Ah, the sweltering Tokyo summer! It’s a season filled with the gentle rustle of yukata, the crackling sizzle of yakitori, and the delightful tunes of a nearby matsuri. However, as the mercury rises, the city dwellers crave something more refreshing – a dip in the best swimming pools in Tokyo. So we’ve done the research so you don’t have to, and found a few aquatic gems that fit the bill perfectly. These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill swimming pools; they’re cool, inviting oases amid the urban bustle. Ready to dive in? Let’s embark on this splash-tacular journey together.
1. Hotel New Otani Tokyo’s “Garden Pool”
This is one of the outdoor pools of Hotel New Otani, which is a part of the summer tradition of the hotel. During the day, it serves as an open resort pool with a pleasant breeze, and at night, it transforms into a fantastic night pool where you can stop by after work. The pool is surrounded by a vast Japanese garden, providing a luxurious space filled with an extraordinary feeling, despite being in the center of the city. They also offer premium orange liqueur brand “Cointreau” cocktails such as “Frozen Margarita” and “Cointreau Fizz”. Advance reservation is required.
Opening period: July 14 – September 3, 2023
Admission fee: General admission fee of 13,000 yen and 8,000 yen for children aged 4 to 12. See the website for guest rates, special packages, and club members.
Opening times: 10:00-21:00. See the website for entry slots. Midnight pool on Fridays during August 21:30-00:00.
▶ Hotel New Otani official website: https://www.newotani.co.jp/en/group/pools/tokyo/
2. Hilton Tokyo Bay’s “Garden Pool”
An official hotel of Tokyo Disney Resort, it opens its summer-limited outdoor pool “Garden Pool” from July to September. The pool is one of the largest outdoor pools among those within the metropolitan area hotels. Visitors can also enjoy a poolside bar that offers a variety of food menus such as tropical cocktails, beef hamburgers, loco moco bowls, fried chicken, and shaved ice. At night, the pool lights up to create a fantastic atmosphere. They also offer a poolside barbecue set starting from July 15, where you can enjoy a barbecue without any preparation. Advance reservation is required.
Opening period: July 15 – September 10, 2023
Admission Fee: Options range from 6,000 yen to 10,000. See website for details.
Opening times: 8:00-21:00. See the website for entry slots.
▶ Hilton Tokyo Bay official website: https://tokyobay.hiltonjapan.co.jp/facilities/lp/garden-pool
3. Pool & Spa at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba
The Pool & Spa at Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba offers a luxurious swimming experience with stunning views of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Bay. The pool is known for its stylish design and top-notch facilities, where guests can enjoy a leisurely swim, relax in the spa, or work out in the fitness center. The pool’s prime location and upscale amenities make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Advance reservation is required.
Opening period: July 15 – August 31, 2023
Admission Fee: Options range from 6,000 yen to 12,000 yen.
Opening times: 10:00-21:00. See the website for entry slots.
▶ Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba official website: https://www.tokyo.grandnikko.com/eng/facilities/pool/
4. Shinagawa Prince Hotel Summer Pool
The Shinagawa Prince Hotel Summer Pool is a fantastic option for those looking for a summer escape in Tokyo. This is a popular annual event that offers a unique experience of enjoying a pool in the heart of the city, featuring two types of pools: the Day Pool and the Night Pool, each offering a different ambiance and experience. The event also offers a variety of food and drink options available from 11:00 A.M. to 6:30 P.M., including a special Pool & Summer Picnic Stay plan that provides a Picnic Box for guests. There is also a pool store open from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. offering a variety of items. Those with visible tattoos will not be allowed into the facilities. Advance reservation is required.
Opening period: July 1st – September 3rd, 2023.
Admission Fee: Options range from 5,500 yen to 8,000 yen.
Opening times: 9:00-21:00. See the website for entry slots.
▶ Shinagawa Prince Hotel official website: https://www.princehotels.co.jp/shinagawa/plan/summerpool2023_visitor/
5. Tokyo Summerland
Tokyo Summerland is a thrilling amusement park that promises a splash of fun for everyone! Dive into the Adventure Dome, an indoor tropical paradise with water rafts and a Jacuzzi, perfect for any weather. Or, float your worries away on Japan’s longest lazy river at the Adventure Lagoon. And if you’re up for some dry fun, head over to Thrill Mountain for an array of amusement rides. With a One-Day Pass, you can enjoy unlimited access to all these attractions. Just remember, no tattoos are allowed! Ready for a day of unforgettable fun? Tokyo Summerland awaits!
Opening period: April 29 – September 24
Admission Fee: Options range from 3,900 yen to 5,200 yen.
Opening times: The park operates on different schedules throughout the year, with extended hours during the summer season. From April 29 to July 21, the park is open on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on weekends and holidays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. From July 22 to August 31, the park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. From September 1 to September 24, the park resumes its weekday and weekend schedule.
▶ Tokyo Summerland official website: https://www.summerland.co.jp/english/