Planning a family trip to Tokyo can be a lot of fun, but finding activities that truly captivate everyone, from little ones to adults, can be a challenge. We were looking for a unique and memorable experience to share with our five-year-old daughter, and that’s when we decided to visit teamLab Planets. This wasn’t your typical museum; it promised an immersive journey through a world of digital art. In this honest review, I’ll share our family-friendly experience at teamLab Planets in Tokyo, offering insights and tips for other parents considering a visit.
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Our Family’s teamLab Planets Experience
What is teamLab Planets?
Before our visit, I did a bit of research to understand what we were getting into. teamLab Planets is an interactive art museum where you become part of the art itself. Unlike traditional museums, you’re not just looking at paintings on a wall. You’re walking through massive, ever-changing digital installations. The most unique part? You walk barefoot and, in some areas, through water. It’s a sensory experience designed to make you feel completely immersed in the art.
Access to teamLab Planet
teamLab Planets is conveniently located in Toyosu, Tokyo. Getting there is quite easy for families.
By Train: The museum is a one-minute walk from Shin-Toyosu Station on the Yurikamome Line. If you’re coming from the city center, it’s also a 10-minute walk from Toyosu Station on the Tokyo Metro Yurakucho Line. The Yurikamome Line is a scenic, driverless train that offers great views of Tokyo Bay, which our daughter found very exciting!
By Car: If you’re traveling by car, there is paid parking available nearby. However, public transportation is generally the most stress-free option in Tokyo, especially with kids.Parking fee is cash only.
The Good (Pros)
Visiting teamLab Planets with kids was a fantastic decision for several reasons. The “wow” factor for both my daughter and my husband was immense. Here are a few things that made our visit so special:
Completely Interactive: My daughter loved that she could be a part of the art. In the “Crystal Universe” room, she giggled with delight as she moved through a sea of sparkling, hanging lights. Her movements and our collective presence seemed to influence the art, which was a huge draw.
Sensory Adventure: The feeling of walking on different surfaces and especially through water was an unforgettable experience. The “Drawing on the Water Surface Created by the Dance of Koi and People – Infinity” exhibit was a highlight. My daughter loved splashing through the water as vibrant digital koi fish swam around her.
Awe-Inspiring Art: The scale of the art is breathtaking. The “Floating Flower Garden” room, with its thousands of real orchids hanging from the ceiling, was magical. The scent and the visual beauty were overwhelming in the best way.
Multilingual Staff: When we visited, about 80% of the guests were from overseas. The staff were also multilingual, and it seemed they could switch languages to accommodate guests, which made us feel very comfortable.
The Not-So-Good (Cons)
While our visit was overwhelmingly positive, there were a few challenges that other parents should be aware of.
- Crowds and Lines: teamLab Planets is incredibly popular. Even with timed tickets, we experienced lines to enter and to get into some of the more famous exhibits. Navigating through the crowds with a small child required a lot of patience. We had tickets for the 9:00 to 9:30 AM entry slot, and because it was right after opening, the wait was relatively short. It definitely gets more crowded as the day goes on, so booking a 9:00 AM ticket is highly recommended. The inside of the facility was also relatively less crowded. In the summer, the waiting area can get very hot, so it’s essential to bring a fan, cold drinks, or a hat to prevent heatstroke.
- Dark and Disorienting Spaces: Some of the rooms are very dark, and the reflective floors can be disorienting. My daughter was a little nervous in some of the darker spaces, so we had to hold her hand tightly and reassure her. This might be a concern for very young children.
Practical Tips for Families
To make your visit as smooth as possible, here are some tips based on our experience.
Booking Tickets: Buying tickets in advance is a must. We found it convenient to book through Klook. Tickets can sell out, especially on weekends and holidays, so we recommend booking early. Booking a timed entry slot will save you a lot of time and hassle.
What to Wear: You will be required to remove your shoes, so wear socks that are easy to take off and put on. The water in some of the exhibits comes up to knee-height on a small child, so I highly recommend wearing shorts or pants that can be rolled up.
Preparing for the Water Room: The water wasn’t too cold, perhaps because it was summer when we went. Since the water comes up to your knees, it’s a good idea to bring a change of clothes for your child. Towels are provided on-site, and it seems they also have rental shorts for adults.
Navigating the Exhibits: Go at your own pace. There’s no rush to see everything. Take your time and let your child explore the spaces they enjoy most. If a room seems too crowded or overwhelming, it’s okay to skip it and come back later.
Strollers and Belongings: Strollers are not allowed inside the main exhibit areas. Lockers are available in front of each exhibit area to store your belongings, shoes, and coats. Pack light and only bring what you absolutely need.
The Cafe: After we finished exploring, we stopped by the outdoor cafe. The prices were a bit high, so we just got some ice cream and juice for a break. They also sold vegan ramen, muffins, drinks, and cookies, all of which looked delicious.
A Child’s Perspective
My 5-Year-Old’s Favorite Parts
Seeing teamLab Planets through my daughter’s eyes was the most rewarding part of the experience. It wasn’t about art history or the technology behind it; it was about pure, unfiltered wonder.
She was absolutely captivated by the “Drawing on the Water Surface” exhibit. The sensation of walking in the water was so new to her, and she giggled with joy as the colorful fish swam around her legs. She even tried to chase them, which was hilarious to watch.
There’s also a slide that she went on about five times, having a blast. At the end of the slide, a video of fireworks appears. Additionally, there were many physical activities that she enjoyed, such as climbing on uneven ground and crossing a shaky rope ladder (sneakers are essential for this part).
Another activity she loved was where you can color in drawings of sea creatures or airplanes and then have them projected onto a large screen. My daughter was thrilled with all the interactive elements.
The Verdict: Is teamLab Planets Worth It for a Family?
So, would I recommend teamLab Planets for a family with kids? My answer is a resounding yes. While it has its challenges, the experience is truly unique and unforgettable. It’s an opportunity for children to engage with art in a way they never have before. It’s a place where they can be part of the magic, not just spectators. For families looking for a memorable experience in Tokyo, this is a must-do.
Despite the crowds and the dark spaces, the sheer joy and wonder on my daughter’s face made every moment worth it. Our visit to teamLab Planets was a truly magical and memorable experience for our family, and it’s one we’d highly recommend for anyone with children.
