan with a baby. The country is safe.

You can find baby supplies in the stores. The streets are stroller-friendly.

You will even often see little baby seats in toilet cubicles so you can pop your baby down whilst you do what you need to do.

A vacation to Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that promises lots of adventure, education, and a giddy blend of culture, it is always worth a little challenge.

Guide to a Baby-Friendly Japan Trip: Top Tips + Everything You Should Know

Before you embark on your journey to Japan, these great tips will help you create the ultimate baby holiday in Japan.

This guide will also be helpful to those traveling to Japan with a toddler.

You will find all the information about how to prepare for your trip, where to find baby supplies, how to explore, and more!

You will find information on where to go in Japan with a baby or toddler down lower in the post.

1. Passports

Children are required to have their passports to be allowed to travel to and around Japan.

You will also need to carry the passport when you travel on trains as you might be required to show it.

2. Vaccinations

There are no mandatory vaccinations for a child to travel to Japan.

3. Don’t Pack Too Much!

Getting from one destination/attraction to the next in Japan can be a bit of a mission when you have too much luggage, especially when traveling with your baby!

While the train system is super-efficient, taxis are costly , so you will most likely use the trains to get around.

We found that very few stations had lifts or escalators, which meant that we had to carry our baby (in a carrier) and all the luggage down and up too many stairs.

So is Japan baby friendly? Not always!

Try to minimize and pack as light as you can.

Think hard about which items you will really need. (We have a complete list of the best baby travel gear you might find helpful).

You will also need to be able to fit the luggage in the luggage compartment above your seat (see the photo above to see how much space you have – not much!).

Tip: If, like us, you find it too hard to drag all your luggage from one destination to the next, here is a handy tip: Japan has a luggage forwarding system!

We used this because we got so sick and tired of struggling to get from point A to point B.

Essentially, you can organize and pay for your luggage to be collected from your hotel in one city and dropped off at your hotel in the next city.

You can do this at the hotel reception. We thought the prices were pretty reasonable (nothing in Japan is cheap).

Important to note that the process typically works overnight, so you will have your bag the next day (depending on how far they have to travel).

So we always took our essentials in one suitcase and only carried that suitcase with us.

You can learn more about this forwarding system here .

4. Be Prepared for the Flight to Japan

Remember to book bulkhead seats with a bassinet when traveling to Japan with a baby.

You can use the bassinet and have loads more room (and no reclining seats in front of you!).

You should also know what your ticket price includes.

If your baby is eating solids, remember to call the airline and request a baby meal. This meal usually includes a drink box and some pureed food pouches.

Remember, airline food is never guaranteed to be a hit with kids. So make sure you have your own snacks and baby food supplies for the trip on hand.

We have loads of tips for flying with a baby that you can read in our post here .
You can also find bucketloads of traveling with baby tips by clicking on our baby or toddler travel guide here.
Find a list of the best travel items for toddlers in our complete guide here.

5. Is Japan Stroller Friendly?

The streets and parks are definitely stroller friendly! In fact, there is so much walking from subway stations to tourist attractions that a stroller could definitely be useful.

The only thing is that there are typically no lifts or escalators leading to the subway station and you might have lots of stairs to climb, so my suggestion is to make sure that you have a lightweight stroller.

When we visited Japan, our daughter was still pretty young and so we mostly had her in a baby carrier.

It was cold during our trip so it also helped to keep her warm as we didn’t have all the fancy gear that Japanese moms use to keep their little ones warm in the strollers.

We actually ended up sending our stroller to the storage at the airport as we got sick and tired of carrying it up and down the stairs at subway stations, but if our daughter was older and heavier I think we would have kept our stroller instead.

6. Travel Slower

Traveling through Japan with a little one will undoubtedly slow you down.

One of the downsides is that you won’t be able to visit as many locations as you’d have wanted.

You should, therefore, always consider planning activities that are close to one another.

Ensure you travel slower and allow plenty of time for your baby to be changed, fed, or rocked to sleep.

Don’t forget to schedule some downtime for yourself too; otherwise , you might get exhausted.

Because it can be so tricky getting from point A to B in Japan with a baby, I recommend minimizing the number of cities you will be visiting.

We tried to see Tokyo, Kyoto , Miyajima , Nara, Shirakawa-Go, Takayama , and Kanazawa on our 3-week trip, and we were exhausted by the end of it!

So pick 1-3 cities for your trip and keep it simple and easy.

Tokyo with a baby is lots of fun, and so is Osaka and Tokyo – you can find more information about these cities down further in our post!

7. Always go for Public Transport in Japan

While we are on the topic of transport, here is another tip: If you’re planning to stay in Japan for longer than a week and plan to travel between major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto (which is obvious), traveling by rail would be the most economical option.

Japanese public transport is undoubtedly one of the best in the world!

So whether it’s a bus, a subway, or the Japan Rail Pass (basically long-distance train travel), Japanese public transport is a great option for those with kids. Kids under the age of 6 can travel for free, and kids between 6 and 12 will be half-price.

This makes Japan with kids a whole lot more affordable!

Further Reading: Let us help you decide whether the Japan Rail Pass will be of benefit to you.

Tip: Always avoid rush hour in the main cities. This is because it can sometimes get hectic, and the lack of space can scare the little one.

You will be surprised at how many people can squash into the trains at these times. I wouldn’t recommend it.

The weekday rush hours peak between 8 am and 9 am in the morning and shortly after 5 pm in the evening.

8. Do you Need a Car Seat in Japan?

Legally if you rent a car you do need to use a car seat for children under 6 years of age, you can find more information on car seats in Japan here .

Because taxis are so expensive we only used a taxi once and we did not use a car seat for the taxi.

We also hired a private driver to take us from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-Go because the bus was already sold out. The drive took around 1 hour and we did not have a car seat.

Overall I highly suggest a car seat for obvious safety reasons. We planned on public transport and relied on trains and buses because we did not want to carry a car seat around with us on top of all the other luggage.

9. Try to Travel Hands-Free

We found that many attractions were located in beautiful hilly areas, which meant that not only did we have to deal with stairs at the train stations, but we also had to climb stairs at the attractions!

While we did indeed take our baby stroller along, we barely ever used it on our Japan trip, and I would suggest that you leave it behind altogether.

Instead, try to travel hands-free. We had Avalee in a baby carrier all the time. It made life so much easier as we climbed many stairs at attractions or headed down all the stairs to the subways.

We also prefer to travel with a backpack diaper bag , which is great to not only balance out the weight of our baby on the front but also makes it easier for us to have our hands free to deal with money and tickets (and to hold our other two daughters hands at the busy train stations).

Tip: If you find that you do need a stroller, you can always rent one.

There are a lot of online shops that offer baby cots, car seats, baby carriers, and many more baby amenities at affordable prices.

There’s also some great baby food in Japan! Everything is in Japanese , so best to ask your hotel receptionist to help you. They tend to be super friendly and happy to help.

Most of the department stores and shopping centers in Tokyo have free stroller rentals, which will give you a break from the carrier if you need it .

10. Japanese Department Stores Are Baby-Friendly

Most department stores in Japan are extremely baby-friendly.

They have nurseries with changing tables and private breastfeeding rooms. Some well-known stores with these amenities include; Daimaru, Isetan, Matsuya, and Mitsukoshi.

We often found it best to head to the drug stores instead of the supermarkets for food and baby supplies.

Drug stores are an excellent source of baby supplies, and you can typically find them easily. They will sell your pre-packaged baby food, formulae, snacks, and diapers.

Pureed Baby Food: Our baby didn’t like Japanese baby food and purees, so make sure you pack your own just as a backup.
Baby Formula: Our baby didn’t mind the baby formula in Japan. The best brands are Meiji, Morinaga, and Icreo. We couldn’t understand how many scoops to add, but our hotel receptionist managed to translate the instructions for us, so ask if you are confused.
Baby Diapers: While they are readily available, they are expensive. Our Australian diapers were much better quality as well, so we made sure to keep a good supply of our diapers for the flight home (because nobody wants to change a baby’s diaper more often on a plane than is necessary)

Note: We did struggle to find supplies in the smaller towns, so stock up in the cities before you head out to islands or remote destinations.

11. Restaurants in Japan

While most restaurants and pubs allow babies, use your common sense when deciding which restaurant is appropriate for him/her.

Many restaurants in Japan are tiny, crowded, and noisy, which is such a great atmosphere for us but can be pretty overwhelming for a baby.

Smoking in restaurants is also allowed, and we often walked into a restaurant only to turn back around when we realized how heavy the cigarette and cigar smoke was.

You also won’t easily find a high chair in these restaurants, so expect to hold your baby on our lap or in your baby carrier.

If your baby is a bit older, you might like to take a lightweight travel high chair with you. Here are our recommendations for portable high chairs .

Dinner time for us typically meant that our baby Avalee was tired, but the restaurants were way too noisy, so we struggled to get her to sleep, and she spent dinner crying. It wasn’t fun.

So my tip here is to remember that they have Domino’s Pizza Delivery.

We ended up ordering delivery for a few nights so that we could eat in our VRBO apartment instead (and that way, Avie could get some sleep in her portable cot) – dinner + peace = heaven!

12. Breastfeeding in Japan

If you are planning on breastfeeding in Japan, I highly suggest you pack in a cover-up.

While breastfeeding in public is fine, I never saw anyone with their boob visibly out; it is all about discretion.

If you prefer to feed in breastfeeding rooms, you will always find them in department stores, museums, and play centers.

13. Book a Machiya (Japanese-Style House) or VRBO Apartment

As a pre-warning, hotel rooms in Japan are really tiny and pretty pricey. I also highly recommend asking them if a baby cot will be available.

If your baby is moving, you might prefer a Machiya or an VRBO rather than a hotel so that there is room for your little one to crawl and play.

They are also fabulous choices for those who can’t afford the pricey prices of the hotels.

We enjoyed staying in a mix of all three of the above.

We loved our VRBO’s in Japan as they typically come with a fully functional kitchen that certainly allows you to cook your meals, especially for the baby.

Most also have a washing machine that will make the baby’s laundry easier.

I will share some hotel links below for those who wish to stay in a hotel.

You will find that most hotels will have some information on their cots/extra beds that say, “There is no capacity in this room for a cot”, so if you use our links below for hotels that do offer and have space for cots it will save you loads of research time.

Note about cots: We ended up taking a portable baby cot with us to Japan as many of the hotels and VRBO’s did not have a cot available, so it is essential to ask the question before you book to ensure that baby has a safe space to sleep.

>>> Click here to see a list of recommended travel cribs to take along.

Let’s look at our top recommended places to visit with a baby and I will also include our recommendations of which hotels actually provide a baby cot.

Where to go In Japan with a Baby or Toddler

Wondering where to go in Japan with your little one? We share a simplified version of our way-to-busy itinerary.

Find below 3 destinations that I recommend you include in your Japan Itinerary with a baby or toddler.

1. Tokyo with a Baby or Toddler

Is Tokyo baby-friendly? Yes – well mostly!

Here are our top tips for traveling to Tokyo with a baby or toddler.

Tokyo’s streets are narrow and popular spots will be packed to the brim with people. Many of Tokyo’s subway stations don’t have elevators or escalators, so keep in mind that you need to be able to carry all your luggage and strollers up and down stairs if you take public transportation.

So a small lightweight stroller will be key. A stroller will be helpful though because you will be walking A LOT.

So even if you have a toddler that loves walking, they will get tired and the stroller will be very helpful to have.

See if you can book a hotel or VRBO that is close to the subway station – honestly, you will be surprised at how many trains you will be catching during your stay.

Things to do in Tokyo with a Baby or Toddler:

Meiji Shrine & Yoyogi Park
Senso-ji Temple Tokyo and Ueno Park
Day Trip to Nikko (lots of stairs so don’t bother taking the stroller – book a tour here )
Visit the Government Building for views over Tokyo
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Imperial Palace
Tokyo Disney Parks (for older toddlers – buy your 1 day pass online here )

How Many Nights to Stay for:

I recommend staying for 5-7 nights in Tokyo.

Where to Stay in Tokyo with a Baby:

Find below our three favorite accommodation options for those traveling with a baby.

Imperial Hotel Tokyo (5-Star): This hotel is perfect if you can reach the price. It is convenient with an airport shuttle drop-off at its front door. It is also in a central location with three stations within a 5-minute walk. They have family rooms available that offer more space. Babysitting is available, as well as cribs. Click here to check availability and prices .
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi (5-Star): Another fabulous option as it is directly accessible from JR Tokyo Station. They also have babysitting services as well as cribs available. Fabulous location; you can’t go wrong. Click here to check availability and prices .
Nohga Hotel Ueno (4-Star): This hotel is conveniently located 3.3 km from Tokyo Skytree, in the Taito district of Tokyo. No babysitting services here, but you can request a cot for free. Click here to check availability and prices .

After more suggestions of where to stay in Tokyo? You can find our list of the best family hotels in Tokyo here.

2. Osaka with a Baby or Toddler

Osaka is fairly easy to explore with a baby or toddler. Our favorite thing to do in this city was to use it as a base for some stunning day trips.

Things to do in Osaka with a Baby or Toddler:

Stroll Around Dontonbori (A good place to go for food)
Osaka Castle Park
Miyajima Day Trip (You can either DIY or book an organized tour here )
Kurashiki Day Trip
Himeji Castle Day Trip
Universal Studios (for older toddlers – book your transport + entrance ticket online here )
Nara Day Trip (You can either DIY or book a guided tour here )
I recommend staying for 3-4 nights in Osaka.

Where to Stay in Osaka with a Baby:

InterContinental Hotel Osaka (5-Star): In an excellent location and only a 5-minute walk from JR Osaka Train Station. Their rooms are lovely and soundproof. They have babysitters available as well as free cribs. Click here to check availability and prices .
Art Hotel Osaka Bay Tower (4-Star): This hotel is conveniently located close to the train station. They have larger family rooms available to offer space. The rooms are soundproof, and cribs are available as well. Click here to check availability and prices .
Hotel Nikko Osaka (4-Star): The Hotel Nikko brand is a popular one for travelers due to their affordable prices. They are also located with direct access from the airport shuttles. It is also directly connected to Shinsaibashi Subway Station. They also have cribs available as well. Click here to check availability and prices .

2. Kyoto with a Baby or Toddler

Kyoto is a BIG city. Expect to spend a lot of time on public transport in order to get from one tourist attraction to the next.

Try to stay close to a train or bus station to make life a bit easier.

Streets and many tourist spots are stroller-friendly.

Things to do in Kyoto with a Baby or Toddler:

Explore Arashiyama and the Fushimi Inari Shrine (Included highlights include The Kimono Forest of Arashiyama, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Tenryu-ji Temple, and Fushimi Inari Shrine)
Ginkaku-ji Temple, Nanzen-ji Temple, Shimbashi Street, and Gion District (A great way to see these sights is on a private walking tour ).
Southern Higashiyama, Nijo Castle, and the Golden Pavilion
To make life really easy, you could also see all the Kyoto highlights on a full-day tour. Check prices and availability for the Kyoto highlights tour here .
I recommend staying for 4-6 nights in Kyoto.

Where to stay in Kyoto with a baby:

Find below our two favorite accommodation options for those traveling with a baby.

Hotel Imagine Kyoto (4-Star): What we love about this hotel is that all the units have a seating area (which means more space). The hotel is close to Kyoto station, so exploring other areas of Kyoto is easy. Free cots are available too. Click here to check availability and prices .
Kyoto Tokyu Hotel (4-Star): This hotel offers a free 5 min shuttle to the Kyoto Station. The World Heritage site Nishi Honganji Temple is just a 5-minute walk away. We love their family-size rooms, and they have cots available as well. Click here to check availability and prices .

Of course, if you want to include a few more destinations, then you can check out our guide on the most beautiful places to visit in Japan for first-timers .

Conclusion To Our Japan with Toddlers or Babies Guide

The idea of traveling to a foreign country is often an intimidating prospect for many.

The idea of making the trip with a baby or toddler in tow is even more worrying to many, but that doesn’t mean parents cannot have an exciting holiday in a foreign land far away from home.

You can travel to Japan with your baby; you must be well-prepared!

Visiting Japan with a baby is more straightforward than in many other countries.

That’s because Japan is a baby/kid-friendly country, and everybody seems to love babies.

To highlight this, there are seats for babies to sit on in many public places and kid areas for children to let loose, run around and have some fun!

Believe it or not, changing tables are everywhere, including in the men’s bathroom! Some places even offer free diapers and microwaves.

This is a place where you’ll walk in big cities such as Tokyo and Kyoto and see babies everywhere.

But do learn from our mistakes and travel slowly and lightly for your Japan travels.

So if you’ve been planning to travel to Japan and have some worries about going with your baby, know that it is an excellent destination if you use our tips above (do it better than us!)

Traveling to Japan with a baby or toddler is possible! All you have to do is keep up with the above fantastic tips, and you and your baby will be good to go.

Over to You:

Do you have any helpful tips to add to our Japan baby travel guide?
Do you have any other questions that you need answers to?
Looking for best places to travel with toddlers ? Read our complete guide to worldwide destinations.

Jolene Ejmont

40 thoughts on “traveling to japan with a baby or toddler: what to know”.

Great article and thank you for the tips – we are travelling in May 2019 with our baby boy who will be 2 years old by then. Would you be able to recommend the AIRBNB places you stayed in, please?

This is amazing! We are planning to travel in December with a 7 month old! Will it be too cold for him? What do you recommend to tackle the cold weather?

Hi, looks like the temperature will be similar to when we went with our little one. Make sure to take layers – we had leggings on the legs with jeans over the top, layer a jumper with warm jacket over the top. Beanie on the head. Many people in Japan used a special warm cocoon on their prams to combat the cold as well. We chose to baby-wear our little one to help with body temp instead as we knew we wouldn’t use the pram cocoon again after the trip, but could be worth looking into as well.

Such a fantastic post – thanks for all the tips! We are going in 2 weeks time and have pretty much sorted itinerary and travel. Only question I have is where would you recommend staying in Tokyo (AirBnB) there are soo many properties!

Hi, we had a super dodgy place in Tokyo that I don’t want to recommend – it didn’t have a mattress on the bed, just the base!! Make sure you pick a property that has lots of reviews on it and that has at least a 4-star rating! We went during Cherry Blossom season and made the mistake of booking to late, so was left with the newly added properties that hadn’t been reviewed yet – big mistake.

Hi Jolene! We are going to Japan in December with our 10 months old baby, just to let you know that your tips are very useful! Thanks a lot 🙂

Hi there, thanks for your article. I will be traveling in Feb -Mar for 2 & a half weeks with my hubby and baby (who will be turning one over there) . Just wondering what you recommend we do with the JR rail pass. I thought I would just get a two week pass instead of three weeks (to save on Money) and activate when we leave Tokyo to our next destination however I wasnt sure if we’d need this pass activated on arrival to Tokyo to get from the airport to the accommodation. What do you think would be the most cost efficient option for us? Get the 3wks JR pass or organise a transfer to the hotel from the airport maybe? Also are there any destinations that are easy with a baby or on the other hand to difficult with a baby and we should avoid? Thanks for your help!!

Hi! Your post is so helpful! We plan to travel on February and witness the snow festivals in Sapporo. My baby will be 1 year old by then 🙂 What winter clothes would you recommend? And is the water in Japan safe for our baby? We are feeding him formula milk so I’m worried if there will be safe water to use.

