The colorful night lights of Odaiba

Tokyo-bound travelers hoping for something a little different should consider venturing across Rainbow Bridge to Odaiba, an artificial island in Tokyo Bay that is home to a vast entertainment/shopping/dining complex that in its glitzy excess can only be compared to Las Vegas and Dubai. Complete with a ferris wheel, artificial hot springs, countless restaurants, and even a replica of the Statue of Liberty, it is both a magnificent spectacle and a cultural lesson on the Japanese enthusiasm for all things kitschy, over the top, and fun. Unlike tourist attractions that are rarely visited by locals, Odaiba is popular among Tokyo residents, especially young groups and couples.

We think an afternoon at Odaiba would be perfect for a family with children; couples would likely prefer a night-time visit to enjoy dinner and a spin on the ferris wheel. In addition to the restaurants and rides, there are enough shops to satisfy even the most dedicated consumer, so an entire day could easily be spent exploring Odaiba’s many attractions. Visitors can get to Odaiba from Tokyo by monorail, coach or car.