2 Days in Tokyo with Kids
Tokyo, the vibrant capital city of Japan, offers a multitude of exciting experiences for travelers of all ages. In this travel blog post, I want to share a fun filled two-day adventure through Ginza, Tsukiji, Shimbashi and Hibiya area. Join us as we explore family-friendly restaurants, visit unique museums, discover serene temples, and indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine.
ITINERARY
Day 1 - Stroll Ginza & Tsukiji
Day 2 - Brunch Buffet in Shimbashi & Stroll Hibiya
Day One:
Breakfast: To start our day, we headed to Royal Host, one of Japan's "Fami Resu" restaurants (restaurants for families). Many Famiresu open 24/7, and offer an extensive menu ranging from traditional Japanese dishes to Western favorites. A particular highlight for the kids was the complimentary toys provided with the meals, adding an extra element of excitement to the dining experience.
After a satisfying breakfast, we made a quick stop at Doutor Coffee, known for its excellent taste and conveniently small portions. It's fascinating how the quality of the drinks of most of the coffee shops in Japan remain consistent across all their store locations. We enjoyed a refreshing cup of coffee before continuing our adventure.
Art Aquarium Museum: A leisurely 20-minute stroll from Hacchobori where we were staying brought us to the heart of Ginza. Our first destination was the captivating Art Aquarium located in the Mitsukoshi Department Store. The Art Aquarium showcased a stunning exhibition featuring beautiful goldfish in water tanks with colorful designs and lightings. It was a truly unique and enchanting experience that left us in awe.
Lunch at Muji Cafe: For our midday meal, we decided to visit Cafe Muji in Ginza. Muji is a renowned store offering a wide range of good-quality products, including household goods, apparel, and food. I personally love their minimalist designs, which blended simplicity with functionality. Our lunch comprised a delightful "Teishoku" set meal featuring grilled fish, vegetables, rice, and soup. Also kids enjoyed some pastries from the Bakery Muji.
Tsukiji area: After the satisfying meal, we took a short 15-minute walk to Tsukiji, an area famous for the fish market. Although many stores were closed in the late afternoon, we enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and glimpsed a few shops still open. Adjacent to the market, we discovered Tsukiji Hongwanji, one of Tokyo's largest temples, where preparations were underway for a forthcoming "Natsu Matsuri", Japanese summer festival. Inside the temple grounds, we treated the kids to refreshing shave ice at the cafe Tsumugi. Their 18-dish breakfast platter is something I would like to come back for one day.
As night fell, we savored a comforting bowl of soba noodles at a local restaurant. Soba, a traditional Japanese noodle dish made from buckwheat flour, provided a perfect ending to our eventful day.
Day Two:
Brunch Buffet in Shimbashi: We started the day relaxing than the day before, and headed to a brunch buffet at L’ETOILE in Daiichi Hotel Tokyo in Shimbashi, another vibrant neighborhood just a 20-minute walk from our accommodation in Hacchobori. Many hotels in Tokyo offer buffet-style meals that are open to the public. Normally the time limit is 90-120 minutes, and 4-5,000 yen for the lunch buffet (kids are free, or pay discounted price). To secure our spot, we made a reservation in advance, and enjoyed the every single dish.
Strolling in Hibiya Park: After a sumptuous meal, we needed some fresh air and exercise, so we ventured into the nearby Hibiya Park. The park's calm atmosphere provided a peaceful respite from the busy city. As a refreshing break, we stopped by Starbucks, known for its unique seasonal drinks, and I couldn't resist ordering the Yuzu Citrus Tea, a personal favorite during our stay.
The Police Museum: On our way back to the hotel through Ginza, we stumbled upon an unexpected gem—the Police Museum. It was a great opportunity to learn more about Japan's law enforcement, we decided to quickly explore the museum, as entry was free. It provided a fascinating glimpse into the history and workings of the Japanese police force, making for an educational and memorable stop especially for kids.
Our two-day adventure in Tokyo with small kids was an absolute delight. From enjoying family-friendly restaurants and exploring the Art Aquarium to savoring traditional Japanese cuisine and stumbling upon hidden gems like the Police Museum, our time in Ginza and its surrounding areas left us with cherished memories. Tokyo's blend of modernity and tradition, coupled with its attention to detail and commitment to family-friendly experiences, make it a fantastic destination for families seeking cultural enrichment and unforgettable adventures.