Hi Jen, water in Japan is safe. Japan is such a modern country you really don’t have to worry. In regards to clothing, I highly recommend you layer her up, you might also like to baby-wear your 1 year old for extra warmth. Take a beanie or warm hat too. we had leggings under jeans for our little one and a vest, long sleeve t-shirt, jumper with a thick jacket over the top. Easier to take off some layers when/if a day warms up. Have a fabulous trip!

We’re leaving in a few weeks to Tokyo to attend the Sapporo Ice Festival as well. We have a doona stroller that converts from a stroller to a car seat. Would you recommend just leaving that behind? Or bringing it with? I ask because we’re not planning on strolling her that much, and she has a carrier, but for the car seat. Did you bring a car seat? And if so was it helpful on the plane to have a place for her to settle in? Or did you do a lap baby ticket?

Hi, we used a lap baby ticket and had her sleeping in the baby carrier on the plane and in the car trips as well. We mostly used the trains and to be honest it is really tricky when you have to much ‘stuff’ and you use the trains as space for luggage, prams etc are so limited. Travel as light as you can if you plan on moving around Japan.

Hi Jolene, your article is great and full of good tips. I am trying to plan a 8 to 10 day trip to Japan in May with my husband and 2 year old son. I cannot decide if we should stay in tokyo for about 6 days and then head out to Fuji 5 lakes area (mainly to check Thomas the tank engine Land) or head south to Kyoto and Osaka. What would you recommend for a first time trip or could we squeeze in both Osaka and Fuji?

Well, I love Kyoto and Osaka much more than Tokyo – but that is probably for personal reasons 🙂 You can also visit Universal Studios Japan if you head that way. You could try to do Osaka and Fuji but the thing with Fuji is that you don’t want to have anything set in stone, because it is actually tricky to get visibility on it – so best to call them in the morning to check if it is worth the trip or not.

This is super helpful! My partner and I are in love with Japan and have been three time so far, but have been feeling a bit nervous about going back with baby, so it’s super reassuring to hear from someone who’s survived! 🙂

Haha, we survived 🙂 Just pack light and make sure to take a baby carrier along with you on the trip. Have a fabulous time!

This is such an inspirational and helpful post! We are hoping to travel to Japan with our then 10 month old during the cherry blossom season this April. Which travel bed is Avie pictured in here? Also, for a trip of about 10 days, would you suggest about 2 days in Tokyo and then having a main base out of Kyoto or Osaka? TIA!

Hi Avi, our little one is in the PeaPod travel bed, which worked nicely. You will probably need more than 2 days in Tokyo (depends on what you want to see though), but the city is MASSIVE and it takes a while to get to interest points. For Cherry Blossom season I would definitely choose Kyoto as a base and just do a day trip to Osaka from there. Be prepared for crowds though – recommend taking a baby carrier as it will be hard to squeeze into the crowds with a stroller.

Do you plan where to break when the baby wanto take a nap?

Where is like a good place to rest while baby sleep

Our baby mostly slept on the go. We used the baby carrier a lot and she just fell asleep in there whilst we kept on exploring.

Your blog is what encouraged us to plan a trip to Japan with our 3 month old baby for end March/beginning April 2019. Considering how young he is he’ll almost always be in the carrier facing inward, so won’t get to see nor interact with much during the trip, especially with the weather being cold, so we are a bit apprehensive of our decision. I guess the main concern is, will it be miserable for the little one since he’s awake most of the day? He barely takes naps during the day. Any words of wisdom would be great!

We went around that time and it sure was chilly, but our little one was cozy in layers of clothes (because it does warm up in the day), a beanie and in the baby carrier close to our warmth. Our little one didn’t sleep easily out of our arms, but she did fall asleep easily in the carrier though. You could keep your outings short if you want and just head out at midday when the day is warmer and keep inside in the morning and late afternoon when it is colder.

Where are you planning on going?

Very very cool blog! I’ve been living in Kyoto for the last 5 years and recently had a little baby girl. Living here obviously makes it completely different, but after travelling quite a bit with her this winter in Europe, here are the things I love about Kyoto; (hopefully you do not mind me sharing this with everyone, I don’t mean to hijack your post!!)

1- Most traditional restaurants here in Kyoto have tatami floor seating; so even without a high chair, you can just lay/sit baby on the floor and actually enjoy a meal!! 2- You’ll find a nursing room in almost ANY department store. 3- Hotels (or air bnb rentals) again are great; no need for a baby cot because you can just sleep on futons! Most of them have a rental one if you ask them though.

I hope that all the families planning a trip here will have an amazing time. I look forward to reading more of your articles!

Hi there, thanks for your thoughts 🙂 Our baby was moving around a lot, so the tatami floors didn’t always suit, sometimes we needed her strapped in to stop her from getting up to nonsense – but a helpful suggestion for those with little babies. Also, the boutique hotels we stayed in didn’t have cots, only the larger chain hotels did, so I would ask before I book, not after 🙂 I love Kyoto, I think it might be my favorite city 🙂 Thanks for sharing some tips – always helpful for our next readers to have choices so they can pick what suits them 🙂

Thanks Jolene for amazing article, it is full of great information. I’m planning to travel to Japan from the UK with my husband and our 4 months old baby this year. Do you think 4m baby is too little to travel so far? Also, please can you recommend a travel cot? Best, Monika

Hi, thanks – so glad you enjoyed the article. I don’t think travelling a long distance to Japan with a 4m baby is too far. Try and do overnight flights where possible. We have a link on the article that will take you to travel cots – there are some great ones on there. I would suggest seeing which one you prefer based on size, weight etc. When you have booked your accommodation, I would suggest reaching out to them to see if they can provide one before purchasing one to travel with. Thanks and have a great time!

Thanks for the information. We’ve been once before and now going back with a 1.5 year old in summer. It will be hot in a carrier, but we’ll use it sometimes and take a stroller too.

I’m looking for information about the laws of crossing the boarder into Japan with a car seat made for Canada. I think the car seats here are better regulated and maybe even cheaper. Do you know where I cam find information about this? I’d hate to get to customs and have to leave it behind.

Hi Sandra, no idea on the laws for that sorry. My main concern would be whether you would be able to strap the car seat into a car. Every country has a different adjustment for seats, in Australia we use an anchor strap, here in Italy, they have clips to clip the seat into and other countries often just use the seat belt. If it is for a rental car, I would suggest maybe just hiring a car seat with the car so that you know it will fit.

How old was your baby when you travelled to Japan? We were thinking of travelling with our baby end of May and he will only be 3 months old, do you think that is too young to be travelling to japan from vancouver, canada? He will have his first sets of shots by then but he is too young to get any extra vaccinations as per the travel clinics here in vancouver. Please let me know your thoughts, thank you so much!

Avie was around 6 months I think, but I would have zero hesitation in taking a 3-month-old to Japan. To me, Japan is on the same level as countries such as USA, Australia and European countries. I don’t even think we needed any vaccines for Japan as adults 🙂 Enjoy your trip and don’t stress about it 😉

Can you use your own car seat in Japan?

You would need to research how your car seat connects to a car and what type of connection they use in Japan. For example we are in Italy atm and they have both an anchor point in the back as well as two clips that the car seat connects to in the car seat, so our seats from Australia won’t work well here. Where are you from?

What a great way to live your life with passion. I have been to japan before and loved your post. This time I am traveling with a 1 year old and I just have one concern. Can I travel thru japan without a car seat? I will be taking both trains and cabs. Kindly advise.

Hi, yes you don’t need a car seat for taxi or for trains 🙂 Would, of course, be a good idea to have something to secure bubs to keep your little one safe. So consider an option, even having them constrained in a baby carrier and the seat belt inbetween you and your the baby carrier is safer than nothing at all.

Hi Jolene, such great post tons a great tips!! We are planning a one month travel with our 6 months old this November and we are hesitating between Australia/New Zealand or to go back to Japan. What would you recommend, since you lived in Australia?

Oh gosh, that is a tough question if I don’t know what you love doing and what your personalities are like. Australia and New Zealand are easy countries to visit and perfect for those who love nature. Japan obviously is a fabulous destination if you prefer a good dose of culture on your trips instead. What do you usually love doing on holidays?

Hi! This is such a great post. Can you recommend which AirBNBs you stayed at ?

Hi! Is it possible if we book 1 week in osaka and travel within those days to kyoto, tokyo and nara? thanks Hope to receive any recommendations. thank you in advance.

Hiya Irene, I really wouldn’t do that with only 1 week – you could easily fill up 1 week in Tokyo alone. You could, however, base yourself in Osaka and do a day trip to Nara and a day trip to Kyoto (although I LOVE Kyoto and would rather recommend you stay there for at least 2-3 nights). More info on day trips from Osaka here: https://www.wanderluststorytellers.com/absolute-best-day-trips-from-osaka/

Hi! When you were in the train (not the shinkansen one) for such a long trip (let say 1 hr) can baby eat snacks on the train?

Hi, we avoided it. You can though on regional long-distance trains – you will know as they will have a tray and cup holder. I think we did give her a milk bottle on some trains though and nobody complained about that.

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9 Best things to do in Tokyo with a baby

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Where to stay in Tokyo with a baby

Things to do in Tokyo with a baby tip: lots of hotels in Tokyo have coin operated laundry on site and we loved having the flexibility to do some laundry especially as we were on a multi country trip. We brought baby sensitive detergent with us but the detergent was often automatically included in the washing cycle.

Our Tokyo hotel picks

Mitsui Garden Hotel Koyobashi: close to both Tokyo Station and the Koyobashi Metro Station as well as within walking distance of Ginza, the Mitsui Garden Hotel is a great base for exploring the city. We opted for a standard room which was a decent size and we appreciated the hotel’s coin-operated laundry – Check prices here!
Shibuya Excel Hotel, Tokyu : close to Shibuya Station the hotel’s 25th-floor restaurant level offers the best views of Shibuya and the location is excellent for exploring the city – Check prices here!

The 9 best things to do in Tokyo with a baby

1 | shibuya crossing.

Tokyo with a baby tip: On exiting Shibuya Station don’t forget to check out the statue of Hachikō. Hachikō was the loyal dog who awaited his dead master’s return for nine years, nine months and fifteen days at Shibuya.

2 | Visit a themed restaurant

We booked our tickets for the Monster Café in advance through Voyagin . We highly recommend you use Voyagin as they are the official partner for Kawaii Monster Café tickets and have live availability on their website. You can book your seat/booth type and time slot via their booking system and have your tickets send via email. We used them and it was super easy and reliable – click here to book now!

Book your ticket for the Monster Cafe now!

Tokyo Essentials: Sim Cards, Internet and Subway Passes

One of the best investments you can make for your trip to Japan is to buy/rent a sim card or 4G hotspot. This will give you internet access while on the go. We have used both sim cards and 4G hotspots during our trips to Japan. A sim card is perfect if you just have your phone while the 4G hotspots are great if you have multiple devices that need internet or if you’re travelling a group. They also avoid any compatibility issues with installing a sim card.

We used the Klook app to order our sim cards for our last trip. The app is great as you can order in advance and pick up on arrival or from various departure cities.

The best 4G hotspot on offer is provided by URoaming with unlimited data – check prices now!
The best sim card is from Docomo (who we used) – check prices now!

Click here to order your sim card or 4G hotspot now

Depending on the duration of your stay, a 24, 48 or 72 hour subway pass is invaluable for navigating the city. We saved so much yen by using our 3 day subway pass for sightseeing trips rather than paying for each individual journey. The passes can be picked up at one of the designated arrival airports in Japan. The pass works for unlimited rides on Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway lines – check prices now!

Click here to order your Tokyo subway pass

3 | Harajuku

4 | Capture memories at a Purikura photo booth

5 | Mori Building Digital Art Museum

We highly recommend you book your ticket for the Digital Art Museum by Team Borderless well in advance as tickets regularly sell out days in advance. Again, we purchased with Kook, who we highly recommend and used for countless activities on our travels.

Tickets are not time allocated during the day, so we also recommend arriving for the opening to have the best experience. We were one of the first to have access when we visited and it was really enjoyable. It got very busy after an hour or so! – click here for prices!

Book your ticket to TeamLab Borderless now!

Things to do in Tokyo with a baby tip: The Digital Art Museum frequently sells out. Make sure to book a ticket well in advance of visiting. We recommend visiting first thing in the morning as it tends to get more crowded throughout the day.

6 | Sensoji Temple

7 | Explore Tokyo’s Parks

Things to do in Tokyo with a baby tip: Yogogi Park comes to life at the weekends so try and visit on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon if your itinerary allows. Ueno Park and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden are great to visit on any day of the week.

8 | Escape the city in Hakone

Tokyo with a baby tip: Hakone is easily accessible via the Odakyu Electric Railway which runs from Shinjuku Station and there are tourist passes available which include sightseeing buses and a boat ride. We had J’s car seat and decided to rent a car and drive ourselves – driving was straightforward and there was plenty of parking but make sure to pick up an International Driving Permit, or IDR, before you travel to Japan.

9 | Wander through Shinjuku

2 thoughts on “9 Best things to do in Tokyo with a baby”

wandering in shinjuku is probably the worst thing to do with a baby (and a stroller). its always, where is the fun with a tod?

We enjoyed it and the baby (and stroller) were perfectly fine! He slept after the excitement of the bright lights outside the Robot Restaurant and we had a wander.

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The 30 Best Things To Do In Tokyo With Kids (2023)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: January 4, 2023

Categories Family Travel , Japan

the-30-best-things-to-do-in-Tokyo-with-kids-lotte-travels.com

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and a brilliant city for kids. In fact, it's the most favored destination in Japan for families!

This doesn't come as a surprise as there are numerous attractions and things for kids in Tokyo, that could easily keep a family busy for a week or more.

If you are planning a Tokyo family vacation, this post is for you! Read about 30 great things to do in Tokyo with kids as well as Tokyo travel tips for families.

The 30 best things to do in Tokyo with kids

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

The perfect Tokyo itinerary with kids: map

In the map below you can find all the Tokyo highlights and activities included in this post, as well as the recommended places to stay.

things-to-do-in-tokyo-with-kids-map-phenomenalglobe.com

Top 3 Tokyo activities with kids: • Discover the best of Tokyo at your family's own pace with this one-day tour led by an experienced multilingual guide. • Visit the theme park of ancient Edo Japan ( purchase your skip-the-line ticket here). • Prebook your entrance ticket to Disneyland and dive straight into this magical world instead of queuing for hours.

Where to stay in Tokyo with kids

In the table below you can find the best hotels in Tokyo with kids. Further down in the post, you can read more details about these hotels.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

30 fun Tokyo family attractions

Below you can read about 30 amazing things to do with kids in Tokyo, from interactive museums to fun family-friendly restaurants and from theme parks to Tokyo icons such as the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Sky Tree .

1. Shibuya Japanese street food walking tour

A fun and easy way to introduce a new culture to children. This is a terrific tour of the energetic Shibuya neighborhood, packed with iconic sites and a great opportunity to try Japanese food (and quite kid-friendly).

Highly recommended if you can only do one tour during your family trip to Tokyo and a perfect way to explore Shibuya for kids!

Click here to book this food tour

2. Private Tokyo sightseeing tour

A private tour is excellent for families wondering where to bring their kids to Tokyo. A private guide can create the perfect Tokyo itinerary for a family and include many kid-friendly attractions.

This will allow you to see a lot in a short time, and create a perfect family-friendly Tokyo trip!

Click here to book a private sightseeing tour

3. National Museum of Nature and Science

You can find an array of hands-on fun at this attraction and it may well be the best science museum in Tokyo .

It's also hands-down one of the best family things to do in Tokyo, as almost every floor of the museum houses kid-friendly exhibits, which are as much about learning as there are about having fun.

The National Museum of Nature and Science is only a short 5-minute walk from JR Station and Ueno Subway.

Please note the museum is closed on Mondays. However, if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum stays open and will be closed on the following Tuesday.

4. Tokyo Disneyland

Disneyland is always an amazing experience for kids. Your kids can’t miss the dreamland version of Tokyo while visiting Tokyo on a family trip.

While it's not cheap and gets crowded, it's certainly an experience your kids will love.

Travel tip: buy your tickets online to skip the queue !

5. Fire Museum

Here you and your little ones can freely explore traditional and modern exhibits, learn about firefighting through media, and take part in hands-on activities.

Let them try on a uniform of a Japanese firefighter, gawk at trucks and ride in a helicopter – there’re so many things to do!

The Fire Museum is easily accessible from the Yotsuya 3-chome stop and is closed on Mondays.

If Monday is a national holiday, the Museum stays open and will be closed on the following Tuesday (as is the case with several of the kid-friendly Tokyo museums on this list).

6. Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan)

There is so much going on at the Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (all with English signage!), families should plan on at least a half-day visit.

The exhibitions target a wide range of ages, and many of them are very interesting for adults as well.

The Miraikan will offer lots of kid-friendly fun for families looking for interesting things to do in Tokyo for kids. The talking robot, Asimo, has demonstrations several times per day.

The Miraikan museum is located near Fune-no-Kagakukan station and is closed on most Tuesdays. More information can be found here .

7. Museum of Maritime Science

The Museum of Maritime Science is a large museum that showcases everything and anything to do with boats. With indoor and outdoor exhibits, this place is a terrific day out for boat lovers.

While this is not specifically a destination for kids and it's not the most suitable option for parents with toddlers, there are lots of things that will keep older kids intrigued.

For starters, the museum building looks like a giant ship, as it's modeled after a British ocean liner.

ultimate-guide-to-Tokyo-family-holiday-phenomenalglobe.com

8. Legoland Discovery Center

One of the best places for kids in Tokyo is the Legoland Discovery Center!

A hands-on destination with various building blocks (from small to large), models of Tokyo, indoor playgrounds, and a short ride where you can shoot at different targets.

The best thing in the Legoland Discovery Center might be the game where you try to pass through a hallway as fast as possible while avoiding the laser beams that can be easily overlooked.

The Legoland Discovery Center is open 7 days a week and is an excellent destination regardless of the weather.

? Family travel tip : buy your ticket to Legoland Discovery Center in advance and immerse yourself in the world of LEGO bricks (you'll also be able to visit the 4D cinema without an additional fee).

9. RiSuPia Panasonic Digital Network Museum

Another hands-on museum, devoted to math and science (and Panasonic products). Each visitor receives a handheld tablet upon entering the museum, something which your kids will surely love.

These tables can be scanned at each exhibit and will display an explanation of the science behind the artifacts and games.

10. Ghibli Museum

A brilliant and whimsical museum from Miyazaki Hayao, an animator making films like Ponyo and Spirited Away. This museum is fun to visit for both kids and adults alike.

Important: as this is one of the most popular places to visit in Tokyo with kids, you need to book tickets a few months in advance! Note that the museum is closed on Tuesdays.

11. The Railway Museum (Saitama City)

The Railway Museum is awesome for both young kids and train buffs!

This museum is situated in Saitama, a suburb of Tokyo. While it will take a bit of time and effort to get here, the museum is well worth the trip.

As can be expected from a Railway Museum, you and your kids can learn about lots of different trains (freight vehicles, imperial carriages, passenger carriages, diesel railcars, electric railcars, locomotives, etc).

Kids will also love the mini train and the train simulators.

Take a JR train from Ueno to Omiya and then a shuttle to Tetsudo-Hakubutsukan. The journey takes about an hour. Note that the museum is closed every Tuesday.

12. The Tokyo Tower

One of the best Tokyo attractions for kids is without a doubt the Tokyo Tower! The Tower is a perfect spot for you and your little ones to take in the dazzling cityscape below.

