Family-Friendly Adventures in Japan: Top Destinations for Kids

Exploring Japan: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Japan is a captivating blend of ancient traditions and vibrant pop culture, making it an exciting destination for families. While cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are renowned for their beautiful shrines, temples, and historic sites, they also offer an array of kid-friendly activities that celebrate contemporary culture. From honing ninja skills to interacting with beloved Pokémon characters, there’s no shortage of fun experiences for children. Ramesh Krishan, affectionately known as RamKy, emphasizes the charm of Japan, stating, “You can walk just a few steps and instantly capture a child’s attention.” He runs Japan Unfiltered, a company focused on authentic tours across Tokyo, Mount Fuji, and beyond. “Whether it’s a quirky capsule toy vending machine, a karaoke bar with enticing desserts, or the upbeat tunes playing in train stations, there’s always something to spark curiosity.” Here are six must-visit stops for families touring some of Japan’s most popular cities.

Tokyo

• Kirby Café

  The Kirby Café in Tokyo is a whimsical dining experience dedicated to Kirby, the iconic pink character that made his debut on the Nintendo Game Boy in 1992. Securing a reservation can feel like an Olympic feat!

  Located at the base of the Tokyo Skytree, this café is often booked solid. Reservations for the upcoming month go live on the 10th day of each month at 6 p.m. Japan Standard Time. However, the website frequently crashes due to high demand. For those who want to skip the hassle, the Kirby Café Bot offers reservations for a fee of $7.50 per person, accommodating up to eight guests.

  Once seated, guests are treated to a feast of Kirby-themed dishes, including:

  • Kirby burgers nestled in cheerful pink buns
  • Playful pizzas adorned with star-shaped fried eggs
  • Whispy Woods feast plates featuring Kirby’s nemesis, the apple tree, cleverly serving potato salad in its trunk

  Tip: Pair your meal with a visit to the Tokyo Skytree, which stands at an impressive 2,080 feet, making it the tallest free-standing tower in the world. The observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Tokyo.

  Location: Kirby Café, Tokyo Skytree Town, Solamachi, East Yard 4F, 1-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City; Prices: Entrées range from 1,200 yen to 3,980 yen (approximately $7.50 to $25). Tokyo Skytree: Adults from 1,800 yen; children (12 to 17 years) from 1,400 yen; children (6 to 11 years) from 850 yen.

• Pokémon Center Tokyo DX

  Located in the bustling Nihonboshi business district, the Pokémon Center Tokyo DX is one of the largest Pokémon outlets in the city. The main attraction here is the Pokémon Café, another concept café that requires careful planning to secure reservations.

  Reservations open online 31 days in advance at exactly 6 p.m. Japan Standard Time. Alternatively, for a fee of $24.90 per guest, you can use a service called Reserve Japan to handle the booking for you—your kids will surely appreciate it!

  At the café, indulge in delightful themed beverages like:

  • Pikachu-inspired lemon soda floats
  • Frothy lattes served in charming red and white Pokéball cups

  Don’t miss the chance to try Snorlax’s Full-Belly Naptime Lunch Plate, a whimsical dish featuring a shrimp rice pilaf served in a tray that resembles the iconic, sleepy Pokémon, accompanied by grilled chicken, fried potatoes, and a salad decorated with carrot pieces cut into Zs.

  Once your meal concludes, browse the extensive selection of merchandise at the center, which includes:

  • Adorable plushies
  • Decorative iPhone cases
  • Travel accessories such as eye masks and neck pillows
  • Unique food items like Pokémon-shaped pasta

  Location: Pokémon Center Tokyo DX, Nihombashi Takashimaya S.C. East Building (5F), 2-11-2 Nihombashi, Chuo-ku; Prices: Entrées range from 1,540 yen to 2,420 yen.