Tokyo is a bustling center for culture and commerce; a stunning mix of modern and traditional Japan. It's no wonder that this historic capital city is considered one of the top destinations for families looking to experience Japan's best without being removed from the comforts of urban amenities.
Places to Visit in Tokyo:
There are plenty of tremendous kid-friendly places to visit in Tokyo, but this list will focus on some of the best-rated attractions and activities that appeal to all age groups, particularly places with dynamic offerings to kids and adults. So, if you're looking to visit Tokyo, then this list is for you!
DisneySea and DisneyLand
With its family-friendly rides, parades, and seasonal events, Disney theme parks are an essential stop for families in search of a magical experience or visiting Tokyo for the first time.
For starters, we recommend at least a day trip to Tokyo DisneyLand or DisneySea no matter if it's a return trip or your first visit. The latter, of course, is a must-see as it's an attraction and experience totally unique to Tokyo.
Although if your children are old enough to enjoy lots and lots of rides, then DisneyLand is certainly a far better option—granted you only have time to visit one or the other.
Disney characters nonchalantly appear in both parks, particularly during parades. However, some are notably more prominent in one of the amusement parks that houses an entire section for them like Little Mermaid in her little world at DisneySea.
DisneyLand attractions
Tokyo Disneyland features seven themed zones. Some are based on their global counterparts but with regional adjustments to suit the Japanese guests.
One of these zones is World Bazaar, inspired 20th-century America and reminiscent of Disney World Orlando’s Main Street theme. Then, there's Fantasyland with Cinderella’s Castle as its main attraction. There is also the jungle-themed Adventureland, the futuristic Tomorrowland, and the Old West-inspired Westernland.
Critter Country is a local favorite because it's home to the ride Splash Mountain. Then finally, Toontown is a small-scale but thoughtful recreation of Mickey Mouse’s universe.
DisneySea attractions
Mermaid Lagoon, where Ariel and friends reside, is one of the theme park's most popular attractions. It's flanked by Port Discovery, a Tomorrowland equivalent, and the Arabian Coast, which is for Sinbad and Aladin enthusiasts.
On the marquee is Mysterious Island, a Jules Verne-inspired zone that’s home to the iconic Mount Prometheus. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean Harbor, a recreation of an Italian port city with Venetian canals, and the American Waterfront with a touch of 20th-century New York harbors rest on the south border. Lastly, the northern zone is reserved for the Lost River Delta where you'll find the thrilling Indiana Jones ride and some recreation of ancient ruins.
Finally, if you plan to visit DisneySea and/or DisneyLand, we highly suggest Hilton Tokyo Bay, which sits right within the Disney complex and has frequent rides from the hotel to the amusement parks and back.
Tsukiji Fish Market
The Tsukiji Outer Market is a world-famous fish market that boasts hundreds of fresh seafood stalls of different varieties. The best time to visit is in the morning when it's less crowded and just in time for a walk-on breakfast at one of Tokyo's most historic cultural hubs.
If that's too much of a challenge for the family, don't fret since the market has stores serving at varying times, including Sushizanmai, a 24-hour sushi shop, as well as tent-pole stalls like Marutoyo an onigiri stand and Kitsuneya—most popular for its Horumon-ni, or beef intestines simmered in miso.
Just a reminder to check the operating hours of these restaurants and stalls because some of them only run from early in the morning up to the afternoon. Also, if you're up for a full-on gastro trip, you can join a guided food and drinks tour around Tsukiji to learn more about the culture and some interesting tidbits and places that only locals know.
Other notable places of interest to consider within the area are the Namiyoke Shrine and the Tsukiji Honganji Temple. Putting it all together, you should be able to plan an eventful day trip in and around Tsukiji.
Senso-Ji Temple
A trip to Senso-Ji Temple is another immersive cultural experience you can do in Tokyo. Just note that it's a tourist-heavy area so it's best to pack efficiently during your visit. For us, that meant traveling light with our TernX travel diaper bag.
It's impossible to miss Senso-Ji because of the temple's giant paper lantern hanging at its entrance. We didn't get to ask about the exact symbolism behind the lantern, but it's a striking display that visitors are eager to use as a photo backdrop.
Meanwhile, don't forget to check out the Five-Story Pagoda and Asakusa Shrine inside the complex, or the opportunity to offer a prayer in the main hall.
On your way to the temple or perhaps on your way back, we recommend stopping by the Nakamise Shopping Street where you can enjoy Japanese street food and purchase some traditional Japanese souvenirs. The kids will love it too since there are also lively stalls selling candied fruits and local sweets.