While the iconic red structure can be appreciated from below (especially when it lights up at night), the real thrill comes from climbing to the top to catch the 360° views of the city.

The Tokyo Tower is open 7 days a week. Click here to buy your ticket online to save the whole family some time!

13. Hato Bus Tokyo Tours

Hato Bus is the most well-known tour bus in Tokyo. This famous bus tour has provided Japanese and foreign tourists with interesting and convenient tours in Tokyo for over a half-century.

There are also tours conducted in English. The 1-hour open-air bus leaves from Shinjuku and is a highly recommended Tokyo activity for kids!

14. Science Museum (in Kitanomaru-Koen)

Situated in Kitanomaru Park, this is one of the three science museums found in Tokyo. Your kids will surely enjoy the well-designed interactive exhibits in this great museum.

The museum has numerous demonstrations led by knowledgeable museum staff. When you arrive, do a quick walk through the museum to see which shows are scheduled for that day, so you can select the most interesting ones for your child(ren) and base your visit upon these showtimes.

The museum is closed on Wednesdays. However, if Wednesday is a national holiday, the Museum stays open and will be closed on the following day.

15. KidZania

This is an awesome Tokyo kid-friendly destination and particularly recommended for kids ages 4-12 years old. Kids can play-act their favorite careers with uniforms and lots of real-world accessories.

From engineers to firemen, dentists to cooks, there are around 40 different careers in total! Everything is a bit smaller than in real life (about 2/3 of the actual size).

Important: as this is also one of the most popular and fun things to do with kids in Tokyo, you have to book tickets at least a month in advance!

15. Joypolis Entertainment Center

Are you still wondering where to go in Tokyo with kids? No worries, we are only halfway through this list! The Joypolis Entertainment Center is an indoor amusement park in Odaiba.

There are lots of games and even a couple of small-scale rides, your kids will very much enjoy this place.

Looking for the best things to do in Tokyo with kids on a Tokyo family trip? Check out 30 Tokyo kids attractions to put on your Tokyo family itinerary! #Tokyo #Japan #Familytravel

16. Tokyo Edo Wonderland

Tokyo Edo Wonderland is a great place to visit in Tokyo with kids. Enjoy a full day of fun with Ninjas, Samurais, and Geishas.

Housing replicas of Tokyo home life and street life, your kids can learn all about life in Japan during the Edo period. Get your skip-the-line tickets here .

18. Tokyo Dome City (Amusement Park)

Another good example of fun things for kids in Tokyo is Tokyo Dome City.

Located in central Tokyo, you don't have to make the trip all the way to Disneyland for lots of games and rides in a lively kid-friendly atmosphere. Open 7 days a week.

19. Toyota Mega Web

If your kids are into cars, they will love this place. There is a car simulator, race cars, and a mini-car racetrack.

Don’t make a special trip for this activity, however, if you are already in Odaiba (for activity 15 or 22), it's well worth a visit.

20. Baseball Games

Sporty kids (or even kids who aren't that into sports) will have a blast watching a basketball game. Japanese fans are quite crazy, they chant, sing, and wave huge flags during the entire game!

However, don't worry, the atmosphere is very friendly making this a fun activity on a family holiday in Tokyo.

21. Imperial Palace & Gardens

Not every kid may be interested in the palace and the details of the lives of the royal family.

However, the gardens and grounds make a good open-air place to wander with your kids and let them run about, while adults can enjoy the impressive views of the palace.

The imperial palace is open only two days a year, on January 2nd and December 23dr. It is a 10-minute walk from the Tokyo stop. The gardens are closed on Mondays and Fridays.

22. Boat tour around Tokyo

The best way to make a boat tour around Tokyo is to take the Water Bus from Asakusa to either Hama Rikyu or Odaiba (all 3 piers have subway stops nearby).

Combine a boat trip with exploring the streets of Asakusa and Nakamise Shopping Street, the famous Sensoji temple, and going up to the observation decks of the Tokyo Skytree (read more below).

23. Ninja Restaurant

The Ninja restaurant is one of the most child-friendly restaurants in Tokyo.

Disappear through the door of this restaurant and enter a dark labyrinth of hidden bridges, caves, and a replicated ninja village from the Edo era. This is a dining experience your kids won't easily forget!

They will feel like little ninjas the entire time and don't worry, there is a huge draw for the adults as well as the food is amazing. Book a table at least one week in advance.

24. Tokyo Skytree

From the Tokyo Sky Tree, your family can admire the extensive city of Tokyo and the surrounding area.

While the Tokyo Tower offers excellent views as well and is closer to Shibuya and Shinjuku, going up the tallest building in Japan is definitely one of the things to do in Tokyo with family.

Buy skip-the-line tickets online to avoid the (long) lines.

25. Cup of Noodles Museum in Yokohama

Here you can find typical Japanese weirdness and wackiness , making this Museum extremely fun for kids.

You can even make your own ramen and noodles! There is a large indoor playground and interactive kids' classes.

From Tokyo, take a JR train to Sakuragicho, from there it's a 10-minute walk.

26. Inokashira Park

Considered one of the top dating places in Tokyo, Inokashira Park is a terrific venue for families visiting Tokyo with children as well.

You can enjoy a picnic here and of course the highlight of this site: the lake.

There are three different kinds of child-friendly paddle boats. Choose your favorite one, enjoy the scenery and spend some quiet, relaxed time with your kids in this lovely park.

If you happen to visit during the sakura season (late March to mid-April), your kids will be in awe of the beautiful pink cherry blossoms around the perimeter of the pond. Mind you, you won't be the only ones here during these weeks!

The address of the park is 1-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino-shi, Tokyo. You can easily get here from Kichijoji and Inokashirakoen stations.

27. Heiwanomori Park

Do you have a kid who loves pretending to be a ninja warrior?

At the Heiwanomori Park, your little rascals can walk over swinging bridges, fly through the air via zip lines, climb nets and let all that energy out.

There are over 40 different obstacle courses so the kids can push the limits of ninja play to a whole new level!

28. Kodomo no Mori Park

Also called ‘ the Monster Park ‘, this excellent park features eight life-size dinosaur statues and some other playground equipment.

Your kids can hop into a dragon boat or climb one of the dinosaurs. Either way, they are bound to have fun at this family-friendly Tokyo park.

The address is 3-10-13 Kita Shinagawa, Shinagawa-Ku, Tokyo.

the-perfect-Tokyo-itinerary-with-kids-phenomealglobe.com

29. Hikawa Campsite

A great escape from city life (while still staying in the city), Hikawa Campsite is an excellent place for families to spend a day!

Visit the onsen or enjoy a BBQ and campfire with the locals, while letting your kids run around and play until dawn.

The address is 702 Hikawa, Okutama, Nichitama, Tokyo.

30. Harajuku

Harajuku is not just known for its youth culture, one of the things you can't miss in this vibrant Tokyo neighborhood are the sweet crepes, a snack your kids will love for sure!

The jam-packed crepes are loaded with cheesecakes, strawberries, ice cream – you name it. You can find a wide range of stalls along Takeshita Street, just outside of the Harajuku station.

Tips for visiting Tokyo with kids

When is the best time to visit tokyo.

There is no single best time to visit Tokyo! Even on rainy days, you can visit one of the many museums or an indoor playground.

Tokyo does get pretty hot and humid during the summer months, so best to avoid these. Winter can be cold, though not often freezing cold.

Generally, the best months to visit are during spring (April and May) and in the fall (September, October, and November).

However, Tokyo has so many indoor and outdoor attractions, it makes an ideal destination for kids and families most months of the year!

Buy a Tokyo fun pass

If you plan on visiting multiple attractions listed in this article, it's definitely worth purchasing the Tokyo fun pass .

The pass is valid for 30 days and gives you the flexibility to pick and choose depending on when and where you would like to go!

The pass includes entry to LEGOLAND Discovery Center (#8), the Tokyo Tower (#12), the Tokyo Sky Tree (#24), and lots of other Tokyo highlights.

Click here to book the Tokyo fun pass

Get a Tokyo subway ticket

The number one tip is to buy a Tokyo subway card . You can opt for a 24, 48, or 72-hour card, these can be purchased at subway stations.

This card will save you a lot of money and time compared to buying separate tickets. You simply scan the card when you enter the station instead of purchasing tickets from a kiosk every time you want to ride the subway.

Since you'll probably ride the subway a lot, a Tokyo subway card will save you lots of time and hassle.

Click here to buy a Tokyo 24/48/72-hour subway ticket

Riding the subway

If you are unsure about taking the MRT, don't hesitate to ask fellow MRT travelers or the train staff for help. They will gladly help you find the right train and tell you if it's going in the right direction.

Note that not nearly everyone in Japan speaks English, however, people are very helpful and often use their phone (Google translate or maps) to answer your question or explain something.

Changing money

ATMs that accept American or European bank accounts are very rare. However, 7-11s and post offices will usually have ATMs that will accept western bank cards.

If you are traveling outside of Tokyo , Kyoto , or Osaka , get enough cash before leaving the city. In rural areas and more off-the-beaten-track places in Japan, ATMs that accept your card are even harder to find!

Opening times of Tokyo tourist attractions

Many of the top tourist attractions are closed on Mondays. If you are enjoying an extended Tokyo trip, this isn’t much of a problem.

However, if you only have a few days and one of them is a Monday, it’s difficult to visit all the attractions on this list.

Luggage lockers

Most tourist destinations have good, reliable lockers for rent. There are often different sizes, the biggest one usually fits a large backpack.

Upon entering an attraction, you can ask the Information Desk if lockers are available and where they are located.

Maps in Japan

Maps found on pamphlets or city streets can easily confuse you. Why? Because in Japan, they place north sometimes at the bottom, sometimes at the top, and even occasionally off to the left or right.

This makes finding your destination and how to get there particularly difficult. So, always check where the north is on any map to make sure you are going in the right direction!

Best toy store in Tokyo

Definitely visit Kiddyland in Harajuku. This 4-floor toy store is heaven for your children.

While toys aren't cheap you can always spend some time wandering around this place. If you like you can buy one or two Japanese toys for your children (western brands such as Lego are available as well.

Department play areas

Good to know: most department stores provide a play area for toddlers and preschoolers.

Plan your Japan trip like a pro with these tools: ✅ Get a Japan Railpass to save lots of time and money. ✅ Rent a car for your Japan road trip via Rentalcars.com . ✅ Stay connected with Airalo Japan offer . ✅ Plan your journey with the Japan Lonely Planet . ✅ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ✅ Join the best tours in Japan via Klook . ✅ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

What are the best hotels in Tokyo for families?

Tokyo is packed with great hotels, though many target business travelers and don't put much effort into pleasing kids.

Triple and quadruple rooms large enough to fit a family are rare. It is often necessary to book two rooms for a family of four or more.

That being said, below you can find two excellent accommodation options for families!

Candeo Hotels Tokyo Shimbashi

The Candeo Hotel Shimbashi is a modern hotel with beautifully decorated rooms and an unbeatable location.

It's only a 4-minute walk to Shimbashi Station which is well connected with Narita and Haneda airports and only 1 stop from Tokyo Station.

The best thing about the hotel is its fabulous Sky Spa on the top floor (level 12) of the hotel, which is not suitable for children but is a great place to relax for both parents.

Children below the age of 12 years old are free of charge if they sleep on the existing beds in the room.

Alternatively, there is a sofa in several of the rooms which can be used as a bed. For this, you can pay a 3 rd pax rate upon booking.

There are high chairs in the breakfast area for younger children. Our 1 year old very much enjoyed trying out the different breakfast foods (the delicious bread pudding was his favorite).

Click here to book the Candeo Hotels Tokyo Shimbashi

Hilton Tokyo Bay at Disneyland

If you plan on spending several days at Disneyland, the Hilton Tokyo Bay is the place to stay! It's the official Tokyo Disneyland Hotel and only a 5-minute walk from the Bayside Monorail Station on the Disney Resort Line.

The Narita Airport limousine bus also stops at the hotel, so you can go directly to Disneyland straight from the airport.

The Hilton has an indoor and outdoor pool (fun for the kids) and five different restaurants (fun for the adults).

The rooms themselves have also been designed for kids, with interactive features and fun décor featuring different Disney figures. Your kids will have a very memorable stay here!

Click here to book the Hilton Tokyo Bay at Disneyland

An important note about where to stay in Tokyo with family

Hotel demand in Tokyo is based on a complex business, holiday, and student exam calendar which is almost unknowable to foreigners. Hence, you need to get your accommodation booked early !

Two other good hotels in central locations are Hotel Wing in Yotsuya and Hotel Sunroute in Shinjuku. Both are reasonably priced; and although the rooms are small, they are simple, clean, and have nice beds and bathrooms.

Tokyo family holiday: what to do on a Tokyo trip with kids

I hope you have enjoyed this list of what to do in Tokyo with kids. As said before, you could spend weeks or months exploring the endless number of kid-friendly places in Tokyo.

However, this list should give you a nice starting point for your family vacation in Tokyo.

Happy travels and arigato gozaimasu for reading this post! Read my other posts about Japan for more Japan travel inspiration!

About the author

This post is written by Alice Pham , who was born and raised in Vietnam. On her blog Vina , she shares the elegant beauty of Vietnam with travelers all around the world.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam , be sure to check out her blog as it will provide you with essential information on where to go and what to do in Vietnam, a country with many unknown beaches, historic sites, and tourist attractions.

Tokyo with Kids (4-Day Itinerary + 12 Fun Things to Do)

Post author By Melissa
Post date February 22, 2024
6 Comments on Tokyo with Kids (4-Day Itinerary + 12 Fun Things to Do)

From neon lights and tall buildings to theme parks and quirky dining experiences, visiting Tokyo with kids will be one that your children remember for years to come. In fact, the entire country of Japan is an incredible place to visit as a family.

One of the most popular destinations for family travel in Asia , Tokyo is easy to navigate and filled with unique activities and attractions. Not to mention, there are a lot of fun things to do in Tokyo for kids.

Whether you are looking for cultural experiences and educational elements for older children or fun theme parks and kid-friendly places in Tokyo, this larger-than-life city is a must-visit for families, and one of the best places to visit in Japan with kids .

People walking down a street in Tokyo surrounded by tall buildings and neon signs

Our experience in Tokyo with kids

We visited Japan with kids in 2018. However, so many things have changed since then. Some businesses have permanently closed, others have moved, many places have changed how they operate, and new businesses have opened.

So, we have researched and completely updated this Tokyo with kids itinerary with the latest information to help you plan your next trip.

Tokyo was the last stop on our 2-week trip to Asia, which included a short stay in Beijing, China to see the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China , and a full 10 days exploring Japan.

We spent four of those days in the capital city of Tokyo and the surrounding area. The rest of our time in Japan was split between Kyoto , Nara , and Osaka.

We had 4 days in Tokyo, but giving yourself five days in Tokyo or even more would be better, as there are so many fun things to do in Tokyo for families.

How to get around Tokyo and the rest of Japan

We arrived in Tokyo by train after spending 3 days in Kyoto . Luckily, Japan has an awesome public transportation system, so there is no need to rent a car. Navigating the rail and metro system in Japan can be overwhelming at first, but is fairly easy once you get the hang of it.

We arrived at Tokyo Station, which is in the center of the city. This is the primary train station that connects Tokyo to other cities across Japan.

Tokyo Station is a sight to see! The central train station has lots of food vendors, shops, and the most unique vending machines you’ll ever see.

Kids will particularly like choosing a toy from one of the dozens of capsule toy vending machines clustered together inside the train station. Vending machines are quite impressive in Japan, and have become one of the things that the country is known for . You can get everything from toys, to beer, to full meals in a vending machine.

In and around Tokyo Station, you’ll find plenty of great places to buy unique and meaningful souvenirs from Japan .

Where to stay in Tokyo with kids

There are several convenient neighborhoods in Tokyo if you are visiting as a tourist. Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Ginza are perhaps the most popular areas to stay in Tokyo.

Ginza is the area nearest to Tokyo Station. Many chose to stay here for the sheer convenience of being close to the main train station, a lot of restaurants, and great shopping. This is exactly what we did. Not having to take another train or the subway with all of our luggage was a huge bonus to staying near Tokyo Station.

The hotel prices can be quite high in the area, but we found Hotel SUI Ginza Kyobashi reasonably priced and just a couple of blocks away from Tokyo Station. The rooms at Hotel SUI Ginza are nice but extremely small by western standards. The bathroom was slightly larger than an airplane lavatory.

The small room size is not uncommon in Tokyo or the rest of Japan.

Many of the places to stay in Kyoto and Osaka are also small by western standards.

If you have a larger family or simply prefer more space, Oakwood Premier Tokyo and the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo are located just 2 minutes from Tokyo Station. Although a bit pricier, the location is ideal, which makes it easy to get around Tokyo with kids.

If you choose to stay in a different area of the city, there are lots of family-friendly hotels in Tokyo that cater to those traveling with kids in other districts, as well.

CLICK HERE TO COMPARE PRICES AND FIND HOTELS NEAR TOKYO STATION.

Itinerary for 4 days in Tokyo with kids

There are so many Tokyo activities for kids, museums, restaurants, and even complete districts in Tokyo that are seemingly designed with children in mind. For this reason you could spend weeks in Tokyo with kids and have plenty to keep your family entertained.

It is one of only six cities in the world that has a Disney Resort. In fact, Tokyo has both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea .

Our daughter was still a toddler when we went to Tokyo, so we decided to hold off on visiting a theme park until she is a little older. But if you are visiting Tokyo with school aged children – Disney should definitely be part of your Tokyo with kids itinerary.

Here is a look at our suggested 4 day itinerary for Tokyo with kids:

Tokyo Itinerary with kids: Day 1

Arrive in Tokyo
Check into hotel or drop off luggage
Head directly to the Shibuya District
Take the Scramble Crossing
Shop and find a sweet snack in Harajuku
Head to Shinjuku District to explore
Walk through “Piss Alley”
Dinner in a Shinjuku

Tokyo Itinerary with kids: Day 2

Visit the Imperial Palace and Gardens
Check out an arcade or two in Akihabara
Tour the Sensoji Temple and Asakusa District
Go up the Skytree Lookout
Lunch in Asakusa
Head to Tsukiji Fish Market
Check out Kabukiza Theatre (pass on way from Tsukiji to Ginza)
Enjoy some high-end window shopping and dinner in Ginza

Tokyo Itinerary with kids: Day 3

Day trip to Hakone and Mount Fuji or Tokyo DisneyLand and DisneySea

Tokyo Itinerary with kids: Day 4

Spend the morning in Odaiba District
See the Rainbow Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and the Gundam Robot
Play at Legoland Discovery Center
Lunch at Tokyo Ramen Kokugikan Mai in Aqua City mall
Museum of Emerging Science

The Rainbow Bridge in the Odaiba District of Tokyo.

As you may have noticed, this itinerary has some options. For example, we took a day trip to the town of Hakone , near Mount Fuji, during one of our four days in Tokyo.

While it was incredible, if you plan to visit one of the Tokyo Disney theme parks and you have only a limited number of days in Tokyo with kids, I would recommend skipping Hakone and doing Disney instead.

12 awesome things to do in Tokyo with kids

Now that we’ve laid out a solid – and jam-packed – 4-day Tokyo itinerary, here are a few of the things to do in Tokyo with kids that we mentioned on the itinerary above.

We have included what we consider the 12 best things to do in Tokyo with kids, going through our itinerary day-by-day.

But if 12 isn’t enough, you can read about some of the other quirky, and unique things to do in Tokyo that you might want to add to your itinerary.

