Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, which means that residing here with children is rarely ever a worry. The city itself is fairly “child-friendly” thanks to one of the most extensive and efficient public transportation systems in the world, which makes accessing the numerous attractions and activities both inside and outside the city easy to do.
While there are a variety of family and family-friendly restaurants scattered across the city, the more upmarket restaurants are less receptive to having children dine at their tables. And while babysitting services are not plentiful, they do exist and can provide parents with a much-needed break from the youngsters. On the education front, there are a variety of pre-school; kindergarten; and elementary, middle, and high school options that operate at international standards.
There are plenty of family-friendly activities available to children of all ages within Tokyo. Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea (http://www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp/) are two very popular choices with families of all ages and the Toshimaen (http://www.toshimaen.co.jp/) Water and Amusement Park also has captured wide interest, particularly during the summer months.
Kodomo No Shiro (National Children’s Castle) combines education and amusement all under one roof in central Tokyo. More information on Kodomo No Shiro can be found at: http://www.kodomono-shiro.or.jp/. Kidzania (http://www.kidzania.jp/) is one of the most popular attractions for Japanese and foreign children alike, offering kids the opportunity to “try” dozens of jobs ranging from working at an airline, courthouse, or hospital to a fire department, department store, culinary studio, or TV station – there is something for everyone’s tastes here.
A Great activity resource for expats with kids: Japan With Kids (http://www.tokyowithkids.com/).
