Splash-tastic Summer Adventures in Tokyo Parks!
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Summer in Tokyo is a magical time, especially for families with little ones! The city’s parks transform into vibrant playgrounds filled with splash areas, shallow pools, and playful fountains, creating the perfect oasis for kids to beat the heat. However, with so many options available in annual publications like the ‘Tokyo Summer with Kids’ magazines, it can be overwhelming to choose the ideal spot for your family. Fear not, fellow adventurers! We’ve gathered our top favorites that we’ve personally visited and adored. Let’s dive into the fun!
But first, a quick splash of advice:
- Most public swimming pools operate only during July and August, so check their opening times!
- Not all pools allow swim diapers, and some enforce a strict 3+ age rule, so be sure to confirm ahead of time.
- Believe it or not, many pools prohibit sunscreen, so sunscreen up before arriving!
- Most pools don’t allow tattoos; if you have them, make sure they’re covered up with a rashguard or tape.
- Speedos and swim caps? Some pools have quirky rules, so read the fine print before you pack!
- Cleaning breaks are common, and you might find yourself taking a break from splashing for 15-30 minutes.
If you’re considering a hotel with a pool, don’t forget to ask about their policies too!
Our Favorite Splash Spots!
1. Oyokogawa Park
Located just a short 14-minute stroll from the iconic Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Oyokogawa Park is a hidden gem! Its water play area is open throughout July and August and even on weekends in September, making it a perfect summer destination. Kids can explore little rocks, a charming waterfall, and even discover frogs and butterflies! It’s a nature wonderland right in the heart of the city. Plus, there’s a public restroom and baby changing facilities available, so you can handle those little emergencies with ease. The park is just a 5-minute walk from Tokyo Skytree Station!
2. Shinjuku Chuo Park (Shinjuku Central Park)
This park is a delightful family-friendly spot with a fantastic splash pad available for children during July and August. Just remember, swimsuits are a must! Shinjuku Chuo Park also features a lovely playground that is perfect for kids to explore and enjoy. It’s a great way to combine outdoor fun with a bit of cooling off!
3. Kodomo no Kuni (Children’s Land) in Yokohama
For a fun-filled day out, head to Kodomo no Kuni, where my kids love splashing around in the brook from mid-March until October. The entire area is designed for shallow water play, making it safe for even the most timid of swimmers! The park also boasts a big pool, but be prepared for crowds as it’s quite popular. Here are the details:
| Address | Opening Hours | Closed | Admission Fees | Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 700 Nara-cho, Yokohama City, Aoba | 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (until 5 PM in July & August) | Wednesdays | Free for children 2 & under, 100 Yen for 3-5 year olds, 200 Yen for elementary and junior high, 600 Yen for adults | 45 mins by car or 50 mins by train |
4. Futo Park
Futo Park is a charming little suburban park with a splash pond that opens mid-July. The play structure here is a dream come true for pirate-loving kids—my daughter even pretended to be Wendy on a pirate ship! While the splash pond might be closed initially, the park has plenty of other play areas to keep the little ones entertained. Bring your own sand-play toys, hats, and sunscreen, as shade is limited. It’s a short four-minute walk from Shibaura Futo Station!
5. Honshiba Park
Located just 8 minutes from Shinagawa Station, Honshiba Park features a water splash area that’s perfect for families. With lots of shade and a delightful view of the train tracks, kids can enjoy watching trains zoom by while they play. The park is well equipped with restrooms and changing tables, making it a safe, family-friendly spot!
6. Funabashi Andersen Park
This expansive park is a must-visit for families looking for a full day of adventure! Located about an hour from central Tokyo, Funabashi Andersen Park has a year-round splash pool, a giant roller slide, pony rides, and so much more! The admission fee is a steal for all the fun you’ll have, and trust me, your kids won’t want to leave!
7. Tsukishima Daini Children’s Park
For a fun day closer to the city, check out Tsukishima Daini Children’s Park, which is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. This pool is free to use, but it has specific hours of operation. The volunteers there ensure the pool is spotless, making it a wonderful option for germophobes!
8. Rinshi no Mori Park
Rinshi no Mori is another wonderful park with a splash pad that opens during the summer. It’s clean, safe, and has plenty of shaded areas to escape the sun. Just remember, kids must be toilet trained to play here, and no swim nappies are allowed!
9. Ibaraki Nature Museum
If you’re looking for something a little different, the Ibaraki Nature Museum is a fantastic stop. After exploring the museum, head to the Water Square where kids can enjoy the refreshing water features. It’s a great way to combine education with splashing fun!
10. Fountains in front of Skytree
For a quick and fun splash, visit the fountains in front of the Solamachi Complex near Skytree. They’re open from May to August, and kids will love running through the water. Just don’t forget your swimsuits!
11. Toyosu Park Splash Pad
Last but not least, the Toyosu Park Splash Pad is a fun spot for kids aged elementary school 2nd grade and under. It’s a short walk from the DMM Planets exhibition and a perfect way to enjoy a summer day!
So there you have it, our top picks for splash-tastic adventures in Tokyo! Pack your swimsuits, grab some sunscreen, and get ready for a summer filled with laughter and splashes!