Hi, I’m So Glad You’re Here! Welcome to Japan Kids Insider 👋

Whether you're planning a trip to Japan with your kids, or you're a foreign family already living here — welcome. You're exactly who I started this blog for.

A Little About Me

I'm a Tokyo-born mom, living in Tokyo with my husband and our two preschoolers — the four of us. But I haven't always been a "stay in Tokyo" kind of person — before kids, I lived and worked abroad in Europe and in Asia, and I've traveled to 23 countries along the way. I know what it's like to be the confused foreigner squinting at a menu, or googling "how do I even do this here" way too often. Closer to home, I've also visited 31 of Japan's 47 prefectures.

That mix of experience changed how I see my own country. I know Japan as a local — the shortcuts, the unspoken rules, the parts that don't show up in guidebooks. But I also remember what it's like to be the outsider figuring out a new culture, especially with kids along for the ride.

Why This Blog Exists

Whether it's friends abroad planning a Japan trip, or fellow parents who just moved to Tokyo, I've noticed people wishing for real, practical info that guidebooks just don't cover — not "what's the best temple to visit," but things like:

- "Will my toddler survive a shinkansen ride?"

- "Where can I find diapers, formula, or a stroller-friendly cafe near here?"

- "What are Japanese kids actually watching and reading?"

- "Is this parenting product worth it?"

That's the gap I want to fill here.

What You'll Find on Japan Kids Insider

Whether you're planning a trip or already living here, I'll be sharing:

- 🗾 Travel & outings — kid-tested destinations and honest tips

- 🧸 Parenting in Japan — everyday tips and things I wish I'd known sooner

- 📚 Books, toys & apps — things we've actually used at home

- 📺 Kids' shows & movies — good picks for bilingual families

- 🛍️ Product picks — real recommendations from real use

And if you don't have a trip or a move planned just yet but you're curious about parenting in Japan, or interested in Japanese books, toys, and snacks — you're welcome here too.

Everything here comes from actually living it — finding the indoor spots that save the day on brutal summer afternoons or surprise rainy days, Japanese books and toys that turn a long wait in line into a little bit of learning, and healthy Japanese snacks I can hand over guilt-free the moment a meltdown starts.

Let's Figure This Out Together

Whether you're traveling through a country with kids or raising them there day to day — the one you grew up in, or a brand new one — it all comes down to those small, practical moments. That's what I'm here to help with.

Thanks for stopping by — I hope this becomes a little part of what makes your time in Japan with your kids a bit richer, and a bit happier.

See you in the next post! 🌸