Best District to Stay in Tokyo with Kids

We totally get it. Choosing the best district to stay in Tokyo with kids is a big decision. You have so many factors to consider, like convenience, environment, and specific needs like school accessibility. We’re here to help! This article will break down the best districts in Tokyo for families. We’ll help you choose the right district and plan activities that cater to both adults and children. We want to make sure you have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Tokyo with your family!

I. Top 5 Best Districts in Tokyo for Families

1) Asakusa

Asakusa is a good choice for families because it’s quieter and has cultural attractions. It’s less busy than other areas like Shibuya or Shinjuku. Staying near Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street makes it easy to find family-friendly activities and dining options. Asakusa is also easy to get to from other parts of Tokyo.

1.1 Kid-Friendly Spots in Asakusa

Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street: This iconic temple and its surrounding shopping street are great for kids to explore. The area is pedestrian-friendly and offers plenty of interesting sights and snacks.
Sumida Aquarium: Located near the Tokyo Skytree, this aquarium is a hit with children due to its interactive exhibits and diverse marine life.
Hanayashiki Amusement Park: Known as Japan’s oldest amusement park, Hanayashiki offers a variety of rides and attractions suitable for young children.
Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center: This center provides useful information and has an observation deck offering views of the area, which can be exciting for kids.
Playgrounds and Parks: There are several small parks and playgrounds around Asakusa where children can play and take a break from sightseeing.

1.2 Family-Friendly Hotels in Asakusa

Guest House Wagokoro: Recommended for families, this guest house offers quadruple rooms which are necessary if your children need their own beds.
Toyoko Inn Asakusa: A reliable chain known for clean and affordable rooms, often located in good neighborhoods.
Akihabara Nakagawa Inn: Another recommended option, though it’s slightly further from Asakusa, it offers family-friendly accommodations.

1.3 Things to Do with Kids in Asakusa

You’ll absolutely love Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street!
The Sumida Aquarium and Tokyo Skytree are also must-sees!
You can even enjoy traditional crafts like indigo dyeing.
Riding a rickshaw around the area is a great way to see the sights!
Just a heads-up, animal cafes are best avoided due to ethical concerns.

1.4 Tips for Navigating with Kids in Asakusa

Asakusa has narrow passages and stairs, which can be challenging with strollers. Use a baby carrier or foldable stroller to make it easier. The new Asakusa-Akihabara line makes travel more convenient.
Finish main activities early and leave afternoons for rest or exploring. You can change plans based on how the kids are doing.
Look for restaurants that are child-friendly. Many restaurants in Asakusa cater to families, but it’s always good to check in advance.

2) Sugamo

Sugamo is another great choice for families. It has Jizo Dori, a long shopping street with lots of shops and restaurants. Sugamo is also on the Yamanote Line, making it easy to get around Tokyo. This area is perfect for families who want a quiet neighbourhood with a local feel.

2.1 Kid-Friendly Spots in Sugamo

One notable attraction is Jizo Dori, a long shopping street that feels very local and less crowded than other popular shopping streets in Tokyo.
Sunshine City, a significant mall, provides various activities suitable for all ages, including plenty of seating areas for rest.

2.2 Family-Friendly Hotels in Sugamo

Flexstay Inn Sugamo: This hotel is mentioned as a decent option with a good selection of nearby restaurants. It might be suitable for a short-term stay with family.
Local Business Hotels: Business hotels like those in the APA chain are generally clean and sufficient, but they might not be spacious enough for a family of five.

2.3 Things to Do with Kids in Sugamo

Visit Sakura Onsen in Sugamo. This onsen has indoor and outdoor baths, relaxation rooms, massage chairs, and a restaurant. It’s a great place for parents and kids to relax after a day of exploring.
The Tokyo Sakura Tram runs through Sugamo and offers a unique way to see different parts of Tokyo. The tram passes by old shopping streets, temples, parks, and small cafes. It’s a fun and educational ride for children.

2.4 Tips for Navigating with Kids in Sugamo

Tokyo’s public transportation is efficient and saves time. Sugamo is on the Yamanote Line, making it easy to reach other parts of Tokyo.
You can get a taxi outside Sugamo Station. It’s a good option for traveling with kids and seniors.
Areas like Sugamo are less overwhelming for kids than busier districts like Shibuya or Shinjuku.

3) Akasaka

Akasaka is a good choice if you want to stay near Shibuya and Shinjuku but not in the middle of the action. It has lots of restaurants and shops, and it’s less crowded, so it’s comfortable for families. Akasaka is also easy to get around by public transport.

