Thinking about taking your kids to Tokyo? The idea can be intimidating. Images of packed trains, a complex subway map, and crowded sidewalks might make you second-guess it as a family destination. “Can I even get on a train with a stroller?” “Will my kids find anything to eat?” “Will they just be bored?”
Don’t worry. Here’s the truth we discovered: with the right planning, Tokyo might just be one of the most comfortable and exciting cities in the world for family travel.
Of course, it has its challenges. But the benefits far outweigh the hassles. Tokyo is filled with endless opportunities to see your child’s eyes light up with wonder. In this guide, we’re sharing the real pros, cons, and essential tips for tackling this incredible city as a family.
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The Pros and Cons of a Tokyo Family Trip
Let’s get right to it. Here’s the honest breakdown of what international families need to know.
The Pros:
- World-class public transport. The network of trains, buses, and taxis is vast, and accessibility (especially elevators in stations) is far better than you might imagine.
- A limitless supply of kid-friendly attractions. From ancient temples and zoos to cutting-edge digital art and massive parks, you can build a perfect itinerary for any age.
- Accommodation options are almost overwhelming (in a good way). You can find everything from luxury hotels with full-service kids’ amenities to spacious Airbnbs with kitchens and laundry.
- The food scene is incredible for families. You’re never far from conveyor-belt sushi, udon noodles, or high-quality food halls, making mealtime easy and delicious.
- The infrastructure for “just in case” moments is perfect. Convenience stores (konbini) and drugstores are literally everywhere, giving you immense peace of mind for sudden fevers or forgotten supplies.
The Cons:
- Morning and evening rush hour is a “hard no.” This is an unimaginable level of crowding. You should consider it impossible to board with a stroller or small children.
- You’ll cover a lot of ground. The best sights are spread out across the city, and trying to pack too much into one day will lead to meltdowns (from both kids and parents).
- Popular spots require reservations and serious planning. You can’t just “show up” to places like teamLab, the Ghibli Museum, or popular character cafes. You must book weeks or even months in advance.
- It’s expensive. The cost of hotels, transportation, and activities is noticeably higher than in other Japanese cities. You’ll need to budget accordingly.
“Getting Around is Hard,” Right? Why Tokyo’s Transit is Surprisingly Family-Friendly
For many visitors, Tokyo’s “commute” is the biggest source of anxiety. While the map looks like a bowl of colorful spaghetti, it’s surprisingly manageable if you know a few tricks.
Getting from the Airport
Tokyo has two main international airports.
Haneda Airport (HND): This is the close-in airport. It’s incredibly convenient, with the Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail getting you to central hubs like Shinagawa in just 20-30 minutes. Being able to get your tired child to the hotel quickly after a long flight is a massive win.
Narita Airport (NRT): This one is further out (about 1 to 1.5 hours from the city). However, it is served by the very comfortable “N’EX (Narita Express)” reserved-seat train, which goes directly to major stations like Tokyo, Shinagawa, Shinjuku, and Shibuya, making it easy even with luggage.
Both airports also offer “Limousine Bus” services that go directly to major hotels. This is an excellent, stress-free option if you have a lot of luggage and don’t want to deal with any transfers.
Getting Around the City (Public Transit)
You don’t need to fear the subway map. Apps like Google Maps are 100% accurate and will tell you exactly which platform, which train, and even which car is closest to the elevator at your destination.
What will truly impress you is the accessibility. Every single major station I’ve used (Tokyo, Ueno, Shinjuku, etc.) is equipped with elevators. We used a stroller for years in this city with very few problems. Feel confident bringing yours.
The golden rule, however, is AVOID RUSH HOUR AT ALL COSTS. On weekdays, this is roughly 7:30 AM–9:30 AM and 5:30 PM–7:30 PM. The trains are crushed to a level that is unsafe and impossible with a stroller or small children.
We make it a strict policy to travel after 10:00 AM (after a leisurely hotel breakfast) and to be back at our hotel by 4:00 PM, or to eat an early dinner and travel after 8:00 PM. This single strategy makes the difference between a stressful commute and a comfortable ride.
Getting Around the City (Taxis & Ride-Sharing)
When public transit feels like too much, taxis are your best friend. Tokyo has plenty of them, and apps like Uber work well (primarily for hailing licensed taxis, not private cars). The local “GO” app is also very popular.
It costs more than the train, but in family travel, you are often “buying” your child’s stamina and your own sanity. Taxis are especially useful for “last mile” trips, like getting from a station to a specific restaurant on a rainy day.
Never Worry About Where to Stay: Tokyo’s Diverse Lodging for Families
Hotel Options
Many of the large city hotels and luxury brands offer “co-sleeping” for free (often for children under 6 or 12, but check the policy). They also provide cute kids’ amenities like little toothbrushes and slippers.
A key feature to look for in Japanese hotels is a “washing-area bathroom.” Unlike typical Western hotel bathrooms where the shower is in the tub, these have a separate, waterproof “washing area” next to the bathtub. This makes bathing small children incredibly easy and clean.
