Tokyo, a fascinating metropolis where tradition and modernity coexist, is an ideal destination for a family vacation. Here’s a suggested 5 days in Tokyo itinerary to explore the Japanese capital with kids, offering activities suitable for all ages.
Day 1: Immerse Yourself in History and Culture
Start your 5 days in Tokyo itinerary by delving into its history. Visit the Imperial Palace Gardens with Context Travel. Ask for Rafael: he’s an architect whose drawings will captivate your children. Starting your trip this way helps understand the city’s history early on, and mornings are usually less tiring for kids.
Ueno Park offers a lovely stroll, especially when the lotus flowers are in bloom. It also houses the vast Tokyo National Museum, which has some child-friendly activities.
For younger kids (2-8 years old), an alternative is the Tokyo Toy Museum is a delightful interactive museum showcasing toys from around the world, with a special focus on Japanese toys.
Early in your trip, visit a tourist information office near Tokyo Station for Sumo information (see below) and free origami workshops. In Tokyo Station, you’ll find anime and manga shops in Tokyo Character Street. However, for a more extensive experience, consider Akihabara if you have time. Dine at the Pokémon Center Tokyo DX if your kids are Pokémon fans (note: reservations may be required a month in advance).
Day 2: Traditional Tokyo and Pop Culture
Immerse yourselves in the traditional atmosphere of Asakusa, visiting Senso-ji Temple and wandering through Nakamise-dori shopping street. Avoid weekends as the crowds can be overwhelming.
For anime and manga fans, Akihabara is a paradise. Book an Anime Hipster Tour on Airbnb for a unique and fun perspective with a friendly Japanese guide, Ai, who’s great with kids.
Day 3: Odaiba and Modernity
Before heading to Odaiba, enjoy the tranquility of Hama-Rikyu Garden, a traditional Japanese garden offering a striking contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers. If time allows, have tea at the teahouse in the middle of the pond.
Walk to Shimbashi Station to reach Odaiba. Discover the modern Shiodome district with its elevated walkways and let the kids ride the Yurikamome Line.
Odaiba, an artificial island, is packed with family attractions. TeamLab, a digital art museum with interactive exhibits, will delight the whole family. Lego fans will love Legoland Discovery Center.
Toyosu Wholesale Fish Market: To fully experience the market, arrive early (around 6 AM). The new building has informative panels, but the early morning atmosphere is the real highlight. The vegetable market’s restaurants offer more local and authentic cuisine than the fish market.
Visit the Fuji Television Network building for its unique architecture and stunning views of Tokyo Bay.
Day 4: Tradition and Art
Start your day with a unique experience: watching a sumo training session at Ryōgoku Kokugikan Sumo Stadium. Be amazed by the strength and agility of these athletes.
Immerse yourself in the art of Hokusai at his museum. Admire his famous ukiyo-e prints and learn about his life. Interactive screens will engage your children, teaching them about his techniques. Afterward, let them burn off energy in the playground.
Conclude your day with panoramic views of Tokyo from the Tokyo Skytree. While the top floor offers a higher vantage point, the first floor provides already a breathtaking panorama.
Day 5: Modernity and Tradition
End your trip with a stroll through the trendy Shibuya district. If your kids love animals, visit a cat, dog, or mini-pig café (like Mipig Harajuku, but book in advance). Alternatively, enjoy a 3D café like “Cafe Reissue” (3D characters sculpted from chocolate mousse, but arrive early to avoid crowds).
Cross the iconic Shibuya Crossing and enjoy the view from the 1st floor of Starbucks.
Visit Meiji Shrine, nestled in a beautiful forest in the heart of Tokyo. On weekends, you’ll see families in traditional attire for wedding ceremonies.
Additional Activities for your 5 days in Tokyo itinerary
- Ninja experience: Fun for kids to discover the world of ninjas.
- Onsen: Traditional Japanese hot springs, usually segregated by gender and requiring nudity (or a towel).
- Zōjō-ji Temple with its beautiful garden and windmill cemetery.
- The peaceful and traditional Yanaka district with its cemetery.
This 5 days in Tokyo itinerary also offers a culinary adventure!
Let’s explore some fun and tasty foods to share with your kids!
- Sushi: the most famous Japanese food, for kids you can take crab sushi or vegetable maki.
- Sukiyaki: Hot pots prepared by searing beef slices in the hot pot, then adding and different vegetables and noodles
- Ramen: Noodle soup with a savory broth. There are four main ramen broth bases: soy sauce, salt, miso, and pork bone.
- Tempura: Deep-frying seafood or vegetables coated in a light batter.
- Donburi: Rice bowl almost as popular as ramen: various meat, fish and/or vegetables and served over steamed rice in large bowls.
- Gyoza: Japanese dumplings filled with ground meat and/or vegetables usually pan-fried. They’re originally from China but they’ve become very popular in Japan as well.
- Yakitori: Skewers of grilled meat
- Dorayaki: Pancake sandwich with sweet red bean paste
- Mochi: Sweet cakes made with glutinous rice flour filled with fruits, red bean…
- Mille crepe: Crepe layered sweets filled with custard or fresh cream.
