January
Tokyo New Year’s Day Celebration (January 1)
Start the year by immersing your family in Japan’s cultural traditions. The Tokyo New Year’s Day celebrations are filled with bell-ringing ceremonies, prayers for good fortune, and food stalls offering local treats. Families can visit shrines for hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. Major shrines like Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple offer a family-friendly atmosphere with activities that even young children can enjoy. Many shrines are stroller-friendly and provide accessible areas for parents with small kids.
- Location: Various shrines and temples, including Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple.
- Suitable For: All ages, especially families interested in cultural experiences.
- Cost: Free, but donations for prayers are encouraged.
- Duration: 1-3 hours.
- What to bring?: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and snacks for the kids.
- Be Careful: Crowds are common, especially at Meiji Shrine. Arrive early to avoid waiting in long lines.
- Practical Tips: Consider visiting lesser-known shrines if you want a quieter experience.
Tokyo Auto Salon (Mid-January)
A must-see for car enthusiasts, Tokyo Auto Salon showcases Japan’s latest custom cars and automotive technology. The event features interactive exhibits, hands-on experiences, and workshops, making it an exciting event for older children and teens who have an interest in cars, technology, or design.
- Location: Makuhari Messe, Chiba (easily accessible from Tokyo).
- Suitable For: Families with older children and teens interested in cars and technology.
- Cost: ¥2,000–¥3,000 per person.
- Duration: 3–4 hours.
- What to bring?: Camera, water, and snacks.
- Be Careful: Loud sounds from engine demos might overwhelm young children.
- Practical Tips: Pre-purchase tickets online to avoid the long queues and plan your route around the exhibits to make the most of the day.
Ome Daruma Festival (Mid-January)
Just outside of Tokyo in the town of Ome, this traditional festival is dedicated to daruma dolls, which are symbols of perseverance and good luck. Families can buy daruma dolls and even watch a vibrant parade featuring the iconic figures. This off-the-beaten-path event offers a quieter, more intimate New Year celebration.
- Location: Ome City (about an hour from central Tokyo).
- Suitable For: All ages.
- Cost: Free entry, with daruma dolls available for purchase.
- Duration: 2–3 hours.
- What to bring?: Cash to purchase daruma dolls.
- Be Careful: Be mindful of the cold weather as it can get chilly.
- Practical Tips: Combine your visit with a day trip to Ome, a scenic town with hiking opportunities for active families.
February
Setsubun (February 3)
Known for its lively bean-throwing tradition to ward off evil spirits, Setsubun is a favorite for young children. At major temples like Sensoji and Zojoji, celebrities and sumo wrestlers lead the event by tossing roasted soybeans into the crowd, an act meant to drive away bad luck. Children delight in catching beans, and many temples provide special activities just for kids.
- Location: Various temples, including Sensoji in Asakusa and Zojoji in Minato.
- Suitable For: All ages, particularly exciting for younger children.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Warm clothing and small bags for catching the beans.
- Be Careful: Crowds can be overwhelming for toddlers, so keep a close eye on little ones.
- Practical Tips: Some temples offer kid-friendly sections, so inquire ahead of time if you want a more relaxed experience for your children.
Tokyo Marathon (Late February)
One of the world’s major marathons, the Tokyo Marathon brings an incredible energy to the streets of the city. Families can enjoy cheering on the runners from designated spots along the route. The festive atmosphere makes it a fun event even for those not participating in the race. Food stalls and cheering zones add to the excitement, making it a memorable day out for families.
- Location: Throughout Tokyo, starting from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
- Suitable For: Families with older children who enjoy sports events.
- Cost: Free to watch.
- Duration: 4–6 hours (or as long as you want to stay).
- What to bring?: Snacks, water, and folding chairs for sitting.
- Be Careful: Streets can be very crowded, so scout out a less congested area for a more relaxed viewing experience.
- Practical Tips: Plan your viewing spot ahead of time, and check for family-friendly zones where there are amenities and activities for kids.
