Tokyo's 23 wards do not share one return date. Shinjuku, Setagaya and Edogawa public elementary schools begin the second term on 1 September; Koto uses two semesters and holds its second-semester ceremony on 13 October. At the end of August, the useful questions are the actual attendance day, dismissal, lunch and after-school care. Confirm the ward calendar, then use the newest message from your school.
1 September | Shinjuku, Setagaya and Edogawa
Shinjuku's official calendar sets summer break from 21 July to 31 August and the second term from 1 September to 25 December. Setagaya and Edogawa also return on 1 September. Transfers, school-choice changes and compulsory-education schools may differ, so search the ward and school name together with 'annual calendar'.
Official informationKoto | Two semesters; second semester starts 13 October
Koto ward schools use a two-semester system: the first semester ends on 9 October and the second begins on 13 October in 2026. Searching only for a 'second-term ceremony' will therefore miss the actual return after summer. Check the school's summer bulletin, annual events sheet and lunch calendar for the first attendance day.
Official informationIs lunch served on the first day, and when is dismissal?
It varies by school. Some use shortened hours or serve no lunch, so confirm the attendance date, arrival and dismissal, first lunch day and after-school-care intake together. Check homework, indoor shoes, disaster hood and water bottle too. When app, paper and website conflict, use the newest school-issued message.
ClassesThree days before: reset sleep and the morning routine
Move bedtime and wake-up time toward the school routine by 15–30 minutes a day, then rehearse breakfast, dressing, teeth and departure. Check the packed schoolbag with the child rather than repacking it for them. After a transfer or when return anxiety is high, send the teacher a short message and agree how the child will be received on day one.
ClassesFirst week: plan for heat, typhoons and emergency handover
Early September can still be very hot, and typhoons may alter arrival times. Check school messages and weather each morning; pack water, a hat, a towel and spare socks when useful. Some schools hold emergency handover drills around Disaster Prevention Day, so agree which registered adult can collect, what ID they need and where to meet.
Official informationWhat if a child does not want to return?
The first week back is more tiring than it looks. Choose one nearby park or short event, and watch wake-up, appetite, headaches, stomach aches and anxiety about Monday. If a change persists, share it early with the class teacher, school nurse or counsellor.
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