Let’s start with an explanation of the kanji. First of all, 児童 (jido) refers to children, and 館 (kan) means building or structure. Combined they literally mean “building for children”. The jidoukan are open to everyone, whether you’re a resident or a traveler, with free and open access. The staff primarily speak Japanese and are generally very welcoming. With a few basic words in Japanese or using a translation app, you can feel at ease.
Although it may not be the first choice for a short stay in Tokyo, jidoukan are perfect for offering a moment of rest for parents and children. These safe spaces provide a variety of activities suited for children, allowing little ones to meet Japanese children and experience a unique aspect of daily life in Japan through play.
Services
The staff at jidoukan are usually present, friendly, and smiling. They are happy to chat, play with children, or even hold a baby briefly to allow parents a peaceful bathroom break.
Jidoukan are generally organized into rooms for different age groups, welcoming children from 0 to 12 years old. These facilities have become increasingly popular for two main reasons:
- Rooms for babies (0-12 months) often offer morning activities for young parents and their babies, providing opportunities to meet other parents while socializing their child.
- With school ending relatively early (around 2:30 p.m.), children can come to these centers to spend time with friends, while being supervised by adults who engage them in activities or simply offer a supportive presence.
In addition, some “jidoukan” organize special events. Upon arrival, you can be given a monthly calendar that details all upcoming activities, such as creative workshops, shows, and more.
Advantages of “jidoukan”
As mentioned above, jidoukan are free, open spaces for all—both residents and travelers. They allow children and parents to socialize safely. For children aged 0 to 6, a parent or guardian must be present, while children aged 6 to 12 can visit alone after school.
Socialization for Children and Parents
These secure spaces in the heart of the city allow children to play and explore freely, while providing families with a chance to socialize and meet local families. This can be especially beneficial for expats and travelers who wish to integrate or learn more about Japanese culture.
Various activities and games
Depending on the jidoukan, a wide range of indoor activities and games may be available: creative workshops, reading areas, soundproof rooms for playing instruments, cooking workshops, and more. These activities promote children’s development in a fun, educational setting.
Top #3 Jidoukan in Tokyo
#1 Akasaka Kids-to-Teens Hall « Nandemo »
This is definitely my top choice for jidoukan in Tokyo. As the name suggests, this center is designed for children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. They offer rooms suited for various activities. Here’s a brief overview of what I noticed while passing through the main corridor to reach the room designated for toddlers aged 0 to 3 years.
Along the way, I observed several dedicated spaces:
- A reading room with a large selection of books
- A creative workshop for arts and crafts
- A spacious sports hall suitable for ball games such as basketball or handball
At the time, my son was around 5 months old, so we were directed to the room reserved for toddlers ages 0-3. Which was equipped with:
- A ball pool
- A slide
- A small kitchen for role play
- A balance game
A part of the room is covered with tatami mats, and there are toys for babies under 12 months as well as books. Additionally, two small rooms are separated by a curtain—one with a breastfeeding chair and the other with a baby changing mat.
#2 Kazoku no Atelier
Located about ten minutes south of Shinjuku and less than ten minutes from Yoyogi Station, Kazoku no Atelier is centrally located in Tokyo, with easy access and a short walk from major stations.
This three-story building offers various spaces suitable for children and families:
- Basement: A motor skills area with a climbing wall, ramp, ball pool, and bicycles. Activities vary by day or week, making each visit unique.
- Ground Floor: Includes reception, restrooms, and a room with tables, chairs, and highchairs for meals or arts and crafts. An elevated area has a large play kitchen with wooden utensils and toy vegetables for role-play. There’s also a photo area with age-marking props, a sofa, a book area and a breastfeeding chair with a curtain for more privacy.
- First Floor: Here you’ll find a baby changing room with several mats and a scale, additional toilets, a private event room, and a large Montessori-style carpeted room. This room has compartments filled with various games, wooden toys, musical instruments, and books.
#3 Naritahigashi Children Hall
Located in the Asagaya district, about twenty minutes west of Shinjuku by subway, Naritahigashi Children Hall is situated in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood with a riverfront park, especially popular during sakura season.
A unique feature of this jidoukan is its second-floor occasionally daycare, which offers affordable, short-term care, providing parents a few hours of respite if needed.
As with other jidoukan, you’ll be warmly welcomed and asked to complete a short registration form. Available in multiple languages, this form helps track your child’s visit. You’ll also be asked to write down the name and age of your child on a sticker which you will then stick on their back to facilitate interactions with other parents and staff.
The facility includes areas suited for different age groups:
- Dining Room: A dedicated space where children can eat.
- Room for Babies (0 to 1 year): A comfortable space for the littlest ones, including behind a curtain a sofa for breastfeeding.
- Cooking and Role Play Room: A space equipped with a miniature kitchen, dolls, strollers, art supplies, and Legos.
- Gymnasium: A large area divided into five zones:
• A jungle gym and mats for motor skills
• A train track setup for building
• Areas with push carts
• Role-play stations (nurse, bank, bakery, etc.)
• A section for ball games
Naritahigashi Children Hall is an ideal spot for families seeking a safe, diverse space for children to play, socialize, and have fun.
In summary
Tokyo has around 600 jidoukan across its 23 districts. Each neighborhood (ku) offers several jidoukan, supported by local municipalities, which provide safe and free spaces for children and their families. These centers play a essential role in the daily lives of Tokyo families by offering age-appropriate activities and facilities.
Don’t hesitate to explore these welcoming spaces where your babies and children can play and discover safely. Share your experiences, comments, and questions below to help enrich this community of curious families eager to discover Japan!
