Shimbashi Library, Minato-ku
Maybe it seems a bit geeky to review a library, but I’ve always liked libraries and now finding English books in a Tokyo library is one of those simple joys in my life. I don’t mind reading the Japanese children’s books to Keiji and Arisa since it helps me improve my Japanese as well, but I still would much rather read aloud books in English because it takes me an hour to read a 10 page board book in hiragana. This library in Shimbashi has quite a nice children’s section with a lot of books in various languages, a carpeted reading corner with some toys and small tables and chairs. There’s also an elevator in the library and a clean children’s bathroom. It’d be a nice place to spend a rainy morning, as an alternative to a jidoukan. And if it’s not a rainy day, read some books then play at the playground right outside in the wooden jungle gym setup.
Getting There: Just a hop and a skip away from the Mita Line Onarimon Station (This station has elevators)