March
Tokyo Anime Japan (Late March)
Anime fans, rejoice! Tokyo Anime Japan is one of the largest conventions dedicated to anime and manga, offering exhibitions, cosplay shows, and interactive activities for fans of all ages. Families with kids who love Japanese pop culture will find plenty of entertainment at the event, with many booths offering activities and merchandise suitable for children and teens.
- Location: Tokyo Big Sight.
- Suitable For: Families with children and teens who are anime and manga enthusiasts.
- Cost: ¥2,000–¥4,000 per person.
- Duration: 3–5 hours.
- What to bring?: Comfortable shoes, water, and snacks.
- Be Careful: It can be loud and crowded, so younger children might need breaks.
- Practical Tips: Plan your visit early in the day to avoid the afternoon rush. Some areas offer quieter spots where kids can take a break from the noise.
Cherry Blossom Viewing (Late March to Early April)
Nothing says spring in Tokyo quite like cherry blossom viewing (hanami). Families can set up a picnic under the sakura trees in parks like Ueno Park or Shinjuku Gyoen, while children can run around and play in open areas. The cherry blossoms are a fleeting sight, but the memory of a family picnic under the soft pink blooms will last a lifetime.
- Location: Various parks, including Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen.
- Suitable For: All ages.
- Cost: Free in most parks, but some like Shinjuku Gyoen charge a small entrance fee (¥500).
- Duration: 2–4 hours.
- What to bring?: Picnic blanket, snacks, and drinks.
- Be Careful: Popular parks get crowded, so arrive early to find a good spot.
- Practical Tips: Consider visiting less crowded parks like Koganei Park if you want a quieter experience.
April
Kanamara Matsuri (First Sunday in April)
An intriguing festival that celebrates fertility and sexual health, Kanamara Matsuri, also known as the “Festival of the Steel Phallus,” is a unique cultural event. While the themes are more suited for older teens and adults, the festival offers a glimpse into a traditional celebration that’s lighthearted and humorous.
- Location: Kanayama Shrine, Kawasaki (easily accessible from Tokyo).
- Suitable For: Families with older teens due to mature themes.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 2–3 hours.
- What to bring?: Comfortable shoes and a sense of humor!
- Be Careful: This event isn’t ideal for younger children due to its mature themes.
- Practical Tips: Consider visiting early in the day to avoid the larger crowds and get a close-up view of the processions.
Earth Day Tokyo (Mid-April)
Held annually in Yoyogi Park, Earth Day Tokyo celebrates sustainability and eco-friendly living. The event is packed with workshops, food stalls offering organic and local produce, and eco-friendly activities that are perfect for kids. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of open space for children to run around and enjoy.
- Location: Yoyogi Park.
- Suitable For: All ages, especially families interested in sustainability.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 2–4 hours.
- What to bring?: Reusable water bottles, snacks, and eco-friendly bags.
- Be Careful: The event can get crowded on weekends.
- Practical Tips: Pack a picnic and enjoy a full day in the park after exploring the festival.
May
Kanda Matsuri (Mid-May, odd-numbered years)
One of Tokyo’s most famous Shinto festivals, Kanda Matsuri is a grand spectacle filled with vibrant processions, traditional music, and cultural performances. Families can enjoy watching elaborate floats and mikoshi (portable shrines) carried through the streets. It’s an exciting and immersive experience that offers kids an up-close look at Japan’s rich traditions.
- Location: Kanda Myojin Shrine and surrounding areas.
- Suitable For: All ages, particularly exciting for school-age children.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 2–4 hours.
- What to bring?: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and snacks for the kids.
- Be Careful: The streets can get very crowded, especially near the shrine, so keep a close eye on younger children.
- Practical Tips: Pack a light picnic and enjoy the surrounding parks if you want a break from the crowds.
Sanja Matsuri (Third weekend of May)
The wildest and most popular of Tokyo’s festivals, Sanja Matsuri features portable shrines carried through the streets of Asakusa, accompanied by lively music and cheering crowds. The energy is electric, but it’s important to note that the crowds can be overwhelming for small children.
- Location: Asakusa.
