Ariake Arena
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Ariake Arena

4
·3k reviews·Koto City, Japan

A state-of-the-art waterfront arena, built for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, now hosting major concerts and sports.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Concerts and shows

CrowdHigh
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Ariake Arena

Ariake Arena

Best Time

Evenings

Concerts and shows

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A state-of-the-art waterfront arena, built for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, now hosting major concerts and sports.

4
(3k reviews)

"New, clean facilities, but expect long food queues and potentially obstructed views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Food

Food lines are long & options sell out fast. Grab a bite before entering!

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

It's a decent walk from stations. Be prepared for some exploring!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Olympic Legacy Venue

Olympic Legacy Venue

Entire Arena

Experience a state-of-the-art venue that hosted major events during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and Paralympics.

TikTok
K-Pop & International Artist Hub

K-Pop & International Artist Hub

Main Stage

Catch electrifying performances from top K-pop groups and international stars like aespa, BABYMONSTER, and Kylie Minogue.

TikTokInstagram+1
Volleyball & Sports Spectacles

Volleyball & Sports Spectacles

Main Arena

Witness thrilling volleyball matches and other sporting events in this world-class facility.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating to Ariake Arena

Ariake Arena is a bit of a walk from the nearest train stations. Plan for a 15-20 minute walk, or consider using local buses. Some visitors find the signage inside the arena unclear, so give yourself extra time to find your section and seats. Reddit

Concert & Event Logistics

Expect long queues for food, with limited and often sold-out options. Many reviewers note that the arena's design can lead to poor sightlines and that crowd control after events can be challenging with limited exits. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Concerts and shows
Crowd
High
When
Weekends
Why
Sports events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ABCD's dance break at Ariake Arena D2 😌 #twice #Nayeon #mybiasline #Ariakearena
@onceurim1015
28.3K likes • 198.6K views

🎯 Arrive Early for Food

Food lines are long & options sell out fast. Grab a bite before entering! Reddit+1

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

It's a decent walk from stations. Be prepared for some exploring! Reddit

Aespa Rich Man at 도쿄 Tokyo Ariake Arena Day 1 251011 LIVE TOUR -SYNK : aeXIS LINE #aespa #karina #giselle #winter #ningning
@lelouchallprota
10.7K likes • 64K views
TimeZone Tokyo, Ariake Arena, 02/12 cc @usagibachi #rusmaneskin_ariakeArena0212 #マネスキン #Måneskin
rus.maneskin
1.1K likes • 17K views

👀 Check Your Seat View

Some seats have obstructed views due to railings. Reddit+1

📱 Download Event App

May help with navigation & event info. TikTok

🤩 Che spettacolo all’Ariake Arena di Tokyo! #BlockDevils #MoveSport
sirsafetyperugia
26.6K likes • 476.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Food

Food lines are long & options sell out fast. Grab a bite before entering! Reddit+1

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

It's a decent walk from stations. Be prepared for some exploring! Reddit

👀 Check Your Seat View

Some seats have obstructed views due to railings. Reddit+1

📱 Download Event App

May help with navigation & event info. TikTok

💧 Stay Hydrated

Bring a refillable water bottle if allowed, or be prepared for pricey drinks. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ariake Arena is a modern, clean venue that hosted significant Olympic events, offering a good experience for concerts and sports. However, visitors frequently point out issues with overpriced and limited food options, potential sightline obstructions from seats, and challenging crowd management after events. The walk from nearby stations is also a common point of mention.

"Very nice Arena. My husband and I went to see STING in concert September 14th, 2025 for our early Anniversary gift to us. The only downfall to this Arena was after the concert. They only had two exit’s opened. That was the only terrible part of this experience. They should’ve opened at least another door. Also they closed off the toilets outside of the arena."

Dana Zupan

"New, clean facilities, easy to understand layout. The food was overpriced and not so good, which is to be expected, but there are a few other options in the area.
It is definitely a far walk from the train stations but the area outside has a lot of free seating options for when you wait for the event to start.
I like this location a lot so I hope artists I like continue to book this venue!"

