Babies are welcome in Japan, and you'll often hear "kawaii!!" or "cute!!" from locals as they check out the baby. Some advice for foreign travelers in Japan:
- Baby food in jars is not readily available at grocery or department stores. Most Japanese parents cook fresh food for their babies. Try looking for jars at large pharmacies in the baby section. Fruit, veggies, chicken, and yogurt, amongst others, are available.
- Diapers and powdered formula are widely available.
- If you plan to ride trains, bring a small, folding stroller. Trains can be very crowded, and locals will appreciate your efforts to minimize space.
- Water in Japan is safe to drink and use for washing.
- Many public bathrooms in Japan, particularly older ones, do not have soap. Carry a small hotel-sized liquid soap for washing up after a dirty diaper change. For modern facilities including changing stations, soap and air driers, look for department stores.
- The baby floor of higher-end department stores such as Mitsukoshi often has a baby room, with changing stations and areas for breast feeding.
Happy and safe travels!
