Tokyo views

It’s hard to really grasp the size of Tokyo from the ground. The best way to see the view is from one of Tokyo’s many viewing platforms – but which one! Our run down, in no particular order.

Skytree

Tokyo Skytree is an all rounder with the tallest and for me, the best view – it’s stunning. Try to visit at dusk to see the view during the day and the night. Below Skytree is a big shopping centre so while you are here you can do some souvenir shopping, find some Japanese fashion, check out the plastic food model shop and stop at one of the many restaurants. Oh and there is a Pokemon centre here as well!

Observation deck height: First observation deck 350m, second observation deck 450m
Cost: First deck ¥2400 – ¥2600 Or second deck ¥3500 – ¥3800 (advanced online reservations are cheaper)
Open times: 10am to 10pm weekdays, 9am to 10pm weekends
Location: 1 Chome-1-2 Oshiage, Sumida City, Tokyo 131-0045, Japan

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower is an icon for a reason, it has charm and character. Completed in 1958, it’s modeled on the Eiffel tower but is just a little taller (3m taller). The view was the tallest until Skytree was built and it still gives an impressive view of the city. For those with lots of energy, you an take the stairs between the ground and the main deck, which gives a 360 degree view as you make your way up (or down).

Red Tokyo tower is a sports and arcade activity centre that sits under Tokyo tower. We left our teenage kids at Red after we had climbed the tower and they loved hanging out while the adults went out for dinner!

Observation deck height: Main deck 145m, top deck 250m¥
Cost: ¥1200 for main deck or ¥3000 for both decks
Open times: Open from 9am to 11pm. Every day.
Location: 4 Chome-2-8 Shibakoen, Minato City, Tokyo 105-0011, Japan

Tokyo Tower

Government Towers

Government Towers are in Shinjuku and entry is free! There are two towers, that each have a public observation deck at 202 meters giving a great view of the city! The towers are a short walk from Shinjuku station, or Tocho-mae station (Oedo Subway line) is right under the building.

Observation deck height: 202m
Cost: Free
Open times: 9:30am to 11pm daily
Location: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001, Japan

Shibuya Sky

Shibuya Sky – the new platform on the block. The glass escalator is amazing and it provides a spectacular view of the city, however, being outside it will be closed if it is raining or poor weather, although the lower covered deck is always open.

Observation deck height: 229m
Cost: ¥2700 for day tickets and ¥3400 after 3pm. Note that there are childrens tickets (under 11yo) only at the counter. Even if the adult tickets have sold out online there will be tickets for children.
Open times: 10 am to 9:20pm
Location: Shibuya Scramble Square, 2 Chome-24-12 Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0002
Note – this books out well in advance. If you want to go you need to get in quick – book online in advance.

Shibuya Crossing

There are a number of other viewing points of Shibuya crossing. Although they don’t give the full view that Shibuya sky gives, it will still give a birds eye view of the bustle below and a great back up if you can’t book Shibuya Sky.

One of the most well known spots is to have a coffee in the Starbucks at the crossing. This was reopened in 2024 and remains an all time favourite which means it’s busy. Le’Occitane cafe also has a view and is a little less crowded.

One of our favourite spots is Mag 8, on the rooftop of the MAGNET building. Take the lift to the rooftop and purchase a drink as your entry fee (¥1800). The rooftop gives great views, there is also a covered area in case of rain.

MAGNET also has great shopping for teens and is an icon of Shibuya so well worth checking out. https://magnetbyshibuya109.jp/en/

Hotel Views

There are a number of hotels that boast a view of the city, often with a bar or restaurant on the top floors. We enjoyed magnificent high tea at the Lobby Bar of the Tokyo Toranomon Edition hotel with a view of the city and the iconic Tokyo Tower. Best way to enjoy the view! Bookings can be made in English on the hotel website.

The Rooftop Bar Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills on the 52nd Floor of the Hyatt Hotel gives stunning views of the city and Tokyo tower. It also boasts amazing food and cocktails! Bookings can be made online.

Many of the larger hotels in Tokyo provide amazing views of the city. One of the most famous hotels in Tokyo, the Park Hyatt in Shinjuku was made famous by the movie ‘Lost in Translation’. The rooms have sweeping views of the city and a number of bars and restaurants that have magical views. Note they are closed for renovations until Autumn 2025. Keep an eye on their website for announcements.

For more Information

Japan Guide – Tokyo Observation decks
TimeOut 8 best observation decks Tokyo
Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo Tower
Shibuya Sky book online
MAGNET Shibuya crossing view
Tokyo Toranomon Edition hotel
Rooftop Bar Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills