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| Small Worlds Tokyo, a Stunning Miniature World in Tokyo |
Small Worlds Tokyo is known as one of the largest and most detailed miniature worlds in Japan. Located in Ariake, Tokyo, this tourist park presents a stunning small world with state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and animation technology that brings each zone to life. Visitors can experience miniature versions of iconic landmarks, fictional worlds, and futuristic, imaginative spaces.
What is Small Worlds Tokyo?
Small Worlds Tokyo is an indoor miniature theme park featuring miniature replicas of various cities, people, anime characters, animals, various types of vehicles, robots, and even space exploration vehicles like rockets and space shuttles. All the miniatures are meticulously crafted at a scale of 1:80. The park was created with the aim of providing a visually stunning experience, allowing visitors to explore the world on a small scale.
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| The technological wonder have brought the miniature world to life. |
Small Worlds Tokyo is more than just a miniature museum, the technological wonder have brought this miniature world to life. The urban landscape not only displays the changing time of day to night, with lights illuminating buildings, houses, and streets, but also vehicles passing by, trains moving along tracks, planes taking off and landing, rocket launches, and even cities sinking into the ground. The miniatures at Small Worlds cover a variety of themes, such as outer space, aviation, fictional cities and villages, and anime and manga.
Building Size and Overall Area
Small Worlds Tokyo occupies a three-story building with an area of approximately 8,000 square meters, making it one of the largest indoor miniature theme parks in the world. Furthermore, the total area of the complex covers over 13,000 square meters. With this significant area, this miniature museum accommodates various zones displaying dioramas on various themes, providing a broad and diverse experience for visitors.
Before entering the miniature area on the third floor, visitors must enter what is known as Gulliver's Tunnel. The entrance to Gulliver's Tunnel is large at the base, but the tunnel gradually gets smaller as you pass through. Gulliver's Tunnel at Small Worlds Tokyo offers an incredible experience for visitors who want to experience being a giant in a small world. Inspired by the story of Gulliver's Travels, the area is designed with realistic details, showcasing a miniature city on the outside of the tunnel. As you exit the tunnel, you'll feel as if you've entered a tiny, vibrant world, complete with buildings, vehicles, and miniature people.
Small Worlds Tokyo Location and Operating Hours
For tourists interested in visiting Small Worlds Tokyo, Japan's largest miniature museum is located in the capital city of Tokyo, specifically in the Ariake area of the Koto district. Its strategic location is close to the business district, sports arenas, and popular recreational areas like Odaiba, making it easily accessible by public transportation.
The full address of Small Worlds Tokyo is Ariake Butsuryu Center, 1-3-33 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0063, Japan. The miniature museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM local time. With easy access and a convenient location, this museum is an ideal tourist destination for families, anime fans, and miniature park enthusiasts who want to experience a small world full of detail and technological wonders in the heart of Tokyo.
How to Get to Small Worlds Tokyo
There are many ways to get to Small Worlds Tokyo, including by train, bus, taxi, and water bus. Here are some transportation options to get to Small Worlds :
• Take the driverless Yurikamome Line and get off at Ariake-Tennis-no-Mori Station. From there, walk about three minutes to Small Worlds Tokyo.
• Take the Rinkai Line to Kokusai-Tenjijo Station. From there, walk about nine minutes to Small Worlds Tokyo.
• Take Toei Bus East 16/To05-2 to Ariake Tennis no Mori, then walk another three minutes to Small Worlds Tokyo.
• Take the Haneda Airport Limousine Bus to Ariake Garden. From there, it's about a ten-minute walk to Small Worlds Tokyo.
• Take the Tokyo Subway to the International Exhibition Center, get off at Ariake Tennis no Mori, and then walk another three minutes to Small Worlds Tokyo.
• Take the Tokyo Water Bus for 70 minutes from Asakusa Pier to Odaiba Pier. From Odaiba Pier, it takes about 25 minutes to get to Small Worlds Tokyo on foot.
• Taxis are the most convenient way to get to Small Worlds Tokyo, but they are significantly more expensive than public transportation like trains or buses.
Small Worlds Tokyo Admission Prices
After entering the museum entrance on the first floor, visitors must purchase a ticket before entering the miniature garden on the third floor. There are three types of tickets based on age: adults, teenagers, and children.
• Adult tickets (ages 18 and older) cost 3,200 yen.
