Odaiba is a unique tourist destination in Tokyo, floating on an artificial island in Tokyo Bay. From its historical background to the latest entertainment facilities, it is packed with attractions that never bore its visitors. In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of Odaiba, its popular tourist spots, and recommended gourmet spots.
Please note that the events introduced may have schedule changes. Please check the official website of the facilities for the latest information.
What is Odaiba?
Odaiba is an artificial island floating in Tokyo Bay, located in the southern part of Tokyo Metropolis, in the Tokyo Port area. It started as a sea fort called “Daiba,” built by the Tokugawa shogunate in the Edo period to prepare for the arrival of Commodore Perry’s fleet. Later, it developed as a reclaimed land, and since the 1990s, it has become a commercial and tourist hub known as the Tokyo Waterfront City. Today, it is lined with modern buildings and tourist facilities, attracting many visitors from both inside and outside Japan.
How to access Odaiba
Access to Odaiba is very convenient. By using the Yurikamome line or the Tokyo Rinkai Kosoku Tetsudo Rinkai line, you can easily visit from major areas such as Shimbashi and Toyosu. Additionally, there are many bus and water bus services, providing various means of transportation. The view when crossing the “Rainbow Bridge” is particularly breathtaking and will make the start of your journey even more wonderful.
Main Tourist Attractions in Odaiba
Odaiba is home to many attractive tourist spots. Here are some of the main spots:
Odaiba Marine Park
“Odaiba Marine Park” is a place where you can relax in the city, featuring an artificial sandy beach and observation decks. It is famous for its beautiful sunsets and night views, making it a recommended spot for families and couples. Adjacent to it is “Aqua City Odaiba,” where you can enjoy shopping and dining.
Rainbow Bridge
The “Rainbow Bridge” is a 798-meter-long suspension bridge and a symbol of Odaiba. It shines white during the day and is lit up in rainbow colors at night, creating a romantic atmosphere. You can also walk across it and enjoy the stunning views of Tokyo Bay.
Miraikan – The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation
“Miraikan” is a museum where you can experience the latest in science and technology. With astronaut Mamoru Mohri serving as the director, the facility features the giant globe display “Geo-Cosmos.” It offers a wide range of exhibits that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM.com
“teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM” is a facility where you can enjoy a “museum where you enter the water” and “gardens that merge with flowers,” consisting of four massive artwork spaces and two gardens. The experience of walking barefoot through the fantastical works is a new kind of art experience that cannot be found elsewhere.
Aqua City Odaiba
“Aqua City Odaiba” is a shopping mall inspired by the streets of the Mediterranean. It gathers about 120 stores, including fashion, accessories, and interior goods. It is also a perfect place for a night walk, given its beautiful night views.
DECKS Tokyo Beach
“DECKS Tokyo Beach” is a particularly well-equipped shopping mall in Odaiba. In addition to shopping, it also houses amusement facilities such as “Tokyo Joypolis” and “Madame Tussauds Tokyo.” It is a recommended spot for families and couples.
Tokyo Joypolis: One of the largest indoor amusement parks in Japan, offering more than 20 attractions, including roller coasters and interactive attractions. It is an ideal place for dates and family outings.
Madame Tussauds Tokyo: An interactive attraction facility displaying life-size figures of world stars and celebrities. You can enjoy taking photos with the realistic figures.
Tokyo Trick Art Labyrinth Museum: A facility featuring paintings that appear three-dimensional, with a focus on Japanese-style trick art. It is a spot that can be enjoyed by both children and adults.
DiverCity Tokyo Plaza
“DiverCity Tokyo Plaza” is a shopping mall with the concept of a theatrical city space. It features a collection of high-purity select shops and casual brands, offering not just shopping but also entertainment.
Unicorn Gundam: A giant figure that is the symbol of DiverCity Tokyo Plaza. It is a must-see spot for Gundam fans.
Round1 Stadium: A multi-entertainment facility where you can enjoy activities such as bowling, karaoke, and crane games. It is perfect for use with friends or couples.
TYFFONIUM ODAIBA: A cutting-edge entertainment facility that combines VR and AR. It offers numerous new-sensation attractions that can be enjoyed even on rainy days.
Fuji TV Headquarters Building
The “Fuji TV Headquarters Building” is a symbolic presence in Odaiba, where you can tour TV program filming sites and studio backgrounds. From the spherical observation room “Hachitama,” you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of Tokyo Bay.
Spherical Observation Room “Hachitama”: An observation room where you can enjoy a spectacular view from 100 meters above the ground. You can see Tokyo Tower, Rainbow Bridge, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day.
Fuji TV Shop: A shop that offers Fuji TV-exclusive goods and original items from various programs. It is perfect for souvenirs.
Recommended Gourmet Spots
Odaiba has many delicious restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy gourmet food between sightseeing.
Odaiba Takoyaki Museum
Located within “DECKS Tokyo Beach,” the “Odaiba Takoyaki Museum” is a popular spot that gathers five famous takoyaki shops from Osaka, the home of takoyaki. Enjoy comparing different takoyaki and find your favorite one.
KING OF THE PIRATES
Located in “Aqua City Odaiba,” “KING OF THE PIRATES” is a concept restaurant themed around a pirate ship. From the terrace seats, you can overlook the “Rainbow Bridge” and Tokyo Bay, and enjoy luxurious dishes featuring seafood and bone-in meat.
THE BBQ BEACH
Located within “Aqua City Odaiba,” “THE BBQ BEACH” is a restaurant where you can enjoy BBQ with an ocean view from every seat. It offers a resort-like atmosphere where you can enjoy lunch or dinner while looking at the stunning view.
Anchors DECKS Tokyo Beach
“Anchors” is a cafe located on the 3rd floor of “DECKS Tokyo Beach,” where you can enjoy meals while overlooking the beautiful bay area scenery. Steaks and pasta are popular menu items. The terrace seating, where you can dine while feeling the pleasant breeze, is especially beautiful at night. It is perfect for dates or special dinners.
bills Odaiba
“bills” is a cafe-restaurant with a spacious, open atmosphere where you can enjoy meals while looking at Tokyo Bay and the “Rainbow Bridge.” The ricotta pancakes, with their fluffy texture and buttery aroma, are particularly popular. Their appearance is also cute and perfect for Instagram.
Odaiba is a tourist destination where historical background and modern charm are wonderfully fused. There are new discoveries every time you visit, and it is full of attractions that cannot be experienced in just one visit. Please use this as a reference for your next trip.