Are there places in Shinjuku where children can play and families can hang out together?

Honestly, Shinjuku isn’t the easiest spot in Tokyo for kids to have a great time playing around. It’s a bustling business and shopping district, so you won’t find many playgrounds or child-friendly parks right in the heart of it. The one notable exception is Shinjuku Gyoen— it’s a huge, beautiful park where kids can run around and families can picnic. But if you want to go beyond that and have a fuller day out with children, I usually recommend hopping on a train for a short ride to Tokyo Dome City.

Tokyo Dome City is a whole entertainment complex where kids can enjoy mini amusement park rides and games. It’s like a little theme park squeezed in the city, and it’s perfect if you want a mix of fun and shopping. The commercial facilities inside have loads of interesting shops, including anime goods stores that kids (and adults!) love. Plus, the restaurants here range from casual ramen shops to dessert cafes and quirky lifestyle stores. It’s a lively place where the whole family can find something to enjoy.

Also, if your family is up for a unique experience, there’s LaQua Spa right there in Tokyo Dome City. It’s a beautiful hot spring and spa facility, and many Japanese people come here to relax after a busy day. I think it’s one of the best hot baths in Japan, but I understand it might feel a bit intimidating for foreigners since it’s a traditional onsen culture experience. However, giving it a try can be a memorable way to see a side of Japanese daily life that tourists rarely get to experience.

"What if I want to stay in Shinjuku but still find child-friendly spots nearby?"

If you want to stay in Shinjuku, Shinjuku Gyoen is your best bet for green space and a playground. It’s spacious and quiet compared to the rest of the district, so it’s great for families who want to escape the city buzz for a while. You can bring a picnic, rent a bike, or just let your kids run around. For indoor activities, some department stores like Takashimaya have small play areas or occasional kid events, but these aren’t permanent playgrounds. For a bigger adventure, just a quick train ride (about 10 minutes) to Tokyo Dome City opens up the amusement park and shops I mentioned.

"Are Tokyo Dome City’s amusement park rides suitable for very young children?"

Yes, Tokyo Dome City has rides for toddlers and small kids, but it’s not like a giant theme park with huge roller coasters. The rides are mostly gentle and family-friendly, like carousels, mini trains, and small spinning rides. It’s tailored more for younger kids and families, so it’s a great place to introduce little ones to amusement parks without overwhelming them. Plus, there are game arcades and kid-focused shops to explore.

"How much does it cost to enter Tokyo Dome City’s amusement area and LaQua Spa?"

Tokyo Dome City’s amusement park area doesn’t have an entrance fee—you pay per ride. For example, most rides cost around ¥400–¥600 (about $3–$5 USD) each. You can buy a wristband for unlimited rides on some days, which is around ¥2,500 (~$18 USD), but check their website for current pricing and schedules.

LaQua Spa entry is roughly ¥2,900 (~$21 USD) for adults, and it includes access to the baths and relaxation areas. It’s a bit of a splurge, but well worth it if you want to experience a traditional Japanese hot spring in a modern setting. They have rental towels and amenities, so you don’t need to bring anything special.

"Is it easy for foreigners to use LaQua Spa, especially if we’ve never been to a Japanese onsen before?"

It can feel a little intimidating at first because Japanese onsen have strict rules (like no tattoos, no swimsuits, and washing thoroughly before entering). But staff at LaQua are used to international visitors, and signage is often in English. Many foreigners visit with no problems, and it’s a chance to experience something very authentic. If you want to prepare, there are helpful guides online about onsen etiquette. Also, if you have tattoos, some parts of LaQua might not allow entry, so it’s good to check in advance or ask the staff.

"What kind of anime goods shops can we find at Tokyo Dome City?"

Tokyo Dome City has several stores selling anime and character merchandise, from popular series like Gundam, Pokémon, and more niche Japanese cartoons. These shops carry everything from figures and plush toys to limited-edition items you won’t find in typical tourist shops. For anime fans, it’s a fun place to discover new collectibles or gifts. Plus, the overall vibe of the complex is very much in tune with Japanese pop culture, so even casual visitors find it interesting.

In short, while Shinjuku itself doesn’t have many dedicated child play areas beyond Shinjuku Gyoen Park, Tokyo Dome City nearby is where Japanese families head when they want a day packed with amusement rides, shopping, and tasty treats. The experience there reflects how Japanese people enjoy family time—combining fun, food, and even relaxation in a single spot. It might not be on every tourist’s radar, but if you want to see how locals actually spend a day out with kids in Tokyo, it’s a great choice.