Family-Friendly Things to Do
Family-Friendly Things to Do
Spring is in the air! The days are slowly, but surely, getting longer and warmer. Most schools will be on break in the coming weeks, and it's a wonderful time of year to get outside, enjoy nature, and explore Tokyo with your family.
Check out some of the upcoming family-friendly events and activities the CareFinder team is looking forward to!
Cherry Blossom Hanami
~ Monday, March 20
In the off-chance you weren't aware, it's almost Cherry Blossom season in Japan! You may already see some of the earliest pink buds on the trees in your neighborhood. There is no shortage of places to enjoy hanami with your family on a sunny spring day, so check out this forecast and start preparing your picnic supplies.
Thursday, March 9 - Sunday, April 16
He's everyone's favorite lazy bear and your family can congratulate him on two decades of heart-warming shenanigans at Box Cafe in Omotesando. Do not miss your opportunity to stock up on limited-edition Rilakkuma merch, like water bottles and totes, as well as to indulge in themed goodies like cake and hamburger at this pop-up cafe.
Sunday, March 12
Take a day trip from Tokyo to enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air at Mt. Takao — and walk over burning coal while you're at it (if you want)! During the second Sunday of every March, participants are welcome to partake in a ritual said to bring health and wellbeing to families. After rubbing themselves with ceremonial sticks, which are then burned in a bonfire, worshippers can choose to walk over the still-simmering coals as an act of purification. Or, you can just watch other people do it!
Sunday, March 12
St. Patrick's Day is technically March 17, but don't let that stop your family from celebrating your Irish Pride in Omotesando! The Irish Network Japan will host the 28th annual parade — for the first time in four years — for leprechauns, lasses, and all Erin-lovers in Tokyo. Deck the family out in your finest shades of green and enjoy a festive afternoon.
Sunday, March 12
Another opportunity to enjoy the view (of other people running!) if your family isn't participating, this festival in Nakano Central Park is a lively way to spend a Sunday afternoon. In addition to the usual festival fare — vendors and snacks — many runners choose to dress up in cosplay for the athletic endeavor.
Golden Dragon Dance at Senso-ji
Saturday, March 18
If you missed the spectacle of dragons at the Yokohama Chinatown Lunar New Year parade, your family has a second chance to watch a giant dragon pupper at this fun, festive celebration at Senso-ji. In honor of a fabled visit from a bodhisattva disguised as a golden dragon, your family won't soon forget seeing the giant prop in action.
Sunday, March 19
It's too late to sign up for participation, but if your family is looking for something colorful and fun to do on a Sunday morning, don't miss this race through Shibuya! More than 5,000 runners are expected to take part in either a 10k or family 1k and there will be a fun festival atmosphere around the race for everyone to enjoy.
Saturday, April 8/Sunday, April 9
Your family does not want to miss this annual event at Yoyogi Park! You've probably seen some of Tokyo's poshest pups decked out in their day-to-day best while out on a walk, but the Wan Wan Carnival takes canine fashion and accessories to a whole new level. Hundreds of the city's canine residents will be out and about, sporting costumes, fresh cuts, and very slobbery smiles. Plus, there will be lots of vendors for you to stock up on all the pet accessories you'll need for your own four-legged friends.
