Tokyo is a city that always manages to impress me, and one of its most unique attractions is the Tokyo Immersive Fort in Odaiba. This interactive entertainment venue blends mystery, theater, and immersive experiences to transport visitors into a world of excitement and fiction. Whether you’re into solving crimes, historical dramas, or anime-inspired stories, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.
The Venue: A World of Endless Possibilities
When you first step into Tokyo Immersive Fort, the scale and grandeur of the venue will catch your attention. The entrance fee gives you access to the general area, which is filled with atmospheric sets, photo opportunities, and smaller interactive exhibits. Even if you’re not attending any performances, you can still take your time exploring the detailed spaces that are perfect for snapping Instagram-worthy photos or simply soaking in the ambiance.
But the real entertainment lies in the shows themselves. To attend any of the performances, you’ll need to purchase separate tickets for each one. The diverse lineup includes options like Tales of Oiran, Tokyo Revengers Immersive Escape, The Sherlock Holmes Experience, Jack the Ripper, and Death Game, which mimics the intense action of the Netflix show Alice in Borderland. Each show offers a unique experience tailored to different interests.
Even if you don’t want to pay extra to attend any of the shows, there are performances and parades inside that don’t require extra tickets. The performances aren’t too exciting in my opinion, but they are worth checking out as part of the immersive experience. And if you need a break, the cabaret-style cafe is a great place to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere.
The Sherlock Holmes Experience: A Masterclass in Immersive Theater
During my visit, I had the chance to watch The Sherlock Holmes Experience, and it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment the performance started, I was hooked. The actors were superb, delivering their lines with passion. Their ability to engage with the audience while maintaining their characters was incredible.
The sets and props were meticulously designed to bring the world of Sherlock Holmes to life. From the Victorian-era crime scenes to the small but significant clues scattered throughout the stage, everything contributed to creating a truly immersive atmosphere. It felt like I was actively participating in the investigation alongside Sherlock himself.
It’s worth noting that some shows, including The Sherlock Holmes Experience, offer English translation devices. While these can be useful for non-Japanese speakers, the connection can sometimes be spotty. In my case, it was a bit challenging to catch every word. However, the quality of the acting and the visuals made up for the occasional hiccup with these devices.
Other Shows and Experiences
While The Sherlock Holmes Experience was undoubtedly the highlight of my visit, Tokyo Immersive Fort has plenty of other experiences to offer. For example, Tales of Oiran takes you back to the Edo period, offering a dramatic look into the lives of courtesans through stunning performances. Tokyo Revengers Immersive Escape brings the popular anime and manga series to life, allowing fans to dive into its gritty, time-traveling world. Meanwhile, Death Game brings the heart-pounding thrill of Alice in Borderland to life, offering a thrilling experience of survival and strategy.
Even if you’re not attending a performance, there’s plenty to do within the venue. The themed areas are perfect for exploration, and there are often smaller interactive exhibits or photo ops available. After watching The Sherlock Holmes Experience, we ventured into the Hansel and Gretel storybook experience. To watch this, you will not need a separate ticket. This exhibit immerses you in the classic fairy tale but adds a creative twist. You can choose between two routes: one that follows the traditional story of Hansel and Gretel and another that tells the tale from the witch’s perspective. We opted for the witch’s route, and it was fascinating to experience the narrative through her eyes. The props and sets were so well-crafted that it felt as though we had stepped right into the pages of a Hansel and Gretel storybook.
The Jack the Ripper Photo Spot
One unique and eerie feature at the venue is the Jack the Ripper photo spot. It’s a little hidden gem that can only be seen with the flash on your phone. Without the flash, the wall just looks like any other normal feature of the venue, but when you use the flash, you uncover a scene that adds a fun touch to the mystery of the experience.
My Final Thoughts
Tokyo Immersive Fort in Odaiba is a must-visit for anyone looking for a one of the kind experience in Tokyo. Whether you’re into solving mysteries, exploring history, or diving into anime worlds, the venue has something to offer. My experience with The Sherlock Holmes Experience was unforgettable, thanks to the stellar actors, impressive sets, and captivating storytelling. Even with the occasional issue with the translation devices, the experience was well worth it.
Additionally, the venue’s smaller interactive experiences, like the Hansel and Gretel storybook exhibit, add a layer of fun and creativity to your visit. The ability to choose different perspectives within the story made it feel fresh and engaging. So, if you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, make sure to include Tokyo Immersive Fort on your itinerary.
Written and Photos Taken by Lucy from Australia
Follow us on Tiktok! https://www.tiktok.com/@tokyo_aic