Rainbow Bridge
Good to know before you go
- Getting there
- Shibaura-futō Station · 5 min walk (Yurikamome)
- Hours
- Apr 1–Oct 31: 9:00–21:00 (last entry 20:30); Nov 1–Mar 31: 10:00–18:00 (last entry 17:30); closed 3rd Mon of each month (next day if holiday)
- Admission
- Free
- Time needed
- 20–30 min
- Best time to go
- Late afternoon to sunset between April and October to see the bridge light up before the 21:00 walkway closure
Hours can change on holidays — check the official site before travelling.
About
Connecting Shibaura Pier and Odaiba, the Rainbow Bridge is an iconic double-decker suspension bridge that frames Tokyo's modern skyline. It is especially worth visiting at twilight when its solar-powered lights cast a vibrant glow over the bay, with Tokyo Tower visible in the background. Visitors can walk the scenic 1.7-kilometer pedestrian promenade for stunning, breezy views of the harbor and passing boats.
What Japanese guides note
Visitors entering from Shibaura Anchorage must choose either the North Route (facing Tokyo Tower and the skyline) or the South Route (facing Odaiba and Tokyo Bay) at the ground level before riding the elevator up. Because the two walkways run on opposite sides of vehicular and rail transit, walkers cannot switch between them mid-bridge. The pathway runs directly beside the lower roadway and Yurikamome train tracks, bringing significant wind and traffic noise.
Details from local sources
- The bridge's official administrative name is the Tokyo Port Connector Bridge (Tokyo-ko Renraku-kyo), while Rainbow Bridge was selected as a public nickname prior to its 1993 opening. [source]
- Cyclists cannot ride across the walkway, but they may push their bicycles across after attaching a mandatory loaner trolley dolly to the rear wheel. [source]
- Pedestrians must commit to either the North or South walkway at the Shibaura entrance, as no crossover between the two sides exists until Pier 31 on the Odaiba side. [source]
- Restrooms are located exclusively inside the Shibaura Anchorage building, with no toilet facilities along the 1.7-kilometer deck or at the Odaiba entry. [source]
- The bridge's main towers shift illumination temperature seasonally, shining cool white from April to October and warm white from November to March. [source]
- Pets are permitted across only if kept fully enclosed in a carrier, and carrying pets with their heads protruding from bags is forbidden. [source]
Insider Tip
Walk the North Route for views of Tokyo Tower and the skyline, or the South Route to see Odaiba and Mt. Fuji on a clear day.
Frequently asked
Can I ride my bicycle across Rainbow Bridge?
Cycling across the promenade is strictly prohibited. However, cyclists may push bicycles across for free by borrowing a small wheeled wooden dolly to attach to the rear wheel at the gate, or by packing the bike completely inside a carry bag. Riding on either path is not allowed under any circumstances.
Which side of the promenade is better: North Route or South Route?
The North Route overlooks Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and the central city skyline. The South Route provides open views of Odaiba, passing vessels, and Mount Fuji on clear days. Walkers cannot change paths while on the main suspension span, so choose your direction before ascending the elevator.
Can I walk across Rainbow Bridge late at night?
No. The pedestrian promenade closes at 21:00 from April through October (last entry 20:30) and at 18:00 from November through March (last entry 17:30). The access gates are locked overnight outside of rare special holiday openings, such as designated New Year's Eve crossing events.
Are there restrooms along the Rainbow Bridge walking path?
No restrooms or drinking fountains exist along the 1.7-kilometer promenade or at the Odaiba entry point. Public toilets and beverage vending machines are available exclusively inside the entrance lobby of the Shibaura Anchorage building, so plan to use these facilities before taking the elevator up to the walkway.
Our Tokyo walking tours
On the same walk
Photos
