Japan's international influence stems from its pop culture. Japanese animation, the spearhead of this "soft power," is an integral part of Japan's cultural heritage. Proof of this lies in the fact that while strolling through Tokyo, you'll stumble upon strange monuments celebrating heroes and mythical creatures. Follow our guide, and we'll show you where to find them!
Gundam
This is certainly one of the most impressive structures celebrating this monument (no pun intended!) of animation. Standing 18 meters tall, this life-size robot, which moves and lights up, has delighted children and adults alike for many years. You can't miss it; it's located right in front of the DiverCity shopping center in Odaiba.
Want more? An even more impressive new robot is now in Yokohama!
Doraemon
We're staying in Odaiba to look for Doraemon, one of the most beloved manga characters in Japan. You'll find him sitting peacefully on a bench at the entrance to the DiverCity shopping center. A perfect opportunity for a super cute photo with this robot cat.
Godzilla
The famous kaijū (怪獣, literally "strange beast" or "mysterious beast") which has reigned over Japanese pop culture for decades needs no introduction.
There are two major monuments honoring Godzilla in Tokyo. The first, a giant head, sits atop the Shinjuku Toho Building in the Shinjuku district. The second, a statue of Shin Godzilla, is located in Hibiya Chanter Square in the Chiyoda ward.
Lum, Tetsuro and Maetel, Astro Boy, Joe Yabuki
The city of Nerima is renowned as the birthplace of Japanese animation (no less!). On the pedestrian street Oizumi Anime Gate, you'll find five bronze statues of Lum (Urusei Yatsura), Astro Boy, Joe Yabuki (Ashita no Joe), Tetsuro, and Maetel (Galaxy Express 999).
