Tokyo is full of exciting places for families, but few spark curiosity like the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation (Miraikan / 日本科学未来館) in Odaiba. From meeting ASIMO the robot to gazing at the giant Earth globe display, kids can dive into hands-on exhibits about space, robotics, and the environment. Families planning ahead can secure Miraikan tickets online to skip the hassle at the door, making the experience even smoother. Visiting Miraikan with kids isn’t just a museum stop, it’s an interactive journey where science feels like play and the future comes alive.
As you plan your trip to Tokyo with kids, this guide is a great place to start! For comprehensive information on where to stay, how to get around, and what to eat with kids, begin with our Tokyo Family Travel Guide. You can then visit the Tokyo with Kids Hub to find all our guides, adventure stories, and age-specific tips conveniently in one easy place.
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Why Book Ahead? It’s quicker, avoids long lines, helps skip language barriers, prevents sold-out attractions, and solves payment issues at places that don’t accept credit cards. *Prices are subject to change.
Why Miraikan is Great for Families with Kids
- Interactive exhibits turn science into play, from space exploration to earthquake simulators.
- The Geo-Cosmos globe, a massive Earth suspended in the atrium, mesmerizes kids and adults alike.
- Live demonstrations with robots and AI give kids a peek into the future.
- Wide, modern halls make it stroller-friendly and easy to navigate.
- The location in Odaiba means plenty of nearby family attractions for a full day out.
Parent Insight: Places like Miraikan show kids that science isn’t just in textbooks, it’s alive, moving, and full of questions we’re still trying to answer. Follow their curiosity, not the exhibit order, and let their “What if?” questions guide you. That wonder is where real learning begins.
Best Things to Do at Miraikan with Kids
- Geo-Cosmos Display: Watch the Earth slowly rotate on this massive glowing globe suspended in the main hall.
- ASIMO Demonstrations: See Honda’s famous humanoid robot walk, wave, and even kick a ball.
- Space Exploration Zone: Climb inside mock space capsules and learn what life is like for astronauts.
- Disaster & Earthquake Simulations: Try hands-on exhibits that teach kids about natural disasters in safe, interactive ways.
- Future Technology Exhibits: Experiment with robotics, AI, and cutting-edge innovations that make kids feel like inventors.
- Lab Workshops: On certain days, kids can join short workshops with science communicators.
Practical Tips for Visiting Miraikan with Kids
- Cost: ¥ – book tickets in advance to avoid the wait.
- Best Age Range: Ages 5+ (younger kids will enjoy the visuals, older kids can dive deeper into exhibits)
- Stroller-Friendly?: Yes, elevators and wide spaces throughout
- Rest Areas: Benches and resting spots on multiple floors
- Food: Café on-site with kid-friendly meals; Odaiba has many restaurants nearby
How to Get to Miraikan with Kids
- By Train: About a 3-minute walk from Telecom Center Station (Yurikamome Line) or a 15-minute walk from Tokyo Teleport Station (Rinkai Line).
- By Bus: Several city buses stop near Odaiba; look for stops at Telecom Center or Tokyo Teleport.
- Special Note: The Yurikamome Line (driverless train) is a highlight for kids; sit in the front for a “rollercoaster view” of Tokyo Bay!
Luca & Nico’s Tip: Don’t miss the robot shows! Time your visit to catch ASIMO’s demo, and then try walking like a robot through the museum to see who does the best impression.
Family-Friendly Hotels Near Miraikan in Tokyo
- Luxury
- Hilton Tokyo Odaiba – Nearly a 15-minute walk; family suites with bay views and kid-friendly amenities.
- Mid-Range
- Hotel Trusty Tokyo Bayside – Roughly an 18-minute walk; comfortable modern rooms and easy access to Miraikan.
- Budget
- Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel – About 15 minutes by train; affordable family rooms and reliable comfort.
FAQs: Visiting Miraikan with Kids
Planning a visit to Miraikan in Tokyo with kids? Here are answers to common family questions.
A: Miraikan, officially called the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation, is Tokyo’s leading science museum. It’s famous for the giant Geo-Cosmos globe, ASIMO the humanoid robot, and interactive exhibits on space, robotics, and the environment.
A: Miraikan is located in the Odaiba area of Tokyo, a waterfront entertainment district known for family attractions, shopping centers, and panoramic views of Tokyo Bay.
A: Miraikan is usually open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed on Tuesdays. Hours can change during holidays or special events, so check the official website before your visit.
A: General admission to Miraikan costs about ¥630 for adults and ¥210 for children under 18, while preschoolers can enter for free. Some special exhibitions have separate charges.
A: The easiest way to reach Miraikan is by train. It’s 3-minute walk from Telecom Center Station (Yurikamome Line) or a 15-minute walk from Tokyo Teleport Station (Rinkai Line). Families often enjoy the Yurikamome Line’s driverless train ride with views of Rainbow Bridge.
A: Most families spend 2 to 3 hours at Miraikan, but if your kids love hands-on science exhibits, plan for half a day to explore comfortably.
A: Yes, Miraikan is very kid-friendly. It’s best for children ages 5 and up who can enjoy the interactive exhibits, though younger kids will still enjoy the globe and robot demonstrations.
A: Yes, Miraikan is stroller-friendly. It has elevators, wide corridors, and plenty of space, making it easy to navigate with babies or toddlers.
A: Yes, Miraikan has an on-site café offering kid-friendly meals and snacks. There are also many family-friendly restaurants nearby in Odaiba, making it easy to combine lunch or dinner with your visit.
Until Next Time…
Miraikan is more than a science museum, it’s a place where kids can see the future, ask bold questions, and discover that learning is full of wonder. Whether your child leaves dreaming of space travel, inventing robots, or simply replaying their best robot walk, Miraikan is a Tokyo adventure that inspires big imaginations.
Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep dreaming!
~ The LuNi Travels Family ~
