Running: check. Climbing: check. Hiding and seeking: check and check. These are just a few things on kids' summer to-do lists. July and August mean crushing heat and humidity in Japan, yet a big part of summer for families still involves open outdoor spaces for play.
Fortunately, Japan has more playgrounds than you could ever visit. Admittedly, some are more like patches of dirt with a few swings, but others are spectacular constructions that can inspire the childish imagination. Here are a few worth seeking out.
Some of these play spaces are close to downtown Tokyo, while others may require a day trip. All are worth your time. There are too many to include here, so I've whittled them down to a few that are both fun for all and uniquely photogenic.