Top 10 Things to Do in Tokyo with Kids
In our previous article, we shared our complete one-month Japan itinerary with a toddler, from bustling cities to peaceful countryside escapes. This post dives into our very first stop: Tokyo. We spent four nights here to help all of us, especially our two-year-old son, adjust to the time difference… while also rediscovering new corners of a city we already love.
Arrival in Tokyo : settling in
After landing in Tokyo, our first mission was simple: head straight to a 7-Eleven to grab onigiri. For a two-year-old, plain rice onigiri (without toppings) is a perfect snack. Of course, we also picked up our all-time favorite Japanese egg sandwiches, which we end up enjoying multiple times during every trip.
Another tip for families : we only bring enough diapers for the plane to save space, then stock up once in Japan. We found that FamilyMart convenience stores have a better selection than 7-Eleven (check near the beauty products section).
Meals with a toddler in Tokyo
Our first dinner was at one of our favorite spots: Chinese Ramen Yoshu-Shonin in Shibuya. Eating out in Japan with kids is rarely a problem : most places offer simple noodle soups, rice bowls, and other mild dishes that toddlers can enjoy. Just ask !
Toddler-friendly activities in Tokyo
1. TeamLab Planets
After visiting both Planets and Borderless during our first trip, Planets remains our favorite. It’s a sensory wonderland for all ages. All you need to do is to book your tickets in advance here !
It’s a fully immersive digital art museum where visitors walk through water, mirror rooms, and interactive light installations, creating a magical sensory experience for all ages.
Perfect for kids and adults alike, teamLab Planets combines technology, art, and imagination, making it one of the best indoor activities in Tokyo and a top attraction for families visiting Japan.
2. Shinjuku
Shinjuku is one of Tokyo’s most vibrant districts and a must-see for first-time visitors. A stroll through Shinjuku feels like stepping into a futuristic movie set, with neon lights, giant screens, and nonstop energy day and night.
The highlight is the famous giant 3D cat billboard located opposite Shinjuku Station’s East Exit. This impressive curved LED screen features an ultra-realistic animated cat that appears to jump out of the building, delighting both kids and adults. It has quickly become one of Tokyo’s most photographed landmarks and a symbol of the city’s cutting-edge digital culture.
Why does it exist?
The 3D cat was created as a marketing project showcasing Japan’s leadership in digital advertising and immersive technology. It reflects Tokyo’s love for innovation, pop culture, and larger-than-life urban experiences.
How to get there:
Take the JR Yamanote Line or any major subway line to Shinjuku Station, one of the busiest train stations in the world. Exit via the East Exit and you’ll see the giant 3D cat screen directly across the street, impossible to miss !
3. Harajuku & Takeshita street
Harajuku & Takeshita street are perfect for kawaii shopping, from food to plushies. Then, we enjoyed a coffee and ice cream at the stunning rooftop garden of Tokyu Plaza Harajuku.
4. Omotesando
Just a few minutes’ walk from the colorful chaos of Harajuku, Omotesando offers a completely different atmosphere. Wide, tree-lined avenues, quiet side streets and beautiful modern architecture make it one of our favorite neighborhoods for a relaxing stroll with a toddler.
While adults will enjoy browsing stylish boutiques, independent cafés and impressive buildings designed by world-renowned architects, children will also find plenty to love. Wander through fun concept stores filled with adorable Japanese toys, kawaii accessories, books and creative gifts. You never know what quirky shop or colorful display you’ll discover around the next corner.
One of our favorite things to do is simply leave the main boulevard and explore the smaller residential streets. They’re peaceful, safe and perfect for slowing down after the crowds of Takeshita Street. If your little one needs a break, you’ll also find plenty of cafés with outdoor seating where you can enjoy a coffee, an ice cream or a sweet treat while watching Tokyo life go by.
Don’t miss Tokyu Plaza Harajuku (Harakado), located just a short walk away. Its beautiful rooftop garden on the ninth floor is a hidden oasis in the middle of Tokyo, offering plenty of space for children to move around while parents enjoy stunning views over the city’s bustling streets.
How to get there:
Take the Tokyo Metro to Omotesando Station (Ginza, Chiyoda or Hanzomon Line). The neighborhood is best explored on foot, especially if you’re traveling with young children.
5. Yoyogi Park & Meiji Shrine
For a refreshing escape from Tokyo’s busy streets, combining peaceful nature, open spaces, and Japanese tradition. Located next to Harajuku and Shibuya, this green oasis is one of the best places in Tokyo to slow down and enjoy some fresh air.
Yoyogi Park is perfect for families, with wide lawns and shaded paths where kids can run, play, and relax. Just next door, Meiji Shrine is one of Japan’s most important Shinto shrines, surrounded by a beautiful forest with over 100,000 trees donated from across the country.
Don’t miss trying matcha ice cream and traditional snacks sold near the shrine entrance, a favorite treat for both children and adults.
How to get there:
Take the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station or the Tokyo Metro to Meiji-Jingumae Station. Both give direct access to Yoyogi Park and the shrine.
6. Tokyo DisneySea & Tokyio Disneyland
It’s one of the most unique Disney parks in the world and is exclusive to Japan. Inspired by the mysteries and adventures of the sea, the park features beautifully designed themed ports, spectacular shows, gentle rides, and family-friendly attractions.
Unlike other Disney parks, Tokyo DisneySea has a more immersive and cinematic atmosphere, making it enjoyable for both adults and young children. Many attractions are suitable for toddlers, and the park is extremely clean, safe, and stroller-friendly. Book your entry in advance !
How to get there:
Take the JR Keiyo Line to Maihama Station, then transfer to the Disney Resort Line monorail to Tokyo DisneySea Station.
7. Pokémon Center
A hit for kids and grown-up fans. Go early or late to avoid crowds.
8. UFO Catcher Arcades
A lot of fun for all ages !
9. Kidzania
If you’re traveling to Tokyo with children aged 3 to 15 years old, KidZania Tokyo is one of the most unique family attractions in the city.
Located in the Toyosu district, this miniature city allows children to step into the shoes of real professionals through more than 100 different jobs and activities. They can become firefighters, police officers, dentists, pilots, chefs, bakers, doctors and much more, all while learning valuable life skills in a fun and immersive environment.
One of the things that makes KidZania so special is its own currency: KidZos. Children earn KidZos by completing jobs and can then spend their money on products and activities throughout the park, giving them a first introduction to managing money.
Another great advantage for international visitors is that more than half of the activities are available in English every Wednesday, making the experience even more accessible for non-Japanese speakers.
Unfortunately, we didn’t visit during this trip because our son was only two years old, which is below the recommended age. However, it’s already at the top of our list for our next trip to Japan, and we can’t wait to experience it together.
10. Sanrio Puroland
If your children love Hello Kitty, My Melody, Cinnamoroll or Kuromi, then Sanrio Puroland is a must-visit during your stay in Tokyo.
Located in Tama, just outside central Tokyo, this indoor theme park celebrates the colorful and adorable world of Sanrio characters. Unlike traditional amusement parks, Sanrio Puroland focuses on immersive experiences, interactive attractions, live performances, themed restaurants and spectacular parades.
Because it is entirely indoors, it’s also one of the best things to do in Tokyo with kids on a rainy day.
Young children will love meeting their favorite characters, while parents can fully embrace Japan’s famous kawaii culture. Every corner of the park is beautifully decorated, making it a fantastic place for family photos.
Next stop : Nikko
After four full nights in Tokyo, we were ready for our next adventure: Nikko. In this post, I share everything you need to know about exploring this charming town with a toddler.