Shibuya District and the Shibuya Crossing (AKA the Scramble)

Family at the simbuya crossing or the scramble in Tokyo with kids

Shibuya is the first place you should head after arriving in Tokyo and dropping off your luggage at your hotel.

The area of Tokyo known as Shibuya is home to the busiest crosswalk in the world. Often called ‘The Scramble’, at its peak time of day, 3,000 people cross the street at the same time.

While crossing the street may not seem like a tourist activity, the sheer number of people crossing the street at the same time is overwhelming! The Shibuya Scramble is the most “Tokyo” experience you can have, and a great place to start your Tokyo family vacation.

There are so many people, bright lights, and big city sounds in Shibuya that the district can be somewhat of an assault on the senses. But it is a sight worth seeing.

To escape the chaos of the crowds, head into one of the specialty chocolate shops in this area of Tokyo and indulge in a sweet treat or grab lunch at Katsumidori Seibu Shibuya , a unique sushi restaurant where the sushi comes out on a conveyor belt.

Known as kaiten sushi, or conveyor belt sushi in English, you’ll find several of these types of restaurants around Tokyo where your dishes go around on a conveyor belt so you can see and select what you want to order.

Harajuku and Takeshita-dori Street

The crowded Takeshita Street in Tokyo - a must-visit if traveling to Tokyo with teens.

If you are visiting Tokyo with older kids, particularly preteens and teenagers, Harajuku and the street known as Takeshita-dori is a must-visit. Known in Japan as “Teen Holy Land”, Takeshita-dori is practically the headquarters of teen fashion and pop culture in Japan.

You’ll find lots of inexpensive stores carrying the latest in teen fashion as well as lots of food stalls and cafes specializing in fun and Instagrammable food.

Japan is known for its “Kawaii culture” where everything is cute and little, and there is no better place to experience this cutesy culture than Takeshita-dori.

Wander through the crowded streets of Harajuku and give your kids a little money to spend on whatever they want.

Then head to one of the popular creperies on Takeshita Street for a crepe almost too pretty to eat or check out Totti Candy Factory for the giant, colorful cotton candy your whole family can share.

If you’re visiting Tokyo with children, ordering a massive cotton candy will be a fun Tokyo activity!

Takeshita-dori is roughly a 20-minute walk from Shibuya Station, but if you prefer a guided tour or want to make sure you see all the hidden gems of Shibuya and Harajuku you book a private guide here .

Shinjuku District

With your bellies full of sweet treats, head to the Shinjuku District. You can either take the metro which takes about 7 minutes or walk, which takes about 30 minutes.

If you decide to walk, you can also make a detour through Meiji Jingu Shrine . This beautiful shrine is surrounded by a beautiful park and forest in the middle of the city and is free to visit. It is a serene break from the busyness of Shibuya and Harajuku and the lights and city sounds.

If you have an hour to spare, you can even take a guided walking tour where you and your kids can learn about the history of the shrine and the culture of the Shinto religion. This is a great way to familiarize yourself with shrine etiquette and Japanese habits and ways of life.

When you arrive in Shinjuku, be sure to check out Shinjuku Station, the busiest train station in the world. Shinjuku is another district in Tokyo that is large, and at times, overwhelming.

In this particular area of Tokyo, you’ll find several ‘only in Tokyo’ experiences, including various cat cafes and other animal cafes, and Piss Alley.

Piss Alley is a narrow side street lined with small bars and cheap food stalls. Piss Alley got its name in the 1940s when it was an illegal drinking spot. Because of the lack of public restroom facilities, patrons who had a few too many would wander off and relieve themselves on the nearby train tracks, thus earning this small, lovely street its rather-unlovely nickname.

It can get quite crowded, so I’d recommend visiting on a weekday if possible.

If you’re a meat eater, definitely grab some yakitori while you’re there. Yakitori is a small skewer of flavorful grilled chicken, and basically the only thing our toddler wanted to eat the entire time we were in Japan.

If you plan to visit one of the animal cafes in Shinjuku or anywhere else in Japan, check the age restrictions ahead of time. Most of the cat cafes do not allow kids under the age of 11 to enter.

Shinjuku is a great place to end your first day in Tokyo with kids. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or cafes in the district before heading back to your hotel for the night.

Imperial Palace and Outer Gardens

Imperial Palace and the moat surrounding it.

Your second day in Tokyo with kids will start at the Imperial Palace . The palace and outer gardens are perhaps the most iconic setting in Tokyo and one of the top tourist attractions in Tokyo, Japan.

It is just a short 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station, so if you stay in a hotel in this central area, it is the perfect place to start day 2 of your Tokyo family itinerary.

Although you can’t actually enter the Imperial Palace or inner gardens because it is the actual home of the emperor of Japan and the imperial family, the outer gardens are lovely and offer a fair amount of space for kids in Japan to run around.

This is just one of many incredible parks and gardens in Tokyo to experience during your visit.

You can book a walking tour through the outer gardens and public facilities with a local guide to see the highlights and learn more about the palace and history of Japan.

Akhabara a colorful, animated district to visit in Tokyo with children who love video games and anime.

Akihabara is known as the electronics district in Tokyo. If your children love video games, this is the district to visit. There are even video games attached to some of the urinals in the 4-story Sega arcade.

Akihabara is also the center of anime in Tokyo, which is an extremely popular form of Japanese animation. Not familiar with anime? Some of the best movies about Japan are anime.

And if your child loves Pokémon, Akihabara is like a real-life setting from the children’s movies . We’d recommend checking one out before your trip so you’ll better appreciate Japanese animation.

While we are not personally big on video games or anime, we found that the district personified the uniqueness of Tokyo in an interesting and colorful way.

One of the best things to do in this district of Tokyo with kids is to meet the owls at the Owl Cafe in Akihabara . This is one of the few animal cafes in Tokyo that younger children can enter.

Or if you prefer, this is another great district to experience Kawaii culture at the Maid Cafe. It is another one of those places where you’ll find yourself saying “Only in Tokyo.”

Another fun option in Akihabara, if you visit the district at night, the Samurai Entertainment Night is a theater restaurant where you can enjoy a live performance while you eat dinner.

Sensoji Temple and Asakusa District

A five story pagoda at Sensoji temple in Tokyo

After spending a few hours in Akihabara, head to the Asakusa district. If you didn’t eat lunch at the Owl Café or Maid Café in Akihabara, Asakusa has a wonderful array of restaurants.

It is also home to the oldest temple in Tokyo, Sensoji Temple . This popular Buddhist temple and tourist attraction is unlike most temples in Japan that have a very serene and calming appeal. In fact, upon entering the outer gates of Sensoji Temple, you’ll find a bustling market where vendors sell a variety of trinkets, souvenirs, and food.

Inside the main temple area, you’ll find the main hall, a five-story pagoda, several small shrines, and different areas where you can take part in Buddhist rituals. It is a beautiful place to learn about Japanese culture in Tokyo with kids.

Asakusa is home to the oldest theme park in Japan, Hanayashiki .

If you have the time, you can book a private family tour of Sensoji Temple, Asakusa and enjoy Hanayashiki, or if you need a break from walking you can book a rickshaw tour through the district that will take you by all of the attractions in a private chariot pulled by your tour guide.

Tokyo Skytree

Also in Asakusa, you’ll find the tallest structure in all of Tokyo – the Tokyo Skytree .

The lattice tower is more than 2,000 feet tall. From the top of the Skytree you’ll get 360° views of the city. In fact, on a clear day, you’ll be able to see the shy giant, Mount Fuji, off in the distance.

Going up to the viewing platform at Tokyo Skytree is a great way to see Mount Fuji if you decide to spend day three in Tokyo with kids at Disneyland rather than taking a day trip to Hakone from Tokyo .

Although there is a small price for admission to Tokyo Skytree, the views make it well worth it!

Tsukiji Fish Market

After exploring Asakusa and seeing the epic views from atop Tokyo Skytree, head to the Tsukiji Fish Market . It is one of the most unique experiences in Tokyo.

You used to be able to watch a live wholesale fish auction if you arrived early, early in the morning. But the wholesale auction moved to the outskirts of the city. However, you’ll still find vendors selling the freshest sushi and seafood you will ever taste in Tsukiji.

Tsukiji Fish Market is a foodie’s paradise! We ate until we couldn’t possibly eat anymore. It truly is one of the best specialty food streets in Tokyo .

For children who are less adventurous eaters, there are stalls that sell things other than fish. In fact, you can find all sorts of unique and delicious foods from Japan .

You can purchase things like gyoza, yakitori, fruit, and mochi, all of which children will love!

To truly experience and appreciate Tsukiji Fish Market, join a food and drink walking tour where you can explore the outer market with your taste buds and sample a range of foods with a local guide who will explain what you’re eating and details the famous market’s unique history.

Father and daughter walking down the streets of Ginza in Tokyo

Not far from Tokyo Station, Ginza is a great place to window shop and people watch. Every high-end fashion brand is represented in this posh district.

Even if you have no plans of buying anything, it’s still a cool place to visit. While we were there, we were able to watch a 3D printer building a Nissan concept car.

There are also a ton of great restaurants from which to choose. Whether you want to try out another conveyor belt sushi restaurant or dine in a private room where you can close a door and keep the kids contained, there are a lot of great family-friendly options in Ginza.

On your way back from the Tsukiji Fish Market, walk past the famous Kabukiza Theatre on your way to Ginza.

Odaiba District

Odaiba is a popular shopping district in Tokyo built on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. There are several large shopping malls in this area which are great for rainy days.

To get to Odaiba, you will cross one of the prettiest bridges in Tokyo, the Rainbow Bridge , which looks especially scenic at night. The area is not only known for shopping but is also a popular entertainment district.

You could spend an entire day in Odaiba, Tokyo with kids. It is one of the most kid-friendly places in Tokyo, with fun museums like the National Museum of Emerging Science, theme parks and LegoLand Discovery Center , a great experience with lots of kid activities in Tokyo.

Outside Diver City Mall , you’ll find a massive Gundam statue, which is a popular robot anime series that we knew nothing about until this trip.

You’ll also find one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels, and a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty.

Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea

If there is one word that is synonymous with family fun, it is Disney. Definitely one of the most fun things for kids in Tokyo, a visit to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea will make your visit to Tokyo with children the most memorable trip for your family.

Located on the Bay of Tokyo, not far from Odaiba, Tokyo Disneyland is the second most visited theme park in the world, behind Orlando, Florida’s claim to fame, Disney World.

To visit both parks you should give yourself at least a couple of days. However, if you only have 4 days in Tokyo, choose between Disneyland and DisneySea and enjoy a full day at just one of the parks.

You’ll find rides appropriate for all ages – from teenage and adult daredevils to those visiting Tokyo with toddlers.

Note: If theme parks aren’t your style, you can elect to skip Disney on day three, and do a day trip from Tokyo to Hakone.

Hakone is a charming and unique area with a volcanic valley, a pirate ship cruise and beautiful hiking trails. It is one of the best day trips from Tokyo for families!

Other things to do in Tokyo with kids if you have additional time

If you have extra time, here are a few more family activities in Tokyo that would make great additions to any Tokyo family itinerary.

Sanrio Cafe and Ikebukuro District

Food is often as much about presentation as it is about taste. And when it comes to presentation, Sanrio Café in Tokyo would top on a kid’s list.

The café, which is located in Ikebukuro offers a whimsical dining experience centered around the popular cartoon characters from Sanrio, including the widely popular Hello Kitty.

This is the perfect place to enjoy breakfast (or breakfast for lunch or dinner), especially if you have children. The décor and all the food served at the café is character themed, so you can get some Hello Kitty pancakes or sweet treats.

Ikebukuro is also home to the Sunshine Aquarium for kids who want to see and learn more about life under the water. The district is easy to access from Tokyo Station, Shinjuku, or Shibuya Station.

Ghibli Museum

Located in the Tokyo suburb of Mitaka , west of the city, Ghibli Museum is a fun, maze-like experience dedicated to the art of animation showcasing the work of the Japanese studio Ghibli.

The whimsical museum is currently a challenge to get tickets to. Due to the pandemic, a very limited number of tickets are available and book months in advance.

Japan’s oldest zoo, Ueno, is home to more than 3,000 animals from 400 different species, including giant pandas, tigers, and gorillas. The zoo, located near the Tokyo National Museum , is not far from Asakusa and the Senso-ji Temple.

So, if you have more than just 4 days in Tokyo with kids, you could spend an entire day in this area of the city and add the Ueno Zoo and Park and the National Museum to your family-friendly Tokyo itinerary.

Tokyo Tower

If you skipped the Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower is another opportunity to get an awesome view of the city’s skyline.

Located in the center of Tokyo this iconic red tower offers panoramic views both day and night. But at night the tower lights up similar to the Eiffel Tower in Paris and changes colors depending on the season.

Learn more about Japan with kids

Tokyo was one of five cities we visited in Japan. While we love Tokyo, there are other areas of the country that are equally impressive and family-friendly.

For more information to help you plan your trip, check out all of our blog posts about Japan . But wherever you go in Japan, we promise the country will not disappoint.

Other resources for planning a family trip to Japan

Buy your JR Pass
Where to Stay in Kyoto
Japan with Kids – Complete Itinerary and Why You’ll Love It
Nara Day Trip
3 Days in Kyoto with Kids
5 Days in Tokyo (an alternative itinerary)
Hakone Day Trip Guide
Beautiful Japanese Habits We Should All Embrace
Is the Japan Rail Pass Worth It?
Skiing in Niseko Japan
Purchase Travel Insurance for Japan
Book your Hotel
Book a Family Photo Shoot in Japan

Have a question or comment about visiting Tokyo Japan with kids? Let us know your favorite Tokyo family travel experience or ask your questions in the comments below!

Like it? Pin this guide to Tokyo with kids to save it for later!

10 incredible things to do in Tokyo with kids. This full 4 day Tokyo Japan itinerary includes the best activities in Tokyo for kids AND adults. #tokyo #japan #familytravel

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6 comments on “Tokyo with Kids (4-Day Itinerary + 12 Fun Things to Do)”

Oooooh, this is perfect! We are hoping to go to Japan in 2020 with our crew. I have the EXACT SAME HABIT of planning tons of specifics about a trip — getting there, where we are going to stay, etc — and not making a list of everything we actually need to see. I’m working on it, LOL. Anyway, saving this for our 2020 planning! We want to go for the Olympics but also go elsewhere in Japan as well.

Do you have your whole japan itinerary?

We have not created a full itinerary post, but perhaps I should. We flew into Osaka, spent the night, went to Nara for a day trip, then onto Kyoto, spent three days in Kyoto, then took the high speed train to Tokyo. We did 4 days in Tokyo including a day trip to Hakone. Our Kyoto itinerary can be found here: https://parenthoodandpassports.com/kyoto-with-kids-three-day-itinerary/ Posts about Nara and Hakone are also below: https://parenthoodandpassports.com/nara-park-deer-things-to-see-nara-japan/ https://parenthoodandpassports.com/hakone-japan-day-trip-hakone-freepass/

This is so helpful! We will be in Tokyo in February for four days. So far we have just booked. Hotel around Ginza area. We are going with our kids who are 9 and 6. Do you recommend we book a guide or is it pretty simple to navigate? Also, do you have a recommendation for a tour company that can help us do a day trip go Mt. Fuji? Thank you got all your help!

Thanks for the helpful post! We’re a family with 4 pre-teen kids and planning to visit Japan in the last week of June. Was wondering if the rainy weather is too bad to go during that time with kids?

Best Itinerary…

Tokyo 1-Day Itinerary With Children

Tokyo is a great place to travel with children: It's safe, clean and there are lots of kid-friendly attractions. This itinerary is the perfect 1-day itinerary for those traveling with children.

National Museum of Nature and Science. Editorial credit: cowardlion / Shutterstock.com

Itinerary Summary and Important Notes

This itinerary includes Asakusa, Ueno, Shinjuku and Shibuya.
Base yourself somewhere central to save time (see the Notes section below).
Don't try to do too much with kids in Tokyo. Just moving around the city is tiring for them (and parents, too).

Full Tokyo 1 Day Itinerary With Children Itinerary

See the district pages linked below for full details on the attractions mentioned here.

9:00am: Asakusa – Senso-ji Temple In the morning, head up to Asakusa and visit Senso-ji Temple . This is your chance to check out something of interest to adults as well, before the children get too tired and need kid-friendly entertainment. This bustling temple is stimulating enough to keep most children occupied for a little while. The Ginza subway line is a good way to get to Asakusa from many parts of Tokyo.
10:30: Ueno – Ueno-koen Park and Museums Ueno is just three stops west of Asakusa on the Ginza subway line. Walk into Ueno-koen Park . Consider visiting Ueno Zoo . Another great spot is the National Museum of Nature and Science . And, if your kids are a bit older, they just might be convinced to enter the Tokyo National Museum – the swords here are sure to interest boys.
Noon: Shinjuku – Lunch Take the Toei Oedo subway line from Ueno Okachimachi Station west to Shinjuku Nishiguchi Station (eight stops). Once you arrive in Shinjuku , walk south to the Takashimaya Times Square Complex , which is just south of Shinjuku Station (connected by a pedestrian walkway). The restaurant floors on the 12th, 13th and 14th floors here have a big selection of easy-to-enter restaurants that should please finicky eaters. When you're done, consider a quick look in Tokyu Hands , a great DIY and hobby shop that might interest older kids.
1:30pm: East Shinjuku – Fire Museum and/or Toy Museum (play area) There are two excellent child-friendly attractions in East Shinjuku . After lunch at Takashimaya Times Square , take the Marunouchi subway line three stops east from Shinjuku Station to Yotsuya Sanchome Station. Within easy walking distance of this station you'll find the Tokyo Fire Museum , which is guaranteed to be a hit with kids who love fire engines etc. Within walking distance from this is the Tokyo Toy Museum , which is really more of a big play space than a museum – it's great for younger kids. The Toy Museum is closed on Thursday. The Fire Museum is closed Monday.
4:00pm: Shibuya – A Walk and Early Dinner If you and your kids still have energy, return to Shinjuku Station and take the JR Yamanote Line three stops south to Shibuya . Here, you can do some strolling and shopping amid some of Tokyo's biggest department stores. The bright lights and presence of other kids is enough to keep older children entertained (but be warned: they'll be pestering you to buy them all the little toys and sweets they see everywhere!). Shibuya has tons of restaurants, including kid-friendly places in the food floors of the big department stores, so you can grab an early dinner here before heading back to the hotel.

Other Great Places for Kids in Tokyo

Odaiba : Odaiba, located on an artificial island in Tokyo Bay is an all-day destination that has several kid-friendly attractions including Teamlab Borderless , the interactive digital art museum, Miraikan : National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, Sony Explora Science and Decks Tokyo Beach (restaurants).
Ghibli Museum: Located in Mitaka, a short train ride west of Tokyo, this is a must for fans of Japanese anime. Visit the Ghibli Museum English site for details.
Tokyo Disneyland: A short train trip east of the city, this is Japan's biggest child-friendly attraction. See our guide to Tokyo Disneyland for more details.

Check Hotel Availability

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Recommend Family-Friendly Hotels in Tokyo

For some great places to stay in Tokyo while traveling with your family, see our Tokyo’s Best Hotels for Families page .

If you're only going to be in the city for one day, you should try to base yourself in a central location so you don't waste time moving around. I'd suggest Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ginza or the Tokyo Station area. For more on where to say, check out my Where to Stay in Tokyo page .
Don't try to do any more than this in one day in Tokyo – you'll tire yourself and your kids out. If you want to relax, subtract one or two places from this itinerary. As usual, it's better to enjoy a few places properly than to sprint through many places.

