In this column, it has been my sworn duty to share Tokyo's bounty of kid-friendly activities with interested parents like you. I hope earlier columns indicate that I take this responsibility seriously, striving to showcase only places that add much-needed components of fun, culture and education to the lives of our children.

Which is why this month's column may seem out of place: I'm going to urge you to visit Hello Kitty. Seriously.

Not a fan? Neither am I, so hear me out. If you actually are a disciple of Miss Kitty, then you may not like what I say below, so just stop reading now and head to the ticket booth. Go on now. Bye-bye!