Spot major landmarks decorating Tokyo’s skyline and watch planes come in to land while walking across a bridge connecting two islands in Tokyo Bay.
Tokyo Gate Bridge is a striking cantilever bridge that connects the artificial islands of Chubo and Wakasu in Kōtō City. Stroll across the walkway of Tokyo Gate Bridge during the daytime for uninterrupted views of Tokyo’s modern skyscrapers. Visit after sunset to see the landmark illuminated by bright blue and white lights.
The bridge is a four-lane highway and stretches for 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometers), including the approaches from connecting islands. Its design is notable for being tall enough for cargo ships to pass beneath it and low enough to not impede air traffic. Locals often call the landmark the Dinosaur Bridge, due to the similarities between the central sections and the profiles of dinosaurs.
Located on the bridge’s west side, the walkway faces central Tokyo and presents a beautiful panorama for photographs. Look for architectural landmarks such as the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. On exceptionally clear days it’s possible to spot the peak of Mount Fuji. Peer down to observe fishermen casting lines into the bay from a fishing pier.
Throughout the day freight ships cruise under the bridge on their routes in and out of Tokyo’s industrial port areas. Planes fly directly above and create a stunning image as they take off and land at Haneda Airport. Come in the evening when the bridge and skyscrapers of Tokyo are lit up by thousands of neon lights. Wakasu Seaside Park and Sea Forest Park, on Chubo, are great places to witness the illumination.
Reach the Tokyo Gate Bridge by riding the train to Shin-kiba Station and then taking a taxi or walking for about an hour. A free-to-use elevator in Wakasu Seaside Park conveys visitors to the walkway. Pedestrian access to the bridge is during daytime hours only so check the closing time of the elevator. Free parking is available near the elevator.
