Kids and family in Tokyo

Expats in Tokyo will find themselves in a high-tech global hub rich in culture, technology and innovation. This multicultural setting allows expat children and families to interact with a diverse population, often finding friends who share their home languages.

Tokyo offers an array of parks, playgrounds and gardens perfect for walking, cycling and picnic outings. Notably, most of these places are close to cafés and snack stands, offering a delightful selection of treats like sushi rolls, matcha ice cream and takoyaki.

In a nutshell, the opportunities for education and excursions available to families living in Tokyo are seemingly limitless, making the city vibrant, engaging and very child-friendly.

Kid-friendly attractions in Tokyo

There are several noteworthy landmarks and venues to visit in Tokyo. The Imperial Palace and its surrounding gardens offer an enchanting walk. Although the palace is primarily a residence for the royal family and is only open to the public on specific days, the gardens are always welcoming.

Located on the outskirts of the city is the Ghibli Museum, showcasing the works of the world-famous Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli. Though the museum itself is indoors, its architectural design and interactive exhibits make it a must-visit for families.

A short trip from Tokyo will bring families to Hakone. Famous for its hot springs and the Hakone Shrine, it also offers a splendid view of Mt. Fuji. Families can take leisurely strolls, picnic by the lake and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, which houses a variety of sculptures and interactive installations.

Ueno Park, located within Tokyo, is another delightful location. Here, families can enjoy a zoo, several museums and a beautiful pond. Playgrounds and cafés are dispersed throughout the park, providing ample entertainment and relaxation opportunities.

Arts and entertainment for expat families in Tokyo

Expat children and their parents will enjoy the Edo-Tokyo Museum, where they can learn about the city's history and culture. For manga and anime fans, a visit to the Tokyo Anime Center in Akihabara is a must. Here, you can explore exhibitions, purchase merchandise and even participate in anime-related events.

Kids will particularly enjoy the Tokyo Toy Museum and KidZania. The former offers a variety of vintage and modern toys, while the latter is an interactive city for kids where they can try different jobs and earn currency.

While these institutions are particularly child-friendly, Tokyo's numerous art and science museums also frequently offer activities for children. In the teamLab Borderless digital art museum, visitors can interact with the artwork, immersing themselves in a multi-sensory experience.

Child-friendly dining in Tokyo

Tokyo is not short of family-friendly dining options. Izakaya restaurants are typically quite spacious and lively, serving a variety of dishes such as yakitori, sashimi and ramen, among traditional Japanese fare. If needed, many establishments provide child-friendly menus and high chairs. With Tokyo's global food scene, international cuisine is also widely available throughout the city.