Where Are These Places Located?

Open the Tokyo map
You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.
Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.
Map pins are color coded - BLUE: Hotels / Ryokan / Guesthouses | VIOLET: Ryokan | PINK: Places to Eat | GREEN: Shops | YELLOW: Things to See and Do
If you're using the map on your phone, open the map and then search for the name of the place. The map will then zoom in on its location.

Tokyo Vacation Checklist

For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Tokyo guide
Check Tokyo accommodation availability and pricing on Booking.com and Agoda.com - often you can book with no upfront payment and free cancellation
Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Tokyo
You can buy shinkansen (bullet train) tickets online from Klook - popular routes include Tokyo to Kyoto , Tokyo to Osaka and Tokyo to Hiroshima
You can buy a Japan SIM card online for collection on arrival at Tokyo Narita or Haneda airports. Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
Compare airline flight prices and timings for the best Japan flight deals . Check my guides to arriving at Narita Airport and at Haneda Airport .
If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with a Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
A prepaid Welcome Suica card makes travelling around Tokyo much easier - here's how
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Tokyo District Map

Imperial Palace Area
Tokyo Station
Shimbashi Shiodome Hamamatsucho Shinagawa
Akihabara Kanda
Roppongi Akasaka
Harajuku Aoyama
Ebisu Daikanyama Meguro

Disclosure: trulytokyo.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and amazon.co.uk. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Traveling Japan with a baby

By: Author Wandermust Daddy

Are you thinking of traveling Japan with a baby? In this guide we will tell you all the tips and tricks we learnt from our own Japan travel experience with a baby, with advice on strollers, carriers, best time to visit and of course the best things to do in this magnificent country with a baby in town.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you!

Table of Contents

Travelling to Japan with baby tips and tricks

Travel at the right time of year.

Japan is a very seasonal country but you will find the summer and winter in Japan have the more extreme weather. We visited Japan in the summer with our little one and it was definitely very hot so we had to be careful about over heating and dehydration.

We therefore recommend visiting Japan in the shoulder seasons of Spring and Fall. The only issue with Spring is that because of the Sakura season and the beautiful cherry blossoms is that both the crowds and prices will swell. Therefore unless you are desperate to see the cherry blossom (and let’s face it is on many people’s Japan bucket list) we would say Fall might be the best time to visit Japan with a baby.

Chose your Flight Time wisely

Now if you are traveling to Japan international, the chances are that you will have a long flight ahead of you so it is really important to prepare for the flight well.

Firstly if you are traveling with a baby to Japan then you will want to make sure that you have the bulkhead seats reserved. Having the bulkhead will mean that your little one will be able to use the bassinet to nap in during this long flight (which means you won’t have to have them lying on you for the whole flight – turbulence withstanding).

Also be sure to check that you know whether or not your airline provides baby food etc. Even when a ticket price says it includes this we will always take enough with us to cover us for the duration of the flight as there is nothing worse than a hangry baby.

On top of this if you are flying with a formula fed baby you need to make sure you have enough formal to last the whole flight and some extra. You can either pack this and take through security or preorder to pick up in the terminal.

Be Prepared for Jet Lag

Now if you are coming from Europe or North America for your Japan vacation then it is best to be prepared for jet lag. Now jet lag with babies is never fun however I actually found that my baby bounced back quicker than I did when we were traveling around Japan.

Our biggest tip is to make sure you have plenty of snacks with you, keep to the correct meal time at the correct time and most of all make sure you get outside and into the sunshine.

Next Read: For more information on great Asian countries to visit with kids check out this post.

Choose the right type of accommodation

As you may have heard space is at a premium in Japan and you will find that many of the hotel rooms are very very tiny. You might want to consider that airbnbs or accommodations other than hotels might be better for you and your little one especially when you are trying to get them over their jet lag.

Move Around – Don’t just stay in one place

Traveling Japan with Toddlers - Kyoto to Tokyo with toddler

The rail system in Japan is amazing and I would definitely say that it is worth even if you are only in Japan for a week to sample at least two locations. The obvious two are of course Tokyo and Kyoto and they are two completing contrasting sides of Japanese life. But…

Don’t move around too much and take it slow

Slow travel is a must when you are traveling with toddler s or babies but in a place like Japan you really do want to cover mire than one place.

We recommend picking one or two places to base yourself out of and then exploring them in depth and taking a few day trips too. Be sure to check out our Japan itinerary with kids for more information.

TOP TIP : Also while for most couples and solo travellers in Japan who plan to move around a lot the JR Pass can be a definite budget saver however if you are looking at only doing one or two big journeys on the trains I would advise doing the calculation as it might not be a cost saving to you. But be sure to factor in the cost of day trips too.

Take Day trips

The great thing about basing your self out of big cities in Japan such as Kyoto and Tokyo with a baby is that there are almost endless possibilities for day trips.

For instance the city of Osaka, Hiroshima, Nara for the deer and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest all can be done as day trips really easily from Kyoto. And from Tokyo you can get to Yokohama, Disneyland and Disneysea , Hakone as really easy day trips even with a baby.

Time your Journeys

You may have heard that Japan is a busy place and it hasn’t been exaggerated. Tokyo in particular is a very busy place on the subway especially at rush hour. To save yourself some stress by avoiding traveling in Japan at rush hour.

Don’t overpack

You will notice that whatever accommodation you book you will find space it at a premium. And on public transport you will find it hard to move with masses of luggage. Therefore we recommend keeping packing to a minimum to make your life easier when traveling around Japan.

Eating with Babies in Japan

One of the easiest things about taking a baby rather than traveling Japan with a toddler , is that a baby will not be fully weaned and you won’t need to put as much thought into what they will need to eat as restaurants.

However do not expect there to be a ready availability of high chairs. Now those of us from Europe and North America might be used to all restaurants having a provision of high chairs however don’t expect this to be the case in Japan.

We found very few restaurants had high chairs so we packed a fold up fabric high chair which can covert any chair into a high chair which was very useful. On occasions where we didn’t have this with us she just sat on our lap during the meal or where there was room we used our stroller covered in a blanket in place of a high chair which worked just fine.

While we didn’t eat at any high end places we did find that everywhere we went was more than happy for us to take our little one in and on many occasions the waiting staff are extra helpful with our little one.

Japan with a baby Packing List

Can i use a stroller in japan .

One of the things we had heard before we traveled to Japan was that using a stroller there was difficult. However, we decided to take one with us regardless. So did we find that you could use a stroller in Japan?

Can I use a stroller in Japan? Traveling Japan with a baby

The answer was yes and no. We are definitely glad that we took a stroller with us and if we were going to Japan again we would definitely take a stroller again. However there are some places in Japan that are easier with stroller than others and some types of strollers are better than others too.

For instance we recommend taking a stroller that collapses easily as you will find it has to be folded in some of the more inaccessible stations.

While you can use a stroller on the subway in Tokyo, some of the stations are not accessible and do not have elevators so you will need to fold them up to take them up or down.

Also the you may find shrines and temples slightly more difficult with a stroller. However I would still advocate you taking a stroller with you but I would also take a carrier too for certain locations.

For more information on using a stroller in Japan check out this post.

Should I take a Carrier to Japan?

But even if you like us decide to take a stroller to Japan, I would also recommend taking a carrier. This will be useful at some of the more inaccessible sites. Also if you are traveling to Japan in the summer months such as July, August and September I would recommend taking a carrier that can deal with hot weather .

For instance I would take one that has a lot of mesh and is designed with hot weather climates in mind. If you don’t have one of these and your are traveling over the summer you and your baby will find it a very sweaty experience.

Click here to shop hot weather baby carriers.

Is if easy to find baby changing facilities in Japan?

The baby changing facilities we found in Japan happened to be some of the nicest and cleanest that we have ever used anywhere in the world. They might not be on every street corner however so it is advisable about thinking ahead to places that may have these facilities.

Generally speaking we found the following places usually had great baby change facilities in them

train stations and other transport hubs
department stores
tourist attractions such as museums

One of the other things I loved about Japanese toilets, apart from the toilets themselves obviously was that in each toilet cubicle I went to there was a seat on the back of the door where your baby or toddler could seat while you used the restroom. It was amazing and something I wish they would start introducing back home.

Where to buy Baby Supplies in Japan

If you are traveling with a baby probably the biggest concern you will have is where can you buy baby supplies such as formula milk, pureed baby food and diapers.

We found the department stores, although more expensive had plenty of baby supplies but the 7-11 and drug stores were probably the best places you could go to get baby supplies.

We actually found all of the baby supplies we bought in Japan to be of excellent quality. In particular the diapers were super soft and we had never had any problems using. However you will probably find it cheaper to bring them from home if you have plenty of room in your suitcase.

We also found there were a few varieties of baby formula to chose from. We used Meiji and our baby loved it.

Admittedly it was easy to find the sizes and supplies we needed easier to find in the cities than smaller towns so you may want to factor this in so you don’t spend too long hunting down supplies.

Also if you come across one of my favorite stores in Japan, Daiso it is always worth heading in as they sometimes have baby supplies and you will find them a lot cheaper here than anywhere else.

Can I breastfeed in Japan?

While I was formula feeding in Japan I did see people breastfeeding with no issues. However everyone I saw was being discreet.

What are the best places to visit in Japan with babies

Tokyo with a baby.

Japan with a baby / Tokyo Disneysea with toddlers

No Japan itinerary is complete without visiting Tokyo. Being the capital and business centre of Japan it should come as no surprise that Tokyo will be the busiest place you will visit.

In order to have a success trip to Tokyo with a baby we recommend planing your day so your are never traveling at rush hour. But other than that the beautiful parks and other child friendly attractions mean that Tokyo is a great place to visit as a family.

Some of our favourite places int eh city to visit with are baby are:

Borderless Teamlab digital art museum,
the two Tokyo Disney resorts
The Fish Market
Tokyo Tower

I would recommend spending at least 3 days in Tokyo to explore the city on its own but if you want to do some day trips from the city I would advise prolonging the amount of time you stay here.

Kyoto with a baby

Japan with a baby / Kyoto with a baby

Out of all the places we visited in Japan my favourite was without doubt Kyoto. While Tokyo is the business centre, Kyoto is the cultural capital of Japan and requires at least 4 days to explore this city fully.

Some of our favorite things to do in Kyoto with a baby include:

The Golden Pavilion (Kikakuji)
Fushimi Inari
Nijo Castle
Imperial Castle
Gion and the Geisha

However there are also some great day trips that you can take from Kyoto too such as

Nara to see the deer and
Arashiyama bamboo forest

all of which are great places to visit with a baby.

Osaka with a baby

If you are traveling to Japan with a baby I would personally recommend either staying in either Osaka or Kyoto as they are quite close together and can easily be done as day trips and will save you having to take luggage and all your baby paraphernalia to a new location.

We opted to stay in Kyoto as it had more of the things we wanted to see (Gion, Fushimi inure Tashi and the golden pavilion to name but a few) but this is really a personal choice so I would advise picking the one you think you will be spending the most time in for your base location.

Nara with a baby

Again, this is an easy day trip from Kyoto and while babies will love seeing the deer in Nara I think it makes a better day trip from Kyoto than as your base.

Hokkaido with a baby

Best Things to do in Otaru Hokkaido with kids

We spent over a month in Japan so decided to head up to Japan’s most northern island of Hokkaido. We loved visiting H okkaido with kids as it is much quieter than the island of Honshu and has lots of things that babies will enjoy doing such as the zoo in Sapporo.

I wouldn’t advise going to Hokkaido on your first visit to Japan especially if you are short on time but if you are a repeat visitor or like us are in the country for an extended amount of time it is definitely worthwhile. Check out our guides on the best time to visit Hokkaido and our Hokkaido itinerary for more information.

Okinawa with a baby

We didn’t make it to Okinawa with a baby but it is currently near the top of our Japan Bucket List . Okinawa still has loads of cultural things to do but the attraction for me is to see its beautiful beaches. Hopefully I will be writing about a trip to Okinawa soon!

FAQs about Japan travel with a baby

Is japan a good place to travel with a baby.

Although Japan is known for being busy, work centred and crowded I have to say Japan is one of our favourite places to visit with a baby. Although Tokyo is all of the above things, it is also friendly, exciting and very baby friendly with oodles of attractions your baby will love such as the gardens and parks for instance. It is also a great place to have your child’s first Disney experience.

But outside of the capital you can also find countryside, cultural icons and much much more that you will enjoy exploring with a bay. We would go back to Japan with a baby tomorrow.

Is Japan a child friendly country?

We found Japan to be an absolutely child friendly country but it was perhaps even more so a baby friendly country. We had no problems finding baby supplies and wherever we went with our baby we were greeted warmly and had an amazing time.

Is Japan stroller friendly?

I would say Japan both is and isn’t a stroller friendly country. It depends where you are as to how stroller friendly it is. For more information see out post on using a stroller in Japan which breaks down where you should and shouldn’t use a stroller in Japan.

Have you been to Japan with baby? What were your favourite things or top pieces of advice?

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On the hunt for things to do in Tokyo with toddlers? Fear not. I gotchu, fam. Grab a pen and whip out your Tokyo family itinerary spreadsheet. We’ve compiled an exhaustive list that’s guaranteed to keep your wild child at bay.

Short attention spans. Irrational meltdowns. Hangry tantrums. That’s the life of a toddler summed up. Sounds pretty glum, huh? Don’t be discouraged.

This handy post will arm you with the right activities to keep bite-sized authoritarians at bay, and you’ll be breezing through your trip, like.. a breath of cool air hitting your face on a hot summer night (gawd, my metaphors are embarrassing – don’t judge me).

Bad metaphors aside (my pun game is even worse), let’s not delay the imminent fun you’ll be having in this amazing country – here are the absolute best things to do in Tokyo with toddlers. Boom chicka wow wow.

Looking for more Japan with kids inspiration?

50 Epic Things to do in Osaka with Kids

Where to Rent a Stroller in Tokyo

Is Expensive is Japan? Budget Guide for Families.

Essential Tokyo Travel Tips

▪︎ Get the Suica IC Card for train travel . This all-in-one transport card is valid for travel on JR East trains, subway trains and some bus lines and comes pre-loaded with ¥1,500 credit.

▪︎ Rent a pocket WiFi . Access the Internet as soon as you land to check train connections and directions. Pocket WiFis allow multiple users to connect to the one device.

▪︎ Don’t exchange money at self-service machines . AKA Smart Exchange ATMs – the rates are dismal and will cause angry teeth-gritting. Our best tip is to get on Google Maps and type “currency exchange” into search to find human exchange counters with high star ratings.

Planning the nitty gritty of your Japan trip? Don’t get caught in a pickle – arrange your travel insurance today.

After working at a travel agency for years, I’ve heard enough horror stories to direct a sequel to Final Destination. We use and recommend World Nomads . They have some of the most competitive rates and are available for travellers from 140 countries.

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▪︎ Always have cash . Japan is at the forefront of technology – no doubt. However, cash is still king. Be sure to have a stash on you for train tickets, eateries and cafes.

▪︎ Don’t overbudget . Japan is not as expensive as many of us are led to believe. Take a look at the cost of traveling Japan as a family for more details on budgeting for Japan.

▪︎ Rent a stroller in Tokyo . If you have no plans to to lug your bulky pram along for the trip, you can rent a stroller in any city in Japan and have it delivered to your accommodation.

▪︎ Know your Japanese etiquette . To tip or not to tip? Where are the bins? No talking on trains? Take a look at the 12 must-knows before visiting Japan to get schooled on what to do and what not to do.

▪︎ Book Tokyo attraction tickets on Klook . Skip lengthy queues and pre-purchase your tickets online for a hassle-free experience.

▪︎ Should you get the JR Pass? If you intend to visit multiple cities in different regions, it’s probably worth getting a 7, 14 or 21-day JR Pass . If you’re only doing short trips from Tokyo – probably not.

Want more insider tips for planning your Japan trip?

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21 Things to do in Tokyo with Toddlers

1. kidzania tokyo.

Edu-tainment centre are all the hype amongst kids these days. That’s what KidZania is all about. It’s what you get when you combine an amusement park with, uh, well a job internship experience.

Toddlers and kids aged between 3 and 12 years will have the opportunity to don uniforms that correlate with their chosen ‘jobs’ and get a hands-on experience of what takes to be a firefighter, pilot, flight attendant and a bunch of other occupations.

Oh, and all their hard work won’t be in vain. With completed job at their chosen occupation, they’ll earn KidZania dollars which they can deposit into the bank, spend on toys or invest into further education.

Opening hours: daily between 9am – 3pm and 4pm – 9pm

Location: 2-Chome-4-9, Toyosu, Koto City, Tokyo

Price: ¥1,950 (adults) | from ¥3,550 (3+ years)

YOU MIGHT LIKE: 50 Fun Things to do in Osaka with Kids

2. TeamLab Borderless

How does one even describe this experience? Mind-blowing. Riveting. Unforgettable. That just about sums it up. TeamLab Borderless cannot be excluded on your itinerary when visiting Tokyo with toddlers.

Get blown away by immersive digital art displays that will leave any visitor (tiny or big) in jaw-dropping awe.

Wander from room to room, lose yourselves and observe mesmerising art pieces that travel seamlessly from one space to the next.

The upper level is home to an enormous playspace for kids; no doubt, one of the best things to do in Tokyo with toddlers. Let them run wild and bounce off walls, trampolines, hang from swings, climb up poles or weave between giant balloons.

Don’t forget to book tickets in advance – this is one of Tokyo’s most popular attractions and queues at the door get shockingly long.

Opening hours: 10am – 7pm (Mon to Fri) | 10am – 9pm (Sat & Sun)

Location: 1 Chome-3-8, Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo

Price: 3,200 JPY (adults) | ¥1,000 (4+ years)

More popular Tokyo with toddler activities:

3. Oedo-Onsen Monogatari

When in Japan, do as the Japanese do. The Romans had their baths and the Japanese have their onsens. Most traditional onsens are not kid-friendly, however, at Oedo-Onsen Monogatari babies, toddlers and kids are allowed to join in on the relaxation.

Deemed one of the best things to do in Odaiba with kids , Tokyo’s most popular onsen theme park allows you to experience 13 indoor and outdoor baths drawn from natural hot springs 1,400 metres underground.

Opening hours: daily 11am – 9am (next day)

Location: 2 Chome-6-3 Aomi, Koto City, Tokyo

ce: from ¥ 2,720 (adults) | ¥ 1,058 (4-12 years) | free for under 4s

4. Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo

When people say Tokyo has it all – they ain’t lying. Unleash the kids into this amazing indoor playground packed with neverending fun, and let little ones learn, build and explore all that the centre has to offer. If you’re planning to visit, be sure to book discounted tickets on Klook to save money and avoid queues.

The space features a 4D cinema, 3 amusement rides, 10 Lego Build & Play zones, a Ninjago-themed playground and more activities the whole family can take part in. Small tots will enjoy roaming Duplo Village, designed for kids aged 1-5 years where they can develop their building skills and jam to catchy songs.

Opening hours: 10am – 8pm (weekdays) | 10am – 9pm (weekends)

Location: Decks Tokyo Beach Island Mall 3F, Odaiba 1-6-1, Minato Ward, Tokyo

Price: ¥2,500 ages 3+ (at the door)

READ MORE: Where to get a Stroller Rental in Tokyo

5. Disneyland Tokyo

Hands down – one of the best things to do with toddlers in Tokyo, Disneyland is the happiest place on Earth for grown-ups and kids alike.