- Suitable For: Families with older children who can handle the excitement and crowds.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 3–5 hours.
- What to bring?: Water, snacks, and a camera to capture the vibrant atmosphere.
- Be Careful: The crowds are intense, so young children should be kept close. Consider bringing a stroller with a cover to shield little ones from the hustle and bustle.
- Practical Tips: Arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot to watch the procession, and avoid the peak afternoon hours if you’re traveling with younger kids.
June
Sanno Matsuri (Mid-June, even-numbered years)
Another of Tokyo’s great Shinto festivals, Sanno Matsuri is known for its grand procession of mikoshi and floats, which travel through central Tokyo. Unlike the lively Sanja Matsuri, Sanno Matsuri offers a more subdued and family-friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for those with younger children who may prefer a calmer festival experience.
- Location: Hie Shrine and central Tokyo.
- Suitable For: All ages, especially families interested in traditional culture.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 2–4 hours.
- What to bring?: Sunscreen, water, and snacks.
- Be Careful: The procession can be long, so make sure your family is comfortable standing or walking for extended periods.
- Practical Tips: Look for family-friendly viewing spots along the quieter parts of the route, where children can enjoy the festival without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.
Tokyo International Book Fair (Late June)
The Tokyo International Book Fair is Japan’s largest book-related event, with a special section dedicated to children’s literature. Families with young readers will find an array of books, author signings, and storytelling sessions that captivate kids of all ages.
- Location: Tokyo Big Sight.
- Suitable For: Families with children of all ages, especially young readers.
- Cost: Free for children; adults may need to purchase tickets.
- Duration: 2–3 hours.
- What to bring?: Snacks, water, and a list of favorite authors or book genres to explore.
- Be Careful: The fair can get crowded, especially during weekend events, so make sure to keep an eye on younger kids.
- Practical Tips: Plan to visit the children’s area early in the day before it gets too busy, and take advantage of reading corners where kids can sit and enjoy new books.
July
Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (Last Saturday of July)
This spectacular fireworks display along the Sumida River is one of Tokyo’s most anticipated summer events, drawing large crowds from all over the city. The dazzling display of over 20,000 fireworks is a breathtaking experience for the whole family. If your children are sensitive to loud noises, consider bringing earplugs.
- Location: Along the Sumida River.
- Suitable For: All ages, though consider noise levels for very young children.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Picnic blanket, snacks, and earplugs for young kids sensitive to loud sounds.
- Be Careful: The riverside can get extremely crowded, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
- Practical Tips: Bring a picnic and plan to make a full evening of it. Public transport will be crowded, so leave early or consider walking part of the way.
Shitamachi Tanabata Festival (Early July)
Celebrate the Star Festival by strolling through the beautifully decorated streets of Asakusa. The Shitamachi Tanabata Festival features colorful streamers, traditional wish-making, and parades. Children can write their wishes on strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches, adding a fun and interactive element to the celebration.
- Location: Kappabashi Street, Asakusa.
- Suitable For: All ages, especially appealing to younger children.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Sunscreen, water, and small slips of paper for wish-writing.
- Be Careful: The streets can get busy, so keep an eye on younger children in crowded areas.
- Practical Tips: Let kids get involved in the wish-making tradition and explore the nearby Asakusa attractions after the festival.
August
Fukagawa Matsuri (Mid-August)
A refreshingly fun Shinto festival that involves participants and spectators alike getting soaked with water as portable shrines are carried through the streets. The water-splashing rituals offer a great way to beat the summer heat, making this festival especially fun for kids who love water play.
- Location: Tomioka Hachimangu Shrine, Koto Ward.
- Suitable For: All ages, particularly fun for children who enjoy water activities.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 2–4 hours.
- What to bring?: Waterproof clothing or a change of clothes, sunscreen, and towels.
- Be Careful: If your children don’t enjoy water play, this might not be the ideal festival for them.
- Practical Tips: Dress in comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting wet, and bring waterproof bags to protect your valuables.
