15 Best Things to Do in Tokyo with Kids:
Top Family Attractions Guide

  • Written by Roi Alfassi
  • Updated October 2025

Tokyo may not seem like the first choice for a family holiday, but this fascinating city won’t leave any child (or adult) indifferent—kids won’t get bored here for a second. Alongside Tokyo’s classic attractions, such as temples, gardens, skyscrapers, observation points, and neighborhoods where you can experience Japanese lifestyle in all its quirks, the city also offers a wealth of special attractions for children: amusement parks, manga and virtual reality complexes, kid-friendly museums, aquariums, zoos, and more.

Here are some attractions and points of interest that both parents and children will especially enjoy:

Tokyo Disneyland

Like all Disney theme parks, Tokyo Disneyland is a children’s paradise. In fact, the resort features two full theme parks. The first is the classic Disneyland, familiar from other parts of the world, with its Main Street filled with shops and restaurants, and six themed lands: Westernland, Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland, Mickey’s Toontown, and Critter Country. In each area you’ll find roller coasters, family rides, shows, restaurants, shops, and of course the chance to meet and take pictures with beloved Disney characters.

Tokyo DisneySea
The second park, DisneySea, is truly unique—it can only be found in Tokyo. Its central theme is the sea, and instead of lands it is divided into seven ports: Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, and Mysterious Island. Most of the attractions, rides, and shows are inspired by water and the ocean, making it a magical and original experience for both kids and adults.

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National Museum of Nature and Science (Tokyo)

Tokyo has several science museums, but the National Museum of Nature and Science, located in Ueno Park, is by far the most kid-friendly. The museum features engaging interactive exhibits on science and nature, including a spectacular dinosaur hall, a large animal diorama with taxidermy displays, and a section dedicated to inventions with life-sized models of cars, airplanes, and satellites. It’s a fascinating way for children (and adults) to learn while exploring.

📍 Address: 7-20 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
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Cup Noodles Museum (Yokohama)

Japan isn’t just about sushi, and the Cup Noodles Museum is proof of that! This fun, hands-on museum is dedicated entirely to ramen noodles. Through interactive exhibits, kids can learn everything about instant noodles and ramen culture: try noodle-making in the mini factory, design and decorate your own cup, cook your personal ramen bowl, taste different noodle types, and even experience being a noodle inside a virtual reality machine. It’s quirky, playful, and educational all at once.

📍 Address: 2-3-4 Shinko, Naka Ward, Yokohama
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Hello Kitty Park (Sanrio Puroland)

Fans of Hello Kitty will be delighted at this indoor theme park in Tama, dedicated entirely to the beloved cat and her friends. Sanrio Puroland is especially recommended for younger children who may not yet be ready for thrilling roller coasters but will enjoy meeting Hello Kitty and other famous Sanrio characters. Visitors can explore Hello Kitty’s house, watch colorful parades and stage shows, and of course, shop for themed souvenirs.

🌐 Book your Hello Kitty Park tickets on Tripadvisor – trusted by millions of travelers

SEGA Joypolis (Odaiba, Tokyo)

Located on Odaiba Island, Joypolis is a massive indoor entertainment complex filled with arcade games, simulators, and virtual reality attractions. It’s a dream come true for video game lovers and tech enthusiasts of all ages. With thrilling rides and interactive gaming experiences, it combines the best of classic SEGA arcade fun with cutting-edge VR adventures.

📍 Address: 1-6-1 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo
🌐 Book your Tokyo SEGA Joypolis tickets today on Tripadvisor.

Ueno Zoo (Tokyo)

Situated next to Ueno Park, Ueno Zoo is Japan’s oldest zoo and remains one of the most popular family attractions. The zoo is well-kept, with spacious enclosures designed to resemble the animals’ natural habitats. It is home to over 400 animal species, including giant pandas, tigers, and gorillas, making it a fantastic outing for children who love wildlife.

📍 Address: 9-83 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo
🌐 Ueno Zoo Official Website

Shinagawa Aquarium (Tokyo)

Among Tokyo’s many aquariums, Shinagawa Aquarium is considered the most impressive. Its highlight is a transparent underwater tunnel, where visitors can walk beneath the water and observe fish, sea turtles, and other marine life up close. The aquarium also features popular dolphin shows, making it a great stop for families.

📍 Address: 3-2-1 Katsushima, Shinagawa City, Tokyo
🌐 Shinagawa Aquarium Official Website

LEGOLAND Discovery Center (Tokyo)

A paradise for LEGO fans, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center showcases miniature models of Tokyo’s famous landmarks built entirely from LEGO bricks. Kids can enjoy a 4D cinema, LEGO-themed rides, and extensive play areas filled with countless LEGO bricks of all sizes and colors to build their own creations.

📍 Address: Decks Tokyo Beach Island Mall, Odaiba, Tokyo
🌐 Get trusted Legoland Discovery Center Tokyo tickets on Tripadvisor

Ghibli Museum (Mitaka, Tokyo)

A must-visit for fans of Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli masterpieces like My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Howl’s Moving Castle. The museum features two permanent exhibitions—one dedicated to pre-cinema animation and another showcasing the creative process behind animated films. There are also special rotating exhibitions, as well as an exclusive mini-theater screening short films produced only for the museum. Note: tickets must be reserved well in advance.

