Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: for skyline views and urban elegance

Get your views for free... from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Prepare for a perspective-shifting experience at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (東京都庁舎, Tōkyō-to Chōsha), a stunning architectural marvel that offers some of the city's most spectacular and, best of all, free panoramic views. Located in the heart of Shinjuku, this is a working government office building but also a monumental landmark designed by the acclaimed architect Kenzo Tange and a striking symbol of modern Tokyo's power and ingenuity. From its twin observation decks, you'll be treated to unparalleled, 360-degree vistas of the sprawling metropolis, with a clear line of sight to iconic landmarks like the Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and even Mount Fuji on a clear day. The experience offers a breathtaking sense of scale and is a modern marvel of urban planning, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone wanting to see the city from an entirely new angle. Did we mention that it's free?

Getting there – where is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building?

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has its own dedicated subway station, so it's super-easy to reach.

• Nearest station: The closest station is Tochomae Station (都庁前駅) on the Toei Oedo Line, which has a direct underground connection to the building. It is also an easy walk from JR Shinjuku Station (新宿駅) and Seibu-Shinjuku Station (西武新宿駅) (around 13 minutes' walk)

• By taxi: A taxi can drop you off directly in front of the building's main entrance.

• Accessibility: The route from the nearby stations is highly accessible, with the building itself designed to be wheelchair and stroller-friendly, including elevators to the observation decks.

Opening hours & best time to visit

• Opening hours: The North Observation Deck is generally open from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and the South Observation Deck from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (admission up to 30 mins before closing time), but summer hours may be longer and the observation decks may be closed in bad weather or for other reasons. Check the official website for the latest information.

• Best time to visit: Late afternoon is a fantastic time to visit, as you can enjoy the city in the daylight, witness a beautiful sunset, and then see the city light up at night, all in one visit. You're most likely to be able to see Mt Fuji on a clear, winter day.

• Time to avoid: Weekends and holidays can get very crowded, with long queues for the elevators.

Reservations & admission

• Reservations: No reservations are needed to visit the observation decks.

• Ticket/admission price: There is no admission fee to enter the building or to access the observation decks. It is completely free.

• Payment method: No payment is required. There are shops and cafes on the observation decks that accept cash and credit cards..

What can you see & do in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building?

The main draw of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is, of course, the panoramic views from its two observation decks, one in the North Tower and one in the South Tower. Each deck is 202 meters high and offers a slightly different perspective of the city. As you ascend in the high-speed elevators, you'll feel the scale of the structure. The decks themselves feature souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants, allowing you to relax and take in the view.

• Observation decks: Take a ride up to the 45th floor of either the North or South Tower. Both decks offer breathtaking views, but the South Deck provides a clearer view of Mount Fuji, while the North Deck is open later.

• Souvenir shops: Each observation deck has a gift shop selling unique Tokyo-themed souvenirs, from keychains and postcards to local crafts.

• Cafes and restaurants: Enjoy a coffee or a meal with a view. These are great spots to relax and soak in the atmosphere..

Japansophy’s top tips!

• Check the schedule: One of the observation decks may be closed on certain days, so check the official website before you go to ensure you can visit at least one.

• Go for sunset: The view from the building during sunset is absolutely spectacular, offering a dazzling mix of light and color as the city transitions from day to night.

• Give an impromptu piano recital: The South Observation Deck has a grand piano that the public may play at certain times of the day. Your performance is restricted to five minutes, however, no filming or streaming is allowed, you are not allowed to sing along (or be accompanied by a singer or another instrument) and you are not allowed to advertise your performance on social media.

• Leave your tripod behind: Commercial photography and the use of tripods or similar equipment is prohibited.

• Stay for Tokyo Night & Light: The facade of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is the "screen" for a projection show every half hour between 7:30 PM and 9:30 PM. Screening details are available from the project website.

Facilities:

• Eating & drinking: There are cafes and small restaurants on the observation decks. The TMGB is located in a relatively quiet, business district but you'll be virtually assaulted by the options available around Shinjuku station.

• Toilets: Public restrooms are available on the ground floor and the observation decks.

• Baby-changing facilities: These are available in the public restrooms on the observation decks and the ground floor.

Other attractions nearby:

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A sprawling park with beautiful walking paths and a peaceful escape from the city.

• Omoide Yokocho: A charming, narrow alleyway filled with tiny restaurants serving yakitori and other Japanese comfort foods.

• Kabukicho: Tokyo's dazzling neon nightlife district and home of Godzilla!.  

  
  

Ready to meet monsters, explore beautiful gardens and knock a few back with the locals? Our Tokyo itineraries guide you through the best of Shinjuku, ensuring a day packed with cultural marvels and fun!