Although Japan is an archipelago, you need to set aside a full day from Tokyo if you want to go for a swim in the sea. Good news! if you're short on time (or if the beach isn't your cup of tea!) The capital boasts numerous swimming pools. Some of these municipal facilities are reserved for residents of the city, while others are open to everyone. Here's a selection of 5 municipal swimming pools in Tokyo to help you cool off during the summer season.
Aqua Field Shiba Koen (Minato ward)
This 50-meter municipal swimming pool has everything going for it! Its proximity to Tokyo Tower makes the place almost magical. In addition, you can also sunbathe on lounge chairs on the second-floor terrace.
- Opening dates and times: July 1st – September 15th, 9:00am-8:00pm (September 1st-15th until 5:00pm)
- Closed on July 17th and August 1st
- Prices: 600 yen, students 100 yen
Edogawa-ku Sports Land (Edogawa ward)
The Sports Land complex boasts a large 50m swimming pool and two children's pools (one with a water slide!). It also features several tennis courts, a five-a-side football pitch, and a gym/fitness room. Everything you need for a fun-filled day of sports!
- Opening dates and times: July 1st – August 31st, 9:00am-5:00pm and 6:00pm-9:00pm (until 8:00pm on Thursdays)
- Prices: 210 yen, junior high and elementary school students 50 yen, free for younger children
Aqua Blue Tama (Tama district)
The Aqua Blue Tama complex is ideal for the whole family, from 7 to 77 years old. In addition to a traditional swimming pool, this complex also features a wave pool, water slides, and a pool reserved for toddlers. Relaxation guaranteed!
- Opening dates and times: 9:00am-7:45pm (closed on Tuesdays, except in August)
- Prices: 620 yen, junior high and high school students 310 yen, free for younger children
Tatsumi International Swimming Center (Koto district)
The Tatsumi International Swimming Center boasts not one, but two Olympic-sized pools! Plenty of room for even the most athletic among our readers to rack up the laps! It has hosted several national swimming championships and was used for water polo events during the 2020 Summer Olympics. That's how high-quality the facilities are!
- Opening dates and times: 8:45am-10:30pm, Sundays and public holidays until 9:30pm
- Prices: 600 yen, junior high school students and young children 260 yen
Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium (Shibuya ward)
The Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium is located near your favorite Japanese language school. It hosted the water polo events of the 1964 Summer Olympics. In addition to an Olympic-size swimming pool and a second 25-meter pool, you can also take advantage of the weight training facilities – and it's included in the price! It's up to you whether you prefer to start with the weightlifting or swimming…
- Opening dates and times: 9:00am-11:00pm, Saturdays until 10:00pm, Sundays and public holidays until 9:00pm
- Closed on June 22nd and from July 12th to 14th
- Prices: 600 yen, junior high school students and young children 260 yen
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