Rainbow Bridge

The Basics

The Rainbow Bridge, built in 1993, has become one of Tokyo’s most distinctive structures. It’s a double-decker bridge; the expressway and walkway run on one level, and the Yurikamome train line runs on the other. While the bridge is often rainbow-hued at night, it also displays other color schemes during seasonal festivals or to support important causes. Cross the bridge to enjoy the entertainment and shopping in Odaiba, or admire the lights at night.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There are two walkways across the bridge (called the Rainbow Promenade), one on the north and one on the south side. The south walkway offers views of Odaiba and Shinagawa, while the north offers views of the Tokyo Tower and Roppongi.

• It takes about half an hour to walk across the bridge.

• If you plan to cycle around Tokyo, note that you’ll have to walk your bike across the Rainbow Bridge.

• The walkway is usually closed where there are strong winds.

How to Get There

To walk across the bridge from the “mainland” Tokyo side, head to Shibaura Pier; the closest subway station is Shibaura-futo, on the Yurikamome Line.

When to Get There

Dusk is a particularly good time to walk across the bridge or to catch a view of it from either end. Tokyo’s skyline, as well as the bridge itself, twinkle at night. The walkway is open from late morning until early evening, with longer evening hours in the summer (April–October).

Visit Nihonbashi

After visiting the Rainbow Bridge—one of Tokyo’s newest—head to one of it’s oldest bridges. Nihonbashi (literally “Japan bridge”) was originally built in 1603 and became the starting point for Japan’s road network. The bridge has been replaced over the centuries, and the current structure was built in 1911. There is now a newer bridge (built for the 1962 Tokyo Olympics) stretching over the bridge, but the city plans to move it underground.

Ways to explore

There are two primary ways to enjoy the Rainbow Bridge: by crossing it, or by admiring it from afar. Those looking to cross the structure will appreciate its double-decker construction, with an expressway and walkway on one level, and the Yurikamome elevated train line on the other. Walk, drive, or take the train across the bridge to enjoy the entertainment and shopping in Odaiba, or admire the lights at night. You can also take a Tokyo Bay cruise to see it from a different angle.

Accessibility

The walkway isn’t suitable for wheelchair users; while there are elevators on the Shibaura side, there aren’t on the Odaiba side.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Charge up your camera or phone to capture images of the bridge and the views that it offers.

What to wear

If walking across, wear a jacket as the conditions may be windy on the bridge. A hat might also come in handy if you encounter weather.

Not allowed

Smoking, pets, riding bicycles (these should be mounted on a trolley and pushed across the walkway)

Amenities

Restrooms are located on the Shibaura side of the bridge.

Address

The Rainbow Bridge connects Shibaura Wharf to Odaiba island. You can walk or drive across it, or take a Yurikamome line train.

Driving

The Shuto Expressway crosses the Rainbow Bridge. This is a toll road; tolls vary depending on the vehicle type and distance traveled. Tokyo can be challenging to find your way around when driving, so it’s easiest to type the destination into your navigation app and follow the directions.

Public transportation

The elevated Yurikamome line crosses the Rainbow Bridge. The closest station to the western side of the bridge is Shibaura-futo, but you can also hop on the Yurikamome line at Shimbashi, Shiodome, and elsewhere.

Best times to visit

The bridge looks especially attractive at night (it’s lit up between sunset and midnight). The walkway is closed overnight; timing varies by season.

Best days to visit

Odaiba is busiest on the weekends, so come mid-week to avoid the heaviest traffic or fullest trains over the bridge. The walkway is typically closed on the third Monday of the month.

Best months to visit

December is the best month to visit to see the bridge lit up in its signature rainbow hues, but generally Tokyo is more pleasant in spring (March–April) and fall (October–November).

Special events

While the bridge is typically illuminated in white lights, it takes on rainbow hues in December.