Are you looking for cheap activities to do with kids in Tokyo? Inokashira Park Zoo is a great place to go with kids!
The park itself is centered around the beautiful Inokashira Pond which is in the trendy neighborhood of Kichijoji.
Location
10 minute walk from Kichijoji Station (Kichijoji is about 15 minutes from Shinjuku and 20 minutes from Shibuya by train.)
Costs
400 yen for adults
FREE for children aged 12 and under
Inside The Zoo
The zoo is divided into two parts; the Zoo Area and the Aquatic Life Park.
One ticket covers the entrance of both parts.
It’s open from 9:30 to 5pm, closed on most Mondays but make sure you check the website before you go.
You can buy tickets online if you want a smooth entry especially the crowded seasons like the cherry blossom season which is in April.
There are more than 170 animal species displayed. It’s about a 10 minute walk with a stroller or 5 minute walk going down stairs to get to the Aquatic Life Park. My two year old had a great time seeing the animals outside, and it was a nice change to go indoors and see some sea creatures.
Mini Amusement Park
We were pleasantly surprised to see there was a mini amusement park inside the zoo. A nice change for the kids. There was also a playground as well.
Lunch
There was a small stand that sold some typical Japanese food. Most people brought in their own lunch. You can sit outside on the benches with tables and enjoy eating.
Nursing Station
There was a nursing station at the entrance of the Zoo. It was quiet and comfortable.
Overall we thought it was a super nice day out. Great activity to do with kids.
Other things to do in Inokashira Park
Benzaiten Shrine
The Japanese incarnation of the Hindi Goddess Sarasvati who is the Goddess of water. The shrine is on a little island in the pond. But stay clear if you’re there as a couple as Benzaiten is known to be a little bit jealous! Rumor has it that if you go as a couple, you’ll break up…
Paddle Swans
South of the park you can rent some paddle swans
and explore the park from the pond
Walk around the park
You can enjoy this park anytime of the year
whatever season. In the spring, many people come to see the cherry blossoms. In the fall, the park is filled with beautiful koyo – which is the changing color of the leaves. In the summer, you’ll be immersed in luscious greenery and winter has a totally different feel as well.