Babysitting services for foreign tourists taking off in Japan
Foreign-language babysitting services are growing in Japan, catering to tourists who want to enjoy activities that may be difficult with young children. These services allow parents to explore cultural experiences while their children take part in age-appropriate programs, such as crafts, Zen meditation, or visits to nursery schools. This trend reflects the changing needs of international travelers as Japan’s tourism industry expands.
For example, a family from California left their 5-year-old and 2-year-old daughters with a nanny from Synk Inc., a company in Kamakura, while they visited a high-end sushi restaurant in Tokyo. The service provides English-speaking, certified childcare workers and a nurse, and fees start at 54,000 yen ($350) for three hours. Since launching in April 2025, Synk has handled over 50 requests, offering activities both in hotels and around the city.
Other providers, like Tokyo-based Poppins Corp. and Nagoya Marriott Associa Hotel, have also begun offering foreign-language babysitting. Experts note that these services benefit families and may also boost Japan’s nighttime economy, as parents can spend more freely while their children are cared for. In 2024, of 36.8 million foreign visitors to Japan, about 690,000 were aged four or younger, highlighting the potential market for such services.
source : https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/67658 |
