If you have a Hello Kitty / My Melody / Cinnamoroll obsessed kid (or honestly, an adult who is), the Sanrio Cafe in Ikebukuro is a MUST. Themed character menu items, character-shaped lattes, pastel-everything decor, and you can buy exclusive Sanrio merchandise that's only available here. The kids will be FLOORED.

What makes it special: This is one of only a few official Sanrio Cafes in Tokyo, and the menu rotates featuring different characters seasonally (Pompompurin pancakes! Kuromi parfaits! Pochacco sandwiches!). The cafe is decorated like you've stepped INTO a Sanrio storybook — every wall, table, light fixture is character-themed. Photo ops EVERYWHERE.

Kid tips:

• RESERVATIONS REQUIRED — book online via the Sanrio Cafe website 1-2 weeks in advance, especially weekends.

• Best for ages 3+. Toddlers plus little kids will be in absolute heaven.

• Each diner has to order at least one item — plan to drop ¥1,500-3,000 per person.

• Time-limited slots (usually 90 min) — don't be late.

• Ask for the photo souvenir add-on — they print a custom postcard for you.

• Bathrooms in the building, not directly in the cafe.

• Located inside Sunshine City complex in Ikebukuro — 5 min from Higashi-Ikebukuro Station (Yurakucho line) or 10 min from Ikebukuro Station (Yamanote).

• Pro tip: combine with a Sunshine Aquarium visit — it's in the same complex!

We pair this cafe stop with the Pokemon Center Mega Tokyo (also in Ikebukuro!), Sunshine Aquarium, and Kiddy Land for an ultimate Tokyo character-cafe day with kids.