【Gundam Unicorn】Odaiba, Minato Ward, Tokyo
The full-scale Unicorn Gundam statue installed in front of Diver City Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba has become a new landmark in Tokyo that captivates not only Gundam fans but also many tourists. This article provides detailed explanations of everything you should know before visiting, including the appeal of this magnificent monument, viewing points, and access methods.
About the Full-Scale Unicorn Gundam Statue
A New Gundam Arrives in Odaiba
On September 24, 2017, a full-scale Unicorn Gundam statue was installed at the Festival Plaza of Diver City Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba. This is a full-size (1/1 scale) reproduction of the RX-0 Unicorn Gundam, which appears in “Mobile Suit Gundam UC (Unicorn),” part of the popular anime series “Mobile Suit Gundam” that has continued since 1979.
Reaching a height of 19.7 meters, its impressive appearance captures the eye from a distance. Installed as the successor to the original Gundam statue (2009-2017), it has become a new symbol of the Odaiba area.
Features of the Unicorn Gundam
The greatest feature of the Unicorn Gundam is that it possesses two forms: Unicorn Mode and Destroy Mode. The full-scale statue in Odaiba faithfully recreates this feature, allowing visitors to see the transformation performance during specific times of the day.
Unicorn Mode is the normal state, with white armor featuring a single horn on the forehead. Destroy Mode transforms the armor opens, revealing red glowing psycho-frames from within, changing to a more combat-ready and impressive appearance.
Transformation Performance “Crystal of Light” – Times and Highlights
Performance Schedule
The main attraction of the full-scale Unicorn Gundam statue is the transformation performance “Crystal of Light,” which transforms from Unicorn Mode to Destroy Mode. This performance is conducted several times daily, featuring about five minutes of music and lighting effects.
Performance Times (Approximate):
- 11:30 AM
- 1:30 PM
- 3:30 PM
- 5:30 PM
- 7:30 PM
- 9:30 PM (varies by season)
※Please note that performances may be changed or cancelled due to weather or facility circumstances. We recommend checking the official website for the latest information before your visit.
Performance Details
During the transformation, the in-series music “unicorn” plays as the statue transforms from Unicorn Mode to Destroy Mode. The sight of the armor opening and approximately 50 psycho-frame sections throughout the body glowing red is spectacular.
Night performances are particularly impressive, with the red light standing out dramatically against the darkness, creating a fantastical atmosphere different from daytime viewings. Since many spectators gather a few minutes before the performance begins, we recommend arriving early to secure a good shooting position.
Best Photography Spots and Photography Tips
Recommended Photography Points
Central Area
Photographing from the center of Festival Plaza allows you to capture the full Unicorn Gundam from the front. This is the most crowded area during performances but is a popular spot that yields impressive photos.
Diagonal Front Angle
Photographing from the left or right side of the plaza at an angle creates a three-dimensional composition. Particularly from the front-right diagonal, the Beam Magnum pose is clearly visible.
2nd Floor Deck
From the 2nd floor terrace of Diver City Tokyo Plaza, you can photograph the Unicorn Gundam at eye level. This is recommended for those wishing to capture details of the head and upper body in close-up.
Distant View Photography
Shooting from a distance while including surrounding buildings and scenery creates a memorable photo that conveys the Odaiba atmosphere.
Photography Tips
Daytime Photography
On sunny days, the white armor looks beautiful. To avoid backlighting, shooting from the west in the morning and from the east in the afternoon is recommended. The white Unicorn Mode stands out against a blue sky.
Night and Destroy Mode Photography
A tripod is useful when photographing the night transformation performance, though it may not be permitted during crowded times. Use smartphone night mode or increase camera ISO sensitivity. Slightly lowering the exposure effectively captures the red glow.
Video Recording
Recording the transformation performance on video is also recommended. Recording the entire five-minute performance from start to finish captures the transformation process.
