New to Tokyo?

 

A quick Google search will turn up plenty of helpful resources for newly arrived families. From English-speaking parenting and play groups to in-depth directions for navigating the international school system, there is no shortage of tips and tricks for seamlessly transitioning to life in Japan.

 

In fact, there are so many opportunities in the city for new families to interact with and learn from similar families, eat familiar foods and enjoy familiar activities, that you almost have no cause to venture out of your familiar bubble, despite being in a new country that is, very likely, very unfamiliar.

 

Children who have the opportunity to experience life abroad (or "third culture kids" as they're sometimes called) often have greater empathy, more developed problem solving skills and enhanced resiliency. Whatever the reason behind your family's move to Tokyo - whether work relocation, a love of Japan or something in between - there are so many benefits to making the most out of your time here!

 

We've compiled some of our favorite ways to break out of your bubble and experience life in and learn about Japan as a family.

 

 

In addition to lessons in math and science, cooking traditional Japanese dishes familiarizes your family with common tastes and products (so you can buy them yourself!). Whether its standards like gyoza and ramen or more complex sushi rolling, you can learn how to make a Japanese meal the whole family will enjoy.

 

This makes for an early day to be sure, but a predawn trip to the new Toyosu market for the famous tuna auction is a glimpse inside a quintessential Tokyo event. Japan is, after all, an island nation with a long tradition and culture steeped in the sea. You can also still check out many of the markets that have stayed at Tsukiji despite the move to its new location in October 2018.

 

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of metropolitan Tokyo with a trip to a farm for a look at Japanese farming and seasonal delicacies. Much of Japan's mountainous landscape is actually unsuitable for crops, so farmers have had to become very creative and resourceful in making the most of what they have. Several locations around the country run programs that allow visitors to have a full farm experience.

 

 

Even though tea could technically fall under "food," tea ceremonies in Japan go beyond quenching your thirst. Plenty of cultures worldwide regularly enjoy a cuppa; in Japan they have elevated the practice to its own art form. In fact, in combination with incense appreciation and flower arrangement (see below), it's counted as one of three classic arts of refinement.

 

The art of flower arranging in Japan is much less about complementary colors or a uniform look than it is about the meaning inherent in a specific placement. Ikebana is both a lesson in Buddhist philosophy and a fun way to get unique decor for your new home!

 

These relaxing Japanese baths are a must. While the heat and humidity of summer may not be an overly inviting time to take in steamy suds, onsen are definitely a welcome way to clean up in the winter months. Several locations around Tokyo cater to families - this article from the Japan Times has a great list to check out!

 

Many of Japan's most beloved traditions center on dancing, from Noh and Kabuki theater to the plentiful dance troupes participating in matsuri parades. Learning the moves is a very physical way to connect with Japanese culture. Nihon Buyo is one style that dates back nearly 400 years. The cultural center in Asakusa offers free workshops to learn this dance, where you'll also get to wear a traditional yukata!

 

 

Little kids' brains are sponges. If you've moved to Tokyo with a young child or two, it's the perfect time to get them started on learning the language. In addition to not shying away from conversation with your new Japanese neighbors, there are also schools available that specialize in immersing children as young as three in Japanese.

 

The video streaming service has a lot of family-friendly content in Japanese, with English subtitles. A CareFinder team favorite and growing international phenomenon, Terrace House, has the added benefit of helping along your language skills while also showcasing the "reality" of life for young Japanese people in a way that all ages can identify with.

 

Even if your children are technically old enough to fend for themselves, having a babysitter who speaks your native language as well as Japanese on hand can be very helpful. In addition to helping keep the kids in line while you're organizing your new life, a bilingual sitter can also serve as a cultural ambassador and tour guide, giving you insights only a local will have.

 

While finding a little bit of normalcy when your family makes a big move is undoubtedly important, where is the fun in relocating to a brand new place without also immersing yourselves in it?