For parents raising energetic, unstoppable kids—how do you spend rainy days? When your child keeps saying “Play with me!” nonstop at home, it can be exhausting…　But there’s a place in Tendo City that can save you on days like that.

In this article, we’ll cover everything—from the fun playground equipment at GenKids, to important details like bringing your own lunch, usage time, parking, and nearby spots. Check this guide before heading out and enjoy a full day of play with your child.

What Is Kosodate Mirai-kan GenKids?

Kosodate Mirai-kan GenKids is one of the largest child‑rearing support centers in Yamagata Prefecture, operated by Tendo City. Since its opening on May 21, 2015, it has become a popular play spot visited by families from inside and outside the prefecture.

It serves as a place for parent‑child interaction and communication among guardians, and childcare professionals are available to provide parenting consultations, offering peace of mind. Inside the facility, babies can safely play in the Haihahi Plaza, preschoolers can enjoy the Yume Plaza, and elementary school children can run around in the Bouken Plaza. Ball pools, trampolines, and various age‑appropriate play equipment are available.

According to the Tendo City official website (updated January 22, 2026), time restrictions have been lifted. You can play without worrying about time, though a 90‑minute limit may be applied during busy periods.

How to Enter

This is the entrance. There is a shoe rack on the right side of the automatic door.

Reception

The admission process is simple—just fill out your personal information on a paper form. Even first‑time visitors can enter smoothly.

Coin Lockers

There are coin lockers to the right of the reception desk. They are deep enough to store water bottles, bags, and even winter coats. You’ll need a 100‑yen coin to use them, but the coin is returned when you unlock the locker.

If you get stuck here, your child will start the “Hurry up!” attack—so it’s best to prepare a 100‑yen coin in advance.

Facility Map

GenKids has two floors.
The first floor is filled with toys and playground equipment—truly a world of dreams and adventure from a child’s perspective. The second floor has vending machines and a dining area where you can eat your packed lunch or take a break. When I visit with my son, we usually bring small rice balls and a water bottle.

The first‑floor play area is divided into three zones by age, so children can play safely according to their developmental stage:

• 0–2 years: Haihahi Plaza
• 3–5 years: Yume Plaza
• 6 years and up: Bouken Plaza

Play Areas by Age: 1st Floor

Here, we’ll introduce the three first‑floor areas by age group. Use this as a reference to choose the best play space for your child.

【0–2 years】Haihahi Plaza (for babies)

Immediately to the right after reception is Haihahi Plaza, where babies can play safely.

Inside, you’ll find a small slide and shelves filled with toys. There are many wooden toys, and they are regularly sanitized—making it a safe environment for babies who tend to put everything in their mouths.

【3–5 years】Yume Plaza (for preschoolers)

My 5‑year‑old son always heads straight for this ball pool. The balls act as cushions, so even jumping in doesn’t hurt. Kids can bury themselves in the balls or throw them into numbered holes to compete for points with their parents.

Another highlight is the large soft trampoline, which can hold about six children at a time. When my son first tried it, he looked nervous, but after bouncing together for a while, he quickly learned to enjoy it on his own.

Right next to the trampoline is the toy corner. This area has pretend‑play sets, gear toys, blocks, and board games—perfect for focused, imaginative play.

【6 years and up】Bouken Plaza (for elementary school children)

As you walk further inside, you’ll see the giant slide called La France Tower. It’s about 6 meters tall—so impressive that even adults may feel their legs tremble a little. You can climb up using the net‑style slope, so be sure to give it a try.

Rest Area: 2nd Floor

After playing to your heart’s content on the first floor, head up to the second floor to take a break. Here you’ll find a comfortable rest area where parents can spread out a packed lunch or buy drinks.

① Kosodate Café

The second floor has a space called the Kosodate Café, but it’s not a restaurant—it’s a rest area where you can bring your own food. There is a microwave and an electric kettle, making it very convenient for warming up your lunch or preparing milk for babies.

② Vending Machines Are on the 2nd Floor

The vending machines on the second floor offer water, tea, and sports drinks—especially useful during the summer. It’s also convenient that electronic payment is accepted.

And behind them, there are two ice cream vending machines. Am I the only one who gets excited when I find an ice cream vending machine?
When I’m with my son, the excitement doubles. How about treating yourselves to ice cream after playing hard?

Access & Facility Information

Here is a summary of the basic information for Kosodate Mirai-kan GenKids in Tendo City. Check the hours, closed days, and access details before your visit.

There is a parking lot on the premises that can accommodate around 200 cars. Weekends and rainy days tend to get crowded, so visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended.

Facilities Around GenKids

The area around GenKids is full of convenient spots for shopping or grabbing a meal after playing. Because everything is close by, parents can reduce the stress of moving around—making it easy to spend a full day with your child even on rainy days.

① Aeon Mall Tendo

Right across the road from GenKids—diagonally opposite—is Aeon Mall Tendo. It has a large food court and plenty of restaurants, so you can finish dinner shopping right after playing. For busy families, this location is unbeatable.

② Tomachiki Shokudo

About a 6‑minute drive from GenKids is Tomachiki Shokudo, a family‑friendly Western‑style restaurant. There are toys and tatami seating inside, so even families with small children can enjoy their meal comfortably. It’s a great choice if you want a relaxed, homey lunch.

Summary

Kosodate Mirai-kan GenKids in Tendo City is a wonderful space where children can experience “challenge” and “I did it!” moments suited to their developmental stage. For parents who feel they can’t let their kids play freely at home because of noise concerns, this facility is truly a lifesaver.

Here, children naturally start playing as if they were in a park, and parents can watch over them while taking a little break. For your next day off, consider visiting GenKids with your child.