Babysitter fees covered up to ¥2,500/hour (¥3,500 at night), 144 hours/year

When you use temporary childcare from a babysitter company certified by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Koto City covers part of the fee. No advance application to the city is needed (after use, apply online or by mail by the end of the month after the month of use), and the purpose does not matter, such as a parent's break, sudden errands, or the child being unwell. You can use it even if your child attends daycare or kindergarten, or during childcare leave. The subsidy limit is ¥2,500 per hour from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and ¥3,500 per hour from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. You can use up to 144 hours per child per fiscal year, or up to 288 hours for multiple births, children with disabilities, and single-parent families. Eligible children are preschool children (from age 0 until the end of the fiscal year in which they turn 6), and children with disabilities up to grade 6 of elementary school. From FY2026 (April 2026–March 2027), the limit for children with disabilities and single-parent families was expanded to 288 hours, and eligibility for children with disabilities was extended to grade 6 of elementary school. From October 2026, when 1 sitter (a childcare worker or nurse) looks after siblings aged 1 or older at home, it is also covered if conditions are met. Enrollment fees, transportation, cancellation fees, etc. are not covered. Contact the Koto City Babysitter Program Call Center (0120-996-258, weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.).