• Teenagers (ages 12-17) cost 2,100 yen.
• Children (ages 4-11) cost 1,700 yen.
• Children 3 and under are free.
In addition to the standard one-day ticket, there is also an annual pass that allows visitors to visit Small Worlds Tokyo for a year. This annual pass, also known as an Annual Passport, costs three times more than the standard ticket. The advantage is that visitors who purchase an annual pass can visit Small Worlds as many times as they like throughout the year, free of charge.
History of Small Worlds Tokyo
Small Worlds Tokyo opened to the public on June 11, 2020, and has since become one of Tokyo's most popular attractions. The opening of Small Worlds was delayed for several months due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The idea for this museum arose from the desire to create a place where people of all ages could experience the beauty of the world on a miniature scale. The concept was adopted from the already popular miniature museums in Europe, but adapted with a touch of modern technology and Japanese creativity.
What to See at Small Worlds Tokyo
Small Worlds Tokyo is divided into several main zones featuring dioramas and replicas of various locations and themes. Each zone is designed with incredible detail, making us feel as if we are exploring the real world on a small scale. One thing to note is that the various miniature themes at Small Worlds Tokyo are not fixed, meaning they are subject to change at any time to ensure visitors don't get bored. Here are some of the interesting zones at Small Worlds Tokyo :
1. Global Village Zone
The Global Village Zone showcases miniatures of life in five Asian and European countries. Set during the industrial revolution of the 1900s, the Global Village Zone presents a blend of reality and fantasy. It depicts life in the early modern era, but uniquely, humans are depicted living side by side with various mythical creatures, such as dragons and flying horses.
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| Global Village Zone |
In this zone, we can see cities with architectural styles from Germany, Switzerland, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Small details, such as clothing, building architecture, mines, vehicles, trains, and daily activities, create a truly immersive experience. In the Global Village Zone, we can witness various means of transportation considered advanced at the time, such as trains running on rails or airships (hot air balloons) that can carry passengers.
There are many interesting spots here, such as Snow Mine Peaks City, a beautiful city surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Dragon Forest, home to flying dragons. Dragon Village, a village adjacent to the Dragon Forest, where the residents are renowned for their dragon taming skills. Zhenshimen City is a super-modern city where robots live side by side with humans. Here, visitors can also watch autonomous snowmobile races.
2. Kansai International Airport Zone
This zone features a highly detailed miniature replica of Kansai International Airport, one of Japan's largest airports. You can see planes taking off and landing, complete with realistic sounds. In this zone, visitors are treated to a detailed view of all the activities taking place at Kansai Airport.
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| Kansas International Airport Miniature |
This miniature airport features planes moving autonomously on the runway, a busy passenger terminal, and airport vehicles operating just like in the real world. Visitors can watch miniature flights take off and land with realistic lighting that changes according to the time of day. Even the engine sounds of each aircraft are unique, reflecting the sounds of the real thing.
This zone showcases all the activities within the airport area, including the terminal, parking area, and public transportation. Passengers and airport staff are shown engrossed in their various activities and activities. Visitors can witness the atmosphere of Kansai International Airport from morning to night. Furthermore, various announcements commonly heard at airports can also be heard here.
There are two main areas in the Kansai International Airport Zone: the airport terminal building and the runway, which features replicas of aircraft from various airlines. The miniature airport buildings are meticulously crafted, including check-in counters, arrival and departure gates, restaurants, and even the baggage claim area. This zone also features an Airport Lounge with plenty of chairs for relaxing. But don't be fooled! This isn't a miniature, but a real lounge where visitors can relax and enjoy drinks purchased from vending machines. What's more, this lounge overlooks the runway, allowing you to relax while watching the miniature planes take off every 15 minutes!
3. Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Zone
This zone is a haven for fans of the classic anime series Sailor Moon, a 1990s anime about a group of heroines fighting to protect the world. Here, you can see the Azabu-Juban district in Tokyo, the setting for the Sailor Moon story, complete with iconic buildings like Tokyo Tower and Hikawa Shrine.
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| Pretty Guardian Sailormoon Zone |
You'll also find miniature characters from the Sailor Moon series, including the main character Tsukino Usagi, who can transform into Sailor Moon, and her friends, known as the Sailor Guardians. This zone is designed with great detail and color, making us feel as if we've entered the world of Sailor Moon.