Other activities you can try near Senso-Ji Temple are: checking out the performers on Rokku Broadway, joining a guided food tour or cafe hopping around Asakusa, taking a Japanese rickshaw ride, or visiting the nearby Tokyo Skytree.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Park is a breathtaking green space near central Tokyo. It's a beautiful spot that can only be made better by the cherry blossom season. But outside of that, it's fun to explore the 58-hectare greenhouse featuring English, French, and Japanese gardens.
There are clear walkways within the park including some crafty stone bridges over the pond in the Japanese garden. The French garden, however, is the show-stealer thanks to its plethora of roses that more often than are blooming for its visitors.
It takes a bit of effort to explore the gardens but it does have plenty of public restrooms so going with a potty-trained kid will not be much of an issue. Depending on your itinerary you can kick back for an hour or two in the garden or plan a good 'ol picnic.
Otherwise, you can visit many nearby attractions in Shinjuku like Kabukicho, and Hanazono Shrine or drop by the north tower of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building to enjoy a bird's eye view of Tokyo's enigmatic skyline.
TeamLab
TeamLab is an art collective known for its colorful and immersive digital art installations.
If you're looking for a modern and uniquely unforgettable experience in Tokyo, then TeamLab is a must-have in your Tokyo itinerary.
Aside from being a visual spectacle, TeamLab's art installations are interactive, allowing visitors to engage with the art in a multi-sensory experience. In other words, the digital installations answer to your movements or input, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment
You can allocate around 2 to 3 hours to your visit at TeamLab then you can check out the nearby LaLaport retail complex for shopping, entertainment, and diverse dining options.
FAQs on Your Tokyo Travel Itinerary
Excited for your Japan trip? Here are a few more tips on how to best explore downtown Tokyo and other famous landmarks nearby.
How Many Days Do You Need in Tokyo First Time?
Tokyo has a lot to offer in terms of attractions from historical buildings to modern establishments and so on. On that account, an eventful 6-day Tokyo itinerary would be ideal for your first trip. This will allow you to cover more ground and maybe even squeeze in a trip to Hakone for a glimpse of the majestic Mt. Fuji.
Using the family-friendly destinations we've named above, your days in Tokyo can be efficiently booked like this:
Day 1: A trip to DisneySea or DisneyLand
Day 2: Shop and dine at Tsukiji Fish Market and Ginza
Day 3: A tour around Senso-Ji Temple grounds and Asakusa
Day 4: Explore Shinjuku and settle down for a picnic in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Day 5: Visit TeamLab and shop for souvenirs at LaLaport
Day 6: Explore Shibuya and Harujuku
You may adjust your activities accordingly depending on your arrival and accommodation. Take note that public transport is a safe and efficient way to go around Tokyo, although it can get hectic during peak hours.
For example, if you are staying in Shinjuku, we recommend Hilton Tokyo which is connected to the Tokyo Metro through an underground walkway. Additionally, it's also a short train or taxi ride away from Shibuya Station and Haneda Airport.
Hilton Hotels in Tokyo are often quickly accessible to a mainline train station.
What is Tokyo Japan Best Known for?
Tokyo is famed for one of Japan's most dynamic cultural hubs. You have the enduring Senso-Ji Temple and Imperial Palace on one hand, and the eclectic Akihabara and Harajuku, where various sub-cultures bleed into the local lifestyle and trends, on the other.
Some tourists are also fixated on Tokyo's Disney Resorts only to find out there's more to this bustling city than the bright lights and amusement parks.
Additionally, Tokyo is known for its food shops and restaurants like the popular Tokyo Ramen Street in Tokyo Station or the Ginza Corridor Street which boasts many international bars and restaurants, as well as many standout local flavors.
Should You Bring a Stroller to Japan?
If you're going to Disneyland or DisneySea, then it is best to have a stroller. In our case, it's easily the TernX suitcase stroller. This multi-purpose luggage has served us well during our international trips, especially as we transition from one mode of transport to another.
Why Tokyo Is Perfect for Families Traveling With Kids
Tokyo is an excellent urban destination for families because it's able to truly blend modern and old Japan in more ways than one. In essence, there's also likely something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.
Before you think it's just architecture, the past and future of Japanese culture in manners of local customs, fashion, and art. This is going to be more evident as you explore different attractions in Tokyo and learn more about its street culture.
Beyond that, Tokyo makes for a great stop for families because they get to retain access to lifestyle essentials and amenities throughout their stay.
On one hand, you get to marvel at the sight of archaic shrines and dine in a traditional Japanese restaurant at a whim, and then in one corner, you have a luxurious hotel, state-of-the-art medical facilities, and some local convenience stores on the ready.
You're never caught too far out of your comfort zone which is quite invaluable if you are traveling with kids.