3.1 Kid-Friendly Spots in Akasaka

Akasaka Sacas: This complex includes shops, restaurants, and seasonal events. During winter, there’s an ice skating rink which could be fun for children.
Hie Shrine: A beautiful shrine with a long set of stairs that kids might find adventurous. The shrine also has a small playground area.
Akasaka Biz Tower: Offers various dining options and sometimes hosts family-friendly events.

3.2 Family-Friendly Hotels in Akasaka

We all know that finding the right accommodation is crucial when travelling with kids. That’s why we’ve put together some recommendations based on parents’ experiences, to make your life a little easier!

Hotel Monterey Akasaka: This hotel offers more spacious rooms compared to typical business hotels.
Mimaru Tokyo Akasaka: Mimaru hotels are designed with families in mind, offering apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes and more space.
Hotel Mystays Premier Akasaka: Conveniently located with a 7-11 on the basement level for easy access to snacks and essentials.
Cocoshuku Premium Akasaka: Offers rooms with kitchenettes and sitting areas, suitable for families with older children.

3.3 Things to Do with Kids in Akasaka

Hie Shrine: A beautiful shrine with a thousand torii gates, great for photos and a cultural experience.
Toyokawa Inari Betsuin: Another nearby shrine that is especially lovely at night.
Harry Potter-themed Shopping Area and Cafe: For Harry Potter fans, this themed area can be a magical experience.

3.4 Tips for Navigating with Kids in Akasaka

Akasaka is well-connected by subway, making it easy to reach other parts of the city. Get a Pasmo or Suica card for easy travel.
Look for places with high chairs and kid-friendly menus. The Tokyo Chapter has great restaurant recommendations for families.
Plan your routes in advance and use a baby carrier.
Hibiya Park is a short subway ride away and is great for kids and parents.

4) Ueno

Ueno is great for families. It’s close to Ueno Park, which has a zoo and museums. Ueno Station is easy to get to from Narita Airport and the Yamanote Line. This means you can easily get to places like Ginza, the Imperial Palace, and Shibuya.

4.1 Kid-Friendly Spots in Ueno

Ueno Zoo: A popular destination for families, Ueno Zoo offers a variety of animals including pandas and lemurs. However, some areas of the zoo may be less appealing due to their basic enclosures.
Ueno Park: This park provides ample space for children to run around, along with attractions like temples, museums, and galleries. It’s a great place for a family day out.
Inokashira Park: Located in Kichijoji, this park features a small zoo and a nice aquarium, making it another good option for families.

4.2 Family-Friendly Hotels in Ueno

Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno: This hotel is highly recommended for its spacious rooms and proximity to Ueno JR station, making it very convenient for transportation.
Hotel Monday Premium Ueno Okachimachi: This hotel is praised for its good location near Ueno station, clean and comfortable rooms, and family-friendly amenities.
Mimaru Tokyo Ueno East: Mimaru hotels are known for their family-friendly rooms and amenities. They offer spacious rooms that can accommodate families comfortably.
Hotel Sunroute Ueno: This hotel is very close to the subway station and has good reviews, making it a convenient and budget-friendly option.

4.3 Things to Do with Kids in Ueno

One of the main attractions in Ueno for families is the Ueno Zoo. It’s Japan’s oldest zoo and home to a wide variety of animals, including pandas, which are a big hit with children.
Ueno Park itself is a fantastic place to spend time with kids. It offers large open spaces for running around, beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring, and several playgrounds.
Ueno is home to several museums that can be both educational and fun for children. The National Museum of Nature and Science has interactive exhibits and dinosaur skeletons that captivate young minds.
Take a stroll through Ameyoko Market. This bustling market street is filled with shops selling everything from fresh produce to clothing and toys. It’s a great place to let kids experience the lively atmosphere and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.

4.4 Tips for Navigating with Kids in Ueno

Ueno is well-connected by public transport, but if you prefer not to use it, consider staying in areas with easy access to taxis or other private transportation options.
In case of rain, explore indoor attractions such as the Tokyo Toy Museum, Asobono, Japan Science Museum, and various aquariums.

5) Shinjuku

Shinjuku Best District in Tokyo for Kids

Shinjuku is busy but also has quiet areas for families. The west side of Shinjuku Station is less crowded and more family-friendly. The main area can be busy, but there are hotels away from the noise with easy access to transportation.