The Pretty Guardian Sailormoon Zone is divided into two areas: one featuring the Azabu-Juban district, where Sailormoon and her friends live. The other area showcases Crystal Tokyo, a replica of 30th-century Tokyo from the Sailormoon story. Crystal Tokyo is stunningly displayed, featuring beautiful buildings made of glowing crystal. This is especially true at night, when the city glows stunningly against the backdrop of a full moon.
4. Evangelion Hangar Zone
Fans of the Evangelion anime series will be captivated by the Evangelion Hangar Zone, which features a replica of the secret hangar where Evangelion Units are stored. In this zone, visitors can witness a detailed replica of NERV's underground headquarters, complete with Evangelion units being prepared for battle.
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| Evangelion Hangar Miniature |
This diorama creates a tense and futuristic atmosphere, with meticulously precise mechanical details. We can see all the Evangelion units, including the famous Evangelion Unit 01, in battle-ready positions, complete with various sophisticated devices and equipment surrounding them. The atmosphere in this zone is immersive, with dramatic lighting and background sound adding to the sense of intensity.
5. Evangelion Tokyo-III Zone
The Evangelion Tokyo-III Zone showcases the futuristic city of Tokyo-III from the Evangelion series, which serves as the backdrop for the epic battle between the Evangelion and the Angels. Here, we can see a replica of Tokyo-III, featuring tall modern buildings, wide streets, schools, pedestrian bridges, and various self-propelled vehicles.
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| Evangelion Tokyo III Zone |
This city is home to the main character Shinji Ikari and the other Evangelion pilots. Various characters from the Evangelion story can be found here. This diorama also depicts an intense battle scene between Evangelion and Angel, with light and sound effects that bring the atmosphere to life. This zone invites us to experience the tension and drama of the Evangelion world.
A truly stunning sight is the cityscape, which can change depending on the circumstances. Under normal circumstances, the city would appear like any other, filled with numerous structures, including buildings, residences, schools, and more. However, the cityscape would change drastically when threatened by enemy attack. Starting with the sound of a warning siren, the buildings within the city would automatically sink into the ground, leaving the cityscape a bare plain.
6. Space Center Zone
The Space Center Zone takes us on a journey through space and future technology. For fans of science and space exploration, the Space Center is the most inspiring zone. In this zone, we'll be transported back to the 1960s, the heyday of the US Apollo program, which successfully ushered in a new era of space exploration. In the Space Center Zone, we can witness the launch of an Apollo spacecraft firsthand. A miniature Saturn V rocket launch pad carrying an Apollo spacecraft was created using high-tech technology, allowing the mini-rocket to literally "take off" with smoke and fire effects.
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| Space Center Zone |
Here, you'll find rockets ready for launch, a mission control center, a grandstand for spectators, and mechanics and launch staff depicted in exquisite detail. A screen displays the launch schedule for the Apollo spacecraft and the space shuttle. The launch lasted about an hour, with light effects and sounds of rocket launches creating a realistic atmosphere. Furthermore, the numerous antique cars that autonomously move around the Space Center area further enhance the 1960s atmosphere.
In the Space Center Zone, visitors can also see replicas of various rockets and satellites from throughout the ages. These dioramas are designed to illustrate space exploration and the future possibilities of humanity beyond Earth. There's also a Mountain Hangar (Cargo Hangar) that will serve as a hangar for future space shuttles.
7. Diaclone Zone
The Diaclone Zone at Small Worlds Tokyo is one of the most exciting areas for fans of classic robots and retro Japanese toys. This zone showcases miniature versions of the legendary Diaclone robots created by Takara Tomy, a Japanese company that, along with the American company Hasbro, is known as the original creator of the Transformers series. The Diaclone toy line, created in 1980, was the precursor to the creation of the Transformers series.
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| Diaclone Zone |
In this zone, visitors can see a futuristic diorama depicting a miniature, high-tech city where the Diaclone robots operate. Every detail of the miniatures is precisely designed, depicting the robots' vehicles, bases, and combat units on a small yet realistic scale. This zone not only offers nostalgia for fans of 1980s toys but also provides an impressive visual experience for all ages, making it a must-visit zone at Small Worlds Tokyo for fans of robot toys and technology.
