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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
