Known for its Statue of Liberty and giant Gundam robot, Odaiba is Japan’s artificial island of entertainment!
Statue of Liberty
Many people are surprised to learn that Japan has its own Statue of Liberty, and it certainly isn’t a mock version of the USA’s. In fact, Japan was gifted its own Statue of Liberty by France in the same way that America got theirs, though it happened much later in 1998.
The statue can be seen at Odaiba’s entertainment city around Tokyo Bay, though it isn’t quite as large as its New York counterpart. Regardless, it is a sight to behold with the beautiful backdrop of the bay and the infamous Rainbow Bridge.
Diver City Tokyo Plaza
If you’re more of a “do-er” rather than a “see-er,” then you’ll want to check out Diver City Tokyo Plaza. This multi-level shopping mall gives you plenty to do from shopping to eating and even entertaining yourself at the arcades and gachapon shops.
Here, you can find all your favorite international brands like H&M and Adidas, as well as exclusive Japanese brands like Hello Kitty and the Kin29Shop. There are also plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Japanese cuisines like ramen and sushi or go for western foods like Carl’s Jr. or McDonald’s.
Rainbow Bridge
Giving off something of a Golden Gate Bridge vibe, Odaiba’s Rainbow Bridge really solidifies the whole American-esque appearance of the entertainment island. If you’re wondering about its name, the bridge lights up in bright rainbow colors from sundown to midnight.
Not only does the Rainbow Bridge look pretty, but it has great practical use linking the Shibaura Pier with the Odaiba waterfront development. You can also catch the Yurikamome train which crosses the Rainbow Bridge bound for Shimbashi station.
Giant Gundam Bot
Perhaps the coolest and most unique thing about Odaiba is the giant Gundam robot that stands tall just outside Diver City Tokyo Plaza. Almost matching the height of the shopping mall, the statue was inspired by the famous Japanese “mecha” (robot) anime series “Gundam.”
In fact, there is a potent Gundam theme that can be felt throughout all of Diver City Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba. In addition to the giant robot that actually moves and lights up at designated hours, there is an entire Gundam museum on the top floor of the shopping plaza.
Kua’Aina Burger Shop
By no means is Kua’Aina exclusive to Odaiba city, but the famous Hawaiian burger shop is best enjoyed in this outdoor setting overlooking Tokyo Bay. Originating in Hawaii with branched stores only in the cities of London, Taipei, and Tokyo, this burger shop is a rare find on a global scale.
Rather than enjoying a nice Hawaiian burger inside a busy shopping mall, why not opt to eat at an elevated view of Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty and Rainbow Bridge? For the ultimate Japanese-American experience, hit up the Kua’Aina burger shop in Odaiba for a truly unique atmosphere.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!