Access Methods to Odaiba
By Train
Yurikamome
- Get off at “Odaiba Station,” then about 5 minutes on foot
- Accessible from Shinbashi or Toyosu stations
- Diver City Tokyo Plaza is directly connected via deck from Odaiba Station, allowing dry passage on rainy days
Rinkai Line
- Get off at “Tokyo Teleport Station,” then about 3 minutes on foot
- Accessible from Osaki, Shin-Kiba stations, and others
- Exit from B exit and head toward Diver City Tokyo Plaza
By Car
Metropolitan Expressway
- About 3 minutes from the “Odaiba Exit” on Route 11
- About 4 minutes from the “Rinkai Subsidiary Center Exit” on the Wan-Gan Line
Parking
Diver City Tokyo Plaza has a parking lot accommodating approximately 1,400 vehicles.
- Rate: 500 yen per hour on weekdays, 600 yen per hour on weekends/holidays
- Operating hours: 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM (entry until 11:00 PM)
- Parking fee discounts available based on purchase amounts
Weekends, holidays, and performance time slots are crowded, so public transportation is recommended.
From the Airports
From Haneda Airport
- Tokyo Monorail to Shinbashi Station, transfer to Yurikamome (approximately 40 minutes)
- Limousine Bus heading to “Odaiba/Ariake area” (approximately 30 minutes)
From Narita Airport
- Narita Express or Keisei Skyliner to central Tokyo, then transfer to Yurikamome or Rinkai Line (approximately 90-120 minutes)
Gundam Base Tokyo | Affiliated Official Shop
About Gundam Base Tokyo
On the 7th floor of Diver City Tokyo Plaza, there is an official Gundam shop called “Gundam Base Tokyo.” After viewing the full-scale Unicorn Gundam, be sure to stop by here as well.
Facility Features
Japan’s Largest Gunpla Shop
With a lineup of over 2,000 types of Gunpla (Gundam plastic models), this boasts Japan’s largest selection. Many limited and latest products are available.
Exhibition Area
The free-entry area displays completed Gunpla of various kinds, enjoyable just to look at. Giant dioramas and works by professional modelers are also on display.
Assembly Experience Space
A work space is available where you can assemble purchased Gunpla on the spot (tools available for loan).
Operating Hours
- 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry 8:30 PM)
- Open year-round (except facility closure days)
Nearby Tourist Spots
Odaiba Marine Park
About 10 minutes on foot from the Unicorn Gundam statue, Odaiba Marine Park offers views of Tokyo Bay. It’s also popular as a scenic spot overlooking Rainbow Bridge.
Fuji Television Headquarters Building
The Fuji Television headquarters building, known for its distinctive spherical observation deck “Hachitama,” is within walking distance. From the observation platform, you can overlook the entire Odaiba area.
teamLab Borderless (Relocated to Azabudai Hills in February 2024)
This facility was popular for its cutting-edge digital art experiences but relocated to Azabudai Hills in February 2024. New facilities are planned to open in the Odaiba area.
Palette Town Giant Ferris Wheel Site
The giant observation wheel, once a symbol of Odaiba, closed in 2022. Redevelopment of the site is underway, with new commercial facilities planned to open.
AQUA CiTY ODAIBA
A complex facility with shopping, dining, and a movie theater. It’s about 7 minutes on foot from the Unicorn Gundam.
Points to Note and Advice for Visitors
Tips to Avoid Crowds
Weekday Mornings
The quietest time is weekday mornings. This is recommended for those wanting to photograph leisurely or avoid crowds.
Weekends/Holidays – Early Time Slots
When visiting on weekends or holidays, the time slots right after opening are relatively quiet. Afternoon crowds increase, so morning visits are recommended.
Performance Times – Crowded
Many people gather during transformation performance times, especially at night. If you want to secure a good photography position, arrive 15-20 minutes before the performance begins.
Weather and Clothing
Summer (June-September)
Since Odaiba is by the sea, it has strong sunlight and high temperatures. Prepare hats, sunscreen, and hydration.
Winter (December-February)
Strong sea breezes lower the felt temperature. Take thorough cold-weather precautions.
Rainy Days
While the Unicorn Gundam statue is outdoors, there are covered areas nearby. Performances often proceed in rain, but may be cancelled in severe weather.
