Kantō & Tokyo Megalopolis

Kantō is the political and cultural engine of Japan, anchored by the colossal metropolis of Tokyo. For families, this is often the entry point and the highlight of a trip, offering a sensory overload of neon lights, cutting-edge technology, and pop culture. Despite its density, the region is remarkably organized and safe. Beyond the concrete jungle, the Kanto plain extends to mountains, hot spring resorts, and coastal towns, all connected by the world's most efficient train network. Summers are hot and humid, while winters are crisp and dry with clear blue skies perfect for viewing Mount Fuji.

In Tokyo, the sheer variety of attractions is unmatched. Tokyo Disney Resort (Disneyland and DisneySea) in Chiba is a bucket-list destination, with DisneySea offering a unique nautical theme found nowhere else. For a modern twist, the teamLab Planets digital art museum allows kids to walk through water and crystal lights in a fully immersive experience. Anime fans will gravitate towards the Ghibli Museum in Mitaka (tickets required in advance) or the Pokémon Centers scattered across the city. Public parks like Shinjuku Gyoen or Yoyogi Park provide essential green space for toddlers to run free.

Just outside the capital, Hakone is a fantastic overnight trip. Families can ride a switchback train, a cable car over sulfurous volcanic vents (Owakudani), and a "pirate ship" across Lake Ashi—all part of a fun transportation loop. Yokohama offers a breezier, seaside atmosphere with the Cup Noodles Museum, where children can design their own ramen packaging and choose toppings. North of Tokyo, Nikko combines history with nature; kids might not appreciate the intricate shrine architecture as much as the monkeys, but the nearby Edo Wonderland theme park lets them dress up as ninjas and watch live samurai shows.

Dining in Kanto is incredibly convenient. Kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants are entertaining and affordable, while family restaurants ("Famiresu") offer extensive children's menus. Convenience stores (Konbini) are ubiquitous and stocked with high-quality snacks, rice balls (onigiri), and fried chicken, acting as lifesavers for hungry travelers. Navigating the train system with a stroller can be challenging during rush hour, so families should plan travel times accordingly. From the height of the Skytree to the depths of the aquarium, Kanto delivers non-stop action.