Expats in Tokyo will find themselves in a high-tech global hub rich in culture, technology and innovation. This multicultural setting allows expat children and families to interact with a diverse population, often finding friends who share their home language.
Tokyo offers an array of parks, playgrounds and gardens perfect for walking, cycling and picnic outings. Notably, most of these places are close to cafés and snack stands, offering a delightful selection of treats like sushi rolls, matcha ice cream and takoyaki.
The sky's the limit when it comes to opportunities for education and fun excursions available to families living in Tokyo.
Kid-friendly attractions in Tokyo
There are several noteworthy landmarks and venues to visit in Tokyo.
Located on the outskirts of the city is the Ghibli Museum, showcasing the works of the world-famous Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli. Though the museum itself is indoors, its architectural design and interactive exhibits make it a must-visit for families.
The Imperial Palace and its surrounding gardens offer an enchanting walk. Although the palace is primarily a residence for the royal family and is only open to the public on specific days, the gardens are always welcoming.
Arts and entertainment for expat families in Tokyo
Expat children and their parents will enjoy the Edo-Tokyo Museum, where they can learn about the city's history and culture. For manga and anime fans, a visit to the Tokyo Anime Center in Akihabara is a must. Here, you can explore exhibitions, purchase merchandise and even participate in anime-related events.
Kids will particularly enjoy the Tokyo Toy Museum and KidZania. The former offers a variety of vintage and modern toys, while the latter is an interactive city for kids where they can try different jobs and earn currency.
While these institutions are particularly child-friendly, Tokyo's numerous art and science museums also frequently offer activities for children.
Child-friendly dining in Tokyo
Tokyo is not short of family-friendly dining options. Izakaya restaurants are typically quite spacious and lively, serving a variety of dishes such as yakitori, sashimi and ramen, among traditional Japanese fare. If needed, many establishments provide child-friendly menus and high chairs. With Tokyo's global food scene, international cuisine is also widely available throughout the city.