Robot Base Tokyo
Good to know before you go
- Getting there
- Ryogoku Station · 7 min walk (Toei Oedo Line, JR Sobu Line)
- Hours
- 11:00–18:00, closed Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Admission
- From ¥2,200–¥2,500 (varies by package; advance reservation required)
- Time needed
- 40–60 min
Hours can change on holidays — check the official site before travelling.
About
Robot Base Tokyo is an interactive, family-friendly gaming and entertainment center in Sumida where you can pilot real, miniature battling robots. Perfect for sci-fi fans and families, it offers a hands-on experience using controllers to maneuver mechs in customized tabletop arenas. Expect a friendly, English-speaking staff, high-tech battle setups, and a uniquely modern Japanese subculture experience.
What Japanese guides note
Japanese sources emphasize that Robot Base Tokyo functions as the working research and entertainment development workshop of robotics venture MOVeLOT rather than a standard commercial arcade. Visitors must arrive punctually for their assigned appointment time, as delayed arrivals cannot be compensated with extended sessions. Photography and video recording are permitted throughout the facility and staff actively help capture cockpit shots. Located less than 200 meters from the Sumida Hokusai Museum along Hokusai-dori, it connects conveniently to a walking itinerary through the cultural sights of northern Ryogoku.
Details from local sources
- The facility operates strictly on an advance reservation system with timed private sessions, and walk-in visitors cannot be admitted. [source]
- The Kamezawa workshop houses ASTRO, a roughly three-meter-tall humanoid robot whose cockpit visitors board to control the arms and fire a mounted blaster. [source]
- Participants must wear closed-toe shoes to enter the cockpit rig, and anyone who has consumed alcohol is strictly prohibited from participating. [source]
- Children completing the family experience receive a personalized, physical robot pilot license card printed with their photo. [source]
Insider Tip
Book your battle slot online in advance, as the intimate space can fill up quickly with small group reservations.
Frequently asked
Do I need to book in advance before visiting Robot Base Tokyo?
Yes. Robot Base Tokyo operates entirely on an advance reservation system via platforms like Jalan and online ticket agencies. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated because each time slot is conducted as a guided private session led by technical staff.
Is there a dress code or footwear restriction for piloting the robot?
Yes. Visitors must wear closed-toe shoes such as sneakers to board the cockpit rig safely. Sandals, flip-flops, and open-toed footwear are strictly barred. In addition, anyone who has consumed alcohol is not allowed to board or operate the machinery.
Can children pilot the full-sized robot on their own?
Children aged 11 and older can operate the controls independently, while younger children require assistance from an accompanying guardian or staff member inside the cockpit. Family ticket packages include joint cockpit access and a commemorative child pilot license card.
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