How to plan a 7-day Tokyo itinerary with kids
Focus on kid-friendly districts like Shibuya, Harajuku, and Odaiba with plenty of parks, interactive museums, and short travel days. Build in rest time every afternoon and stick to 2-3 activities per day maximum. Book accommodations near JR Yamanote Line stations for easy subway access.
- Choose your base neighborhood. Stay in Shibuya, Shinjuku, or Ueno. All three have direct train access to kid attractions and plenty of family restaurants. Shibuya puts you closest to Harajuku and Omeotesando. Shinjuku works for Odaiba day trips. Ueno is best for zoo and museum days.
- Plan 2-3 activities per day maximum. Kids get tired fast in Tokyo. One major activity (like Tokyo Disneyland), one smaller activity (like a playground), and meals. That's a full day. Leave 2-3 hours unplanned each day for rest or spontaneous discoveries.
- Book Disney parks early. Reserve Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea tickets online 2 months ahead. Pick one park per trip - both in one week is too much. DisneySea has more unique attractions, but Disneyland is better for kids under 8.
- Map out kid-friendly transport routes. Download Google Translate with camera function and Tokyo Metro app. Practice using IC cards (Suica/Pasmo) before arrival. Know which stations have elevators - not all do. Plan routes that avoid rush hours (7-9am, 5-7pm).
- Schedule rest periods. Plan hotel returns every afternoon 2-4pm. Kids need downtime. Use this time for baths, snacks, and quiet activities. Many attractions close 5-6pm anyway, so you're not missing much.
- Research kid menus and backup snacks. Family restaurants (like Jonathan's, Gusto) have kids' plates with familiar foods. Convenience stores sell fruit pouches, rice balls, and milk. Bring familiar snacks from home for emergencies.
- Can I use strollers on Tokyo trains?
- Yes, but fold them during rush hours and use elevators instead of stairs. Not all stations have elevators, so check station maps ahead of time.
- Do kids get discounts on train tickets?
- Children 6-11 pay half fare, kids under 6 ride free when accompanied by adults. IC cards work for all ages.
- Are there baby changing facilities?
- Department stores and major stations have clean changing rooms. Many restaurants do not, so plan accordingly.
- How early should I book Disney tickets?
- 2 months ahead minimum. Tickets often sell out during school holidays and peak seasons. Book directly at official Disney website.