5.1 Kid-Friendly Spots in Shinjuku

Game Arcades and Amusement Parks: Shinjuku has several game arcades that are fun for kids and open late into the night. Round 1 is a chain that offers bowling and other activities.
Tokyo Tower: While not in Shinjuku, it’s a short trip away and offers observation decks that provide stunning views of Tokyo at night.
Karaoke Places: Many karaoke chains like Big Echo have family-friendly rooms, some even equipped with toys and play areas for children. Karaoke PASELA also provides English menus and is known to be accommodating for tourists.

5.2 Family-Friendly Hotels in Shinjuku

The Shinjuku Washington Hotel is a popular choice among families because it is close to the station and quiet. The hotel is on the quiet side of Shinjuku, close to the station but away from the noise. The rooms are small but the area has lots of places to eat and the business district is close by, making it a good choice for families with young children.
Mimaru hotels are great for families with young children. They have big rooms with bunk beds and play areas.

5.3 Things to Do with Kids in Shinjuku

One of the most recommended places for families is Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This large park offers beautiful landscapes and plenty of space for kids to run around and explore. It’s a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets and provides a great opportunity for a family picnic.
The Isetan Department Store is particularly notable for its basement food hall, which features a wide array of delicious foods and treats that kids will enjoy.
If your kids are fans of Godzilla, don’t miss the Godzilla Museum located in Shinjuku. It’s a fun and unique attraction that will surely capture their imagination.

5.4 Tips for Navigating with Kids in Shinjuku

Shinjuku Station is one of the busiest stations in the world, which can be overwhelming with kids. Consider staying near neighboring stations like Shinjuku Sanchome or Higashi Shinjuku for easier access and less crowded environments.
Instead of buying metro passes, use Suica or Pasmo cards which can be used on almost all public transport and even in convenience stores.
If you prefer to avoid exposing your kids to the nightlife scene, consider staying away from Kabukicho and opting for areas like Shibuya or the western/southern sides of Shinjuku.

II. Choosing the Right Neighborhood: What to Consider

1) Neighborhood Vibes

One of the best things about Tokyo is that each neighborhood has its own unique vibe and experiences to offer. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, Akasaka is the perfect spot! It’s really easy to get around, with lots of train lines to choose from. It’s also got a lovely relaxed atmosphere, which is a nice change from the hustle and bustle of Shinjuku!

2) Access to Public Transport

It’s so important to be close to train stations in Tokyo! If you’re looking for an easy way to get around Tokyo, staying near a major station on the Yamanote Line or a large station with multiple Tokyo Metro lines is a great idea! You’ll have no problem getting to all the other places you want to go.

3) Shopping and Amenities

When you’re looking for a place to stay, it’s really important to think about how close it is to supermarkets and other handy amenities. If you’re keeping kosher and planning to cook in your apartment, having supermarkets nearby is a must! Akasaka and Asakusa are great areas for shopping and dining!

4) Budget Considerations

Your budget is really important when you’re choosing where to stay. Ginza is a bit pricier, but there are still some great deals to be found in places like Asakusa and Ueno.

5) Safety and Comfort

Safety and comfort are super important, especially if you’re new to Tokyo. Most neighborhoods are really safe, but some might feel more comfortable than others. For instance, staying in a place with a good mix of activity and tranquility, like Asakusa, can really enhance your experience.

III. Travel Hacks: Making Your Tokyo Trip Smooth Sailing

Parents often recommend planning only one or two activities per day to avoid overwhelming children.

Visiting Ueno Zoo or Shinjuku National Garden can be an all-day activity. This allows for breaks and downtime.

Ensure your kids have good walking shoes and get them used to walking long distances before the trip.

Have a backup plan in case you get separated, such as using eSIMs instead of pocket WiFi for reliable communication.

Be mindful of Japanese customs, especially in quiet places like restaurants and shrines.

Tokyo hotel rooms are small, so consider booking multiple rooms or an apartment with extra bathrooms and a washer/dryer.

IV. Would you like a brief summary?

We’re so excited for you and your family to enjoy Tokyo! We’ve put together a few tips and tricks to help you have the most comfortable and enjoyable stay possible.

Asakusa: Family-friendly, cultural experiences, and well-connected.
Sugamo: Is quiet and family-friendly.
Akasaka: Is solid options for families looking for convenience and accessibility.
Ueno: Parks, museums, zoo, and convenient transport.
Shinjuku: Busy but manageable if you choose the right area.

Lastly, be aware of the period you plan to visit. For example, visiting during New Year’s might mean many closures, so planning accordingly is essential.