Rainbow Bridge, officially named 東京港連絡橋 (Tōkyō Kō Renrakukyō), meaning “Tokyo Port Connector Bridge,” is a major suspension bridge that opened in 1993 connecting Shibaura Pier and Odaiba. The popular name “Rainbow Bridge” was chosen by public vote after its opening and has become the common name known worldwide.

From an engineering perspective, the bridge is remarkable because it had to be tall enough (over 50 meters) for large container ships to pass underneath but low enough to avoid interfering with aircraft landing at nearby Haneda Airport. This balancing act makes it a true engineering achievement.

The bridge’s LED lights are partially solar-powered, storing energy during the day to illuminate the cables at night, reflecting Tokyo’s commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness.

The pedestrian walkway, Rainbow Promenade, spans 1.7 km and is free to cross, offering two routes:

• North Route: Best views of Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree

• South Route: Views of Tokyo Bay, Odaiba, and, on clear days, Mount Fuji

A favorite photo spot for tourists is Odaiba Seaside Park, featuring a replica of the Statue of Liberty, creating the perfect composition with Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline in a single shot.

Rainbow Bridge is also the gateway to Odaiba, a bustling hub of shopping, museums, entertainment, and recreational spaces, making the bridge itself part of a full Tokyo experience.

• Yurikamome Line: Get off at Shibaura-futo to start walking across the bridge, or Odaiba-Kaihinkoen for seaside views.

• Rainbow Promenade: About 5–7 minutes’ walk from Shibaura-futo Station.

• By Car: Use the Metropolitan Expressway Wangan Route.

• Sightseeing Boats: Some routes from Asakusa or Hinode Pier pass under the bridge for a dramatic view.

• Best Views: Odaiba Seaside Park offers the iconic shot with the Statue of Liberty replica and Rainbow Bridge.

• Best time to visit: late afternoon before sunset until nighttime for city lights

• Winter months showcase the “full rainbow illumination”

• The bridge can be windy, especially in autumn and winter—bring a windbreaker

• Rainbow Promenade is closed every Monday (except public holidays)

• Photographers: North Route for Tokyo Tower shots, South Route for Mount Fuji on clear days

Admission Fee:

• Walking on Rainbow Promenade: Free

• Yurikamome train: 330–390 JPY depending on distance

• By Car: Free to cross the bridge (toll may apply on the expressway route)

Opening Time:

• Rainbow Promenade: 09:00–21:00 (last entry at 20:30)

• Closed every Monday (except public holidays)

• LED illumination: Evening until midnight (may vary seasonally)

• Cars and trains: Open 24 hours