The life-size Unicorn Gundam statue installed in front of Diver City Tokyo Plaza in Odaiba, Tokyo, has become a new landmark in Tokyo that fascinates not only Gundam fans but also many tourists. This article provides detailed information about the appeal of this magnificent monument, viewing tips, and access methods that you should know before visiting.
About the Life-Size Unicorn Gundam Statue
A New Gundam Arrives in Odaiba
On September 24, 2017, a life-size 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,” which has continued since 1979.
The statue reaches a height of 19.7 meters, and its impressive form catches the eye even from a distance. It was installed as the successor to the original Gundam statue (2009-2017) and has become a new symbol of the Odaiba area.
Characteristics of the Unicorn Gundam
The greatest feature of the Unicorn Gundam is that it has two forms: Unicorn Mode and Destroy Mode. The life-size statue in Odaiba faithfully reproduces this characteristic, and you can see the transformation performance at specific times of the day.
Unicorn Mode is the normal state with white armor and a single horn on the forehead. Destroy Mode sees the armor panels expand, revealing the red glow of the psychoframe from within, transforming into a more combat-ready and powerful appearance.
Transformation Performance “Crystal of Light” – Schedule and Highlights
Performance Schedule
The main attraction of the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue is the transformation performance from Unicorn Mode to Destroy Mode called “Crystal of Light.” This performance is held several times a day and is approximately a 5-minute show accompanied by 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)
※The performance 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 Content
During the transformation performance, the theme song “unicorn” plays as the statue transforms from Unicorn Mode to Destroy Mode. The armor panels expand, and approximately 50 psychoframe sections throughout the entire body glow red—a spectacular sight.
Particularly impressive during night performances, the red light stands out against the darkness, creating a different fantastical atmosphere from daytime viewings. Large crowds gather a few minutes before the performance begins, so we recommend arriving early if you want to secure a good photographing position.
Best Photography Spots and Photography Tips
Recommended Photography Points
Front Area
Photographing from around the center of Festival Plaza allows you to capture the entire Unicorn Gundam from the front. While this is the most crowded area during performances, it’s a popular spot for impressive photos.
Angled Front View
Photographing from either the left or right side of the plaza at an angle creates a three-dimensional composition. The beam magnum pose is particularly visible from the right-front angle.
2nd Floor Deck
From the 2nd floor terrace of Diver City Tokyo Plaza, you can photograph the Unicorn Gundam at eye level. Recommended for those wanting to capture details of the head or close-up shots of the upper body.
Distance Shots
Photographing from a distance, including surrounding buildings and scenery, creates memorable photos that also convey the Odaiba atmosphere.
Photography Tips
Daytime Photography
The white armor looks beautiful in sunny weather. To avoid backlighting, photography from the west side is recommended in the morning, and from the east side in the afternoon. Against a blue sky, the white Unicorn Mode stands out clearly.
Nighttime and Destroy Mode Photography
When photographing the nighttime transformation performance, a tripod is useful, though it may not be allowed during crowded times. Use your smartphone’s night scene mode or increase your camera’s ISO sensitivity. To beautifully capture the red glow, slightly reducing the exposure is effective.
Video Recording
Recording the transformation performance on video is also recommended. Recording the entire 5-minute performance from start to finish captures the transformation process.
Access to Odaiba
Access by Train
Yurikamome
- Get off at “Odaiba Station,” approximately 5 minutes on foot
- Accessible from Shimbashi or Toyosu stations
- Diver City Tokyo Plaza is directly connected to Odaiba Station by deck, so you can reach it without getting wet on rainy days
Rinkai Line
- Get off at “Tokyo Teleport Station,” approximately 3 minutes on foot
- Accessible from Osaki, Shin-Kiba, and other stations
- Exit from B exit and head toward Diver City Tokyo Plaza
Access by Car
Shuto Expressway
- Approximately 3 minutes from “Odaiba Exit” on Shuto Expressway Line 11
- Approximately 4 minutes from “Rinkai Fukutoshin Exit” on Shuto Expressway Bay Line
Parking
Diver City Tokyo Plaza has a parking lot with capacity for approximately 1,400 vehicles.
- Fee: ¥500 per hour on weekdays, ¥600 per hour on weekends and holidays
- Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM (last entry at 11:00 PM)
- Parking fee discounts available based on purchase amounts
Weekends, holidays, and performance times are crowded, so we recommend using public transportation.
Access from Airports
From Haneda Airport
- Tokyo Monorail to Shimbashi 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 | Official Shop on Premises
About Gundam Base Tokyo
Gundam Base Tokyo, an official Gundam shop, is located on the 7th floor of Diver City Tokyo Plaza. After viewing the life-size Unicorn Gundam, be sure to visit here as well.
Facility Features
Japan’s Largest Gunpla Shop
With over 2,000 types of Gunpla (Gundam plastic models), it boasts one of Japan’s largest selections. Many limited and newest products are available.
Display Area
The free-entry area features completed Gunpla models and displays. Giant dioramas and works by professional modelers are also on display.
Assembly Experience Space
A work space is available for assembling purchased Gunpla on the spot (tool rental available).
Business Hours
- 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (last entry 8:30 PM)
- Open year-round (except facility closure days)
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Odaiba Seaside Park
Located approximately a 10-minute walk from the Unicorn Gundam statue, Odaiba Seaside Park offers Tokyo Bay views. It’s also a popular spot for viewing the Rainbow Bridge.
Fuji Television Headquarters Building
The Fuji Television building, known for its distinctive spherical observation deck “Hachitama,” is also within walking distance. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the entire Odaiba area.
