Little Nomads Japan

14/08/2026

6 reasons why you should visit a Japanese mall

If you’re visiting Japan with little kids, you might come across some of these things in the main tourist areas, but it’s when you venture out to the bigger shopping malls that you really see them all together.

Much needed summer air-conditioning aside, Japanese malls are basically a family paradise.

1. Character-themed shopping carts: shopping suddenly becomes much more exciting.
2. Soft play: perfect for letting the kids burn off some energy.
3. Baby changing and feeding rooms: clean, spacious and actually designed for parents.
4. Baby chairs in the toilets: so useful when you’re out with a little one.
5. Food courts with kid-friendly seating: high chairs, family tables and plenty of easy options.
6. Kids’ sets: loads of family-friendly meals and usually very reasonably priced.

It’s one of those things you don’t really appreciate until you travel with kids.

So if you’re coming to Japan with kids and time allows, venture a little further out and find one of the bigger local shopping malls. You might be surprised to see all of this together in one place. This one is Aeon Mall in Tsu, Mie, for reference

Japan really is very family-friendly.

27/07/2026

Don’t expect anything fancy! But honestly, that’s not the point.

The kids’ play area at Narita Terminal 1 is pretty basic, but the kids couldn’t care less. It’s just enough to let them get some energy out before a long flight.

If you get there early, you might even have it all to yourselves like we did! This was 8:30am.

There’s a 7-Eleven around the corner, McDonald’s, and plenty of other places to grab food, so you can sit nearby while the kids play. They also loved watching the planes through the windows. As did I!

There’s even a Mamaro room for feeding or changing your baby if you need it.

Save this for your next trip, and follow Little Nomads Japan for more Japan with baby and toddler tips. ✈️🇯🇵

24/07/2026

Little Nomads will be taking a short break from July 25–August 6, so no boxes will be shipped during that time.

You can still place your order as usual — just make sure to choose a delivery date from August 8 onwards.

Thanks so much for your understanding and continued support 💛
If you have any questions, feel free to message anytime!

30/06/2026

Everyone knows Japan is hot and humid in the summer.

Knowing it and feeling it are two very different things, especially when you’re travelling with a baby or toddler.

After several summers here, there are a handful of products I genuinely think make a difference. Some are things I never would have thought to buy before living in Japan, and there’s one product in particular that I’d be careful about buying unless you know what to look for.

I’ve put together a blog with my recommendations, along with a few tips I’ve picked up from living here and travelling with my own little one.

If Japan is on your summer holiday list, I hope it helps.

You can read the full blog here https://littlenomadsjapan.com/blogs/little-nomads-japan-blog/summer-in-japan-with-a-baby-5-essentials-to-beat-the-heat

15/06/2026

If you’re stuck for something to do on a rainy day or need somewhere to escape the summer heat, Asobi Park PLUS in Minato Mirai is well worth a visit.

The indoor beach was the highlight for us. She loved it so much that getting her to leave was the hardest part of the day.

Children under 6 months are free, and there are play areas for everyone from babies through to older children (up to around 12 years old).

It’s a great option if you’re visiting Yokohama with children or just looking for an indoor activity that keeps little ones entertained for a few hours.

IndoorPlay

30/05/2026

Kakigōri season is nearly here in Japan. Light, fluffy shaved ice topped with everything from fresh fruit to matcha, it’s one of the best ways to cool down during a Japanese summer.

It’s a bit early to see them in May but I’m not complaining. This one is strawberry syrup and condensed milk, spotted in our local Tokyu department store restaurant.

Have you tried it?

japanwithbaby

16/04/2026

16/04/2026

At Little Nomads Japan I can source most baby essentials locally ready for you when you arrive in Japan, but these are the ones that are difficult to find, so worth packing if you’ve got space.

Teething gel
Genuinely not really available in Japan in the familiar medicated form (especially soothing gels like you’d find in the UK/US). Japan relies on teethers (like the banana one my son has!)

Gas drops
Also not commonly found in Japan in the simethicone “gas relief drops” format you might be used to. It’s one of those things you assume will exist everywhere until you’re here looking for it.

Baby paracetamol (Calpol / Tylenol)
Japan has alternatives, but they’re often prescription-based or come in different dosing and formats. If you’re used to Calpol/Tylenol, it’s easier to bring what you know.

Sudocrem
Classic thick barrier cream for nappy rash. Japan has alternatives, but I find it’s not quite the same heavy-duty, no-nonsense texture.

Vitamin D drops (especially for winter trips)
Useful when sunlight is limited in winter or for babies spending most of their time indoors. I have occasionally seen them here but they’re not routinely used in Japan, so many parents bring their own.

Japan has excellent baby products overall—just not always the exact things you’d reach for at 2am with a baby who has opinions.

02/04/2026

Traveling to Japan with a baby and wondering about formula?

The good news: yes, you can buy formula in Japan—and it’s safe, high quality, and widely available. But the formats might be a little different from what you’re used to.

From powdered tins to sachets, cubes, and ready-to-drink options, there are actually some really convenient choices here (especially for traveling).

🔗 https://littlenomadsjapan.com/blogs/little-nomads-japan-blog/can-you-buy-formula-in-japan-a-guide-for-traveling-parents

As a combo-feeding mum, I personally love sachets—no mess, no measuring, and so much easier when you’re out and about.

I’ve put together a full guide on what to expect, the main brands, and what works best when traveling.

If you’re planning a trip, this will save you a lot of stress.

01/03/2026

“Raw milk” in Japan isn’t raw.
It just means 100% cow’s milk 🐮
Check the cut on the carton to be sure

I’m definitely not the first person to share this info on instagram but I see worried parents asking about this all the time on Facebook. So thought it’s worth another share 🥛