Estimated Time Required
- Unicorn Gundam viewing and photography only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Including transformation performance viewing: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Including Gundam Base Tokyo: 2 to 3 hours
- Full Odaiba area sightseeing: Half day to full day
History and Background of the Unicorn Gundam
About Mobile Suit Gundam UC
“Mobile Suit Gundam UC (Unicorn)” is based on a novel by Haruka Taiga and was released as a seven-episode OVA (Original Video Animation) from 2010 to 2014. It’s a particularly popular work within the Gundam series set in the Universal Century timeline.
The RX-0 Unicorn Gundam piloted by protagonist Banagher Links plays an important role as the key to “Laplace’s Box.” This is a special mobile suit with psycho-frames embedded throughout its body, transforming into Destroy Mode in response to the pilot’s newtype waves.
History of Odaiba and Gundam
The relationship between Odaiba and Gundam began in 2009. To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Gundam, a full-scale statue of the original RX-78-2 Gundam was installed temporarily, creating major buzz.
Later, the original Gundam statue was relocated to Shizuoka Prefecture, and in 2017, the Unicorn Gundam was installed as its successor in Odaiba. This established Odaiba as the “Holy Land of Gundam.”
Event Information and Latest Information
Regular Events
Regular Gundam-related events are held at Diver City Tokyo Plaza and Gundam Base Tokyo.
- New Gunpla release commemoration events
- Manufacturing demonstrations by professional modelers
- Gundam series screenings
- Limited product sales
How to Obtain Information
Official Websites
- Diver City Tokyo Plaza official website
- Gundam Base Tokyo official website
- Gundam official portal site
SNS
Official Twitter and Instagram accounts provide real-time updates on performance time changes and event information. Following these before your visit is convenient.
On-Site Information
The information counter at Diver City Tokyo Plaza also provides the latest information.
Nearby Dining Spots
Inside Diver City Tokyo Plaza
Food Court “Tokyo Gourmet Stadium”
This large food court on the 2nd floor offers various cuisines including ramen, curry, and rice bowls. Prices are reasonable and family-friendly.
Restaurant Floor
The 6th floor has diverse restaurants offering Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. Some restaurants have sea-view seating, allowing you to dine while enjoying the scenery.
Gundam Café
A Gundam-themed café is in operation. With Gundam-motif menus and original goods, it’s especially recommended for fans.
Surrounding Area
AQUA CiTY ODAIBA
Many restaurants offer views of Rainbow Bridge. The night view is particularly beautiful and recommended for dates.
Decks Tokyo Beach
Features the retro “Odaiba 1-chome Shopping Street” and restaurants with sea views.
Accommodation Information
For those visiting from afar or wishing to leisurely explore the Odaiba area, staying at nearby hotels is recommended.
Hotels Around Odaiba
Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay
A high-rise hotel directly connected to Odaiba Station. Guest rooms offer views of Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Bay.
Hilton Tokyo Odaiba
All rooms feature bay views in a resort-like atmosphere. An onsen facility is also available.
Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel
Located near Rinkai Line Kokusai-Tenjijou Station with good access to the Odaiba area. Offers relatively reasonable rates.
Conclusion: Making the Most of the Unicorn Gundam in Odaiba
The full-scale Unicorn Gundam statue in Odaiba, Tokyo, is a worthwhile destination for Gundam fans and general tourists alike. The 19.7-meter colossal statue has an impact that photographs and videos cannot convey.
When visiting, keep these points in mind for greater enjoyment:
- Check transformation performance times in advance and be sure to witness the Destroy Mode transformation
- Enjoy different atmospheres in daytime and nighttime; visit both if possible
- Visit Gundam Base Tokyo as well to deepen your connection with the Gundam world
- Aim for weekdays or mornings to avoid crowds
- Combine nearby tourist attractions to fully enjoy the Odaiba area
The Unicorn Gundam statue can be viewed free of charge and is accessible 24 hours (performances only during specific times). When sightseeing in Tokyo, be sure to visit Odaiba and experience this overwhelming-scale monument.
Even those unfamiliar with the Gundam series will undoubtedly be impressed by its scale and beauty. The transformation performance, in particular, is highly regarded by international tourists as a uniquely Japanese experience where technology and entertainment merge.
Odaiba has many other attractions beyond the Unicorn Gundam. Consider creating a full-day sightseeing plan combining shopping, dining, and entertainment.
