TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Rainbow Bridge is a large suspension bridge spanning the northern part of Tokyo Bay (Minato Ward), connecting the Shibaura district (Minato Ward side) with Odaiba (Minato Ward, waterfront subcenter). It was built in the 1990s as part of the development of the waterfront subcenter, and opened to the public in 1993. It is characterized by its white bridge body and nighttime illumination (colorful LED lights), and as its name "Rainbow" suggests, it changes color depending on the season or event, making it one of the landmarks that represents Tokyo's night view.
Highlights
- Night illumination: The entire bridge is lit up in a variety of colors, making it a great photo spot for both close-up and distant views. It is especially popular after sunset.
- Pedestrian Promenade: There is a promenade where you can cross the bridge on foot and stroll while looking out at Tokyo Tower, the Odaiba Ferris Wheel, and the waters of Tokyo Bay below (the view may change depending on the weather).
- View of Tokyo Bay: On a clear day, you can see the skyscrapers of central Tokyo and Tokyo Tower across Rainbow Bridge from the bridge and its surrounding areas.
- Photo spots: The sandy beach at Odaiba Seaside Park, the pier on the Odaiba side, and the pier on the Shibaura side are popular spots for taking photos with the bridge in the background.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Yurikamome: On the Odaiba side, we recommend Daiba Station and Odaiba-kaihinkoen Station. From the station, you can walk to a spot where you can see Odaiba-kaihinkoen and the bridge.
- Rinkai Line: Tokyo Teleport Station is a convenient way to get to the Odaiba area, and you can travel to the bridge viewpoint from DiverCity and other areas.
- JR/Subway: Accessible by bus or Yurikamome from Shimbashi Station, Hamamatsucho Station, or Tamachi Station.
- Water buses and sightseeing boats: There are routes that go towards Odaiba from Hinode Pier and Asakusa, and you can also enjoy a cruise to see the bridge from the water.
- Car/Motorcycle: Accessible via the Metropolitan Expressway and local roads, but please check in advance for parking options, such as using nearby commercial facilities.
- Access by foot: There are spots that you can walk to on both the Odaiba and Shibaura sides, and you can enjoy the view of the bridge while strolling around.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Just stopping by to see the light-up: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Round trip walking along the promenade: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (longer if you want to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace)
- Combining it with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (combined with the shopping malls, art museums, and seaside park in Odaiba)
Nearby spots
- Odaiba Seaside Park (sand beach and walking path) — A classic photo spot with the bridge in the background.
- DiverCity Tokyo Plaza — Shopping, gourmet food, and a life-size Unicorn Gundam statue.
- Palette Town (Ferris wheel) / Odaiba commercial facility - Enjoy the night view.
- Fuji Television Headquarters Observation Deck — Great views of downtown Tokyo and the bridge.
- Shibaura/Takeshiba area (piers and parks) - There are many spots where you can take photos of the bridge in the distance.
- Hamarikyu Gardens and Tokyo Tower (a little further away, but still within view)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is especially crowded with tourists and photographers on weekends, public holidays, and from dusk until night. Please be considerate of others when using the photo spots.
- Wind and Weather: Strong winds can blow on the bridge, and it can feel very cold in winter. The promenade may be closed in the event of rain or strong winds, so please check in advance.
- Traffic rules: As there are sections of the promenade that are exclusively for pedestrians, it is prohibited to bring or use bicycles or skateboards. Please follow the rules and enjoy the trail safely.
- Changes to the illuminations: The lighting may be changed or temporarily turned off due to events, power saving measures, etc. If you are planning to visit the illuminations at night, it is best to check the official information.
- Garbage and Manners: The surrounding area is a tourist destination. Please take your trash with you and smoke in designated areas. Flying drones and other devices is prohibited.
Note: The opening hours, traffic restrictions, and illumination schedules of the bridge and surrounding facilities are subject to change. We recommend checking official information and local guides before heading out.