Asakusa Samba Carnival (Late August)
A lively samba parade celebrating Brazilian-Japanese culture, the Asakusa Samba Carnival fills the streets with vibrant costumes, lively music, and dance. Older children and teens will love the colorful spectacle and high-energy performances, while younger kids might find the atmosphere a bit overwhelming.
- Location: Asakusa.
- Suitable For: Families with older children who enjoy music and dance.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 2–3 hours.
- What to bring?: Sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the dazzling costumes.
- Be Careful: The noise levels and large crowds might be too intense for younger children.
- Practical Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route, and be prepared for the heat as temperatures can soar in late August.
September
Tokyo Game Show (Mid-September)
One of the world’s largest gaming conventions, Tokyo Game Show is a dream come true for families with children and teens who love video games. The event features game demos, previews of upcoming releases, and interactive experiences that are sure to delight tech-savvy kids.
- Location: Makuhari Messe, Chiba.
- Suitable For: Families with older children and teens interested in gaming.
- Cost: ¥1,500–¥2,500.
- Duration: 3–5 hours.
- What to bring?: Comfortable shoes, snacks, and water.
- Be Careful: The crowds can be overwhelming, so consider skipping peak times if you have younger children.
- Practical Tips: Pre-buy your tickets and plan to arrive early. There are plenty of hands-on demos, so allow enough time for your kids to explore.
Tsukimi (Mid-September to Early October)
Tsukimi, or moon-viewing, is a serene and traditional event celebrated by visiting gardens and temples illuminated by the full moon. Families can enjoy the tranquility of the evening, often paired with snacks like dango (sweet rice dumplings). This event offers a peaceful cultural experience perfect for kids who enjoy nature.
- Location: Various gardens and temples, including Rikugien Garden.
- Suitable For: All ages, especially families interested in cultural experiences.
- Cost: Free to ¥500 depending on the location.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Warm clothes for the evening and a camera for nighttime photography.
Be Careful: Since the event takes place at night, keep a close eye on younger children as gardens and temples may have low lighting, and some areas may be difficult to navigate in the dark.
October
Tokyo Ramen Show (Late October to Early November)
Calling all ramen lovers! The Tokyo Ramen Show is an excellent opportunity for families to taste different ramen styles from all over Japan. With various stalls offering unique regional flavors, kids can enjoy trying new tastes in small portions, making it a fun and interactive food experience.
- Location: Komazawa Olympic Park.
- Suitable For: Families with children who enjoy trying new foods.
- Cost: ¥800–¥1,200 per bowl.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Cash for food purchases and water.
- Be Careful: The park can get crowded, so arrive early to avoid long lines at popular ramen stalls.
- Practical Tips: Plan your day so that you arrive early in the afternoon when the stalls are still fresh, and avoid peak meal times if you’re bringing younger children. Don’t forget to bring napkins and wipes for easy clean-up after messy ramen slurping!
Halloween in Tokyo (October 31 and surrounding weekends)
Halloween in Tokyo is celebrated in various forms, from family-friendly events at Tokyo Disneyland to wild street parties in Shibuya. While the street parties are more suitable for older teens and adults, families with younger kids will love the festive atmosphere at Tokyo Disneyland and other kid-oriented spots. Many shopping centers and theme parks host Halloween events with costumes, trick-or-treating, and Halloween-themed rides.
- Location: Various locations, including Tokyo Disneyland and Shibuya.
- Suitable For: All ages, with different events catering to various age groups.
- Cost: Varies by event; Tokyo Disneyland tickets are around ¥8,000.
- Duration: 2–5 hours depending on the event.
- What to bring?: Costumes, snacks, and water.
- Be Careful: Shibuya’s street party is incredibly crowded and can be overwhelming for younger children. Stick to family-friendly venues like Disneyland if you’re traveling with small kids.
- Practical Tips: If you’re going to Disneyland or DisneySea, book your tickets well in advance and arrive early to make the most of the themed shows and parades. Check event schedules online to plan your visit around kid-friendly activities.