アンダーソンG.M.

"A beautiful-looking arena — from the outside. But once inside, expect:

– 🍔 Long food queues for bland frankfurters and limited options (most sold out early, no signage)
– 👀 Poor sightlines due to low seat incline and railings blocking the view
– 🚌 Underwhelming transport capacity — Toei buses leave crowds stranded
– 🧭 Excessive detours even in extreme heat or pouring rain — staff enforce long routes with no shelter

I attended the volleyball match in April and the basketball game in July.
In both cases, waited over 20 minutes for food, only to find most items sold out.
Walked nearly 1km in 35°C heat just to enter the venue.
And from my seat, the railing cut off half the court.

This is the worst-designed arena I’ve visited in the past five years.
Built to impress on paper, not to serve real fans. A regrettable use of taxpayer money."

Yuya Watanabe

What People Like

New and clean facilities
Modern Olympic venue
Good for concerts and sports

What People Dislike

Overpriced, limited food
Obstructed seat views
Crowded exits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ariake Arena is accessible via public transport. The closest stations are Kokusai-Tenjijo Station (Rinkai Line) and Tokyo Big Sight Station (Yurikamome Line). Both require a walk of approximately 15-20 minutes to reach the arena. Reddit Consider using local buses for a potentially shorter walk. Reddit

While the arena was built for major events, specific parking availability for public events can vary. It's generally recommended to use public transportation due to potential congestion and limited parking. Check the specific event's information for any parking details. TikTok

For concerts, public transport is highly recommended. The Rinkai Line and Yurikamome Line are your best bets, but be prepared for a walk. Reddit Some attendees have noted that buses can also be an option, though crowd control can be an issue post-event. Reddit

Taxis are generally available in major Tokyo hubs, but after large events at Ariake Arena, demand can be very high, leading to long wait times. It's advisable to pre-book a taxi or have a backup transportation plan. Reddit

Ariake Arena is located in the Odaiba area, which is a bit east of central Tokyo. Travel time by train can range from 30 to 50 minutes depending on your starting point in central Tokyo. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for events at Ariake Arena are typically sold through official ticketing platforms for each specific event. Check the artist's or organizer's website for direct links. TikTokInstagram

Opening hours for Ariake Arena vary greatly depending on the event. Doors usually open 1-2 hours before the scheduled start time for concerts and sports events. Always check your ticket for specific entry times. TikTok

Restrictions can vary by event, but generally, large bags, outside food and drinks, and professional cameras are not allowed. Check the specific event's policy for detailed information. Reddit

Refund policies are determined by the ticket vendor and the event organizer. Typically, refunds are only issued for canceled events. Review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase. TikTok

Yes, seating charts are usually available on ticketing websites when you purchase tickets. It's recommended to check the seating chart to understand your view from different sections. Reddit+1

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

Ariake Arena has a seating capacity of approximately 15,000 for concerts and sporting events, making it a significant venue for large-scale performances and competitions. TikTok

Food options inside Ariake Arena are often described as overpriced with limited choices, and many items sell out early. Reddit+1 Some reviewers suggest eating before arriving or exploring options in the surrounding area. Reddit

The view from seats can be inconsistent. Some reviewers have reported poor sightlines due to low seat incline and railings blocking the view, especially for sports events. Reddit+1 It's best to check the seating chart when booking. Reddit

As a modern Olympic venue, Ariake Arena is designed with accessibility in mind, offering accessible seating and facilities. It's recommended to contact the venue or event organizer in advance for specific needs. TikTok

Ariake Arena hosts a wide range of events, including major concerts by international and K-pop artists, professional sports like volleyball and basketball, and other large-scale performances. TikTokInstagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Photography and videography policies vary by event. Generally, personal use photos without flash are often permitted, but professional cameras and video recording are usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's guidelines. TikTok

