Tokyo with children

Try Shinjuku Gyoen, an easy ten-minute walk from the New South exit of Shinjuku Station, which is accessible by elevator. A mere ¥200 buys an adult ticket (kids under six enter for free) and you get access to the traditional Japanese, French and English gardens, large open lawns and the teahouse.

Alcohol is prohibited on the grounds, so it’s an ideal space for sakura-viewing with children, without the worry of long bathroom waits or noisy neighbours. Bring a plastic sheet or blanket, pack a picnic (or buy one at the station), and stay for the day – there are plenty of changing stations and nursing rooms throughout the grounds. Note that the park is closed on Mondays and bicycles are prohibited.

Head to the Kawaii Monster Cafe for a taste of the kind of Harajuku subculture both you and your kids can enjoy. It’s easily accessible from two stations, with elevator access and stroller parking in the monster’s mouth (lobby). The 90-minute lunch time table limit that allows for wait times of just 30min or under – even on crowded weekends – is a lifesaver, and the ‘Monster girls’ greeting you at the door are dressed in the latest Harajuku fashions.

Plus, you’re actually encouraged to leave your seat and admire the decorations that just beg for family selfies. There’s a ¥500 table charge, along with a required purchase of one drink and food item per head, meaning that you’ll be paying at least ¥1,200 per person.

One downside – despite a significant number of customers accompanied by young children, there’s no changing table or nursing space. For parents with kids on the autism spectrum or with a sensory processing disorder, try the Tokyo Toy Museum in Yotsuya for a calmer indoor experience.