Tokyo Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Tokyo
This budget-friendly family itinerary balances captivating ticketed attractions with Tokyo's wonderful free public spaces and events. It's designed to keep children aged 3-12 engaged, with ample opportunities for active play, learning, and awe-inspiring sights. We've considered travel times and kid-friendly facilities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable weekend for local families.
Friday Evening - Science & Sparkle Night
Friday, December 26Science Museum Fun
Dive into the wonders of the National Museum of Nature and Science.
This museum offers engaging exhibits on space, dinosaurs, and Japanese ecosystems, with many interactive displays perfect for curious minds. A portion of the Japan Gallery (South Exhibition Room, 1st floor) will be closed for renovation during this period.
Ideal for children aged 5-12, but younger kids will enjoy the dinosaur skeletons and interactive areas. The museum is entirely indoors, making it a great option for a chilly December evening. Restrooms and stroller access are available. Plan for 2-2.5 hours.
Easily accessible via public transport. A 5-minute walk from the Park Exit of JR Ueno Station. Public parking lots are available in the vicinity, but can be expensive.
Tokyo Dome Lights
Experience the enchanting Tokyo Dome City Winter Illumination, themed 'TOKYO SNOW DOME CITY'.
This free illumination transforms the entertainment complex into a magical wonderland with over a million LED lights, a giant 15-meter tree, and interactive light displays.
Kids will love the sparkling lights, photo opportunities, and potentially the interactive elements like soap bubbles. Many casual dining options are available within Tokyo Dome City for a budget-friendly family dinner. Suitable for all ages.
Located directly next to Suidobashi Station and Korakuen Station, offering excellent public transport access. Limited paid parking is available.
Saturday - Wild & Wet Adventures
Saturday, December 27Ueno Zoo Animals
Start your day with a visit to Ueno Zoo, Japan's oldest zoo and home to a wide variety of animals, including the popular giant pandas.
It's a fantastic spot for children to see wildlife and enjoy the outdoors.
Perfect for energetic kids of all ages. The zoo is stroller-friendly with plenty of restrooms and snack bars. Expect queues for popular animals like pandas, especially on a Saturday. Allow 2-3 hours for a good visit.
A short 5-minute walk from the Park Exit of JR Ueno Station. Nearby paid parking is available but can be busy.
Ueno Park Picnic
Enjoy a relaxed family picnic lunch within Ueno Park.
You can grab bento boxes or sandwiches from a nearby convenience store or supermarket, or purchase snacks from vendors within the park. This allows for some free play on the park's playgrounds or a leisurely stroll.
A great budget-friendly lunch option. Plenty of open spaces for kids to run around and burn off energy before the afternoon activity. Public restrooms are available throughout the park. Suitable for all ages.
Already within Ueno Park after visiting the zoo, minimal travel required.
Aqua Park Wonders
Immerse yourselves in the captivating Maxell Aqua Park Shinagawa.
This state-of-the-art aquarium features interactive exhibits, a stunning jellyfish tunnel, and highly popular dolphin and sea lion shows, blending marine life with light and sound technology.
An exciting indoor experience perfect for all kids aged 3-12. The dolphin show is a highlight. Stroller accessible, and restrooms are available. Plan for 2-3 hours. Consider bringing a change of clothes if kids get too excited near the water features.
A short walk from the Takanawa Exit of Shinagawa Station (JR Yamanote Line). Paid parking available at Shinagawa Prince Hotel.
Omotesando Lights
Enjoy an early evening stroll along Omotesando Avenue to see the beautiful Fendi Illumination, which runs until December 28, 2025.
The zelkova trees lining the avenue sparkle with white lights, creating a sophisticated and festive atmosphere.
A relaxed wind-down activity for the family. Kids will enjoy the pretty lights, and the wide sidewalks are stroller-friendly. Combine this with an early, kid-friendly dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Omotesando/Harajuku area. Perfect for a quick photo opportunity.
Accessible from Omotesando Station (Chiyoda, Ginza, Hanzomon lines) or Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line).
Sunday - Relaxed & Immersive Day
Sunday, December 28UNU Farmers Market
Visit the lively Farmers Market at United Nations University.
This popular weekend market offers fresh local produce, baked goods, and a variety of food trucks. It's a great place to browse, enjoy the atmosphere, and grab some unique and delicious treats for breakfast or an early lunch.
A fantastic sensory experience for kids, with colorful displays and delicious smells. They can pick out a fruit or a special treat. The market is stroller-friendly. Suitable for all ages. Runs until 4:00 PM.
Approximately a 5-minute walk from Omotesando Station Exit B2. Limited paid parking available nearby.
Shinjuku Garden Stroll
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
This expansive park features three distinct garden styles – Japanese Traditional, French Formal, and English Landscape – along with spacious lawns perfect for a relaxed family stroll.
A beautiful and peaceful escape from the city bustle. Kids can enjoy exploring the pathways and open spaces. Picnics are allowed (no alcohol), and restrooms are available. The park is stroller-friendly. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
About a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station or directly accessible from Shinjuku-gyoenmae Station (Marunouchi Line) Exit 15. Paid parking available.
Digital Art World
Conclude your weekend with an immersive journey through teamLab Planets Tokyo, a unique digital art museum where you interact with art barefoot. Dive into captivating installations, including spaces with water and vast flower gardens, offering a truly memorable sensory experience for the whole family.
This attraction is highly engaging for all ages, but kids especially love the water installations (bring shorts or pants that can be rolled up!). Lockers are provided for personal belongings. It's a unique and unforgettable way to end the weekend. Allow 1.5-2 hours. Last admission is one hour before closing.
Located just a 1-minute walk from Shintoyosu Station. Paid parking is available in the vicinity.
This weekend itinerary for Tokyo can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.