Coming to Japan with Noisy Kids: A Mother’s Honest Perspective

Coming to Japan with Noisy Kids: A Mother’s Honest Perspective

Let me start with a disclaimer: not everyone will agree with me about this, but as a mother of a 19-month-old and having lived in Japan for over 10 years, this is my honest perspective. I’ve had my fair share of loud toddler moments in a country where silence often feels like a cultural requirement. So, take this for what it’s worth—just one mum’s view on managing a noisy child in Japan. 

Are Japanese Kids Really That Quiet?

Ah, the quiet Japanese child myth. Let’s address that first. There’s this belief that Japanese children are perfect little angels who never make a peep, and if they do, they’re swiftly escorted to a soundproofed room. The reality? Kids are noisy everywhere. Yes, Japanese children do grow up in a culture where being quiet in public is highly encouraged. But believe me, I’ve seen tantrums, sibling spats, and full on meltdowns in public spaces.

Children who grow up in densely populated cities, especially in apartments, are frequently reminded to keep noise levels down due to the close proximity to neighbours. This doesn’t mean they’re naturally quieter—it’s simply a matter of adapting to their surroundings. Given Japan’s urban density, particularly in cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama, this is a common reality.

So, while Japan might feel a bit quieter overall, don’t panic if your child decides to have a little meltdown or shout across a crowded train station. Japanese kids are just as likely to scream, laugh, and throw food around as children anywhere else—they just do it with a little more subtlety (and arguably a lot more discipline). If you're interested, you can read about the Japanese attitude to discipline in this article from Savvy Tokyo.

 

Managing Rowdy Kids in Japan: A Few Obvious Tips

  • Plan Ahead: If you know your child gets cranky when hungry, carry snacks or plan meal times accordingly. You won’t find a child on this planet who isn’t ready for a snack at the right moment. Our Little Nomads Japan baby boxes are full of yummy snacks that fit perfectly in your pocket or bag for those emergencies. Read my article about the most popular baby snacks in Japan here.
  • Take Breaks: Japan’s cities are densely packed, which can be overwhelming for young children. Plan for breaks in parks or quieter areas—there’s usually a green space nearby, even if it's tiny.
  • Distractions Are Key: Carry small toys, books, or download kid-friendly apps to keep them occupied during quieter moments, like on public transport. The sticker books contained in our Little Nomads Japan baby boxes are a great way to entertain toddlers in restaurants.
  • Be Ready for Stares: In Japan, people may stare, but it’s usually out of curiosity rather than disapproval. Smile back, give them a polite nod, and carry on. You’ll probably be surprised at how kind and understanding the Japanese can be.

Kid-Friendly Places

  • Family Restaurants (ファミレス): These are designed with families in mind, complete with kids' menus, high chairs, and noise-tolerant atmospheres. Chains like Gusto, Saizeriya, and Sushiro are popular choices where no one will mind too much if your child gets a bit rowdy.
  • Parks and Playgrounds: Japan is full of beautiful parks with playgrounds where kids can run around freely. Some great options include:
  • Kids Cafes and Indoor Play Areas: Some cafes are designed specifically for families, with play areas and noise-accepting environments. Look for places like ASOBono! in Tokyo Dome City or Bornelund Kid-O-Kid branches across Japan. These spaces let kids be as loud as they want without disturbing others.
  • Aquariums and Zoos: With so much to see and explore, kids are naturally excited, and a little noise is expected. Sunshine Aquarium (Ikebukuro, Tokyo) and Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan are particularly child-friendly.

Places to Be Cautious

  • Temples and Shrines: These are usually quiet, reflective spaces where visitors go to pray or reflect. While children are welcome, it’s best to keep visits short if your child is feeling particularly energetic. Choose less crowded temples or visit during off-peak hours.
  • Fine Dining Restaurants: Japan is famous for its culinary experiences, but high-end restaurants tend to be very quiet and formal. If you really want to try one, consider booking a private dining room if available. Alternatively, opt for more casual izakayas or ramen shops, which are generally more forgiving of noise.
  • Public Baths (Onsen) and Ryokan (Traditional Inns): Onsens are places of relaxation, and extremely loud noises are frowned upon. If you’re keen to visit, look for family-friendly onsens or ones with private baths. That said, I have been taking my daughter to onsens since she was 6 weeks old and haven't had an issue so far.
  • Public Transport During Rush Hours: Trains can be crowded and quiet, especially during rush hours. If possible, avoid traveling during these times (7:30–9:30 am and 5:00–7:00 pm), for everyone's comfort!

What Works for Me

  • On Trains: I hold my daughter so she can watch out the train window or let her hold the tsurikawa (those hanging straps on the train) so she feels like a grown-up (if space allows!). If not, snacks, a book, or in desperate times, YouTube with the sound turned off. She loves to catch the eye of other passengers, who generally give her a big smile and a “kawaii,” which is exactly what she’s looking for.
  • In Restaurants: Coloring, small A5 coloring books available from Daiso, also available in my Little Nomads Japan baby boxes on request, with crayons or pencils. A dimpl toy (pictured below), an open-the-flaps book, snacks, and—don’t judge me—YouTube.
  • Anywhere with Space: Let her roam as free as is safe.

Final Thoughts

Being a parent of a rowdy child in Japan might feel like a challenge, especially when you’re trying to balance cultural expectations with the very real nature of being a parent. But remember, kids are kids everywhere, and Japan is more understanding than it sometimes seems. Don’t let a few raised eyebrows or stares stop you from enjoying everything this incredible country has to offer. Just do your best!

For more great advice, check out The Tokyo Chapter with some fantastic articles on noisy kids in Japan here:

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