Toby in our hotel room with a mask and sword he got in the Asakusa Shopping District

7 DAYS IN TOKYO… WITH KIDS!

Reflecting on seven unforgettable days spent in Tokyo with two young boys and a toddler girl, I am honestly asking myself just how the heck we did it. I visited the Land of the Rising Sun with my husband and sister during the second week of October 2022. It was three adults and three children, which seemed fairly manageable. We were there to explore a different part of the world but also because we were fulfilling a promise to my sons Benny and Toby, who had asked to visit Tokyo for a long time.

The trip was both exhausting and exhilarating! We used the services of a private tour guide who helped us secure tickets to theme parks & exclusive restaurants and showed us how to use Tokyo's train system. We also spent extra money on commodities such as a hotel with breakfast included, taxi rides (which are very expensive in Tokyo), spas, tea ceremonies and shopping. I share this because while there are plenty of free things to do in this amazing place— of the world's most populated cities, the dozen recommendations for families I’m highlighting below are likely to tug at your wallet.

At one of Tokyo’s train stations— From L to R: My son Toby, my sister Frances with her daughter Addie on the stroller, my son Benny, my husband Paul and Kyle, our tour guide.

For starters, the city is huge and overwhelming at first, but if you’ve spent time in Downtown LA you'll quickly get used to the hustle and bustle. The culture is unique, with a rich tradition of art, music, and dance. And the people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. There is a collective philosophy where people think about the well-being of society before their own, individual well-being. The country is super clean, well-manicured and people are very trusting. In one incredible scene that I won't soon forget, a woman who about to board a theme park ride with her toddler at Puroland, left her gorgeous calfskin Chanel bag hanging on her stroller’s handle, completely unattended. She must have left it there for nearly an hour without a single concern about someone possibly stealing the $7K purse. Stealing and tampering with other people’s property simply doesn’t happen in Japan.

But I digress.

There are plenty of things to keep kids entertained, from outdoor Japanese gardens and public parks to museums, zoos and amusement parks. The food is also a big draw for kids, with plenty of tasty options to choose from.

Keep in mind, the history of Japan is both long and fascinating, dating back thousands of years. Its history involves periods of both isolation and great openness, and the country has been greatly influenced by both China and the West. The Edo period (1603-1868) saw very little contact with the outside world. During this time, Japan developed its own unique culture, which is still evident today in things like traditional architecture, cuisine, and art.

You'll want to plan ahead and do plenty of research to make the most of your trip, but Tokyo is a great destination for families. With its mix of culture, history, and fun, you're sure to create long-lasting memories.

Here are twelve activities and experiences to enjoy with kids while in Tokyo:

1. Visit the Meiji Shrine

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Japan is the Meiji Shrine, which was built to honor Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken. The shrine is located in a large park in the center of Tokyo, and it's a peaceful oasis in the midst of all the city's chaos. Tip: Visit on a weekend where you will bump into dozens of locals wearing traditional kimonos.

2. Stroll through the Imperial Palace grounds

The Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Japanese Imperial family, but the public is allowed to enter the grounds. The palace is located in the center of Tokyo, and it's a great place to take a walk and enjoy some peace and quiet. Just be sure to stay on the designated paths. Toby and Addie enjoyed picking up tiny rocks and throwing them at each other.

3. Visit Ueno Park

If you make a trip to Ueno Park, you can check off several items in one go. The park is home to the Tokyo National Museum, the National Science Museum, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. It’s also the home of the tomb and statue of the Last Samurai, Saigo Takamori (see photo of my boys placing an offering at his memorial site). And if that's not enough, the park is also home to a zoo and an amusement park. A must visit place!

4. Enjoy a Calming Tea Ceremony Experience at Gionji Temple

One of the best ways to experience traditional Japanese culture is to participate in a tea ceremony. And what better place to do it than at Gionji Temple, which is located in the heart of Tokyo. The temple was founded in 1624. Tip: Make sure to take off your shoes before entering the temple. Also, the photos below are from a wonderful afternoon escape at local hotel’s Japanese garden.

5. Shop in Akihabara

For all anime fans, like my two boys, Akihabara is a must-see. This is the area of Tokyo where you'll find all things anime, manga, and video games. The shops are full of character goods, comics, and games. And if you're lucky, you might even spot a cosplayer or ten.

6. Take an elevator trip to the Skytower

Tokyo's Skytower is the tallest building in Japan, and it offers stunning views of the city from its observatory deck. The tower is located in the Roppongi district, which is also home to many shops, restaurants, and bars.

My Sweet Niece Addie enjoys the view from the Sky Tower’s viewing deck.

7. Attend a baseball game

Baseball games in Tokyo are a popular pastime, and the Tokyo Dome is the city's biggest stadium. The Yomiuri Giants are the most famous team, and they play their home games at the Tokyo Dome. Tickets are easy to get, and games are a great way to experience Japanese culture.

8. Eat at a Shabu Shabu restaurant

You can't visit Tokyo without enjoying a real authentic Shabu Shabu restaurant! These restaurants are very popular in Japan, and they're a great way to try a variety of foods. Customers are served several ingredients including cuts of beef, chicken, pork and fish as well as vegetables and we get to dip them briefly in simmering broth to cook in a pot at our very own table. The experience is fun, delicious and memorable, plus, if you ask for a cold Japanese beer to go with the meal you will be thoroughly pleased.

9. Experience the crowded Shibuya Crossing

The Shibuya Crossing is one of the most iconic images of Tokyo, and it's definitely worth seeing in person. Imagine this: hundreds of people crossing the street in various directions at numerous intersections at the same time! The crossing is located in front of the Shibuya train station and it's a great place to people watch. Tip: head to the second floor of the Starbucks across the street for a bird's eye view.

10. Dine at the Pokemon Cafe

If you are able to book a reservation for the Pokemon Cafe, you are in for a real treat. Themed restaurants are very popular in Japan, and the Pokemon Cafe does not disappoint. Everything in the cafe is Pokemon-themed, from the food to the drinks to the decor. And of course, there are plenty of photo opportunities. The cafe is located in the Ikebukuro district of Tokyo.

11. Visit Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea

The Tokyo DisneySea theme park is the most popular tourist destination in Japan. It's located in the Tokyo Disney Resort in Chiba, about an hour outside of the city. The park is divided into seven themed areas, each based on a different legend or story. There's also a hotel and shopping district nearby. We were in awe at every corner and when we so much magic had us feeling overwhelmed, we stopped and had a fine dining experience at the S.S. Columbia dining room— an elegant restaurant inside a ship-shaped building.

12. Visit Hello Kitty's indoor theme park: "Puroland"

Puroland was built in 1990 as a theme park for the popular Japanese character, Hello Kitty. It's located in Tama, about an hour outside of Tokyo. The park is small, but it's perfect for young kids (and 40-something year olds who grew up loving Sanrio). There are rides, shows, and a parade, all featuring Hello Kitty and her friends.

Tokyo is an amazing city with something for everyone!

The experience is certainly exhausting, especially if you're traveling on the train system with little ones. However, it's quite rewarding when you see your kids taking it all in, making new friends and asking to stay longer.

Tokyo can be tiring but it's also thrilling and unforgettable. Until we see you again, thank you, Land of the Rising Sun!

Arigatō Gozaimasu

Thanks for reading, friends!

Xo.

-Anabel

Our Family Trip To Tokyo, Japan