The Magic of Airbnb
Lately, our family has gravitated towards Airbnbs with a full kitchen and, most importantly, a washer/dryer.
In a hotel, I’m constantly worried if my kids’ excited stomping or loud talking is bothering the room next door. In our own private apartment, we can all relax.
And the washer/dryer? It’s a complete game-changer. Kids are messy. Being able to run a load of laundry every night means you can pack half the clothes you normally would, dramatically reducing the stress (and weight) of your luggage.
For location, I’d recommend skipping the hectic centers of Shinjuku or Shibuya. Instead, look at areas that are still central but a bit calmer, like Ueno (near the park and museums), the Tokyo Station/Shinagawa area (great for airport/Shinkansen access), or Toyosu (near teamLab and KidZania).
Thrills for Kids (and Adults!): The Best Family-Friendly Activities in Tokyo
Any worry about kids being bored in Tokyo will vanish on day one. The only hard part is narrowing down the options.
Traditional Culture & Nature
- Asakusa (Senso-ji Temple): You just have to see it. The giant red lantern at the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and the colorful snacks and souvenirs on Nakamise-dori street are captivating for kids. Be warned: it is very crowded. Hold onto those little hands tightly.
- Ueno Park & Zoo: Seeing the famous giant pandas is a thrill for any kid. The surrounding Ueno Park is massive and also home to the National Museum of Nature and Science (with dinosaur skeletons!).
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: It’s hard to believe this sprawling, beautiful oasis is in the middle of one of the world’s busiest city wards. It’s the perfect place to let a high-energy kid just run free. Bring a picnic blanket and some snacks.
Modern Tech & Art
- Tokyo SKYTREE: Kids who love high places will be glued to the window on the observation deck. “The cars look like tiny toys!” The Sumida Aquarium at its base is also fantastic and very kid-friendly.
- teamLab Planets (Toyosu): This will likely be the highlight of the trip for your kids. You walk barefoot through the exhibits, wading through water in one room and getting lost in an infinite space of crystal lights in another. It’s a total sensory experience. You absolutely must book tickets in advance; weekends sell out weeks ahead.
Weather-Proof Indoor Fun
Rain happens. But in Tokyo, a rainy day doesn’t ruin your plans. The city is full of enormous indoor play spaces, like Asobono at Tokyo Dome City or KidZania Tokyo (a theme park where kids can try different jobs). These are wildly popular with local families.
No-Compromise Meals: Tokyo’s Amazing Food Scene for Families
Let’s be honest: one of the best parts of travel is the food. But with kids, you’re always wondering, “Will they eat anything?”
Tokyo solves this problem beautifully.
First, the variety. Conveyor-belt sushi (kaiten-zushi), udon, soba, ramen shops are on every corner, and most are fully equipped with high chairs and kids’ cutlery.
But the real secret weapon for families, especially those from overseas, are the department store restaurant floors and Depachika.
The restaurant floors (usually near the top of any major department store) have every cuisine imaginable (Japanese, Western, Chinese) and almost always have okosama ranchi (kid’s set menus).
And the Depachika… this is the basement food hall, and it is a gourmet paradise. You can get gorgeous bento boxes, gourmet salads, fresh bread, and amazing desserts all in one place.
For those times when your child is too tired for a restaurant, or you just want a quiet night in, grabbing food from the Depachika to eat back in your hotel room is the ultimate family travel hack.
Solving “Uh Oh” Moments: Tokyo’s Infrastructure is a Parent’s Best Friend
Finally, the thing that truly convinces us that Tokyo is family-friendly is its infrastructure.
The Peace of Mind of Konbini and Drugstores
This is on another level compared to any other city in the world. The “always open, always there” convenience stores and drugstores are a psychological safety net.
“Oops, I forgot their drink.” “She just scraped her knee and needs a Band-Aid.” “I think she feels a little warm… I need a cooling patch.”
In Tokyo, these minor travel panics are solved within a few minutes’ walk. You can get diapers, wipes, baby food, kids’ medicine, and anything else you might have forgotten.
Amazing Accessibility
I already mentioned the elevators, but this extends to family-friendly restrooms. Every department store, mall, and major station has “multipurpose” or family restrooms that are spacious, clean, and equipped with changing tables. Many also have clean, private nursing rooms. Just knowing you’ll always find a safe spot for a diaper change or a potty break removes so much stress.
Tokyo Isn’t “Tough on Kids”—It’s a Perfect Family Trip, If You Plan It Right.
So, should you be nervous about a family trip to Tokyo? No. We can now say with confidence: We absolutely recommend it.
Yes, as I listed in the cons, you need to be smart. You have to plan ahead to avoid rush hour and book popular attractions. If you just show up with no plan, you will probably be overwhelmed by the crowds and the pace.
But if you clear that low hurdle, you’ll find that Tokyo is a phenomenal destination. It’s a city that ignites a child’s curiosity at every turn, supports parents with world-class infrastructure, and offers food and lodging for literally every taste and budget.
Book your tickets, plan your days, and go. You and your kids will make stimulating, unforgettable memories.
