Families who venture beyond the usual tourist trail will discover a more authentic side of Tokyo, where the crowds are sparse and the experiences are unique. These are the best places to visit in Tokyo with kids.
Japan is having a moment, and Tokyo is the star. Anything is possible in this sprawling metropolis, where there’s something to please every type of traveller. Whether you’re a history buff with a love for uncovering the folklore of local shrines, a foodie on a mission to sample all the local delicacies, or a thrillseeker, shopaholic, garden-lover or gacha enthusiast – there’s really something for everyone. Tokyo is a very family-friendly city, and those brave enough to go beyond the big-name attractions will find a treasure trove of hidden gems. From quiet gardens and interesting museums to peaceful shrines and low-key dining spots, these lesser-known places offer a refreshing escape from the crowds. Whether you’re after hands-on activities, educational experiences or simply some green zones to chill out, this guide will take you to all the best secret places to visit in Tokyo.
Tucked away in Bunkyo Ward, Nezu Shrine is a peaceful place of spiritual reflection and one of the most historic places to visit in Tokyo. Dating back nearly 1,900 years, this colourful Shinto sanctuary is famous for its spring Azalea Festival, its tunnels of bright torii gates and lovely architecture. Be sure to check out the Romon and Karamon gates, the main Honden hall, and the Sukibei wall. Although this shrine get very crowded during the flower festival, throughout the rest of the year it is a quiet and peaceful space.
Yomiuriland is one of Tokyo’s lesser-known amusement parks, though its thrilling rides, themed attractions and seasonal events are just as incredible as those of its more famous brethren. Hop on the Bandit roller coaster for a high-speed dash at 110 km/h, or take in beautiful views of Mt. Fuji, Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree from the giant Ferris wheel. In summer, cool off at the waterpark, and in winter, don’t miss ‘Jewellumination’, the Kanto region’s biggest light display, which has dazzling fountain shows and sparkling night-time fun. Catch the scenic Sky Shuttle gondola from Keio Yomiuri-Land Station for an easy entrance!
The Kiyosumi Shirakawa area is a lovely mix of old and new. Start by meandering through the serene Kiyosumi Gardens, one of Tokyo’s best traditional landscapes, and cross the iconic iso-watari stepping stones. Then, head to Kiba Park, home to the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo, which boasts one of the largest collections in the country. After all that culture, unwind with a cup of coffee at one of the area’s many chic cafes.
Take a stroll back through time on Taishakuten-Sando, a 200-metre path that takes you from Keisei Shibamata Station to the Shibamata Taishakuten temple. This retro street was miraculously untouched by WWII air raids, and its original restaurants, shops and wooden buildings have all survived the test of time. While you’re there, be sure to try Shibamata’s signature treat, kusa dango (rice dumplings), and pick up some rice crackers.
Just a 15-minute walk from the bustling streets of Asakusa, Imado Shrine is known as one of the birthplaces of the lucky maneki-neko (beckoning cat). Once dedicated to a war god, legend has it that the maneki-neko folklore began with a poor woman who set her cat free when she couldn’t afford to feed it, then dreamt it told her to make cat-shaped dolls. She did, using imado-yaki pottery, and sold them at the shrine. The figurines brought her luck and prosperity, lifting her out of poverty. With its adorable cat statues, Imado Shrine is one of the most delightful hidden places to visit in Tokyo.
Craving a tasty snack? Head to Joyful Minowa Shopping Street, a 465-metre-long passage in Tokyo where locals and visitors can sample delicious street food such as croquettes and tempura. Built in 1919, this innocuous street has moonlighted as a filming location for local TV shows, movies and music videos. Keep an eye out for the charming kissaten (Japanese-style coffee shops) along the way.
Those seeking a greater understanding of traditional Japanese architecture and history should swing by the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum. Set within the Koganei Park, about 25 minutes west of Shinjuku, this open-air museum was built in 1993 but showcases preserved buildings, such as Meiji-era homes and shops, a traditional bathhouse, farmhouse and an old police box, which have all been relocated here from across Japan. It’s like a walk-through time capsule and one of the best educational places to visit in Tokyo.
Opened in 1983 to honour Emperor Showa’s 50th anniversary, Showa Kinen Park is a patchwork quilt of woodlands, scenic walking trails, and Japanese and Western-style gardens. Located just 30 minutes from central Tokyo, the park sprawls across 180 hectares with flower fields, bike paths, paddleboats, a bonsai museum and playgrounds all open to families. Don’t miss the cherry blossom garden in spring, it’s a great viewing spot away from the chaos of inner Tokyo.
A colourful indoor space comprised of a museum and a play park, Play! Museum is designed to inspire the imaginations of children. Found in Tachikawa City, the museum celebrates pictures and words through rotating exhibitions about picture books, manga, anime, poetry and other installations. Play! Park is an indoor playground featuring unique equipment designed by artists and architects, offering children a creative space to explore and learn through self-directed play. With seven distinct areas, including the Large Plate and the Small Plate, it encourages physical activity and hands-on discovery in a fun, imaginative environment. With four themed shows each year and hands-on workshops, it’s a playful, creative escape from the usual tourist spots.