Meet and snap photos with beloved characters, eat your way into a Disney food coma, explore the 7 wonderful themed zones and enjoy rides together as a family.

Be sure to book your tickets online to avoid maddening queues on the day.

The most popular Disneyland Tokyo toddler activities and rides can be found within Fantasyland and Toontown. Make a run for Monsters Inc. Ride & Go Seek!, Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters and Pooh’s Hunny Hunt.

By all means, don’t miss the evening parade. The captivating show and electrical dreamlights are a sight you’ll never forget.

Opening hours: 8am – 10pm daily

Location: 1-1 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba Ward, Tokyo

Price: ¥7,500 (adults) | ¥6,500 (12-17 youths) | ¥4,900 (4-11 kids)

TIP: Be sure to get the Suica IC Card for convenient and fuss-free subway train travel in Tokyo.

6. DisneySea Tokyo

Look, I’m not gonna lie. DisneySea Tokyo tops our list of favourite theme parks on this planet. Yup, that’s a big call but rightfully so because it’s beyond amazing.

Now, DisneySea may not have all the iconic movies and characters that your little ones recognise, it’s still 110% worth a visit when travelling to Tokyo with a toddler.

We highly recommend booking tickets in advance online to avoid disappointment upon arrival.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Nov 7, 2019 at 2:50am PST

The epic park is divided into 7 themed zones that are inspired by the popular flicks: Finding Nemo, Toy Story, Sindbad, Indiana Jones and many more.

Themed areas are designed meticulously well – you’ll feel completely immersed in the environment and the seeming ‘realness’ of it.

For an inside look at some of the best attractions and rides at DisneySea, take a look at our video guide that covers the park with young children.

Opening hours: check the official sit e as hours vary daily

Location: 1-1 3 Maihama, Urayasu, Chiba

7. Sumida Aquarium

Set aside some time to visit the super modern Sumida Aquarium, located inside the Tokyo Solamachi shopping complex beneath the iconic Skytree tower.

Learn about Japan’s diverse marine ecosystems, gawk at the contemporary exhibits and explore the beautiful zones with various themes.

Look out for the adorable fur seals that get taken on a walk around the penguin exhibit by trainers – it’s the best thing you’ll see with your two eyes.

Opening hours: 9am – 9pm daily

Location: Tokyo Skytree Town Solamachi 1-2, Oshiage 1-Chome, Sumida Ward, Tokyo

Price: ¥2,050 (adults) | from ¥600 (kids)

8. Tokyo Solamachi mall

If you’ve made plans to visit Tokyo Skytree and Sumida Aquarium, then you may as well make it a day and explore this huge shopping, dining and entertainment complex that’s home to over 300 stores.

It’s the perfect rest stop in Tokyo with a toddler to recharge, change diapers and grab a bite to eat.

Oh, and did I mention there’s a Pokemon Centre inside this complex? Even more of a reason to hang around. There are also two hilariously cute themed cafes: Moomin Cafe and Kirby Cafe. Drop in to rest your legs and get a ‘kawaii’ caffeine boost.

Opening hours: 10am – 9pm daily

Location: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo

Want more Tokyo with toddler guides?

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9. Ueno Zoo

A fun outdoor activity in Tokyo with toddlers, Ueno Zoo is probably one of the cheapest animal parks you’ll come across – anywhere.

This underrated attraction found inside Ueno Park features a panda exhibit, Tiger Forest, animals of the African savannah, petting zoo and a 5-storey tall pagoda and tea ceremony house built in the 17th century to entertain shoguns.

Opening hours: 9:30am – 5pm (Tue to Sun)

Location: Ueno Park, Taito City, Tokyo

Price: ¥600 (adults) | Free for kids 0-12 years

10. Tokyo Fire Museum

If you’re a proud parent of a kid that’s obsessed with fire trucks *raises hand*, then you must include this free Tokyo Fire Museum experience in your Tokyo family itinerary.

The museum consists of 5 levels comprising interactive exhibits, historical artefacts (eg. Samurai fire fighter uniforms), vintage firetrucks and helicopters, as well as an entire floor dedicated to fun activities for kids.

Location: 3-10 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Price: Free

RELATED: The Complete 1-Day Kid-Friendly Osaka Itinerary

11. Tokyo Toy Museum

Even though it’s coined a ‘toy museum’, this 3-storey high centre is actually more of an indoor playground for babies, toddlers and kids.

The interactive museum houses over 10,000 toys from Japan and other parts of the world. Additionally, kids can also partake in workshops suitable for all ages where they can attempt to create toys from recycled materials.

Opening hours: 10am – 4pm (Fri to Wed) | Closed Thursdays

Location: 4-20 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Price: ¥800 (adults) | ¥500 (6 months – 6 years)

DON’T FORGET: Rent a Pocket WiFi and pick it up at the airport so that you can immediately find directions or check train timetables.

12. Shinjuku Chuo Park Playground

It’s a mission trying to find a free public outdoor playground in Tokyo – believe me, we’ve tried.

An easy 5-minute walk from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku Chuo Park is an urban oasis that comprises a massive playground and wading pool for toddlers (only in summer).

Opening hours: 24 hours

Location: 2-11 Nishi Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo

13. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

For the picture perfect Japanese garden experience where parents can bask in small amounts of zen and tranquility while little ones roam freely in the open green space, Shinjuku Guyen National Garden is absolutely worth a visit for a breath of fresh air.

If you’re visiting Tokyo in between seasons – pop into the garden to gawk at the mesmerising cherry blossoms or breathtaking autumn colours.

Opening hours: from 9am (Tue – Sun) – 4:30pm / 7pm (depending on season) | Closed Mondays

Location: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo

Price: ¥500 (adults)

READ MORE: 15 Reasons to Visit Legoland Resort Nagoya

14. Kawaii Monster Cafe

Looking to experience something completely bonkers? Of course you do. It’s Japan. Prepare your senses for a super cute (and what-the-heck-did-I-just-unsee) time at the Kawaii Monster Cafe in Harajuku.

The cafe is suited for all ages, and it’s without a doubt, one of the craziest things to do in Tokyo with toddlers that’ll have you scratching your heads and bopping to the fun at the same time.

Order from the monster-themed menu and pick from colourful drinks and desserts that’s sure to send everyone to sugar rush high.

Chat and take pictures with costumed waitresses, explore the nooks and crannies of the Alice in Wonderland-style venue, and be sure to stick around for the monster dance show.

Opening hours: 11:30am – 4:30pm & 6pm – 10:30pm (Mon – Sat) | 11am – 8pm (Sundays)

Location: YM Square 4F, Shibuya City, Tokyo

Price: ¥500 cover charge per person

NOTE: It’s a requirement upon entry to purchase one drink and food item per person. Let’s just say the menu ain’t cheap either.

15. Yoyogi Park

Escape the crowds and craziness of Harajuku – cross the road to Yoyogi Park and get lost inside a mystical forest in the middle of the city.

Gape at the giant Tori gate and follow the windy path that leads to the iconic Meiji Shrine.

If you’re looking for a relaxing spot in Tokyo with children for a stretch and breather, head to the west end of the park and soak in some sunshine on the huge open lawn space.

Location: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya City, Tokyo

Entry: Free

16. Rent a four legged friend at Dog Heart

Missing the pooch back at home? Dog Heart is the solution. Not gonna lie, it’s one of the most awesomely bizarre things to do with toddlers in Tokyo.

Yes, renting a dog in Tokyo is nothing out of the ordinary. It’s not even the craziest thing considering that renting a (human) friend is also another option.

Found on the northwest end of Yoyogi Park, Dog Heart offers dog cuddle and play sessions, or if you want to go that extra mile, rent one that has stolen your heart for up to an hour and take him for a walk in the park.

Opening hours: 11am – 7pm daily

Location: 1 Chome-45-2 Tomigaya Building 2F, Shibuya City, Tokyo

Price: ¥3,600 for 1 hour dog rental

Love unusual experiences? Take a look at these 18 weird and fun places to visit in Tokyo .

17. Sanrio Puroland

Drop into Tokyo’s signature indoor theme park on a rany day and meet all your favourite Sanrio characters – Hello Kitty, Keroppi, My Melody and many more.

Even if you’re not familiar with these adorable characters, Sanrio Puroland still makes for a fun and enjoyable visit in Tokyo with baby or toddlers.

The bright and colourful indoor space features a myriad of toddler-friendly rides, attractions, musicals and parades that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm (Mon to Fri) | 10am – 6pm (Sat to Sun)

Location: 1-31 Ochiai, Tama, Tokyo

Price: from ¥3,300 (adults) | from ¥2,500 (3-7 years)

18. Edo Wonderland

If a trip to Nikko is on the cards, you must add Edo Wonderland to your Tokyo itinerary with toddlers.

This magical Edo period-themed park will throw the family back in time – back to the legendary age of samurai and ninjas.

Be awed by the carefully reconstructed town, consisting of rows of buildings modelled after Edo architecture, while interacting with lords and warriors of the time.

Dress the whole family in kimonos, visit the Kai Kai Ninja House, experience cultural ceremonies, and enjoy authentic Edo cuisine at one of the many restaurants found throughout the park.

Opening hours: 9am – 5pm (20 Mar to 30 Nov) | 9:30am – 4pm (1 Dec to 19 Mar)

Location: 470-2 Karakura, Nikko, Tochigi-ken

Price: ¥4,700 (adults) | ¥2,400 (6-12 years)

RELATED: Japan Travel Costs – Food, Accommodation & Sights

19. Fujiko F Fujio Museum

Warning: visitors may not be able to tolerate the level of cuteness inside the Fujiko F Fujio Museum. Symptoms include warm and fuzzy feelings, constant utterings of “aww”, and non-stop selfie taking.

The space is dedicated to the popular Japanese animation series, Doraemon, beloved by children all around the world. The place includes interactive learning experiences, an indoor playground, a library and an indoor playground.

Opening hours: 10am – 6pm (Wed to Mon) | Closed on Tuesdays

Location: 2-Chome 8-1 Nagao, Tama Ward, Kawasaki City

Price: ¥1,430 (adults) | ¥1,100 (12-17 youths) | ¥880 (kids)

20. Tokyo Sea Life Park

The greatest challenge you’ll face in Tokyo (aside from attempting to squeeze 12 meals into your stomach in a day) will be picking which aquarium to visit. You have the choice between 5 in a single city.

We had to include Tokyo Sea Life Park on this list because of its size and price. For a small entrance fee, visitors get a huge experience. The aquarium is also home to one of Japan’s largest penguin habitats.

Opening hours: 9:30am – 5pm (Thu to Tue) | Closed Wednesdays

Location: 6 Chome-2-3 Rinkaicho, Edogawa City, Tokyo

Price: ¥700 (adults) | Free for kids 0-12

Need a JR Pass? Find the best match.

21. Crazy, Cute & Kawaii Harajuku Food Tour

Operating a host of family-friendly food experiences in Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka; Arigato Food Tours is one of the leading tour operators in Japan for foodies of all ages.

Join this unique and fun activity on your Japan holiday with a toddler that involves ice cream, sweet Japanese treats and the best self-cooked Okonomiyaki in Tokyo’s most eccentric and fun neighbourhoods.

Tokyo with Toddler: The Wrap Up

Look, I know. Everyone’s greatest dilemma on a Japan trip with family, or no family for that matter, is that there is nowhere near enough time to experience it ‘all’. That’s why everyone (including myself) starts planning their next trip back before they have even left. Pretty standard, really.

If I had to narrow it down for a first-time trip to Tokyo with toddlers, I would make it a mission to visit Disneyland, TeamLab Borderless, at least one aquarium, a stroll in Yoyogi Park, Harajuku (for obvious reasons) and a dip in Oedo Onsen (provided you don’t have tattoos). We couldn’t get in because of our ink – the only time in life I regret getting tatts is when we visit Japan. Sigh.

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Keen to know more about traveling to Tokyo with kids?

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10 Top-Rated Family Hotels in Osaka: Budget to Luxury

What a helpful post! I love this. And while I definitely don’t have kids, I think so many of these places would be fun to visit as an adult solo, like teamborder lab. Clearly I need to plan a return trip to Tokyo asap.

Haha that’s on everyone’s minds after visiting Japan once. Oh, for sure. Tokyo is a haven for toddlers, kids and adults alike 😀

Thanks for the great ideas! I love Tokyo and it’s fun to go with kids to see a different side of the city.

No worries! Tokyo is our favourite city in the world regardless of age hehe.

Great post! I didn’t realise how many child friendly things there were to do in Tokyo! The monster cafe looks amazing!

Haha the Monster Cafe is good fun and a lot of ‘WTF’ – it’s definitely one of those once-off experiences.

Want to visit Japan with an infant? Here's how to make your trip a success

When I first started traveling solo and blogging 10 years ago, one of the most persistent things I got asked was, "When are you going to settle down?"

The question irked me. It suggested that there were only two paths in life. But it didn't seem to me that traveling and having a family had to be mutually exclusive.

Years later, having returned from my 20th flight with my now 7-month-old (which was our second international trip together), I know firsthand that adventures don't have to end just because you have a baby. That said, traveling does look different with a little one.

When I decided to visit Japan with a young child, for example, I asked my community on Instagram for suggestions and received a direct message saying that Japan was "not really baby friendly."

The more research I did, however, the more conflicting information I found.

People complained that the hotel rooms were too small, that some restaurants did not allow babies or children, and that transit could be difficult with all the extra baggage that children often require.

I'd been to Japan twice already, and I remembered it being one of the friendliest, most accommodating places I'd ever visited. So, I trusted my initial impression and decided to give it a shot for our first international family vacation. Fortunately, the country turned out to be just as welcoming to babies as I'd hoped.

Right away, Japan impressed me with its family-friendly amenities. There were impeccably clean family bathrooms almost everywhere, as well as ample changing tables. Several airports even have free strollers , should you decide to leave yours at home.

Restaurants were also quite accommodating, often offering an extra bowl of rice, a toy, a high chair and other amenities without us needing to ask. Plus, our baby got attention everywhere we went in the form of smiles and peek-a-boo interactions. I'm sure he'd happily move there full time.

That said, there were some key things I did to make our trip successful.

Related: 12 tips on how to travel internationally with a baby

Book business-class flights

This was our first trip crossing the international date line and several time zones. My biggest worry was how we were going to get over the jet lag . I knew if we could have a comfortable experience flying to Japan and back, our chances of preserving nap time and having our baby sleep on the flight were much greater.

It just so happened that we flew both of Japan's major airlines during this trip. For our flight out, we struggled to find a mileage option that matched what I had banked, so I used American Express Travel's International Airline Program to find a 25% discount for our business-class flights with Japan Airlines and used my The Platinum Card® from American Express to book. The tickets were fairly reasonable at $2,000 each, plus $250 for having a lap infant .

I was so glad we opted for business class on this part of the trip. Not only was the service top-notch, but Japan Airlines' Sky Suite meant we had almost complete privacy, with plenty of room for naps and tummy time.

During the trip, I scanned for deals and found flights home on ANA via United for 90,000 miles each.

Like our experience with Japan Airlines, we thoroughly enjoyed our time in the air with ANA. Our little guy slept almost the entire overnight flight home, as did his parents.

If you're like me, you may worry about getting dirty looks for bringing a baby into business class. Don't stress about it, though, as we had no issues during our trip.

Odds are your child will not be the only baby (as was the case for us). People frequently remarked about how our son handles flights like a champ, even though we weren't doing anything special to keep him calm. Lie-flat seats and the white noise of an airplane can do wonders for sleep!

Related: The best ways to travel to Japan with points and miles

One of the toughest things to do with a baby is pack light. However, given the number of stairs in places like metro stations, I knew we'd thank ourselves later if we only took what we could carry. So, we left the stroller and car seat at home, opting to baby-wear and rely on public transportation.

Ultimately, it was the right way to go. Japan's public transit system is efficient and reliable, so you can easily get to all the places you'll want to visit without renting a car or using a ride-hailing service.

To make our journey to and from Japan that much easier, we also rolled the dice and opted not to bring his travel Pack 'n Play. As light as it is, it still requires its own bag and was too much to carry on this trip.

Instead of bringing a portable crib, focus on accommodations with floor beds so your child can easily have their own mattress. I did this and also took advantage of my American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts credit so we could stay at The Prince Gallery Tokyo Kioicho, a Marriott -affiliated property that offered a surprisingly rare family amenity: a crib.

Related: How to pack — and prepare — for travel with a baby

Feast on convenience store cuisine

It was a running joke during our trip that we were either eating like royalty or dining on convenience store cuisine. We enjoyed both ends of the culinary spectrum, sitting for traditional multicourse kaiseki dinners and taking multibowl ramen tours. We even brought 7-Eleven's finest back to our hotel so our baby could have his normal early bedtime routine. It saved us on long travel days, too.

I can't imagine any other country where I would be as pleased with eating so many meals from convenience stores, but as anyone who has been to Japan knows, the country has some incredible food. You can get everything from hot meals to dried fruit in addition to inventive chip flavors, boiled eggs, mochi and Belgian waffles, among other items.

An added bonus is that convenience stores are everywhere, from train stations to just about every major city block, so you won't have to venture far to grab a bite to eat. This proximity to affordable dining makes it extremely easy for anyone, especially a young family, to find sustenance.

Related: A beginners guide to visiting Tokyo: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Keep the itinerary loose

When traveling with a baby, flexibility is key. My biggest regret about the trip is that we did not have enough days for our first stop, Kyoto. Since we were still adjusting to the new time zone, we mostly stayed in our apartment rental until midday.

It was a good thing I hadn't planned or booked too many activities, as things always come up when traveling with a baby. Sure, that means you can't check as many things off a bucket list as you'd like, but the trade-off of watching your baby experience a world where everything is new to them is more than worth it. They may not remember the trip when they're older, but it still means a lot to them in the moment.

It means the world to me, too. Instead of squeezing in more sightseeing, I'm glad we decided to prioritize one or two things per stop so we could save time for precious spontaneous moments with our son. Anytime we were able to achieve more was a bonus, and we never regretted keeping our day-to-day activities limited.

Related: The best types of vacations to take with a baby

Bottom line

Though what your trips look like will ultimately change after expanding your family, it doesn't mean you have to limit your time away from home. There's a big world to see, and we all deserve to keep adventuring, regardless of our age.

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I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me survive the trip

Emily Siner

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect? Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Journalist Emily Siner went on a trip to Japan with her 8-month-old son and knew it would be daunting. What should she pack? What should she expect?

Last winter, my husband and I made the ambitious decision to fly 13 hours with our 8 month old for a two-week vacation around Japan.

We knew flying with a baby would be daunting. What if he has a meltdown on the airplane? What gear do we bring? How will he adjust to the 15-hour time change? And ... will we actually get to enjoy ourselves?

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane. Emily Siner hide caption

Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane.

Preethi Harbuck, author of the travel blog Local Passport Family and a mom of six agrees that taking a big trip with young children — that is, babies and toddlers under age 2 — isn't easy. But with the right preparation and mindset, it can also be fun for everyone. You may even be able to "connect with people and places in a new way that [you] wouldn't have been able to experience without kids," she says.

To help set parents up for success, Harbuck and Christine Sarkis, editor-in-chief of the travel website Family Vacationist , share tips on what to pack, how to overcome travel challenges and set realistic expectations.

Take a practice trip

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Before you pack your passports for a big international trip, try a shorter trip that's closer to home so you can work out the kinks of traveling with a young child.

