Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest
こども本の森 中之島
Nakanoshima · near Naniwabashi (1 min walk)
Nakanoshima Children's Book Forest in Nakanoshima. A free children's library designed and donated by architect Tadao Ando, with soaring floor-to-ceiling bookshelves of around 20,000 books and cosy nooks where kids can read anywhere, including steps overlooking the river.
Why children love it: A free children's library designed and donated by architect Tadao Ando, with soaring floor-to-ceiling bookshelves of around 20,000 books and cosy nooks where kids can read anywhere, including steps overlooking the river.
Honest drawbacks: Timed-entry reservations are needed at busy periods; it is a reading space, so it suits browsing rather than active play.
- Best for
- Babies (0–1), Toddlers (2–4), Primary (5–11)
- Time to allow
- 1.5h
- Opening hours
- 09:30-17:00. Reservations open at 10:00, 14 days ahead. In Nakanoshima Park.
- Price
- Admission free. Advance online reservation recommended; timed sessions with a capacity of about 100 visitors.
- Booking
- Usually walk-in
- English
- ★★★☆☆
- Indoor / weather
- indoor · rainy-day ok
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