Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty Photography Guide

Statue of Liberty replica glowing in red light against a dark blue night sky and distant city lights.
Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty looks great at night.

When you think of an iconic Tokyo photograph, what comes to mind? The Shibuya Scramble Crossing? Sensō-ji Temple?

But one viewpoint offers a stunning combination of the modern city: the futuristic Rainbow Bridge, the classic Tokyo Tower, and, surprisingly, the Statue of Liberty. Yes, Tokyo has its own Statue of Liberty in Odaiba. This replica is a unique photo opportunity.

Statue of Liberty replica in Odaiba, Tokyo, with the Rainbow Bridge and city skyline in the background under a blue sky.

That’s right, New York isn’t the only city with a Lady Liberty, and this version is a photographer’s dream.

Statue of Liberty replica in Odaiba, Tokyo, with tourists on a walkway and city skyline against a clear blue sky.

She has her own story, surroundings, and stunning views. It has something for sunset, evening, or broad daylight visits. Let’s explore it!

How to photograph the Statue of Liberty

  • The magic of this location is the layering of iconic landmarks. Your primary composition will likely feature the Statue of Liberty in the foreground, with Rainbow Bridge and the distant Tokyo Tower creating a backdrop.
  • This scene comes alive at sunset as the sky erupts in color. As evening descends, the city skyline begins to sparkle, offering a different but equally dramatic photographic opportunity.
  • At night, the statue itself is illuminated, with its lights sometimes cycling through patriotic red, white, and blue, adding a dynamic element to your long-exposure shots.
  • At only 12.25 meters high, the bridge and skyline behind, dwarf the statue. If you shoot from the lower walkway, you’ll look up, which makes it difficult to frame all three elements. To capture everything, you must find a spot with more distance (look below) or get creative with a wide-angle lens.
Low-angle close-up of the Statue of Liberty replica's head and torch against a vibrant, clear blue sky.

Options for the statue & bridge photo

One idea is to shoot from Aqua City Odaiba’s observation deck. This vantage point perfectly aligns the Statue of Liberty with the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower.

You can frame all three landmarks in your composition. From here, you can also incorporate the people strolling along the boardwalk below to add a sense of scale and life to your shot.

Statue of Liberty replica lit in orange at night, with Tokyo's Rainbow Bridge and skyline in the background.

Look for the large ‘LOVE’ sign nearby on the second floor (go up the escalators). You can include it in your composition. This spot is magical at night, so consider planning an evening visit, and don’t forget to bring a tripod for long-exposure shots!

Sun position

Depending on the type of picture you want, the sun’s position can be important. It is close to or over Rainbow Bridge during the warmer months. In autumn and winter, it will be in the direction of the ocean, i.e., to the left of the bridge.

Close-up of the Statue of Liberty replica in Odaiba, Tokyo, holding its tablet against a clear, deep blue sky.

Photo spots near the statue

  • Gundam RX-0 Unicorn Statue (a massive battlesuit from the animation)
  • Hachitama Observatory (fantastic views of Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower and the city skyline)
  • Rainbow Bridge (you can walk across it too)
  • Telecom Center (a building with an observatory)
  • Tokyo Big Sight (a massive conference/exhibit hall)

Statue of Liberty visitor information

  • Address: 1 Chome-4-2 Daiba, Minato City, Tokyo
  • The statue is on a beachfront pedestal in Daiba Seaside Park, directly across from the Aqua City Odaiba shopping mall.
  • Nearest station: Daiba Station on the Yurikamone Line
  • Opening hours: 24/7
  • Entry fees: None
  • Here it is on Google Maps:

Why does Tokyo have a Statue of Liberty?

The story begins with a celebration of Franco-Japanese relations. France donated it for “French Year in Japan” in 1998. It stayed until January 1999, then it was taken away.

However, the statue was so popular with the public that a permanent replica was commissioned and installed in the same spot in 2000, where it has remained ever since.

Statue of Liberty replica in Odaiba, Tokyo, overlooking boats in the bay with the Rainbow Bridge and skyline beyond.

Tokyo vs. New York: What are the differences?

  • It stands on the beach on a platform
  • It doesn’t face the water.
  • It is 1/7th the size of the New York statue.

Statue of Liberty FAQ

Yes, viewing the statue from Daiba Seaside Park is completely free. It is located in a public area accessible 24/7.

For the most dramatic lighting, visit during sunset (“golden hour”) when the sun sets near the Rainbow Bridge. The evening (“blue hour”) is also stunning, as the statue, bridge, and city skyline are all illuminated.

The replica stands at 12.25 meters (about 40 feet) tall, which is approximately 1/7th the size of the original statue in New York.

No, unlike the New York version, the Odaiba statue is a solid replica and does not have an interior accessible to the public.

The easiest way is to take the Yurikamome Line to Daiba Station. The statue is just a short walk from the station, located in Daiba Seaside Park.

Is Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty worth it?

Odaiba’s Statue of Liberty is far more than a copy of the New York version. It stands on its own as a unique, powerful attraction. With the city skyline, Rainbow Bridge, and Tokyo Tower all aligned, it is one of the most dynamic and iconic compositions in the entire city.

The Statue of Liberty and Rainbow Bridge are a photographer’s dream destination. For more information consult the Minato City Statue of Liberty visitor guide.

Close-up of the Statue of Liberty replica showing the torch, crown, and tablet against a clear blue sky.

My photography gear for this shoot

  • Camera body: Canon EOS R5
  • Lens: Canon RF24-105mm F4 L IS USM

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