Odaiba

Thursday, July 23, 2020 Updated

Tokyo Odaiba | Island on Tokyo Bay

Odaiba (or Daiba) is a popular shopping and entertainment district on a manmade island in Tokyo Bay. It originated as a set of small man made fort islands (daiba literally means "fort"), which were built towards the end of the Edo Period (1603-1868) to protect Tokyo against possible attacks from the sea and specifically in response to the gunboat diplomacy of Commodore Perry. More than a century later, the small islands were joined into larger islands by massive landfills, and Tokyo began a spectacular development project which aimed to turn the islands into a futuristic residential and business district during the extravagant 1980s. But development was critically slowed after the burst of the "bubble economy" in the early 1990s, leaving Odaiba nearly vacant. It was not until the second half of the 1990s, when several hotels, shopping malls and the Yurikamome elevated train line were opened, that Odaiba developed into one of Tokyo's most popular tourist attractions and date spots with a wide selection of shopping, dining and leisure options. Despite the initial setbacks, several lavish development projects did materialize, including some of Tokyo's boldest architectural creations, such as the Fuji TV Building, Telecom Center and Tokyo Big Sight. Modern city planning furthermore provides Odaiba with plenty of green space and a pleasant division of motorized and pedestrian traffic using elevated walkways and the like. Anyone who travels to Tokyo now has to make it a point to see the marvels of Odaiba. Stay close to Odaiba during our Cherry Blossom Japan tours through Tokyo to fully experience this waterfront city!

Aquacity Odaiba

Aquacity Odaiba is a large shopping mall with numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, and even a movie theatre. The mall has fashion related stores carrying different kinds of clothing, accessories, watches and hats but also electronics stores carrying cell phones, a book store and even a tailor. The variety of restaurants is also extensive, varying from your choice of Chinese Dim Sum to a seafood bar or Italian to original Japanese cuisine. With 5 stories worth of shops and restaurants, Aquacity is a great place to spend time with family or friends. Aquacity is also famous for its Ramen Festival where different ramen restaurants from various regions of the country present its popular ramen dishes and gyoza.

Rainbow Bridge

Rainbow Bridge is a bridge that connects Odaiba to Shibaura, over Tokyo Bay. The bridge is white but at night is illuminated. During parts of December and January, the bridge is lit up with rainbow colors, hence the name. The bridge has two decks: the upper deck carries an expressway and the lower deck carries the Yurikamome train line.

Fuji TV

One of Japan’s major TV stations, Fuji Television, has its headquarters here in Odaiba. The building’s architecture is quite distinct with a sphere incorporated into the building. Parts of Fuji TV are open to the public and is actually a popular spot to go during summer vacation for young children. The observation deck is a popular spot to see a great view of all of Odaiba from above.

One Piece Restaurant

The One Piece restaurant "Baratie" opened in the rooftop garden of Fuji TV’s building in Tokyo. The restaurant is based on the sea restaurant of the same name that appears in the popular anime "One Piece" at which Straw Hat Pirates member Sanji worked as a substitute head chef. Baratie is an entertainment restaurant that reproduces the world of One Piece. The menu features food from the Straw Hat Pirates’ adventures during the “East Blue,” “Grand Line,” and “New World” story arcs. Meeting with comrades and friends, adventuring, and parting––Many memorable episodes can be enjoyed through the flavors of the food. Unfortunately, the One Piece Restaurant is no longer open.

Gundam Front Tokyo

Gundam Front Tokyo is a must see for all fans of the anime Gundam. At the entrance of the plaza is a life-size Gundam model standing 59 ft tall. At certain times of the day, this life-size Gundam entertains its guests with lights and sounds. Besides this enormous Gundam model, Gundam Front Tokyo offers much more for its guests. The plaza displays not only hundreds of Gundam models but also original sketches, and other goods. Besides the exhibition, there are also two gift shops that sell various goods for some shopping. The Gundam Cafe is also a popular spot among fans, where they can order Gundam-themed refreshments and snacks. Upon leaving the plaza, you will encounter yet another life-size Gundam model.

Explore the Gundam Base while we stay in Odaiba during our Highlights Japan tours with Anime vacation packages!