13 Enjoyable Activities to Experience in Odaiba, Tokyo

Odaiba, an artificial island in Tokyo Bay, stands as one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions. Once a shipyard for the Japanese U.S. fleet, Odaiba has transformed into a vibrant hub for both tourists and locals. Whether you’re eager to see the iconic Gundam statue or experience a glimpse of the future, Odaiba is an essential stop on your Tokyo adventure.

History of Odaiba

Originally constructed in the 1850s for defense against naval attacks, Odaiba later developed into a seaport area during the 20th century. Over the years, it has evolved into a vibrant center filled with shopping malls, museums, and entertainment venues. Today, Odaiba is a significant commercial and entertainment district. The island’s striking architectural designs will have you feeling as though you’ve stepped into the future, with many of these modern structures dating back to the 1980s.

Plan Your Day Trip to Odaiba

There are countless activities to choose from for a fulfilling day in Odaiba. Keep in mind, it’s impossible to see everything in one day; you’ll need to prioritize. This guide has been created to help you navigate all the amazing things to do in Odaiba, with many indoor attractions to keep you comfortable on rainy days.

Top Activities in Odaiba, Tokyo

1. Enjoy Stunning Views from Telecom Center Building

This uniquely designed square building with a hollow center is hard to miss. After admiring its architecture, head to the observation deck for panoramic views of Tokyo Bay and the city, especially breathtaking at sunset or night.

2. Visit Miraikan – National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation

Miraikan, an iconic landmark, focuses on future innovations and covers various topics including aeronautics and medical advancements. Explore impressive exhibits featuring the latest robots and interactive displays.

Allocate at least three to four hours to fully enjoy your visit.

3. Walk Across the Rainbow Bridge

If you’re in the mood for a stroll and would like to take in views of Tokyo Bay and Mount Fuji, walking across the Rainbow Bridge is a must. This bridge is a prominent symbol of Odaiba and is best appreciated at night, as it dazzles with illuminated colors. It’s also powered by solar panels that sustain its nighttime light shows.

4. Experience the Gundam Statue Light Show

If you’re a fan of Japanese anime, you can’t miss the beloved Mobile Suit Gundam. Standing at 19.7 meters tall, this statue is an iconic attraction in Odaiba. Visit at night for an impressive light show where the Gundam enters “destroy mode.” Fans can also enjoy a Gundam-themed café nearby.

5. Relax at Oedo Onsen Monogatari

This natural hot spring theme park replicates the Edo period, offering Japanese games, cuisine, and traditional architecture. You could easily spend an entire day indulging in their onsen spa packages.

6. See the Odaiba Statue of Liberty

The Odaiba replica of the Statue of Liberty is a smaller version of the original in New York. Located near the Rainbow Bridge, it was initially a temporary installation symbolizing French-Japanese relations but became a permanent fixture after public outcry against its removal.

Interesting Facts about the Statue of Liberty

• This replica was intended as a temporary installation, but it remains due to popular demand.
• Japan features three replicas of the Statue of Liberty!

7. Ride Daikanransha, the 12th Largest Ferris Wheel in the World

Get an incredible aerial view of Odaiba and beyond on Daikanransha, a 377-foot tall Ferris wheel. The 15-minute ride promises stunning panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, with a chance to spot Mount Fuji on clear days!

8. Explore Fuji TV Headquarters

If you have some extra time, check out the futuristic Fuji TV building. Ascend to the observation level for a stunning view of Odaiba and Rainbow Bridge. Make sure to verify opening hours before your visit.

9. Capture Fun Photos at the Tokyo Trick Art Museum

For a quirky experience, visit the Tokyo Trick Art Museum, home to numerous whimsical artworks that create fun optical illusions. Located on the fourth floor of Seaside Mall, this museum is perfect for capturing creative photos!

10. Enjoy Shopping in Odaiba

Odaiba is home to various shopping malls, making a full day of shopping easy. Here are some highlights to consider:

DiverCity Tokyo Plaza: A seven-floor mall filled with clothing stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants, along with a bowling alley and arcade.

Venus Fort Mall: Designed to resemble a Renaissance Italian city, complete with marble columns and fountains, featuring a beautiful changing ceiling that transitions from day to night.

Aqua City Odaiba: This large complex boasts over 140 shopping and dining options. After shopping, you can unwind at the cinema located within the mall. Be sure to try the famous ramen at Tokyo Ramen Kokugikan Mai, featuring six renowned ramen restaurants.

Tokyo Craft Town: Explore this artsy shop for unique glass sculptures and candles and even participate in workshops to create your own snow globe!

11. Visit Leisure Land

Leisure Land is a fun-filled gaming complex featuring ninja illusion houses, haunted attractions, karaoke, and arcades!

12. Relax at Café De Miki with Hello Kitty

For a tranquil spot to enjoy a cappuccino, Café de Miki is a delightful choice in Odaiba, complete with Hello Kitty-themed treats and a life-sized Hello Kitty plush at the entrance!

13. Experience teamLab Borderless at MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM

This fascinating digital art museum presents “borderless worlds” of art that interact and evolve with visitors throughout its 10,000 square meters of exhibition space.

Visitor Tips:

• Purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Arrive early to skip the lines; coming before opening time can save you a long wait.

Additional Activities in Odaiba

• Have a picnic at West Promenade.
• Enjoy rides at Tokyo Joypolis amusement park.
• Walk around Odaiba Seaside Park.

Getting to Odaiba

There are several convenient ways to reach Odaiba:

By Train

The easiest way to reach Odaiba is by train. Simply board a train from your nearest station and disembark at Daiba Station. From there, transfer to the monorail to reach Telecom Center.

By Tokyo Water Bus

For a scenic journey, consider taking the Tokyo Water Bus. Take the train to Odaiba for picturesque views of Rainbow Bridge, then ride the ferry back for a unique perspective of the island.

Guided Tours

If you prefer a guided experience, several tours are available:

Private Tour – Robots and Cars: Experience Japanese Technology: Discover Odaiba’s futuristic side with a private guide, featuring visits to the National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation and the Toyota City Showcase.

Half-Day New Tokyo Afternoon Bus Tour (teamLab, Toyosu Market & Cruise)

This tour includes visits to the teamLab Borderless Museum and Toyosu Market, the new culinary hub of Tokyo.

Tokyo Panoramic Tour: Meiji Shrine, Asakusa Temple, Tokyo Bay Cruise & Odaiba Day Tour

This tour combines a visit to Odaiba with tours of temples, gardens, and shopping areas around Tokyo Bay, including Meiji Temple and the Imperial Palace.

Stay Connected

If you require internet access during your trip to Japan, portable Wi-Fi options are readily available. This can be especially invaluable for menu translations, social media updates, and navigation. Make sure to pre-book your pocket Wi-Fi for pickup upon landing. You can reserve your pocket Wi-Fi here.

Alternatively, consider purchasing a 4G SIM card with voice and data plans, ensuring your phone is unlocked for compatibility. Click here to book your SIM card.

Conclusion

Odaiba offers a unique and futuristic experience that makes it an ideal place to explore during your visit to Japan. Planning your itinerary in advance is recommended to avoid long lines and sold-out tickets!