The first step to preparing for a big trip is to take a smaller one, like an overnight trip somewhere close by. It can give you a sense of what it's like to travel with your little one and grow your confidence, says Harbuck. "Find what feels comfortable and keep practicing. It will become easier."

Luckily, my husband and I had a chance to take some shorter trips with our baby before going to Japan. When our baby was three months old, we stayed overnight at a cabin about a half hour away by car. A month later, we took an 8-hour road trip to Chicago to see family.

How to take better (and more distinctive) photos on vacation

From these outings. I learned how important it was to pack a sound machine, which helps my baby fall asleep, and a portable diaper changing pad. I also learned that I didn't need to bring too many toys. My kid loved watching other people talk, walk and interact with each other.

So when we went to Japan, I put those lessons to use. I packed the essentials, left half the toys behind and made sure to sit in an aisle seat on the plane so that my baby, who sat on my lap, could get a good view of the passengers and stay entertained.

Make plans your future self will thank you for

When traveling with a baby or a toddler, everything becomes a little more complicated. There's a lot more to pack (more on that later) and a lot more considerations to make (like naps and kid-friendly meals, perhaps). So the key is to prioritize decisions that will simplify travel, says Sarkis. "Anything you can do to smooth your way [will make you] so happy with yourself."

Here are some planning decisions that our experts recommend.

Put your kid in their own plane seat. Many airlines allow kids under 2 to fly in your lap for a very low rate, sometimes even for free. While that can make travel more budget friendly, Harbuck says it's worth buying your child their own seat. Placing them in a car seat is the safest place for them to sit on an airplane, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Plus, having your own seats can make long flights more comfortable for the both of you.

Consider their developmental stage. Keep in mind that your child's needs will change as they age. For example, if your kid is walking, it may be harder to "keep them busy and happy" on the airplane, says Sarkis. So you might enjoy your trip more if you choose a destination that's closer to home. Anticipate what stage they'll be in at the time of travel and plan accordingly.

Add more adults to the trip. My husband and I traveled with friends for part of our trip around Japan. They helped us carry luggage and held our baby while we ate. "If you have someone to trade off with, that's really helpful," says Sarkis.

7 tips to help you keep the peace when traveling with a group

Book a vacation rental. If you are traveling with a little one who still naps in the middle of the day or has an early bedtime, you may not want to book a single hotel room. Sarkis says she made that mistake on a trip once and had to bring pillows into the bathtub just to have a place to read after her kids went to bed. "Whereas in a vacation rental I could have sat on a couch."

Plan solo time. Carve out time for you and your travel partners to do things without the baby. On our trip to Japan, my husband and I decided we'd give each other as much time as we wanted in the guesthouse onsen , the heated communal bath, while the other watched our sleeping baby. Another night, we hired a babysitter so we could go out together and sing karaoke.

Pack well ... and lightly

It’s hard to travel light with a baby. So opt for the travel versions of strollers, cribs and car seats — they are often smaller and weigh less than the usual gear.

Credit: Becky Harlan/NPR

Portable cribs, high chairs, playpens and sleep canopies? There's no shortage of recommendations when it comes to choosing travel gear for your little one. But the No. 1 takeaway is to make sure "everything you're carrying is worth the stress of carrying it," says Sarkis.

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Focus on the basic gear. At the minimum, your child will likely need a stroller or baby carrier to get around, a car seat for car trips and a safe place to sleep, like a portable crib. See if you can get travel versions of that gear, which are often lighter, smaller and easier to carry. Many airlines will let you check a stroller and a car seat for free, either before you go through security or at the gate. (If you do this, get some sort of carrying case to protect them.)

Cut down the big stuff ... There may be opportunities to leave some of that gear behind, says Sarkis. Check whether you can rent a stroller at your destination. Your accommodation may offer baby cribs. And some ridesharing apps may have vehicles outfitted with infant car seats.

... and the little stuff. "Kids live all around the world so you can access most of what you really, truly need" at your destination, says Harbuck. If your luggage is getting too full, consider buying diapers, wipes, formula or baby food when you land. In Japan, we did laundry halfway through our trip to minimize the clothing we had to pack.

Set your expectations

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip. Photo Illustration by Becky Harlan/NPR hide caption

Traveling with young children alters the nature of the experience. It's important to set realistic expectations for your trip.

I'll be honest: There were a lot of moments on our trip when I felt overwhelmed and a bit disappointed. Like when my jet-lagged baby woke up crying at 1 a.m., 3 a.m. and somehow again at 3:30 a.m. — for two nights in a row.

Both Harbuck and Sarkis acknowledge that post-kid travel is harder in many ways. But there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success.

Redirect your attention to the positive aspects of your journey. "If you're focused only on the challenges, you're going to miss the joys," says Sarkis. For me, it was delightful to witness my baby do new things in Japan. He ate new foods like udon, miso soup and smoked fish. He was mesmerized by the Ryoanji Temple's rock garden in Kyoto and even more mesmerized by the steady stream of tourists' faces to observe.

A flight expert's hot take on holiday travel: 'Don't do it'

See drawbacks as opportunities. If you have to go back to your hotel twice a day to let your child nap, see it as a moment to read, journal or "recharge for the next thing you do," says Sarkis.

Look out for special ways your child is helping you connect with the world. On flights, our neighbors told us about their own children or nieces and nephews. In restaurants, servers would come over to coo at him and make conversation with us in the process, despite the language barrier.

And finally, give yourself some kudos. For us parents, traveling was a big priority for us before he was born, and the experience made us proud to realize that yes — even with a small child, we can still see the world.

The audio portion of this episode was produced by Andee Tagle. The digital story was edited by Malaka Gharib. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823, or email us at [email protected].

Listen to Life Kit on Apple Podcasts and Spotify , and sign up for our newsletter .

Life Kit: Parenting

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

How to Travel Japan with a Baby

Blogger Kristin Addis of Be My Travel Muse with her partner and baby at Fushimi Inari Shrine in Japan

I love Japan. It’s one of my favorite countries in the world. But is it a suitable destination to visit with a baby? Solo female travel expert Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse was recently there with her baby and has tons of tips and advice for travelers thinking of taking a baby with them to Japan.

Japan was our first major international trip with our then six-month-old. I’d heard mixed things about how baby friendly Japan would be, from DMs telling me it wouldn’t be a great trip to the total opposite with people gushing about how baby friendly it was.

We decided to go for it, hitting four spots in two weeks, taking public transportation and staying in a mix of apartments and hotels. Traveling with a baby in Japan comes with some special considerations, but overall, it can be a great trip IF you plan it right. Here’s everything to know:

Table of Contents

Japan Baby and Toddler Friendliness

Getting around japan with a baby, packing light is wise for japan, renting baby gear in japan, buying baby essentials in japan, choosing where to stay in japan with a baby, baby sleep in japan, feeding and meals in japan, medical services in japan.

Blogger Kristin Addis of Be My Travel Muse with her partner and baby looking into the mirror at an art installation in Japan

With a few strange exceptions, like the lack of cribs, Japan is one of the most baby and family-friendly places I have been. It all started when we were personally escorted to the aircraft by a Japan Airlines gate agent when boarding our flight to Osaka. They even offered me a place to sit with the baby while I waited. It felt like first class treatment.

Each time we encountered an airport queue in Japan, whether it was for security or boarding, they always had a family line, which is sadly missing from every US airport I’ve encountered.

There are family restrooms everywhere as well, and I really mean everywhere. Even the smallest metro and train stations had them, and I never encountered one that wasn’t sparkling clean. People respected that they were only meant for those with disabilities and young children, as well. I never had to wait to use one and never saw an able-bodied single person walk out of them, which I see all the time in the US.

The bathrooms are also full of useful items like a baby holder, which I’ve only otherwise seen in Singapore, changing tables, and padded benches for nursing. I’ve truly never seen a family bathroom as equipped as the ones in Japan.

The locals also LOVED our baby. Everywhere we went, people would play peek a boo with him, smile at him, and light up when they saw him. We felt very welcome everywhere we went with him.

Blogger Kristin Addis of Be My Travel Muse with her infant son in a baby carrier as they stand in a snowy landscape in Japan

Although they’re more expensive, we tended to prefer train travel to bus travel in Japan so that we could make use of the changing tables on the trains. They were more spacious, and the buses rarely had a place to change diapers.

If you’re traveling during high season, be sure to book train tickets ahead of time and reserve seats to avoid having to stand with your baby.

Alternatively, consider renting a car to get around. They can be pricey, and if you’re North American you’ll be driving on the opposite side of the road, but it also gives you ultimate flexibility.

Blogger Kristin Addis of Be My Travel Muse with her partner and baby under a torii arch in Japan

We opted to leave the stroller at home and just travel with a soft baby carrier . While a stroller can be helpful at times, Japan has a lot of stairs and some metro stations, even in Tokyo, don’t have elevators. We always found them at JR stations, though.

I have mixed feelings about this decision as we were aching by the end of the trip. If I were to do it with a toddler or older baby I’d probably opt for a hiking baby carrier instead. It distributes weight better and is a more comfortable experience, plus they have storage space. Just keep in mind that they’re bulky and you’ll most likely need to remove it when using public transport.

If you absolutely have to bring more than you can physically carry, there are luggage forwarding services in Japan that can help transport your luggage from hotel to hotel for you.

Since our baby was a bit younger and not yet mobile when we visited Japan, we felt OK with not having a dedicated sleeping space and utilizing the floor beds instead. However now that he’s older, he needs a dedicated sleeping space and ideally a stroller. If we were to visit now, I’d utilize rental services to keep our suitcases light and still have access to the items we need for safety and comfort.

It’s possible to rent strollers in various cities in Japan , depending on how remote you’re going. You can also rent other baby gear in some parts of Japan, particularly in the more major cities.

One way to pack lighter is to plan to buy baby essentials in Japan. It’s easy to find diapers, formula, and baby food if you know where to look.

If you’re doing baby-led weaning, which we were at the time, you can shop at any Japanese supermarket for fruit and veggies.

It was actually a treat to visit the grocery stores there since they had almost entirely different snacks and brands than I’ve seen elsewhere. The produce was also way better, as it was mostly locally grown. Even in the winter, we were eating perfectly ripe, locally-grown strawberries.

If you need diapers, baby food, or formula, you won’t find them at a grocery store. These items are for sale in drug stores only. Matsumoto Kiyoshi (with brown lettering) is the one we came across the most often.

Diapers were easy to buy. They will have the weight clearly displayed in kilograms. Jarred baby food and formula were in the same section of the store. If you need a specialized (non-cow) formula, that may be harder to find. Since we did for my baby, we brought enough with us from home for the whole trip.

Download the Google translate app so that you can hold your phone camera up to the Japanese Kanji and read what the ingredients and baby food flavors are. Don’t expect to see English translations in stores.

Blogger Kristin Addis of Be My Travel Muse with her partner and baby sitting next to a window in Japan with a snow-topped mountain in the background

Unless you’re willing to pay up a bit more, especially in Tokyo, you can expect hotel rooms to be on the smaller side. However they tend to include breakfast, which makes life easier for parents with young children.

Apartments, which you can book on Airbnb, usually have two floors and a kitchen. The kitchen was helpful for food prepping for the baby, and the two we stayed in had microwaves. I travel with microwave steam bags to sanitize our bottles, so this was a nice surprise.

The two floors also gave us a place to hang out while he took his naps. Apartment rentals are almost always larger, and in my experience, more affordable than hotel rooms can be. Sometimes they have washers and dryers as well.

Hot water kettles are a nice feature whether you’re in an apartment or hotel room. They seem to be the standard in Japan, which makes sanitizing, washing, and heating water for formula easier. Tap water in Japan is generally safe to drink and wash with.

The most bewildering and disappointing thing about traveling in Japan with our baby was the lack of cribs. Even in the 5-star ryokan we stayed at in Kawaguchiko , there was no baby crib on offer. It made me wonder what locals do. Do they bring their own? Do they co-sleep?

In half of the places we stayed, the beds were traditional-style mattresses on the floor, so it was fine for our baby to sleep on the floor mattresses, however now that he’s more mobile, I’d want to bring along our travel bed.

One of the negative things I heard was that we’d be turned away from restaurants in Japan with our baby. While I’m sure it happens, I didn’t encounter this, even at kaiseki (which is the highest level of dining in Japan) restaurants. Sometimes they even had toys they’d bring out for our son.

We were told that the lounge in the hotel we stayed at in Tokyo wouldn’t be available to the baby in the evenings when alcohol was served, however. Some restaurants, including the Michelin star ones you might be hoping to eat at, could hold the same policy. There are some restaurants in Japan that are specifically geared towards families. The most common you’ll find are Bikkuri Donkey, Joyfull, and Gusto.

Most restaurants in Japan will have high chairs, but when at more casual ramen or yakitori restaurants, you’re less likely to come across them.

If you’re nursing, my sense in Japan was that it’s best done in private. I never saw anyone openly nursing in Japan, though I saw plenty of bottle feeding. The family restrooms are probably your best bet for a comfortable and private experience. I saw a nursing pod (a little room that offers nursing privacy, similar to the Mamava pods at US airports) at a few major train stations in Japan as well.

As a parent, I’m more concerned with the availability of healthcare services than I ever was before traveling with a baby. Thankfully Japan has a wonderful medical system with perfectly capable doctors.

I know this firsthand as I needed to visit a doctor in Kyoto when my asthma flared up. I was able to visit an international doctor at a clinic that services foreigners the same day. All of the medication the doctor prescribed was available there as well. In most cases they’ll want a cash payment which you can then submit to your travel insurance for reimbursement.

In non-emergency situations, look for a doctor that specializes in international patients as there can be language barriers. I was able to find mine easily on Google Maps. Otherwise, hospitals are widely available, even in smaller towns.

Overall, I loved traveling in Japan with our baby. The clean family bathrooms provided an easy place to change him, feeding and buying supplies were easy, and getting around was simple with such a well-connected rail system .

I was worried with so many stops and logistics that it might be a nightmare, but everything is so well-organized in Japan, it all worked out. Plus, the adorable interactions between our son and the locals made it a heartwarming experience.

Kristin Addis is a solo female travel expert who inspires women to travel the world in an authentic and adventurous way. A former investment banker who sold all of her belongings in 2012, Kristin has been traveling the world ever since. You can find more of her musings at Be My Travel Muse or on Instagram and Facebook .

Book Your Trip to Japan: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe, so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hostel. If you want to stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Japan, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancelations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Safety Wing (best for everyone)
Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel! I list all the ones I use to save money when I travel — and I think they will help you too!

Be sure to check out the Japan Rail Pass if you’ll be traveling around the country. It comes in 7-, 14-, and 21-day passes and can save you a ton of money!

Looking for More Travel Tips for Japan? Check out my in-depth Japan travel guide for more ways to save money; information on costs; tips on what to see and do; suggested itineraries, reading, and packing lists; and much, much more!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Travel Stories: Japan with a Baby

I’m so pleased to share Amy Ballantyne’s story. She traveled to Japan with a baby at 7.5mos pregnant and with her 16-month-old son. They had a great time!

Japan with a Baby…

What an amazing place to travel. It has been a year since we traveled to Japan with a baby but an experience we will never forget. Japan is filled with kind, generous, and helpful people. They were excited to take care of the travelers to their beautiful country.

10 Days in Tokyo

We travelled to Tokyo for 10 days for a baseball tournament and decided to bring our 16 month-old with us (along with Grandma and Grandpa!). He was the perfect age for this trip. He still wasn’t walking but learned in Tokyo. And he would he eat pretty much anything we gave him.

We stayed right in the heart of Tokyo and the hotels we used were the Tokyo Prince Hotel and the Prin ce Park Tower Tokyo . Both hotels were very nice and the staff were exceptional at making us feel welcome. They helped us find our way in a city with little to no English and helped us stay cool in the extreme heat. Thanks to the concierge’s assistance we could navigate the intricate subway and rail systems used by millions each day.

These two hotels were in the beautiful Shiba Park area and close to one of the historic Zo Jo-Ji Buddist temples.

Getting Around Tokyo with a Baby

A couple of points to note when traveling to Tokyo, Japan with a baby. First, using a shuttle to get from the airport to your hotel is critical. We used Friendly Airport Limousine buses. The Narita airport is located a good distance from downtown Tokyo. After a very long flight and transition of approximately 20+ hours, take a reliable shuttle and don’t sweat figuring out the subway or rail system. Not to mention figuring out the language while sleep deprived.

Second, we decided not to rent a car so we used the subway and rail system. It is an amazing system but you must pre-plan routes to the places you want to visit. It is so intricate and complicated that you could become easily lost and there is little English available.

Navigating the Tokyo Subway with a Baby

Some stations have maps that include written words for the station, but usually there is just the Japanese symbols. Acquaint yourselves with the maps and if you have an idea of where things are, the Japanese people are quick to rescue travelers who look lost. A little old lady who could tell we were lost attempted to provide directions using the maps and body language since neither of us could speak the same language.

Consider also that the subway and rail systems are below ground (sometimes very, very far down) and in most cases there are no elevators. We had to carry our baby, the stroller, the diaper bag, and anything else we had up and down the stairs. In other words, bring a light, small stroller ! We frequently saw Japanese women carrying their strollers up and down the stairs on their own. Impressive!

japan with baby, visiting japan with baby, travel to japan,

Finding Diapers in Tokyo

Finally, I am glad I followed someone’s advice about packing lots of diapers. I brought about 45+ for the flight and transition and the first few days. It was absolutely impossible to find diapers that were not ridiculously overpriced in downtown Tokyo. I was able to find two diapers (yes, just two) in the hotel store. It was going to cost me about $10 USD for those two diapers.

We searched nearby grocery stores in the Nakamise-dori Asakusa Market and in the grocery stores near our hotel but found nothing. It wasn’t until we went out of the metropolitan of Tokyo to a city called Yokohama (a beautiful city with numerous sights to see) that we found a drug store close to the subway station. They had a package of diapers (about 35 or so) for $10 USD. Thank goodness for that store! We were on our last few diapers and I was starting to worry. They got us through the remainder of the trip and our flight home.

Food in Japan with a Baby

As far as food goes, it should not be a concern at all. It is very easy to find familiar food everywhere in Tokyo. And most places post pictures of the food they offer outside the restaurants so you can see what the meals look like. We found grocery stores and were able to eat very North American food for most of the trip. We did try some food (that was delicious) here and there. And I found some baby food at a grocery store for my son, but we had packed enough jars of food, puffs, Cheerios, formula, and apple sauce to last the entire trip.

Each day we would buy bananas and apples at the grocery store and sandwiches for lunch at the bakery in the lobby of our hotel. Having the store and bakery in the hotel lobby was a godsend for food we knew and not having to go far to get it.

japan with baby, travel to japan, traveling to japan with baby, travel to japan

Fun Things to Do in Japan with a Baby

The July we visited was the hottest on record that Tokyo had seen in many years. We purchased a significant amount of water and tried to stay cool any way we could. Be advised that even if your hotel has a pool it likely is not included in your price. We had to pay to swim and only did so on one day because of the cost.

In general Japan is a very baby and kid-friendly place. A few highlights include: seats for baby to sit in inside the washrooms at baseball diamonds, stores, airports, and more. At department stores (i.e. MYLORD ) we found kids areas for children to let loose, play, and have some fun.

Out and About in Tokyo with Baby

At the R oppongi Hills mall there were a few baby/kids locations that were equipped with change tables, microwaves, snack spots, toys, breast feeding rooms, and more. Also at this mall we found an open outdoor area where over a hundred Japanese children were playing with water toys donated by a toy company for the children to ‘test out.’ My son loved playing side by side the Japanese children!

