Family Fun through Technology and Innovation in Odaiba - Part 1
Sail with a Manga-Inspired Ship and Marvel at a Life-Sized Gundam
Odaiba City – a hub for futuristic entertainment and a great place to learn about Japan's technology and innovation. Wander through its premises and you'll witness an impressive harmony of its cityscape blending seamlessly with the expanse of the sea. It's a perfect destination for families looking to inspire young minds but at the same time enjoying Japanese culture and its unique landscape.
Ride into the Future on Emeraldas
Board the Emeraldas ship at Tokyo Cruise's port in Asakusa.
Our journey starts in Asakusa, a center for cultural exploration and Japanese gourmet. Here lies the starting point: on board the Emeraldas. Designed by the legendary manga artist Leiji Matsumoto, its sleek, futuristic design resembles a spaceship common in his works and is a sure hit for kids and kids at heart. Named after Queen Emeraldas, a brave character from Matsumoto's universe, the ship embodies a sense of adventure and allure, blending the magic of manga and anime with real-life exploration.
Inside, you'll find a spacious minimalist ambiance with transparent or neutrally colored chairs. Even the restroom features a modern interior. The walls and ceiling are filled with glass windows, allowing you to take in the sights from every angle. The ship cruises at a steady pace along the Sumida River that you wouldn't even realize it's moving, offering views of Tokyo's urban landscape interspersed with peaceful greenery.
As you approach the Tokyo Bay area, head to the ship's observation deck and feel the refreshing sea breeze as you witness the majestic Rainbow Bridge along and Odaiba's skyline slowly coming into view—a picture-perfect scene you don't want to miss.
TOKYO CRUISE
- Address
(Boarding at Asakusa) - 1-1-1 Hanakawado, Taito-ku, Tokyo
- Access
- Tokyo Metro Ginza Line – Asakusa Station (Approx. 1 min. walk)
Tobu Skytree Line – Asakusa Station (Approx. 1 min. walk)
Tokyo Subway – Asakusa Station (Approx. 3 min. walk) - Link
- https://www.suijobus.co.jp/en/cruise/asakusa/
Disembark at TOKYO CRUISE Odaiba Seaside Park and head to the Unicorn Gundam Statue (900 m away).
Surpassing Fiction: Witnessing a Real Gundam
An iconic landmark in the heart of Odaiba, the life-size Unicorn Gundam Statue is a full-scale replica of the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam from the anime series, Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn, an adaptation of the novel by Harutoshi Fukui, created by Sunrise in 2010. As I gaze at its enormity, its pure white façade adds allure to its overwhelming size, drawing focus to its intricate details.
Located in front of the Diver City Tokyo Plaza, its ts statuesque presence will impress even those who are not fans of the series. As if its gigantic size wasn't enough to wow spectators, it also transforms at certain times of the day and illuminates at nighttime with different performances accompanied by music and narration, ensuring each visit is unique. Check the performance times on the official website and marvel at the impeccable craftsmanship and technology that made this masterpiece a reality.
Unicorn Gundam Statue
- Address
- 2F Festival Square, DiverCity Tokyo Plaza, 1-1-10 Aomi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
- Access
- Rinkai Line – Tokyo Teleport Station (Approx. 5 min. walk)
Yurikamome Monorail – Daiba Station (Approx. 5 min. walk) - Link
- https://www.unicorn-gundam-statue.jp/en/