Odaiba and More: Five Unusual Statues in Tokyo!
Devon Lord-Moncrief
Tokyo is one of the world’s largest cities, brimming with countless places to visit and sights to see. Among the fantastic cuisine, world-famous electronics and entertainment districts, and cutting-edge fashion shops, Tokyo is also home to many unique and unusual statues in places such as Odaiba.
These statues can range from historically significant works of art to fun and exciting celebrations of popular TV shows and characters. As it can be difficult to find these statues on your own, here are a handful of some of the most exciting statues in Tokyo.
Odaiba Gundam
The Mobile Suit Gundam series is an institution in Japan. Gundam, a trailblazer for the mecha genre and a seminal anime franchise, is found in virtually every corner of Japan. One of the most awe-inspiring tributes to Gundam is in Odaiba. There, you can see a full, life-sized statue of it!
Based on the titular mobile suit from Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn, the statue towers over viewers in exquisite detail. Even for those who may not be familiar with Gundam, seeing such a statue in person is completely unforgettable.
Sangenjaya Gorilla Building
Finding someone unfamiliar with King Kong, the famous super-sized ape who was taken to New York City, would be difficult. What many people may not know, however, is that Tokyo actually has its own version of King Kong. Located within Setagaya City is the Gorilla Building, a building that has – you guessed it – a massive gorilla leaning over its roof.
Sitting on top of the giant gorilla’s hand is a small schoolgirl who looks quite calm. While the Gorilla Building is completely unaffiliated with King Kong, seeing such a similar spectacle in the middle of Tokyo is still cool.
Shibuya Hachiko
Shibuya is one of Tokyo’s most famous wards, known for its neon signs, unparalleled shopping, and bustling Shibuya Crossing. Visitors to Tokyo’s busiest intersection must venture a minute away to see Hachiko, a landmark statue. Hachiko is one of the world’s most famous dogs.
This Akita visited Shibuya Station daily to wait for his master, even after his death. Hachiko’s story of love and dedication has inspired countless tales. Visiting his statue is the best way to pay respect to one of the world’s best puppies.
Mt. Takao Tengu
Mountain hiking might not be the first thing that comes to mind when visiting Tokyo. However, an hour’s drive from the city center leads to Mt. Takao. Standing 599 meters (1965 feet) tall, Mt. Takao is a perfect weekend getaway, especially for those seeking the Tengu statue on the mountain.
For centuries, Mt. Takao has been associated with tengu, winged humanoid creatures with long noses. Tengu were once viewed as volatile spirits, but they have recently gained a more positive reputation. You’re unlikely to see a real tengu during your visit, but seeing the tengu statue is just as good.
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Maman Roppongi
Roppongi is one of Tokyo’s most famous entertainment districts and is a must-visit destination for people looking for an adventurous night out. But for anyone visiting Roppongi, seeing a massive sculpture of a creepy-crawly spider is likely the last thing they’d expect.
But the 30 ft (nine-meter) tall and 33 ft (10-meter) wide Maman spider is exactly that, much to the delight of those who love amazing sculptures (and to the horror of those who find spiders terrifying.) While not a particularly cute or cuddly sculpture, the Maman spider is still one of the most memorable sights in Roppongi.
Why should I check out these unique statues in places like Odaiba?
Traveling to Tokyo should be full of fun and fantastic experiences that create memories that will last a lifetime. Sure, you can go to Akihabara and drop a ton of money on video games and anime merch, and you can head to Harajuku and spend even more money on clothes and rainbow-grilled cheeses, but experiencing Tokyo should include more than just spending money!
Exploring the city on foot, traveling by train, and wandering street by street is the best way to truly know Tokyo. Discovering strange and unforgettable statues is also a great way to enjoy the fresh air and create timeless memories. Walking to the Unicorn Gundam is amazing, but stopping by a small ramen shop or burger joint makes for an awesome afternoon.
Have you seen any of these statues while you were in Tokyo? If so, which ones did you see? Do you have a favorite? Please tell us in the comments below! We would love to hear about your adventures seeing Tokyo’s famous statues!
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