Comfortable and Complete Facilities at Small Worlds Tokyo
As the largest miniature theme park in Japan, Small Worlds Tokyo provides a variety of comprehensive facilities to ensure the comfort of all visitors. On the first floor, coin lockers are available for storing personal belongings, while large luggage that doesn't fit in the lockers can be stored at the ticket counter for an additional fee. Multipurpose restrooms are also available on the second and third floors, making it convenient for visitors of all ages.
For visitors with infants, there are baby care rooms on the second and third floors, complete with breastfeeding facilities, a diaper changing table, and a dispenser for making formula. Furthermore, Small Worlds Tokyo also provides a quiet prayer room for two, open to all religions. Visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering to ensure a clean and comfortable space. With comprehensive facilities and attention to comfort, this miniature museum is a truly worthy destination for families in Tokyo.
Disability-Friendly Facilities at Small Worlds Tokyo
Small Worlds Tokyo is known as a disability-friendly miniature theme park that provides an inclusive visitor experience for everyone. Visitors using wheelchairs or strollers can easily access each floor via elevators and dedicated ramps. There are also wheelchair-friendly restrooms on the third floor, as well as a dedicated parking area in front of the main entrance for wheelchair users.
In addition to easy access, Small Worlds Tokyo also offers special discounts for people with disabilities and offers wheelchair rental services, which can be arranged by contacting staff at the third-floor ticket counter. Interestingly, on the first and third Wednesdays of every month, there's a Go! Wheel Day event, where typically inaccessible miniature areas are opened to wheelchair users. During these days, popular zones like Evangelion and Sailor Moon become more accessible. With welcoming facilities and inclusive policies, Small Worlds Tokyo demonstrates its commitment to being a tourist destination that cares for all visitors.
3D Scanning Feature at Small Worlds Tokyo, Create Your Own Replica in A Miniature World
Small Worlds Tokyo offers a unique experience with a 3D scanning feature that allows visitors to create replicas of themselves in miniature figures. This service combines precision scanning and printing technology to produce realistically lifelike figures, which can then be added to a personal collection or even placed in one of the miniature park zones. This feature is a plus for visitors who want to take home a personal memento of their visit to Japan's largest miniature museum. Beyond simply viewing the miniatures, visitors can now "enter" the small world with a miniature version of themselves.
The creation process begins with a 3D scan using sophisticated equipment that captures body shape and poses. Figures are available in three scales: 1:80, 1:35, and 1:24, allowing you to determine the desired level of detail and size. Each size offers different finishes and printing complexity; the larger the scale, the more visible the facial details and clothing textures. The final result is a physical figure that can be taken home or displayed in a designated miniature area.
There are several important things to consider before scanning. Clothing made of shiny, lacy, or highly glossy materials cannot be turned into figurines because scanning and printing cannot properly reproduce these textures. Furthermore, very dark clothing tends to be less visible in the final print, resulting in less than satisfactory results. Figure creation prices vary depending on the size selected.
Interestingly, for visitors who want a replica of themselves displayed in one of the miniature zones, there is the option of renting a one-year residence permit for a separate fee. The cost of this residence permit varies depending on the miniature zone selected, based on each zone's popularity. In addition to the annual rental option, Small Worlds also offers the option to purchase a figurine and take it home as a personal souvenir.
For pet owners who want to create a figurine of their beloved pet, Small Worlds offers a special opportunity on "Pet Day" (the 10th, 11th, 12th, 21st, 22nd, and 23rd of every month), where pets are welcome to be brought to Small Worlds Tokyo, including for 3D scanning. This is the ideal opportunity to immortalize your pet's uniqueness in miniature form. If you're interested in making yourself or your pet a part of the small world at Small Worlds Tokyo, plan your visit, check Pet Day and dress code requirements, and inquire about pricing and placement options to get the most out of your stay.
Museum Café at Small Worlds Tokyo, A Place to Relax and Enjoy A Beautiful Miniature of Japan
The Museum Café at Small Worlds Tokyo is located on the second floor and is the ideal place to take a break after exploring the various miniature park zones. The café is open daily from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, but food and drinks can only be ordered from 11:00 AM local time. What makes the Museum Café special is its location adjacent to the Nightlife in Japan miniature area, which showcases the beautiful night views of various regions of Japan. Here, you can enjoy your meal while soaking in the atmosphere of the miniature surroundings.
