Tokyo is a treasure chest of free entertainment for families with small children and far more green and imaginative than you would expect from a concrete jungle. The good news is, most of them are either very free or very cheap.

Photo by Johan Rooms

One recent trend is to bring more authentic natural playscapes into the city. Instead of plastic they focus on wood and water. Instead of safety they focus on being wild and slightly dangerous.

Heiwanomorikoen obstacle course

Photo by Johan Rooms

There are also a lot of playable sculptures such as the octopus towers,
each uniquely constructed by the Maeda Environmental Art Company.

Suggested Activity
Challenge Sumo Wrestlers and Enjoy Lunch
Eat, train, and fight like a real Japanese sumo wrestler during this sumo demonstration and authentic 'Chanko Nabe' (hotpot) meal.

Octopus Slide

Photo by Johan Rooms

Or the famous but slightly hidden Elephant Slides at

Shinjuku Ward Akagi Children Amusement

Photo by Johan Rooms

Pirates of Tokyo Bay are asked to enlist on the battle ship at Odaiba

Sea Breeze Round

Photo by Johan Rooms

New playgrounds are constantly being built, often after having consulted the local community as happened in FutakoTamagawa where a new water based park will finish construction later this year.

Written by:
BIO: Tokyo Cheapo's resident cost saving expert.
Filed under: Family
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