Discover Ariake: Tokyo’s Modern Bayfront Playground
Just like Toyosu, Ariake is a rapidly developing area on Tokyo’s waterfront. Built on reclaimed land, it’s home to a growing number of attractions, shopping centers, and sports facilities. Whether you’re a tennis enthusiast, a shopper, or a theatergoer, Ariake offers a unique blend of entertainment and leisure.
A Legacy of the Tokyo Olympics
Ariake was one of the key venues during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Events like volleyball, skateboarding, and tennis were held here, and you can still feel the Olympic spirit around the neighborhood.
- Volleyball Arena and other Olympic facilities are still in use or visible.
- The skateboarding venue attracted global attention.
- Most notably, Ariake Tennis Park is a dream spot for tennis fans.
The park features a roofed stadium called Ariake Coliseum, as well as a wide variety of indoor and outdoor tennis courts. It’s often referred to as the “Mecca of Tennis” in Japan. I even attended a tennis school here for a while—it’s a fantastic place for players of all levels.
Ariake Garden: A Shopper’s Paradise
At the heart of Ariake is the impressive Ariake Garden, a large shopping and entertainment complex filled with:
- Dozens of retail stores
- A wide selection of restaurants and a food court
- Shiki Theatre, where the musical The Lion King is currently being performed
One of my favorite places in Ariake Garden is MUJI (Muji). Spread across three entire floors, it’s one of the largest Muji stores in Tokyo. From minimalist furniture to tasty snacks, you can find almost everything here.
Right next to the store is the MUJI Café, where you can grab fresh bread, soft-serve ice cream, and other light treats. I always find myself stopping by, even if I only came for shopping!
Rooftop Dining with a View
The upper levels of Ariake Garden offer restaurants and terrace seating with a view. One of the highlights is TGI Fridays, where the terrace seats provide a stunning panoramic view of the Tokyo skyline—especially beautiful in the evening.
How to Get to Ariake
Ariake is easily accessible from central Tokyo via public transportation:
- Yurikamome Line
Get off at Ariake Station or Ariake-Tennis-no-mori Station. This scenic, automated train connects to Shimbashi and Toyosu, offering lovely views along Tokyo Bay. - Rinkai Line
Another convenient option is the Rinkai Line, which stops at Kokusai-Tenjijo Station. This line connects directly to Osaki Station on the JR Yamanote Line—perfect if you’re coming from Shibuya or Shinjuku.
From any of these stations, Ariake Garden and other attractions are within walking distance.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re shopping, exploring Olympic venues, or enjoying a quiet afternoon with soft-serve ice cream at MUJI Café, Ariake offers a well-rounded experience just outside central Tokyo. It’s modern, clean, and full of surprises—perfect for a day out with friends, family, or solo travel.
