I love writing about Japan. It was one of the first places I actually wrote about on this site as I lived there as a kid and figured that’s reason enough to write about it. Now with Summer Olympics coming to Tokyo next year, I thought it would be a good time to prepare Japan for kids with all of the knowledge they’re about to experience as they watch the games. And for those lucky enough to go there themselves (either for the Olympics or any other time) prep with these best children’s books for a trip to Tokyo.
Tokyo Children’s Books
A Board Book for Kids
Tokyo, A Book of Senses
by Ashley Evanson
The Hello World board book series uses simple themes and beautiful images to showcase the city. In this case, it’s combining the sense with Tokyo – which is such a great combination I wish I thought of it myself.
Buy Tokyo, A Books of Senses on Amazon
A Pug and a Picture Book in Tokyo
Traveling Through Tokyo
by Marie Story
Kip, the pug, is on a Japanese adventure in Tokyo. He’s set to see all the sights and do all of the cultural activities he can with his friend Taiki. Join him on this glorious trip.
Buy Traveling Through Tokyo on Amazon
See what life is like for kids living in Tokyo
I Live in Tokyo
by Mari Takabayashi
Mimiko lives in Japan. She’s seven-years-old. Follow her through a year of her life in Tokyo and learn about what it’s like to live there.
Buy on I Live in Tokyo on Amazon
A fun pop-up book for Tokyo
Tokyo Pop-Up Book, A Comic Adventure with Neko the Cat
by Sam Ita
This pop-up book is delivered in a comic strip format, which adds to the excitement. Chico and his cat are traveling around Tokyo and taking in all of the sites to share with you.
Buy Tokyo Pop-Up Book on Amazon
Book set in Tokyo for older kids
Diary of a Tokyo Teen
by Christine Mari Inzer
The author, a Japanese-American woman, grew up in Japan as a teen. Here she shares some of the uniquely-Japanese things that can be found in Tokyo and explores other Japanese cities.
Buy Diary of a Tokyo Teen on Amazon
Tokyo Guide Books for Kids
Classic Kid’s Guide Book for Tokyo
Tokyo City Trails
by Lonely Planet
I will always love Lonely Planet’s guidebooks. Especially the ones for kids. This particular one has themed trails throughout Tokyo. Meaning, it appeals to all kind of traveler. Use it to plan a culture, history, food or more trip geared specifically to children.
Buy Tokyo City Trails on Amazon
Fun finds around Tokyo
Cool Tokyo Guide: Adventures in the City of Kawaii Fashion, Train Sushi and Godzilla
by Abby Denson
This is a different kind of guidebook. It’s a comic book design showcasing cool things that are both old and new in the city of Tokyo. Japanese culture fans will especially love this one.
Buy Cool Tokyo Guide on Amazon
Visiting Japan with your family?
Here are some fun finds:
- Japan Rail Pass: While you can currently purchase the Japan Rail Pass in Japan (it used to not always be that way) please note that it’s only available at certain train stations, is more expensive than buying it online in advance, and the availability after March 2020 is uncertain as of this posting.
- Studio Ghibli Tour, Museum, and Lunch: This particular tour is well-reviewed and includes transfers, tour, museum, and lunch. Perfect for Studio Ghibli fans.
- Other fun Tokyo things to do with kids
- The benefit of world travel for kids
Do you want to join other like-minded families who are interested in learning about other cultures via books and travel? Join our Facebook Group. I approve new members daily. It’s still small but growing.
