Children's Day 2025 in Tokyo: Golden Week Japanese Traditions and Things to Do in Tokyo for Families

1. Key Takeaways

• Children's Day (Kodomo no Hi) on May 5 celebrates children's health and happiness, blending ancient Japanese traditions with modern family fun.

Families decorate with colourful carp streamers (koinobori) symbolizing strength and growth.

Children often make traditional samurai helmets (kabuto) or mini carp crafts at school or home.

Seasonal treats like kashiwamochi and chimaki carry symbolic meaning for good fortune.

In Tokyo, major landmarks host hundreds of flying carp streamers, plus free admission special events for kids.

This part of Golden Week crowds make early planning essential for 2025.

2. Why Children's Day Matters as One of the Best Things to Experience While in Tokyo 2025

Children's Day is one of Japan's five official sekku (seasonal festivals) and has been legally recognized since 1948 as a holiday to respect children's rights and thank mothers.

Each year, Tokyo alone sees tens of thousands of families attend koinobori events at Tokyo Tower, Skytree, and Midtown.

Unlike in the past (when it was Boy's Day), today the holiday celebrates all children equally, making it one of the best places for expats families to visit Tokyo as well.

3. Core Sections

Understanding the Japanese Traditional Celebrations

What it is: Carp streamers, traditional samurai dolls, iris baths, and sweets mark the season.

Why it matters: Symbols like carp and oak leaves represent strength, growth, and protection rooted in Japanese history.

Tip: Even a small balcony koinobori kit from Daiso or Loft makes your kids feel part of the celebration in modern Japan.

Japanese Traditional Crafts to Do with Young Kids

Origami Kabuto (Samurai Helmet): Fold from newspaper for a life-size wearable hat inspired by traditional samurai armor.

DIY Koinobori: Toilet paper rolls, markers, and string make simple carp streamers.

Pitfall: Don't aim for perfection—crafts are about engagement and fun, things to do with kids that create a festive atmosphere.

Family Special Events and Things to Do in Tokyo

Tokyo Tower: 333 koinobori displayed in honor of the tower's height.

Tokyo Skytree Town: Large outdoor carp streamer festival with activities for kids in Tokyo.

Free Admission Venues: Ueno Zoo, Kasai Rinkai Aquarium, and Miraikan offer free entry for children on May 5.

Tip: Arrive early to beat Golden Week crowds; book tickets online if possible for your day itinerary.

Seasonal Food and Treats

Kashiwamochi: Mochi with sweet bean paste wrapped in oak leaves (symbol of family continuity).

Chimaki: Sweet sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves (common in Kansai).

Tip: Supermarkets and food stalls sell them in the days leading up to May 5; buy ahead to avoid sellouts.

Iris Bath (Shōbu-yu)

What it is: Soaking in hot water with iris leaves for protection and health.

Where: Many Tokyo sento (public baths) offer iris baths and free entry for children on May 5.

Tip: Try it at home by adding iris leaves sold at supermarkets.

4. Best Practices for Tokyo for Families

Top Risks and Solutions

Risk	Impact	How to Avoid
Forgetting to buy koinobori	Miss key visual tradition	Buy in late April at 100-yen shops or online
Overcrowding at events	Stressful outing, long lines for kids	Visit early morning or choose local park displays
Sweets sell out	Disappointed kids, lost opportunity	Pre-order kashiwamochi/chimaki on May 4

5. Days in Tokyo Checklist

Teach your kids the meaning of Children's Day (carp legend, family gratitude) rooted in Japanese folklore.

Buy or craft carp streamers and display them at home.

Fold origami samurai helmets with your children.

Plan one Tokyo outing (Tower, Skytree, or zoo) as a day trip.

Pick up kashiwamochi or chimaki by May 4.

End the day with a family iris bath at home or a local Shinto shrine area sento.

6. FAQ

Q1: Is Children's Day only for boys?
No. Since 1948, it has been officially for all children, though samurai symbols remain part of the Japanese traditions.

Q2: Where can I buy carp streamers when you visit Tokyo?
Most department stores, Don Quijote, and 100-yen shops sell them from mid-April to early May 2025.

Q3: Can foreigners join public Children's Day events?
Yes. All koinobori festivals and museum free-entry days welcome expat families exploring Japanese culture.

Q4: Are kashiwamochi gluten-free?
Yes. They are made from rice flour, though fillings (like red bean paste) vary. Always check packaging.

Q5: Do schools celebrate Children's Day?
Many kindergartens and elementary schools have kids make origami kabuto or paper carp ahead of May 5.

Q6: What should we do if it rains during Golden Week?
Opt for indoor events like Miraikan or aquarium free days; keep crafts and sweets as a backup plan.

7. Conclusion

Children's Day in Japan is more than a holiday—it's a chance for expat families to embrace history and traditions while making new memories. From carp streamers to kashiwamochi, each element helps your children feel celebrated and connected to Japanese culture across Japan.