Roland Nielsen

While it would be impossible to include ALL the play areas in Tokyo, we wanted to list some of our members' favourite play areas.

If there is a play area that you know and love, please let us know about it! Email us at coordinators@tokyomothersgroup.com

Akasaka  "kids to teens hall"

It's free for minato residents and non residents can also attend for a minimal cost.

http://www.seirouin.or.jp/nandemo/

Appy

Is a government run play center, free of charge, to Minato-ku residents. It is staffed with professional care-givers 10AM-6PM every day of the week and on public holidays.

http://www.appy-kounan.jp/index.html

Tel number: 03-5114-9900

Children's Castle

On aoyama dori (next door to the UN University) It has a rooftop play area with little bikes, a painting/crafts area (take your own apron) music room, library, a large general play area full of different toys and activities.

http://www.kodomono-shiro.com/english/

TA Plaza

At Shirokane Takanawa station. The play centre is completely free and right above the station. It's perfect for a rainy day  http://www.taplaza.org/ They also have a library of English books which you can borrow.

Shibaura Island

The whole building is part of a new development. It has a baby toy room, an art room (where they have occasional art/craft projects/classes, mostly seasonal holiday decorations, held in Japanese), a computer room, large foam block room, lunch area and library (with some children's books in English), and a large 'gym' with baby bicycles and a big ball pit. There is a Peacock supermarket right across the street from it, so you can stock up on snacks or bento before going in.

Asobono, Tokyo Dome

ASOBono is divided into five themed areas: “ocean”, “town”, “train station”, “forest”, and “babies-only area”.  TIckets are sold by the hour with an option to extend your time there or buy a day pass.

http://www.tokyo-dome.co.jp/e/amusement_facilities/

Local jidokan

They are play areas run by local authorities that are free and usually for local residents. They also often do playgroups, (though in Japanese). Check with your local ward office for details of your local Jidokan.

Kid O Kid

Climbing walls, ball pool, bouncy castle, baby corner and much more. This play centre is a real treat for children but can get busy at weekends. They have various branches across Tokyo and Japan.

http://www.bornelund.co.jp/kidokid/index.html

TMG is an entirely independent, non-profit association run by volunteers.  However, we do need our members' help to fund some of our activities and keep our website up and running.  Please support us in whatever way you can.

Donations

We are always accepting donations, no matter how small.  To make a cash donation, please contact any of the TMG Coordinators at our meetings or events.  Or, you can make a donation through Paypal using the link below.

New year, new intentions ... What's your tip for a great break to get away from everything and feel rejuvenated, without costing the Earth?

Not an adrenaline-fuelled trip of a lifetime, but a wellness holiday that puts you back on the right track and isn't a drain on your financial resources. From specific hotels and destinations to spas, retreat centers and camps: where's the best place you've been to for an affordable, rejuvenating break?

Up for grabs is a Sprindrift 300 tent from Force Ten worth £540 and perfect for wintery expeditions. Submit your tips by clicking on the blue button and using the text tab. Try and include as much detail as possible – location, website address etc – and feel free to add a photo if you own the copyright to it, but it will be the text we're judging! Your tip should be around 100 words. Terms and conditions.