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KidZania
A kids' careers theme park where children can play act a whole host of jobs from reading the news to working in a pizza shop.
In a country that loves its children, the award for the most fascinating and unique children's facility must surely go to Tokyo's KidZania. Describing itself as an 'edutainment town' KidZania is something of a jobs and career theme park for children, where they can actively take part in adult jobs and experience different roles across a range of industries.
The backdrop is a miniature indoor city, complete with banks, fire and police stations, plus a whole host of shops, services and facilities, from the hospital to the pizza shop; the radio station to the beauty parlour. The entire facility is built at two-thirds real size, making everything child friendly.
Attention to detail and the authenticity of the experience are key; kids don the relevant uniform for each job and are paid (in kidzos, the local currency!) for their work. These funds can be put into a bank account and later be withdrawn (with an ATM card) and spent on goods and services. From baking the bread to reading the news; from fire fighting to crime fighting, kids can experience and enjoy an amazing range of thrilling occupations. Adult supervision is provided in the form of 'zupervisors'; a team of highly trained instructors and carers oversee the activities. However the philosophy is to encourage kids to become independent in their explorations. KidZania aims to help children increase confidence, build social skills and learn to appreciate the value of work and money, all in a safe and secure environment.
A visit for KidZania can be a wonderful experience for non-Japanese children during their trip to Japan. Most activities are aimed at 4-15 year olds and many (though not all) of the 'zupervisors' speak some English. KidZania is located in Toyosu, on the edge of Tokyo Bay, just a few minutes by subway from Tokyo Station, making for easy access from all parts of the city. Note: not ALL of the KidZania facilities are fully explained in English. However staff will do their very best to help and encourage non-Japanese speakers and a good time is guaranteed.
When to go:
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
Important notice: We are pleased to be able to offer so many amazing experiences in Japan. However, we are sorry that we can only include these as a part of a full Japan holiday package which includes your accommodation and transport alongside the experiences presented in this section of the web site.
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