While it would be impossible to include ALL the play areas in Tokyo, we wanted to list some of our members’ favourite play areas.
If there is a play area that you know and love, please let us know about it! Email us at coordinators@tokyomothersgroup.com
Akasaka “kids to teens hall“
It’s free for minato residents and non residents can also attend for a minimal cost.
http://www.seirouin.or.jp/nandemo/
Appy
Is a government run play center, free of charge, to Minato-ku residents. It is staffed with professional care-givers 10AM-6PM every day of the week and on public holidays.
http://www.appy-kounan.jp/index.html
Tel number: 03-5114-9900
Children’s Castle
On aoyama dori (next door to the UN University) It has a rooftop play area with little bikes, a painting/crafts area (take your own apron) music room, library, a large general play area full of different toys and activities.
http://www.kodomono-shiro.com/english/
TA Plaza
At Shirokane Takanawa station. The play centre is completely free and right above the station. It’s perfect for a rainy day http://www.taplaza.org/ They also have a library of English books which you can borrow.
Shibaura Island
The whole building is part of a new development. It has a baby toy room, an art room (where they have occasional art/craft projects/classes, mostly seasonal holiday decorations, held in Japanese), a computer room, large foam block room, lunch area and library (with some children’s books in English), and a large ‘gym’ with baby bicycles and a big ball pit. There is a Peacock supermarket right across the street from it, so you can stock up on snacks or bento before going in.
Asobono, Tokyo Dome
ASOBono is divided into five themed areas: “ocean”, “town”, “train station”, “forest”, and “babies-only area”. TIckets are sold by the hour with an option to extend your time there or buy a day pass.
http://www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/e/amusement_facilities/
Local jidokan
They are play areas run by local authorities that are free and usually for local residents. They also often do playgroups, (though in Japanese). Check with your local ward office for details of your local Jidokan.
Kid O Kid
Climbing walls, ball pool, bouncy castle, baby corner and much more. This play centre is a real treat for children but can get busy at weekends. They have various branches across Tokyo and Japan.
Charlie Theron 