📍 Address: 1-1-83 Simorenjaku, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo
🌐 Ghibli Museum Official Website

Kidzania (Tokyo)

Kidzania is a unique “children’s city” where kids role-play as adults in various professions such as firefighter, chef, engineer, or TV broadcaster. They wear uniforms, practice tasks, and earn a special local currency called KidZos, which they can spend in on-site shops and restaurants. It’s an immersive experience that blends fun and education, perfect for families.

📍 Address: Toyosu Urban Dock LaLaport, Toyosu 2-4-9, North Port 3F, Tokyo
🌐 Kidzania Tokyo Website

Miraikan – The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

Located on Odaiba Island, Miraikan is dedicated to the world of future science and technology. Through interactive exhibits, visitors can explore themes such as climate change, space exploration, robotics, genetics, and astronomy. Highlights include humanoid robots like ASIMO, real-time data displays of Earth’s environment, and hands-on science experiences that fascinate both children and adults.

📍 Address: 2-3-6 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
🌐 Miraikan Official Website

Inokashira Park Boating

For a relaxing break from the city’s fast pace, Inokashira Park offers a peaceful escape with its cherry trees and a beautiful central pond. Visitors can rent rowboats or pedal boats for a tranquil ride surrounded by nature. The park is especially charming in spring during sakura season, when the trees bloom over the lake, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s a family-friendly spot to unwind after busy sightseeing days.

📍 Location: Inokashira Park, Kichijoji area, Tokyo

Theme Restaurants in Tokyo

Tokyo is full of unique theme restaurants and cafés that turn dining into an experience, often making them a highlight for children and families regardless of the food itself.

Animal Cafés
Because many Tokyo residents live in small apartments and can’t keep pets, animal cafés have become a popular way to enjoy the company of animals. Visitors can sip coffee, hot chocolate, or tea while petting cats, dogs, rabbits, or even owls in dedicated cafés. These spots are cozy, interactive, and perfect for kids who love animals.

Animation & Character Restaurants
For fans of Japanese and global characters, Tokyo has themed cafés and restaurants designed around beloved figures. These include the Moomin Café, inspired by the famous Finnish characters, and the Peter Rabbit Garden Café, decorated with whimsical details and character dolls, creating a magical, storybook-like dining atmosphere.

Getting Around Tokyo with Kids

Although Tokyo may seem overwhelming in size, its public transportation system is one of the best in the world—fast, clean, punctual, and surprisingly convenient for families.

How the Train & Subway Systems Work
Tokyo’s transport network is made up of several systems, but the main ones are:

  • JR (Japan Railways): The national rail network. Within Tokyo, JR runs city trains like the famous Yamanote Line, a loop line connecting all major districts. It also links Tokyo with other cities across Japan.

  • Tokyo Metro + Toei Subway: Two underground systems covering central Tokyo and the suburbs. Despite sounding complicated, everything is color-coded, clearly marked in English, and easy to follow with apps like Google Maps or Hyperdia.

Most of Tokyo’s top attractions—Disneyland, Odaiba, Shibuya, Shinjuku, museums, and more—are directly accessible by these networks.

Traveling with Babies or Toddlers

  • Bring a lightweight, compact stroller. Most stations have elevators, but crowds and occasional stairs can make a heavy stroller difficult.

  • Plan your routes ahead of time for smoother navigation.

  • Flexibility is key—Tokyo can be crowded, so allow extra time for moving around with kids.

Smart Transport Cards

  • Use rechargeable IC cards like Suica or Pasmo.

  • They work across trains, subways, buses—and even for snacks at vending machines or purchases in konbini (convenience stores).

  • Just tap at the gate—fast, easy, and avoids lines.

  • A special tourist version, Welcome Suica, doesn’t require a deposit and can be bought at airports or major stations.

  • It’s best to get a separate card for each family member, including kids, to avoid delays when entering stations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Tokyo with Kids

Is Tokyo suitable for a family trip?
Absolutely! Despite its size, Tokyo is very family-friendly, safe, organized, and packed with activities for children of all ages.

What are the must-see attractions with kids in Tokyo?
Top highlights include Tokyo Disneyland, the Ghibli Museum, Hello Kitty Park (Sanrio Puroland), Kidzania, Legoland Discovery Center, and the Miraikan Science Museum—and the list goes on.

What can you do on a rainy day?
Plenty! Options include indoor museums, interactive play centers, theme restaurants, and shopping malls with kids’ activity zones.

What’s the best way to get around the city?
By metro and trains—they’re fast, punctual, and convenient. Be sure to get a Suica card (or Pasmo) and plan routes in advance with apps like Google Maps.

Should you book tickets in advance?
Yes—especially for popular attractions like Disneyland, the Ghibli Museum, Kidzania, and busy indoor play complexes.

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