Godzilla head unveiled as new Tokyo landmark (Photo : Reuters/Issei Kato)
Having stomped on possibly every Japanese high-rise while breathing fire on its resident, Tokyo was not dissuaded in cashing in on the iconic figure Godzilla when it unveiled a life-size model of the reptilian monster recently in Shinjuku.
The unveiling of the life-size model with its head measuring up at 52 metres high in the Japanese capital of the Shinjuku ward is part of the city's plan to draw fans of the creature to the hotel dedicated to its namesake.
"Godzilla is a character that is the pride of Japan," Shinjuku Mayor, Kenichi Yoshizumi, told the Mirror.
"I hear that any town Godzilla destroys on screen will become prosperous afterwards," Yoshizumi said adding that he hoped the next movie would take place in Shinjuku.
The green reptilian figure has grown into a symbol which represents the sufferings brought on by nuclear weapons. The iconic creature made its first onscreen black and white celluloid appearance in Ishiro Honda's 1954 film titled "Godzilla."
The Hotel Gracery in Japan's Shinjuku ward, is set at the very top of the Toho Cinema. It was said that "Godzilla" fans could watch films from a viewing area that would allow them an upclose view of the monster's head.
The hotel comprises Godzilla-themed items within the rooms with views of the giant head that sits atop of the building.
Hotel Gracery spokesman Eigo Ueda told the Daily Mail the Godzilla themed hotel was part of a strategy to attract foreign tourists attending the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.
"What better way than to appeal to tourists with a giant Godzilla figure," Ueda said.
The "Godzilla" franchise will gain a boost when yet another movie makes an appearance in cinemas in Japan next year.