At the Narita airport we were so happy to find another kids area similar to the mall that had everything our son could need during the long wait.

Travel While Pregnant in Japan

In addition to having our toddler with us, I was also 7.5 months pregnant. This was not an issue at all. I was not able to eat any sushi but that was easy since most menus (even in the rural areas we visited for baseball) had English translation under the foods on the menu.

Having great footwear was important as we did a lot of walking and it was hot! I was sure to take advantage of the priority seating on the subway/rail system for the pregnant and individuals traveling with a child! Finally, many spots in Japan have ‘western’ toilets. However, in subway station washrooms, malls, and many other locations, you will only find the traditional Japanese squatting holes. This was a bit tricky as a pregnant person but I had to try it anyhow!

travel to japan, visiting japan, traveling to japan with baby

Traveling with Grandma & Grandpa

My husband and I were very lucky to travel with his parents. Taking them with us was absolutely amazing! Traveling to such a different place, it was great to have comfort and security every step of the way.

Some favourite locations we visited included: Zo Jo-Ji Temple, Nakamise-dori Asakusa Market , Tokyo Tower , Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, Yokohama park and stadium , the MYLORD department store in Atsugi, Meiji Jingu Stadium , the Imperial Palace in Kokyo and the R oppongi Hills shopping centre.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Japan with a Baby

I am so thankful that we had the experience of a lifetime traveling to the beautiful country of Japan. The people were amazing. The sights and culture was spectacular. It was a trip we will never forget. Sure, the flight was long, the weather hot, and the language tricky to learn. But I would 100% recommend traveling to Japan (even pregnant and/or with a baby) if given the opportunity!

Amy is an executive, life, and wellness coach and a former personal trainer. Connect with her at AmyBallantyne.com .

Have Baby Will Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates/Influencer Program . If you make a purchase through this site, we may receive a small commission. Click here to check out our Amazon Store .

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8 Responses to Travel Stories: Japan with a Baby

Amy I would love to learn more about how your trip was in Japan with pregnancy and also a little child. I have been wanting for the longest time to go to Japan with my husband and we’re about to have our first child. I have so many questions about how you got around, how much walking there was, etc. How receptive were Japanese to children? Were you able to travel/walk much? How much were you guys able to cover? Did you find yourself using the taxi a lot? Do they do Uber there?

I always wanted my son to come and experience.

Thank you for sharing your travel experience with your baby in Japan. I’ve always dreamed of going there too and now that I have a little girl, I think it will be even better now to realize this dream with her. 🙂

Great tips on visiting Japan with wee ones. Now I want to visit Japan with my adult babies!! It’s number one on my travel list.

My daughter is a huge anime buff so Japan’s on the top of her list as well 🙂

I have been to Japan last September (without the kids) but I have seen a lot of parents with kids struggling (at least in Tokyo) due to the lack of escalator and the only way was via the long stairs! I felt pity for them!

I visited Tokyo without my family but they’re so jealous and begging to plan a trip there. Will need to get back to Japan someday, hopefully with the kids!

Japan is totally on my daughter’s bucket list as well!

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Travel Guide

12 Tips For Travelling With Kids In Tokyo For A Stress-Free Trip

Tengku Suzana • Jun 20, 2023

Travelling with young kids can be a wonderful and adventurous experience, especially when exploring the vibrant city of Tokyo. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, it's important to plan ahead and consider a few key factors. Here are some essential tips to make your Tokyo travel experience with young kids a breeze:

12 tips for travelling with kids in Tokyo

1. plan child-friendly activities:.

kid in tokyo disneysea with timon and rafiki

Tokyo offers a wide range of attractions suitable for children. Research and plan age-appropriate activities such as visiting amusement parks like Tokyo Disneyland or KidZania, exploring interactive museums like the National Museum of Nature and Science, or enjoying nature and animals at Ueno Zoo or Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.

Plan your trip with The Ultimate 6D5N Tokyo Itinerary For A Fun Family Vacay With Kids .

Consider visiting Tokyo SkyTree , an iconic observation tower offering breathtaking views of the city, or teamLab Planets Tokyo , an interactive and immersive digital art museum. To skip long lines, it's recommended to purchase tickets in advance through Klook . Prioritise activities that cater to your child's interests to keep them engaged and entertained throughout the trip.

2. Pack essentials and comfort items

kid in tokyo disneyland with pooh and rabbit

Be sure to pack essential items to make your child comfortable during the journey and throughout the stay. Carry extra diapers, wipes, and a change of clothes in your day bag. Bring their favourite toys, snacks, and drinks to keep them occupied during travel or while waiting in lines. Additionally, don't forget any necessary medications, sunscreen, hats, and other items to protect them from the elements.

3. Use strollers or baby carriers

toddler in baby carrier, mum babywearing in tokyo in front of toy store

Tokyo can involve a lot of walking, so using a stroller or a baby carrier can help keep your child comfortable and save energy. Most public transportation in Tokyo is stroller-friendly, and many attractions have provisions for stroller parking. However, be prepared for crowded trains during rush hours, where strollers might be less convenient. It's also a good idea to invest in a lightweight and compact stroller for easier manoeuvrability in crowded places.

Some attractions in Tokyo may require you to leave your stroller outside. In such cases, having a baby carrier proves to be incredibly convenient. Babywearing allows you to explore attractions comfortably while keeping your child close and engaged. Choose a carrier that provides adequate support and ensures your child's safety.

While strollers are incredibly helpful for getting around with young children, it's important to choose one that suits Tokyo's infrastructure. Some train stations in Tokyo don't have elevators, which means you may have to navigate stairs with your stroller. Opt for a lightweight and compact stroller that can be easily folded and carried when necessary.

Check out these 16 Light & Compact Single Travel Strollers In SG For A Less Stressful Vacay With Kids .

4. Choose child-friendly accommodations

Look for accommodations that are child-friendly and provide amenities suitable for young kids. Many hotels in Tokyo offer family rooms or interconnected rooms to accommodate larger families. It's helpful to choose a hotel located near family-friendly attractions or public transportation for convenience. Consider facilities like a swimming pool or a play area within the hotel to keep your kids entertained during downtime.

Check out these 12 Hotels in Tokyo, Japan Near Halal Food For Your Next Vacation (From SGD62) .

5. Embrace the local culture

Tokyo is known for its unique culture, and introducing your kids to Japanese customs and traditions can be a valuable experience. Encourage them to try local cuisines like sushi or tempura, participate in tea ceremonies, or learn simple Japanese phrases. Visit parks and playgrounds where your kids can interact with local children, providing them with an opportunity to make new friends and learn about different cultures.

6. Book a private transfer from the airport to the accommodation

family in front of private vehicle in japan

Upon arrival in Tokyo, booking a private transfer from the airport to your accommodation can be a lifesaver. Services like Klook offer convenient options for private transfers, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable journey. This way, you can avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation with tired kids and bulky luggage.

7. Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to Tokyo Disneyland

tokyo disneyland mickey and minnie parade

Tokyo Disneyland is a dream destination for kids, and purchasing your tickets in advance can save you time and effort. With platforms like Klook, you can conveniently purchase Tokyo Disneyland tickets online and avoid long queues at the entrance. This ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Check out our Tokyo Disneyland Guide: 10 Essential (And Muslim-Friendly!) Tips For An Amazing Adventure .

8. Bring plenty of snacks

Travelling can make children hungry, and it's always a good idea to have snacks readily available. While Tokyo offers a variety of delicious local treats, your child may not always be fond of unfamiliar flavours. To ensure they have something they enjoy, pack a selection of their favourite snacks from home. This way, you can keep hunger at bay while exploring the city.

9. Be prepared for eateries without high chairs

Not all eateries in Tokyo provide high chairs for young children. If your child requires a high chair while dining, research child-friendly restaurants in advance or bring along a portable travel high chair for convenience. Planning ahead will ensure a comfortable dining experience for the whole family.

Check out Your Complete Guide To Halal Authentic Japanese Food In Tokyo

10. Utilise nursing rooms

Tokyo is a family-friendly city, and nursing rooms are conveniently available in various locations such as train stations and shopping malls. These dedicated spaces provide a clean and comfortable environment for breastfeeding or changing diapers. Take advantage of these facilities to cater to your child's needs while on the go.

11. Look out for play areas in malls

tokyo disneyland family taking the spinning teacups ride

Tokyo boasts numerous malls with dedicated play areas for children. These indoor playgrounds offer a safe and enjoyable space for kids to burn off some energy and have fun. When you need a break from sightseeing, consider visiting these play areas for some quality playtime.

Looking for outdoor playgrounds? Check out 6 Free Playgrounds In Tokyo For Your Kids To Burn Off Their Energy At

12. Get an eSIM for easier communication and sharing memories

family at toy story mania tokyo disneysea

Staying connected while travelling is essential, especially when you have young kids. By purchasing an eSIM from Klook , you can easily have access to data on your mobile device. This enables you to communicate with ease, navigate maps, and share your travel experiences on social media, ensuring you never miss a beat.

With these tips in mind, your family trip to Tokyo with young kids is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience. From hassle-free transportation to kid-friendly attractions and convenient facilities, Tokyo has something to offer every member of the family. Embrace the adventure and create lifelong memories in this vibrant city. Remember to be flexible and patient during your trip, as travelling with young kids can be unpredictable. By following these tips and tailoring your itinerary to suit your child's needs and interests, you can create a wonderful and memorable family adventure in Tokyo!

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Top 10 Things to do in Tokyo with a Baby or Toddler
2. Ueno Park. After a midday nap for the kids, we took a walk to Ueno Park, which was close to our Tokyo apartment. With over 10 million people visiting Ueno Park every year, it is one of Japan's most popular parks. It is home to several museums, temples, shrines, and even the Ueno Zoo.
Tokyo With A Baby: family travel in Tokyo, Japan
We traveled to Tokyo with a 10 month old baby and loved our family time in one of the world's most fun, quirky and chaotic cities. Tokyo is an awesome choice for a family vacation and there are endless things to do in Tokyo with kids. Together we explored its iconic sights from Shibuya Crossing to Harajuku to the amazing Digital Art Museum.
Tokyo with Kids Itinerary: Ultimate Guide (2023)
Day 2: Tokyo Disneyland. A day at Tokyo Disneyland is an essential inclusion in our Tokyo with kids itinerary! Modeled on Disneyland California and Magic Kingdom in Florida, Tokyo Disneyland is one of the best Disney parks in the world. The Cinderella Castle is amazing and the parades fantastic.
Tokyo With A Baby: The Essential Guide
ベビー・フード (bebii fudu; "baby food") おむつ (omutsu; "diaper") The most important thing to remember is to be flexible and have a sense of humor. With the above advice, I hope that traveling with your baby will be fun and exciting. Enjoy the food, parks, and all of the kawaii characters. You and your baby will love Tokyo!
Things to do in Tokyo With Kids: Itinerary for 4 Days of Old and New
Tokyo with kids: Day 2. Now it's time to get into the heart of exploring Tokyo, which is truly one of the world's greatest cities. Days 2, 3 and 4 of this Tokyo itinerary for families can really be done in any order and will depend on when you're able to book certain activities like TeamLab and a cooking class.
31 Best Things to Do in Tokyo with a Baby or Toddler
14. Kid-O-Kid Bornelund in Kawasaki. The Kid-O-Kid Bornelund has various locations throughout Japan but the closest first-rate Kid-O-Kid Bornelund branch is located in Kawasaki City which is 35 minutes train ride from Tokyo. It features various rooms with different themes, toys, and features.
Traveling To Japan With A Baby Or Toddler: What To Know!
You will find information on where to go in Japan with a baby or toddler down lower in the post. 1. Passports. Children are required to have their passports to be allowed to travel to and around Japan. You will also need to carry the passport when you travel on trains as you might be required to show it. 2.
9 Best things to do in Tokyo with a baby
Things to do in Tokyo with a baby tip: Yogogi Park comes to life at the weekends so try and visit on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon if your itinerary allows. Ueno Park and the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden are great to visit on any day of the week. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
The 30 Best Things To Do In Tokyo With Kids (2023)
Below you can read about 30 amazing things to do with kids in Tokyo, from interactive museums to fun family-friendly restaurants and from theme parks to Tokyo icons such as the Tokyo Tower and the Tokyo Sky Tree. 1. Shibuya Japanese street food walking tour. A fun and easy way to introduce a new culture to children.
Tokyo With Kids (4-Day Itinerary + 12 Fun Things To Do)
Akhabara is a colorful, animated district to visit in Tokyo with children who love video games and anime. Akihabara is known as the electronics district in Tokyo. If your children love video games, this is the district to visit. There are even video games attached to some of the urinals in the 4-story Sega arcade.
Tokyo 1-Day Itinerary With Children
Full Tokyo 1 Day Itinerary With Children Itinerary. See the district pages linked below for full details on the attractions mentioned here. 9:00am: Asakusa - Senso-ji Temple. In the morning, head up to Asakusa and visit Senso-ji Temple. This is your chance to check out something of interest to adults as well, before the children get too tired ...
Tokyo with toddler or baby in tow
What to do in Tokyo with toddler - Tokyo Disney Parks. Ueno Park - one of the best things to do in Tokyo with a baby or toddler. Team Borderless Mori Digital Museum - one of the best things to do with toddlers in Tokyo. Senso-ji Temple. What not to Do - or at least things you need to prepare for. Shibuya Crossing.
Traveling Japan with a baby
Take Day trips. The great thing about basing your self out of big cities in Japan such as Kyoto and Tokyo with a baby is that there are almost endless possibilities for day trips. For instance the city of Osaka, Hiroshima, Nara for the deer and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest all can be done as day trips really easily from Kyoto.
21 Things to do in Tokyo with Toddlers
5. Disneyland Tokyo. Hands down - one of the best things to do with toddlers in Tokyo, Disneyland is the happiest place on Earth for grown-ups and kids alike. Meet and snap photos with beloved characters, eat your way into a Disney food coma, explore the 7 wonderful themed zones and enjoy rides together as a family.
Want to visit Japan with an infant? Here's how to make your trip a
The tickets were fairly reasonable at $2,000 each, plus $250 for having a lap infant. I was so glad we opted for business class on this part of the trip. Not only was the service top-notch, but Japan Airlines' Sky Suite meant we had almost complete privacy, with plenty of room for naps and tummy time. During the trip, I scanned for deals and ...
How to travel With a Baby in Japan
Japan, including the capital, Tokyo, is a surprisingly family-friendly holiday destination. As traveling with babies is always a bit of a challenge, it is good to be prepared so you can make everyone's travel experience a great one. Here are 7 tips on how to travel with a baby in Japan for your best family trip to the Land of the Rising Sun!
I flew to Japan with my baby. Here's the travel advice that helped me
Siner's husband and their 8-month-old son on the 13-hour flight to Tokyo. Siner says their baby loved watching other passengers on the plane. Emily Siner. Preethi Harbuck, author of the travel ...
[ TOKYO SKYTREE ] How to enjoy with Baby/Kids
Skytree-view Restaurants (30F,31F) There are another restaurants floor on 30F and 31F that can enjoy Skytree from really nice location. Please take special EV at the end of East yard. With a close-up view of the Tokyo Skytree, Solamachi Dining Skytree View, which is located approximately 150m above the ground, is lined with authentic high-quality restaurants for discerning families and couples ...
How to Travel Japan with a Baby (Updated 2024)
Generally, planning fewer things is easier than a packed itinerary when traveling with a baby anywhere in the world. This is especially true for Japan where you're most likely taking a mix of trains and buses around the country. The more remote you're going, the more connections you're likely to have as well.
Travel Stories: Japan With A Baby
Getting Around Tokyo with a Baby. A couple of points to note when traveling to Tokyo, Japan with a baby. First, using a shuttle to get from the airport to your hotel is critical. We used Friendly Airport Limousine buses. The Narita airport is located a good distance from downtown Tokyo. After a very long flight and transition of approximately ...
Tokyo Itinerary with a 3-month baby : r/JapanTravel
Tokyo Itinerary with a 3-month baby. Hey all, We will be traveling with a 3 month baby in Japan Nov 15- Dec 5th and our trip starts and ends in Tokyo. I'd be grateful to hear if the itinerary makes sense, if there are ways to make it better and if there are any things we forgot: Nov 15th- Arrive 330PM, Stay in Shibuya - Shibuya Stream Excel Hotel.
Traveling Tokyo with Baby/Kids
Traveling Tokyo with Baby/Kids Posts [2024] Best Cherry Blossom viewing spots in Tokyo with baby/kids. Featured Post [2024] Best Cherry Blossom viewing spots in Tokyo with baby/kids. Published 02/25/2022 . If you are in Japan in early spring, you will be surprised by the beauty of cherry blossoms (=Sakura). I know you would like to…
12 Tips For Travelling With Kids In Tokyo For A Stress-Free Trip
Here are some essential tips to make your Tokyo travel experience with young kids a breeze: 12 tips for travelling with kids in Tokyo 1. Plan child-friendly activities: ... Use strollers or baby carriers. Tokyo can involve a lot of walking, so using a stroller or a baby carrier can help keep your child comfortable and save energy. ...
This US couple spent a year exploring the world with their young family
Margaret Bensfield Sullivan spent a year traveling around the world with husband Teddy and their children Willa and James. When Margaret Bensfield Sullivan envisioned the type of family who might ...

Tokyo With A Baby: The Essential Guide

Depato Fever

There’s Always Room on the Elevator

Say “Yes” to Packaging

Conbini to the Rescue

Train Access

Rainy Day? Plan Anyway

Picnic Like a Pro

Hoard Tourist Pamphlets

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Where to stay

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Best Things to do in Tokyo with Kids Itinerary

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What to read next

31 Best Things to Do in Tokyo with a Baby or Toddler

Best Tokyo Tours that are Baby and Toddler-Friendly

Best Baby and Toddler-Friendly Museums in Tokyo

2. Ghibli Museum

3. National Museum of Nature and Science

4. National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (also known as Miraikan)

Best Indoor Play Spaces for Babies & Toddlers in Tokyo

6. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower Tokyo City View & Sky Deck

7. Duplo Village in Legoland Discovery Center

8. Aneby Trimpark

9. Asobono in Tokyo Dome City

10. Tokyo Toy Museum

11. Amazing World (various branches)

12. Hakuhinkan Toy Park

13. Lego Clickbrick, Roppongi

14. Kid-O-Kid Bornelund in Kawasaki

15. Ai Port Station

16. Akasaka Kids and Teens Hall Nandemo

17. Sky Circus Sunshine60

Best Amusement Parks for Babies & Toddlers in Tokyo

19. Tokyo Disneyland

Best Parks for Babies & Toddlers in Tokyo

21. Showa Kinen Park

22. Hanegi Park

23. Sakurazaka Park (best known as Robot Park)

24. Niko Niko Park (also known as Meiji jingu Gaien Park)

25. Shinjuku Gyoen

26. Hibiya Park

27. Ueno Zoo

28. Tama Zoological Park (Tama Zoo)

29. Inokashira Park Zoo

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Traveling To Japan With A Baby Or Toddler: What To Know!

🏆 Best Baby-Friendly Hotels in Japan

Traveling to Japan with a Baby: Is Japan Baby-Friendly?

Guide to a Baby-Friendly Japan Trip: Top Tips + Everything You Should Know

1. Passports

2. Vaccinations

3. Don’t Pack Too Much!