Minato City Open Nursery Attendance Program for All Children: Applications Start for the October 2026 to March 2027 Program

Applications are now open for the second half of FY 2026 for Minato City's Open, which allows children who are not enrolled in a nursery school, kindergarten, or other early childhood education or care facility to attend childcare on a regular schedule on designated days of the week.
The program provides children with opportunities to experience environments beyond the home, helping to support their growth and development.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

1. The child was born between April 2, 2023, and April 1, 2026 (at least 6 months old by October 1, 2026).
2. The child is able to begin using the program in October 2026.
3. As of October 1, 2026, the child is not enrolled in a kindergarten, licensed nursery school, certified childcare center, or regional childcare service, or employer-sponsored childcare facility.

Please note:

• Priority will be given to children who are registered as Minato City residents and are currently living in Minato City.
• If you wish to enroll your child in a private kindergarten, you must first apply to Minato City for certification and then submit your application directly to the kindergarten.

Capacity

Please visit the Minato City website for the capacity of each participating facility.

*If the number of applications exceeds the available capacity, a lottery will be held on Thursday, August 20.

Participating Facilities

Licensed nursery schools (municipal nursery schools, private nursery schools, small-scale childcare facilities, and Minato City nursery facilities), Minato City kindergartens and some private kindergartens

Application

Apply until Friday, August 14, (applications must arrive by the deadline) by one of the following methods:
•Online application form •By mail •In person
Submit applications to:
Nursery School Section, Child-care Facilities Support Subsection (Minato City Office, 7F), Minato City Hall, 1-5-25, Shibakoen, Minato-ku, 105-8511

Minato City website