KidZania, the global chain of theme parks where children take on adult work roles, is coming to London next year. Michael Booth visited the Tokyo version with his two sons. My eldest son, aged seven, is examining a crime scene with his new colleagues.
A stolen wallet has been found, and they must trace the owner. The mood is solemn, intense. Meanwhile, across the street, my youngest, aged four, is busy making pizza. He is bursting with can-do pride, but trying to look as though he does this kind of thing every day. Since the first one opened in Santa Fe, near Mexico City, in , more than 35 million children have visited branches of KidZania in cities from Mumbai to Seoul.
Or they can spend it on souvenirs and junk food. They can then earn more by working β between five and eight kidzos for a minute shift, depending on the job. The Japanese branch is rather earnest. A fire engine blares past on its way to a fake fire. Fireman is one of the most popular professions in KidZania, along with cabin crew and police officer. The fully equipped TV studio always has big queues, too, as, more perplexingly, does the car-rental office.
I was sceptical when I heard about KidZania: why not let kids be kids? The first KidZania, in Mexico, is apparently more relaxed than the Japanese version, and secretly I hope British children will find ways to subvert the project an Occupy movement, perhaps? Would you like to be a journalist like Daddy?
KidZania London prices and opening date to be confirmed. KidZania Tokyo is one of 16 theme parks in an expanding global franchise. One is set to open at Westfield London next year. This article is more than 9 years old. Reuse this content. More on this story. KidZania: the theme park where kids play at being adults. Star Wars: Disney theme parks to incorporate a galaxy far, far away β¦. Harry Potter theme park to open in Japan. Comments β¦ Sign in or create your Guardian account to join the discussion.
