Thinking about a family trip to Tokyo? Here are three, family friendly stops that will entertain everyone in tow.
Legoland Discovery Center – This attraction is spread out over multiple floors and offers a nice variety of rides, shows and play areas. Purchase tickets in advance online to save some cash and time waiting in line when you visit. If possible, go on a weekday to avoid crowds. We loved the 4D movie however, it is in Japanese and it is VERY loud. Mini City is also neat as this Lego replica of Tokyo transforms from day to night.
MAKE A DAY OF IT: Start with a walk through Hamarikyu Gardens. From there, you can easily grab a water taxi to the man-made island of Odaiba, where Legoland Discovery Center is located along with tons of other shops, restaurants and attractions.
National Museum of Nature & Science – This stop has so much to offer and is easy on the wallet, too. Admission is just 620 yen for adults and kids are admitted free through high school. My suggestion is to head over to the Global Gallery first, it is the newer part of the museum and has a bit more to offer young kids.. Stop at information first to see if you can secure a time slot for the brand new play space located on the third floor. The extensive dinosaur exhibit is also located within the Global Gallery. The main building has that classic museum feel boasting stained glass windows and beautiful architecture. It also houses Theatre 360 (an imax-type experience) that is really unique and a must do.
MAKE A DAY OF IT: After perusing the museum, take a walk through Ueno Park, conveniently located right outside! There is a beautiful fountain where street performers entertain onlookers with magic, juggling and music. If you’re looking to let the kids burn off more energy while you refuel, there is a playground right behind the Starbucks. The Ueno Zoo and a handful of art museums are also housed within the Park.
Kodomonyu Playcenter – This adorable play space is based upon a traditional onsen, (hot spring bath
house). In lieu of water, plastic balls are in place and it is pristine (read: no chewed on or sticky balls in the pit). There is also a mock market where kids can dress up like a shop keeper or sushi chef for pretend play. A small arcade and snack shop is on site as well. The admission charge is per hour and I found about an hour was more than enough time to spend in the space.
MAKE A DAY OF IT: Kodomonyu is located within Sky Tree Town, a huge complex of restaurants, shops, and attractions including an aquarium. You can easily spend a full day here alternating between activities everyone will enjoy. Also, as the name implies, The Sky Tree is located on site as well. The Sky Tree is the world’s second tallest structure. Personally, I didn’t think it was a great family activity, but it is stroller friendly unlike the Burj Khalifa so if tall structures are your thing, enjoy!
Tokyo is really a great place for families! I hope that the ideas above show how you can easily mix sightseeing with kid friendly attractions.
Have you been to Tokyo with kids? If so, we would love to hear what were some of your favorite, family friendly spots as well!
If you want some more tips to discover this wonderful city, check out our Tokyo destination guide!