Tokyo wants the world’s biggest fountain. Will it make a splash or be a US$17 million flop?
The cherry blossom-shaped fountain planned for Tokyo’s Odaiba Marine Park district has divided residents over its cost and potential economic benefits
In an interview on Wednesday with the Mainichi newspaper, an official of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government said the fountain would shoot water 150 metres into the air just off the waterfront district, and feature a splash pool with a diameter of 250 metres at its base.
Work on the project is due to begin in 2025, and will be completed in less than a year, according to the official, who requested anonymity. Annual maintenance costs are projected to be up to US$1.31 million.
The official hopes the fountain will create a “lively atmosphere,” and estimates suggest that once completed, it could attract 30 million visitors each year, generating an economic impact of around US$64 million annually.