Exploring a city like Tokyo with the people you love is a memory you’re sure to cherish for years to come, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy to find activities for the whole family to enjoy. Until now…
We’ve selected some of the best family-friendly things to do in Tokyo, giving you and the little ones some unforgettable experiences that will have you taking home more than the usual souvenirs.
You’ll learn how to create delicious Japanese sweets, get your arts and crafts on with a couple of workshops, and see a different side of Tokyo as you cycle through the backstreets. Your family adventure through Japan is only just beginning!
Kid-friendly things to do in Tokyo
- Taste the family-friendly treats of taiyaki
- Make memories in a mochi-making class
- Learn to make the famous Japanese fake food samples
- Practice the art of amezaiku candy sculpting
- Take a family-friendly bike tour of Tokyo’s backstreets
- Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
1. Taste the family-friendly treats of taiyaki
With its soft, chewy texture, cute fish-shaped design and a sweet filling, taiyaki is an especially kid-friendly Japanese wagashi sweet — fancy learning how to make taiyaki for yourself with the little ones?
Starting with an easy-to-follow instructional video, you’ll feel like an expert before you even start making the taiyaki dough from scratch. You’ll then pour this dough into the iconic taiyaki hot plate, turning the fresh dough into adorable fish-shaped waffles that are ready for filling with authentic Japanese tools.
With six freshly-baked taiyaki, you can create a tantalizing taiyaki tower, topped with fluffy whipped cream and chocolate sauce. Though usually filled with the traditional anko (red bean paste) or custard, you can also bring your own ingredients if you’re feeling creative; stuff your taiyaki with cheese, Japanese curry, natto, kimchi — only your imagination is the limit.
Book this family-friendly taiyaki-making experience!
2. Make memories in a mochi-making class
Another famous Japanese sweet is the bouncy, gooey delights of mochi, something the entire family will be able to replicate after this mochi-making class. Plus, since these sweets are usually made from plant-based ingredients, this is a great vegan-friendly and gluten-free cooking class in Tokyo.
Guided by a local mochi master, you’ll learn how to make four different types of mochi from scratch, including strawberry daifuku mochi and dango mochi, while your teacher will also show you how to make ice-cream mochi and warabi mochi.
Finally, pair your chewy desserts with a classic cup of matcha green tea. Simple pleasures.
Book this mochi-making class in Tokyo for the whole family!
3. Learn to make the famous Japanese fake food samples
You know those fake Japanese food samples you’ve been seeing in the windows of all restaurants and cafes? Well, with the help of Yamato Sample Factory, you’ll learn how to make fake food samples for yourself; you’re in good hands, they’ve been making realistic food replicas since 1952.
Beginning with a 5-minute introduction to Japanese fake food samples and a 5-minute food sample tour before giving you 40 minutes to create your own fake food — ranging from fruit tarts and ramen bowls to parfaits — this speedy family-friendly experience is ideal for slotting into your day around other plans!
Nothing beats a souvenir from Tokyo that you made with your own two hands.
Craft family memories in this Japanese fake food workshop!
4. Practice the art of amezaiku candy sculpting
Try your hand at the awe-inspiring craft of amezaiku candy sculpting, based in a candy art studio in the historic “Old Tokyo” area of Asakusa. Tell the kids to “hop to it!” as you learn how to sculpt your own candy rabbit.
You’ll have two practice runs with the soft candy known as mizuame, using specialized scissors and tweezers to sculpt the candy into shape. After those two attempts, it’s the real deal — craft your final rabbit candy, decorate it with food coloring and decide…
Do you want to eat it on the spot or take it home as a souvenir?
Book this kid-friendly candy sculpting experience!
5. Take a family-friendly bike tour of Tokyo’s backstreets
Take the family on an unforgettable bike tour through central Tokyo, breezing down hidden alleyways while your guide regales you with local stories and insights of life in Tokyo.
You’ll also get to try traditional Japanese foods from charming mom-and-pop shops and Tokyo street food stalls along the way, savoring everything from sakuramochi to takoyaki (battered octopus balls). It’s only fair that your taste buds get to take a cycle around Tokyo as well.
Visiting in cherry blossom season? From the end of March to the beginning of April, you'll cycle under sakura (cherry blossom trees). Lucky you.
Book this family-friendly bike tour of Tokyo!
6. Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony
Immerse your family in a centuries-old tradition and join this Japanese tea ceremony in Tokyo, complete with kimono for a truly authentic experience — it’s a bonus that they look extra special for family photo shoots.
Feel like you’re stepping into the past with an expert introduction to the culture and history of the Japanese tea ceremony. As you relax on the tea house’s tatami-mat flooring, watch as matcha green tea is prepared in precise movements before being paired with the delicate sweetness of wagashi sweets.
But don’t get too relaxed, you’ll also have the opportunity to prepare and serve your own matcha.
Book a Japanese tea ceremony experience as a family!
While the family is in Tokyo, make the most of the metropolis with a few more Tokyo cooking classes, things to do in Harajuku, and the best vegan restaurants, perfect for any plant-based little ones.
Family-friendly Tokyo FAQs
Is Tokyo a suitable destination for families with children?
Absolutely! Tokyo offers a plethora of family-friendly attractions, activities and amenities that cater to visitors of all ages.
What are some must-visit family-friendly attractions in Tokyo?
From Disneyland and DisneySea to Ueno Zoo and Odaiba's TeamLab Borderless, Tokyo is packed with attractions that will keep the whole family entertained.
Are there any kid-friendly restaurants in Tokyo?
Yes, Tokyo has numerous restaurants that are kid-friendly, offering children's menus, play areas and even character-themed dining experiences.
How can families get around Tokyo with children?
Utilize Tokyo's efficient public transportation system, including trains and buses, which are stroller-friendly and make it easy to navigate the city with little ones.
Are there any parks or green spaces in Tokyo where families can relax and play?
Yes, Tokyo has beautiful parks like Shinjuku Gyoen and Yoyogi Park where families can enjoy picnics, playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run around.