November
Tori No Ichi Festival (November)
Tori No Ichi is a traditional good-luck festival celebrated at various Otori Shrines across Tokyo. Families can enjoy the lively atmosphere, with stalls selling colorful kumade (bamboo rakes) decorated with ornaments meant to bring good fortune. It’s a wonderful cultural experience for children to learn about Japanese traditions while admiring the intricately designed rakes.
- Location: Otori Shrines across Tokyo, most famously at Sensoji Temple.
- Suitable For: All ages, especially families interested in cultural traditions.
- Cost: Free entry; kumade for sale (¥2,000–¥30,000 depending on size).
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Cash for purchases.
- Be Careful: Crowded areas, especially near the main shrine, so keep an eye on younger children.
- Practical Tips: Visit in the evening when the atmosphere is more vibrant, and the shrine is illuminated by lanterns. The stalls can be busy, so plan to explore the area early before the crowds arrive.
Tokyo Midtown Christmas Illumination (Mid-November to December)
Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to the stunning Christmas light displays at Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi. This area transforms into a winter wonderland with elaborate light displays, a Christmas tree, and festive decorations. Children will love the magical atmosphere and the opportunity to take family photos under the glittering lights.
- Location: Tokyo Midtown, Roppongi.
- Suitable For: All ages.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Warm clothing and a camera to capture the beautiful light displays.
- Be Careful: It can get chilly in the evening, so dress warmly, especially for younger children.
- Practical Tips: The crowds are larger on weekends, so consider visiting on a weeknight for a more relaxed experience. Some restaurants in the area offer seasonal menus, making it a perfect place to have a family dinner after enjoying the illuminations.
December
German Christmas Market (December)
Tokyo hosts traditional German Christmas markets in several locations, including Hibiya Park and Tokyo Skytree Town. These markets are filled with holiday cheer, offering European-style Christmas food, mulled wine, and crafts. Kids will enjoy wandering through the stalls, munching on sausages, and picking out handcrafted ornaments to take home.
- Location: Various locations, including Hibiya Park and Tokyo Skytree Town.
- Suitable For: All ages.
- Cost: Free entry; food and crafts range from ¥500–¥2,000.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Cash for purchases and warm clothing.
- Be Careful: Some markets can get crowded during weekends, so it’s best to visit early in the month or on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
- Practical Tips: If you’re visiting the market near Tokyo Skytree, consider combining your trip with a visit to the observation deck for stunning nighttime views of the city’s Christmas lights.
Gishi-sai (December 14)
Commemorating the story of the 47 ronin, this solemn festival honors one of Japan’s most famous historical events. The festival takes place at Sengakuji Temple, where participants dressed as samurai reenact the famous procession. It’s an educational experience for families with older children who are interested in Japanese history, offering a chance to learn about the samurai and their code of honor.
- Location: Sengakuji Temple.
- Suitable For: Families with older children interested in history.
- Cost: Free.
- Duration: 2–3 hours.
- What to bring?: Warm clothing and a camera.
- Be Careful: The event is quiet and formal, so it may not be as engaging for younger children.
- Practical Tips: Arrive early to get a good view of the procession. Consider bringing a guidebook or using an audio guide to explain the historical significance of the event to your children.
Enoshima Sea Candle Illuminations (December to Early February)
Just outside Tokyo, on the scenic island of Enoshima, the Sea Candle lighthouse is beautifully illuminated in winter. Families can enjoy strolling through the garden with mesmerizing light displays, making it a romantic and magical experience for all ages. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the illuminated coastline, and the island’s aquarium and shrine make it a great day trip from Tokyo.
- Location: Enoshima Island, Kanagawa (about an hour from Tokyo).
- Suitable For: All ages.
- Cost: ¥300–¥500 for access to the lighthouse and garden.
- Duration: 1–2 hours.
- What to bring?: Warm clothing and a camera.
- Be Careful: It can be windy on the island, especially in the evening, so bundle up.
- Practical Tips: Visit earlier in the day to explore the island’s other attractions, such as the Enoshima Aquarium or Enoshima Shrine, before enjoying the evening illumination.