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| Miniature of Nightlife in Japan at the Museum Cafe |
From the café's seats, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the miniature Japan, complete with a ceiling lit with hundreds of chandeliers, creating a stunning nighttime atmosphere. This dioramas depict the Japanese landscape throughout the four seasons—from blooming cherry blossoms to the red autumn leaves. Nightlife in Japan also features various interesting elements such as an ancient castle, terraced rice fields, limestone caves, a fishing village, and a factory area. By visiting the Museum Café, you can enjoy a meal while soaking in the beautiful atmosphere of the miniature Japanese landscapes surrounding you.
Museum Shop at Small Worlds Tokyo, A Shopping Paradise for Anime-Themed Souvenirs
For visitors looking to take home a memento from Small Worlds Tokyo, don't miss the Museum Shop located on the first floor. The souvenir shop at Small Worlds Tokyo sells a variety of interesting souvenirs inspired by the museum's various zones, from typical knick-knacks to exclusive collections themed around popular anime. Evangelion fans will be spoiled for choice with a wide selection of items, including toys, mugs, water bottles, t-shirts, boxer shorts, and even fans featuring their favorite characters.
Furthermore, there's also a Sailor Moon-themed collection that's equally captivating. While the selection is more limited, visitors can find tote bags, key chains, and even beautiful Sailor Moon-themed pendants that make perfect gifts or personal collections. With its sleek and modern shop atmosphere, the Museum Shop at Small Worlds Tokyo is the perfect place to end your visit. Shopping here isn't just about buying souvenirs; it's about taking home a piece of the charm of Japan's largest miniature theme park.
Activities You Can Do at Small Worlds Tokyo
At Small Worlds Tokyo, you can enjoy more than just dioramas, but also various activities to make your visit even more memorable. Here are some exciting activities you can try :
1. Interact with the Dioramas
Many of the dioramas at Small Worlds Tokyo are equipped with interactive features. You can press buttons to bring various elements to life, such as lights, vehicles, and sounds, creating a more lively atmosphere. For example, in the Kansai International Airport Zone, you can schedule your flight or activate the runway lights.
2. Take Photos in The Thematic Zones
Each zone in Small World Tokyo is the perfect backdrop for photos. You can pose as a giant in front of Tokyo Tower in the Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Zone, or in the midst of an Evangelion battle in the Evangelion Tokyo-III Zone. You can also take videos, close-up photos, or panoramic photos that highlight the details of the miniatures.
3. Relax at The Museum Café on The 2nd Floor and Enjoy Nightlife in Japan
The Museum Café on the 2nd floor offers food and drinks while viewing the Nightlife in Japan diorama. Sitting at the café allows you to enjoy the Japanese landscape in four distinct seasons, under a lighted ceiling, while enjoying your meal. It's a relaxing experience that combines culinary delights with the visual beauty of a miniature garden.
4. Relax in the Kansai Airport Lounge
In the Kansai International Airport zone, there's a lounge area that mimics an airport atmosphere. Here, visitors can relax and enjoy a drink, watch miniature airplanes take off and land, and observe the details of airport activities. This area is ideal for aviation enthusiasts who want to experience simulated runway operations in miniature.
5. Pet Day
On Pet Day, Small Worlds visitors are allowed to bring their pets and show them around several designated areas. This is a great opportunity to interact with your pets while capturing moments with them in miniature settings. Check the Pet Day schedule and pet policies before visiting to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all visitors.
6. Create Your Own Replica with 3D Scanning
The 3D scanning service allows visitors to create a miniature figure of themselves in a scale of their choice (e.g., 1:80, 1:35, 1:24). You can order the figure to take home or rent space to display it in one of the zones for a limited period. This service creates a personalized keepsake that can become part of the miniature park experience.
7. Shop at The Museum Shop
The Museum Shop on the first floor offers a variety of official souvenirs—from key chains to Evangelion and Sailor Moon-themed items. This is the perfect place to buy exclusive souvenirs or keepsakes for your personal collection. Anime-themed products and miniatures often sell out quickly, so arrive early if you're looking for a special item.
8. Watch Miniature and Animation Shows
Several zones feature short shows, such as character transformations, rocket launches, planes taking off and landing, trains moving through towns and villages, or cities sinking into the ground. These shows use light, sound, and mechanical movement to present narratives on a small scale, an engaging way to experience the story without the need for a large screen.
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