After several months of precautionary measures to help against the spread of coronavirus in Japan, the country has recently "opened up" (in degrees) for "normal" life. Just in time for rainy season in Tokyo!

 

While the rainy season definitely puts a damper on any outdoor activities, there are a host of ways for your family to have fun and stay active indoors. Just keep in mind the new rules many places will have to ensure a safe and healthy experience. Below are a few common requirements and requests to consider, but be sure to check each facility's website for the specifics!

 

- Masks are going to be a must! As you've undoubtedly already seen, many places will require a face covering for entry.

- Because capacity will be limited in many environments, it' best if you make a reservation or otherwise contact the facility in advance. You don't want to make the trip for nothing!

- Not everything will be open. A lot of facilities will limit use of certain activities or spaces because there's no good way to open them safely at this point.

 

Sadly, a rainy day doesn't mean your errands disappear. At Grand Tree, you can knock out all kinds of shopping in an environment specifically designed for families. It's a CareFinder favorite!

 

Filled with jungle gyms, climbing walls and toys galore, Asobono is a perfect indoor playground to let little kids loose for an hour or two.

 

Trampolines, building blocks and toy ships keep the kids busy at this indoor playground in Odaiba.

 

In addition to the stunning 360* views from 250m above ground, there are thrilling virtual reality "rides" and interactive art installations.

 

Everyone loves karaoke! Pasela has rooms and song selections specifically tailored to kids' tastes, in addition to fun costumes for dress-up.

 

For the yakyu lover in your life, the Asakusa Batting Stadium is a perfect distraction from bad weather.

 

Keep the kids from climbing the walls at home by taking them to this fun bouldering gym! It's great physical and mental exercise.

 

Work up a sweat at this trampoline gym, or practice aerial moves at the facility's special area for gymnastics, cheerleading, skiing or snowboarding.

 

it may be too late to sharpen your skills ahead of next summer's rescheduled Olympic Games (fingers crossed!), but table tennis at T4 is still a fun way to pass a rainy day..

 

"Museum" may be used a bit loosely here, this three-story indoor play place has a giant collection of toys from all over the world.

 

This free museum is a great destination for all ages. Younger children can play dress up and "ride" in a mock firetruck and older guests can learn about the history of firefighting in Japan.

 

Who doesn't love seeing life-size dioramas of stuffed animals in the wild or full-scale dinosaur bones? Bonus: students in high school or younger get in free.

 

Whether it's too wet, or too hot and humid, to be outside this summer, there are still plenty of opportunities to have a good time (safely!). And, of course, if you need a hand with the kids, CareFinder's community of highly qualified, bilingual babysitters is always here to help, in-person or online. Find your sitter today!