TeamLab Borderless (Relocated to Azabudai Hills in February 2024)
This facility, popular for cutting-edge digital art experiences, relocated to Azabudai Hills in February 2024. A new facility is expected to open in the Odaiba area in the future.
Palette Town Ferris Wheel Site
The former ferris wheel, once a symbol of Odaiba, closed in 2022. Redevelopment of the site is underway, with new commercial facilities scheduled to open.
AQUA CITY ODAIBA
A complex facility with shopping, dining, and movie theaters. Located approximately 7 minutes on foot from the Unicorn Gundam.
Precautions and Advice for Your Visit
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Weekday Mornings
Weekday mornings are the least crowded. Recommended for those wanting to take their time photographing or avoid crowds.
Weekends/Holidays – Earlier Times
When visiting on weekends or holidays, times shortly after opening are relatively uncrowded. As afternoon approaches, tourists increase, so morning visits are recommended.
Performance Times Are Crowded
Large crowds gather during transformation performances, especially at night. To secure a good shooting position, arrive at least 15-20 minutes before the performance starts.
Weather and Clothing
Summer (June-September)
Since Odaiba is by the sea, there is strong sunlight and high temperatures. Prepare a hat, sunscreen, and hydration.
Winter (December-February)
Sea winds are strong and the felt temperature is lower. Take proper cold-weather precautions.
Rainy Days
While the Unicorn Gundam statue is outdoors, there are covered areas nearby. Performances are often held in rain, but may be cancelled in severe weather.
Estimated Time Required
- Viewing and photographing the Unicorn Gundam alone: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Including transformation performance viewing: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Including Gundam Base Tokyo: 2 to 3 hours
- Touring the entire Odaiba area: 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 Haruo Fukui and was released as a full 7-episode OVA (Original Video Animation) from 2010 to 2014. It is one of the most popular works in the Gundam series, which is set in the Universal Century.
The RX-0 Unicorn Gundam, piloted by the protagonist Banagher Links, plays an important role as the key to “Laplace’s Box.” This is a special machine with psychoframe embedded throughout its body that transforms into Destroy Mode in response to the pilot’s brainwaves.
Odaiba and Gundam History
The relationship between Odaiba and Gundam began in 2009. To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Gundam, a life-size statue of the original RX-78-2 Gundam was temporarily installed, creating a 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 How to Get the Latest Information
Regular Events
Regular Gundam-related events are held at Diver City Tokyo Plaza and Gundam Base Tokyo.
- New Gunpla release celebration events
- Manufacturing demonstrations by professional modelers
- Gundam series screenings
- Limited product sales
How to Get Information
Official Websites
- Diver City Tokyo Plaza official website
- Gundam Base Tokyo official website
- Gundam official portal website
SNS
Official Twitter and Instagram accounts are updated in real-time with performance time changes and event information. Following them before your visit is convenient.
On-Site Information
The Diver City Tokyo Plaza information counter also provides the latest information.
Nearby Dining Spots
Inside Diver City Tokyo Plaza
Food Court “Tokyo Gourmet Stadium”
The large food court on the 2nd floor offers various cuisines including ramen, curry, and rice bowls. Prices are reasonable and recommended for families.
Restaurant Floor
The 6th floor features diverse restaurants including Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine. Some restaurants have ocean views, allowing you to enjoy meals with a scenic backdrop.
Gundam Café
A Gundam-themed café is also in operation. Gundam-motif menu items and original merchandise are sold, making it especially recommended for fans.
Surrounding Area
AQUA CITY ODAIBA
Many restaurants offer views of the Rainbow Bridge. Particularly beautiful at night, it’s recommended for dates.
Decks Tokyo Beach
Features the retro Showa atmosphere “Odaiba Ichome Shopping Street” and restaurants with ocean views.
Accommodation Information
For visitors from distant areas or those wanting to explore the Odaiba area thoroughly, staying at nearby hotels is also recommended.
Hotels Near Odaiba
Grand Nikko Tokyo Bay
A high-rise hotel directly connected to Odaiba Station. Guest rooms offer views of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Bay.
Hilton Tokyo Odaiba
All rooms have bay views and provide a resort atmosphere. Hot spring facilities are also on-site.
Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel
Located near Rinkai Line International Exhibition Hall Station with good access to the Odaiba area. Reasonably priced.
Conclusion: How to Enjoy the Unicorn Gundam in Odaiba
The life-size Unicorn Gundam statue in Odaiba, Tokyo, is a spectacular spot for not only Gundam fans but general tourists as well. The 19.7-meter giant statue has an impact that cannot be conveyed through photos or videos.
When visiting, keep these points in mind to enjoy it even more:
- Check the transformation performance time in advance and make sure to see the transformation to Destroy Mode
- Experience the different atmospheres of day and night if possible, as they offer different experiences
- Visit Gundam Base Tokyo as well to immerse yourself more deeply in the Gundam world
- Target weekdays or mornings to avoid crowds
- Combine visits to nearby attractions to fully enjoy the Odaiba area
The Unicorn Gundam statue can be viewed for free and is accessible 24/7 (performances are at specific times only). When visiting Tokyo, be sure to venture to Odaiba and experience this overwhelming scale monument.
Even those unfamiliar with the Gundam series will surely be impressed by its power and beauty. The transformation performance, in particular, is highly rated by international tourists as a uniquely Japanese experience where technology and entertainment converge.
Odaiba offers many attractions beyond the Unicorn Gundam. Consider creating a day-long sightseeing plan that combines shopping, dining, and entertainment to make the most of your visit.