Japan has one of the world’s most organised and polite social cultures, and the safety and order of this culture is protected by the local police. Just a short walk from Ginza and Yurakucho stations, the Police Museum in Kyobashi is a fun, free museum filled with interactive exhibits. It offers a peek into Japan’s police history and safety culture. Kids can climb into real police vehicles, including motorcycles, patrol cars and a helicopter, making it one of the most engaging and educational places to visit in Tokyo.
Buy a ticket and jump aboard the Tokyo Sakura Tram (Toden Arakawa Line), the last remaining streetcar in the city. Running between Minowabashi and Waseda Stations, this hybrid tram offers passengers a scenic ride through residential areas, hidden alleys and areas of cultural significance. Cherry blossom and rose lovers will particularly enjoy this journey in spring, when beautiful blooms line the route. Plus, with a one-day pass, you can hop on and off as much as you like while exploring Tokyo’s quieter side.
Wander through a life-sized replica of a shitamachi neighbourhood from the late Edo period at the Koto City Fukagawa Edo Museum in Shirakawa. With changing lights that mimic different times of day, visitors get the full experience. The museum is located just a three-minute stroll from Kiyosumi-shirakawa Station.
Dive into Japan’s national sport at the Sumo Museum. This small museum is free to enter and has a curated selection of sumo artefacts on display, such as colourful woodblock prints, official ranking lists and ornate ceremonial aprons. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during a Grand Sumo Tournament, which are held in January, May and September, you’ll be able to see the champions in action – but you’ll need a ticket to enter. It’s one of the unique places to visit in Tokyo and can be found on the first floor of the Ryogoku Kokugikan.
This historic spot gives youngsters a peek into pre-modern life through traditional wooden merchant homes, complete with authentic architecture and interior design. The Shitamachi Museum Annex is a beautifully restored Edo-period liquor store called ‘Old Yoshidaya Sakayaten’ and is free to enter.
Built in the Edo period, the historic Koishikawa Korakuen Garden blends Japanese and Chinese design, with highlights such as the elegant Full Moon Bridge and seasonal blooms, including plum blossoms in late winter, cherry blossoms in spring, flowers in summer and fiery maple leaves in autumn. Easily reached from Iidabashi Station, it’s one of the oldest gardens in the capital, and you’ll find it beside Tokyo Dome City.
Hidden in the heart of Kichijoji, Inokashira Park has a Benzaiten Shrine, dedicated to the goddess of music and good fortune, and a peaceful pond that’s perfect for a rowboat ride. Visitors will also find a zoo, an aquarium, and the beloved Studio Ghibli Museum here, too. With around 500 cherry blossom trees, it’s especially magical in spring, and the century-old park is one of the best places to visit in Tokyo during cherry blossom season.
Tokyo Dome City is an entertainment complex comprising an amusement park, a massive baseball stadium, shops, restaurants, a spa and a hotel. The complex is free to enter with a pay-per-ride set-up for visitors to the amusement park. Take a spin on the Ferris wheel or brave the 80-metre drop tower. Parents can unwind at LaQua, a dreamy spa with hot springs, saunas and beauty treatments. Sports fans, don’t forget to swing by the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum while you’re there.
Bring your appetite to Tsukishima Monja Street, a sizzling food street in Tokyo’s Chuo ward where monjayaki takes centre stage! This softer, gooier cousin of okonomiyaki (a savoury pancake famous in Osaka) is one of Tokyo’s local specialities. This strip of 80 small eateries on Tsukishima Island offers diners the chance to grill their monjayaki at their table on a hot iron plate. Many spots also serve okonomiyaki, so you can taste both and decide which version of this beloved comfort food wins your heart.
What are the best areas to visit in Tokyo?
For first-time visitors to the Japanese capital, the most popular areas to visit are Shibuya, Shinjuku, Asakusa and Ginza. These areas are where you’ll find most of Tokyo’s big-ticket attractions, such as Shibuya Scramble Crossing and Shibuya Sky, Tokyo Skytree, Harajuku, shopping, and various food alleys and neon light-lined streets. However, those on their second or third trip to Tokyo should consider venturing further afield to Ueno, Kagurazaka, Shimokitazawa and Koenji, Kichijoji or day-tripping to Todoroki Valley and Mt. Takao.
How much time should I spend in Tokyo?
One thing many first-time visitors to the city underestimate is how huge it is. Stretching as far as the eye can see towards the horizon, Tokyo is well-connected by trains, but it does take time to get from one place to another. Allow yourself at least a week in Tokyo to see everything on your to-do list in a leisurely manner, or you’ll find yourself rushing through every experience and watching the clock instead of being in the moment.
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This article was produced with content supplied by Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau and is a Holidays with Kids digital exclusive. Be the first to see more exclusive online content by subscribing to the enewsletter below.
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