Things to do with kids in Tokyo

Though not everyone's ideal destination with children, Tokyo is surprisingly well geared towards kids on holiday. With a dazzling array of technological attractions, scientific museums, and a rich and colourful history, children should find there is plenty to explore in Tokyo.

The Baji Equestrian Park is a great place to take kids to watch horse shows and even have a pony ride. For a more exhilarating day out, travellers can head to the Tokyo Dome City, where children can enjoy countless rides and games at the amusement park, and parents can relax and pamper themselves in the spa. The Tokyo Metropolitan Children's Hall is also a great attraction for kids to enjoy. With its indoor gyms, computers, crafts areas, mini-theatre, and rooftop playground, it is Tokyo's largest public facility for children.

On a sunny day, travellers can pack a picnic and the Frisbee and head off to Shinjuku Park, or Hama-Rikyu Sunken Garden for a stroll or just to admire the cherry trees and blossoms. Or for those days when the weather turns bad and outdoor activities for kids are no longer an option, they can visit the Panasonic Center.

Alternatively, it's good to soak up a bit of culture at one of Tokyo's many museums, such as the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, Museum of Maritime Science, or the National Science Museum. Visitors will find a number of skating rinks, sports clubs, and swimming pools dotted around the city.

Tokyo Disney Resort photo

Tokyo Disney Resort

There is plenty of fun to be had at Tokyo Disney Resort, which is reminiscent of the themepark found in California. Opened in 1983, it has gradually developed a character of its ow…

Tokyo Disney Resort

There is plenty of fun to be had at Tokyo Disney Resort, which is reminiscent of the themepark found in California. Opened in 1983, it has gradually developed a character of its own and grown into one of the most popular amusement parks in the world. It offers unique attractions and an interesting fusion of American and Japanese culture, combining novel treats and old favourites among the seven different themed lands. Consisting of Disneyland Park and DisneySea Park, it's the premier attraction for kids in Tokyo.

Website www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp

Inokashira Park photo

Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park is a tranquil oasis amid the bustle of Japan's capital city and is often lauded by locals and visitors as the best urban park in Japan. The park contains a temple d…

Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park is a tranquil oasis amid the bustle of Japan's capital city and is often lauded by locals and visitors as the best urban park in Japan. The park contains a temple dedicated to the goddess of love, a petting zoo and an aquarium, and is lively with musicians, artists and street performers.

One of the more popular attractions in Inokashira Park is the Ghibli Museum, which features displays on popular animated films such as Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke and Howl's Moving Castle. Possibly the best activity to enjoy in Inokashira is a drift in one of the swan-shaped paddle boats around the lake, its reflective water particularly romantic in March and April when overhanging trees are in full bloom.

Tokyo Joypolis photo

Tokyo Joypolis

Kids will be kept busy for hours on end at Tokyo Joypolis, one of the world's most famous theme parks. Apart from all the rides and games, there are several shops and a wide select…

Tokyo Joypolis

Kids will be kept busy for hours on end at Tokyo Joypolis, one of the world's most famous theme parks. Apart from all the rides and games, there are several shops and a wide selection of restaurants to choose from. The park provides hours of entertainment for the whole family and is a wonderful attraction for a rainy day. The queues can get frustratingly long though, so it's best to go during the week, either early in the morning or in the evening.

Website tokyo-joypolis.com