The exterior of the arena, especially with the waterfront backdrop, offers great photo opportunities. Inside, focus on capturing the atmosphere of the event, but be mindful of any photography restrictions. TikTok

While the arena was a key Olympic venue, specific dedicated photo spots might not be permanent. However, the architecture itself and any remaining Olympic signage can serve as great backdrops. TikTok

Lighting conditions will vary greatly depending on the event. Concerts and shows typically have dynamic stage lighting, which can be challenging for photography. Sports events usually have bright, consistent arena lighting. TikTokInstagram

If permitted, a versatile zoom lens (e.g., 24-70mm or 70-200mm) can be useful for capturing both wide stage shots and performer details. However, always prioritize checking the venue's camera policy first. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ariake Arena, being a modern Olympic venue, offers a generally clean and accessible environment for families. While specific family-focused amenities might not be heavily advertised, the spaciousness and new facilities are a plus. TikTok However, be prepared for potential challenges with food options, as they can be limited and pricey, which might not be ideal for picky eaters. Reddit+1 Also, consider the walk from the train stations; if traveling with very young children, a taxi or a plan for a stroller might be necessary. Reddit

🎤 Concert-Goers

For concert enthusiasts, Ariake Arena offers a chance to see major artists in a significant venue. TikTokInstagram+1 However, be aware of the common feedback regarding long food queues and potentially obstructed views from certain seats. Reddit+1 Arriving early is key to managing food lines, and checking the seating chart beforehand can help mitigate sightline issues. Reddit The post-concert exit can also be crowded, so patience is advised. Reddit

🏅 Sports Fans

As a former Olympic venue, Ariake Arena is well-equipped for sporting events, particularly volleyball and basketball. TikTokInstagram Fans have praised the cleanliness and brightness of the arena, as well as effective crowd control during games. Reddit However, some have noted that the sightlines for sports can be compromised by railings, which is a significant drawback for enjoying the full view of the court. Reddit+1 The walk from the station is also a factor to consider for sports attendees. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Olympic Legacy of Ariake Arena

Ariake Arena stands as a significant landmark from the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. It was purpose-built to host the volleyball and wheelchair basketball events, showcasing its versatility and modern design. The arena's construction was a key part of Tokyo's commitment to delivering a sustainable and impactful Games. TikTok

Post-Olympics, the arena has been repurposed for a variety of public events, ensuring its continued use and contribution to Tokyo's cultural and entertainment landscape. This transition from an Olympic venue to a vibrant public space highlights its enduring value. Reddit

Navigating Ariake Arena: A Fan's Perspective

Attending an event at Ariake Arena involves a few practical considerations shared by concert-goers and sports fans. Many visitors note that the arena is a considerable walk from the nearest train stations, such as Kokusai-Tenjijo or Tokyo Big Sight. Reddit This means comfortable footwear is a must, and factoring in extra time for the walk is wise. Reddit

Inside the arena, reviews suggest that while the facilities are new and clean, the food and beverage experience can be a letdown. Long queues, limited options, and early sell-outs are common complaints. Reddit+1 Furthermore, some attendees have experienced issues with sightlines, where railings or the arena's design can obstruct the view of the stage or court, particularly for sports. Reddit+1 Clearer signage for sections and seating areas would also be beneficial, as some visitors have found it challenging to locate their seats. Reddit

A Hub for K-Pop and Global Music

Ariake Arena has quickly become a sought-after venue for major K-pop concerts and international music tours. Groups like aespa, BABYMONSTER, and RIIZE have graced its stage, drawing enthusiastic crowds from Japan and beyond. TikTokInstagram+1 The arena's modern facilities and significant capacity make it ideal for hosting these large-scale productions, offering fans an immersive concert experience. TikTokInstagram

Beyond K-pop, the arena has also welcomed global superstars such as Kylie Minogue and Sting, underscoring its international appeal. InstagramReddit The buzz surrounding these performances is palpable on social media, with fans sharing clips and excitement from their experiences at the venue. TikTokInstagram

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