The Ultimate Guide to Kid-Friendly Activities in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the world—but it’s also surprisingly kid-friendly! From high-tech wonderlands and whimsical museums to peaceful parks and hands-on cultural experiences, there’s something in Tokyo for every age and interest. Whether you're traveling with toddlers, grade-schoolers, or tweens, this guide will help you find the best things to do with kids in Japan’s bustling capital.

Top Kid-Friendly Attractions in Tokyo

🏰 Tokyo Disneyland & DisneySea

A trip to Tokyo with kids wouldn’t be complete without visiting at least one of these magical parks. Tokyo Disneyland offers classic Disney charm and familiar characters, while DisneySea is a one-of-a-kind, ocean-themed park that’s often more appealing to older kids and adults. Expect incredible attention to detail, unique shows, and food options that range from whimsical to deliciously surprising.

🎨 teamLab Planets

This immersive digital art museum in Toyosu is an unforgettable sensory experience for both kids and adults. Barefoot and interactive, teamLab Planets invites visitors to walk through water, mirrored rooms, and glowing floral universes. It’s visually stunning and great for kids who love movement and color.

🐼 Ueno Zoo & Ueno Park

Japan’s oldest zoo is home to over 3,000 animals, including pandas and elephants. Located inside the sprawling Ueno Park, the zoo is a good low-key option for younger children, especially when combined with a boat ride on Shinobazu Pond or a visit to the nearby National Museum of Nature and Science.

🎥 Ghibli Museum

Fans of My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle will love this whimsical, pastel-toned museum in Mitaka. With interactive exhibits, original sketches, and a small theater showing short Studio Ghibli films, it’s a dream for fans of animation. Be sure to buy tickets in advance—they sell out quickly.

🚂 Shinkansen Viewing & Train Museums

For train-obsessed little ones, Tokyo Station is a great place to watch bullet trains zoom in and out. You can also head to the nearby Railway Museum in Saitama for hands-on exhibits, train simulators, and model train dioramas.

Hidden Gems & Low-Key Favorites

• Sumida Aquarium (inside Tokyo Skytree): Compact and calm, great for younger kids.

• Asobono Indoor Playground (Bunkyo): A safe, colorful space for toddlers to run, climb, and explore.

• Tokyo Toy Museum (Shinjuku): Housed in an old school, it’s full of wooden toys and educational play areas.

• Odaiba: Home to LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Miraikan science museum, and fun arcades—not to mention great harbor views.

Tips for a Smooth Family Trip

• Transportation is easy: Get a Suica or PASMO card and enjoy the spotless, punctual trains. Elevators are common in major stations.

• Rest stops matter: Bring snacks and take breaks at convenience stores or cafés. Many public spaces have clean restrooms and baby changing areas.

• Plan downtime: Parks like Yoyogi or Shinjuku Gyoen are ideal for a midday breather or picnic.

• Don’t overpack your itinerary: Tokyo is stimulating! One big activity plus something mellow each day works well for most families.

What Will Picky Eaters Eat?

Even if your child turns their nose up at sushi, don’t worry—Tokyo has options galore. You’ll find:

• Fluffy pancakes and cute animal-shaped donuts

• Conveyor belt sushi with simple choices like tamago (sweet egg) or cucumber rolls

• Rice balls, fruit jellies, and familiar snacks at convenience stores

• Japanese curry, ramen (with plain noodles or broth), and tempura that even cautious eaters often enjoy

Sample Itinerary: 3 Days in Tokyo with Kids

Day 1: Morning at Ueno Zoo → Afternoon in Ueno Park or Tokyo National Museum → Casual dinner nearby

Day 2: teamLab Planets → Odaiba (LEGOLAND or Miraikan) → Views from Tokyo Skytree

Day 3: Ghibli Museum (Mitaka) → Playtime at a local playground → Traditional dinner at an izakaya with private rooms or booths

Tokyo is an amazing mix of old and new, and traveling here with kids can be incredibly rewarding. With just a little planning, your family can enjoy everything from pop culture to peaceful gardens—all while making memories that will last a lifetime.