Tokyo with Kids
🗾 Honest family travel guide
Tokyo can work for families but requires more planning — here's everything you actually need to know before booking: kid-friendly attractions, where to base yourself, stroller realities, and which months to avoid with young children.
Why Tokyo is harder with kids
- ✦Walkable — easier with kids
- ✦Nightlife-heavy vibe (less ideal for young kids)
Best things to do with kids in Tokyo
Shibuya Crossing + Hachiko statue
Tsukiji outer market breakfast
Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa
TeamLab Planets digital art
Day trip to Hakone or Mt. Fuji
Where to stay with kids
For families, apartment rentals beat hotels almost always — kitchen access means breakfast at your own pace and saving on every meal. Look for places with elevators (not all European apartments have them), washing machines, and walking distance to a park or playground. In Tokyo expect $200+/night for family-sized apartments in central areas — book 3+ months ahead.
Practical tips for Tokyo with kids
IC card (Suica/Pasmo) works on all trains, buses, and even vending machines. Get one at the airport.
Bring a lightweight stroller. Cobblestones can be rough — an off-road stroller helps.
Best sushi is at counter restaurants in Tsukiji and Toyosu. Even cheap conveyor sushi is excellent. Dinner culture is family-friendly in most local spots — staff is usually welcoming to kids.
Tokyo is one of the safest big cities on earth. Main warning: don't miss the last train (no Uber alternative cheap).
Best months to visit Tokyo with kids
For families, weather matters more than for solo travellers — extreme heat or cold turns a fun trip miserable fast. The best months for a family trip to Tokyo are March, April, October. Avoid July–August (humidity) and September (typhoons) — uncomfortable weather is hard on young kids.
How many days do you need with kids?
Adults can pack Tokyo into 5 days easily. With kids, plan for 7–8 days minimum — you'll do fewer activities per day (one major sight is enough), build in pool/park afternoons, and need recovery days between big outings.