A staple in many tourists’ visit to the city, the free Metropolitan Government Building Observation Decks offer some of the best view of the megalopolis that is Tokyo. While a little bit old-fashioned, both the South and North Observation Decks offer almost equally beautiful views of the city, we recommend the North tower however, as it’s open until 10:30pm and is therefore perfect for enjoying Tokyo at night (check out the lounge area also).

If you are lucky and arrive during clear day (especially in winter) you may even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji!

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︎Website
︎Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building No.1, 2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
︎Google Maps

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North Observation Deck:
9:30 -17:30 (Closed: Second and fourth Monday of every month)

South Observation Deck:
9:30 - 21:30
(Closed: First and third Tuesday of every month)
*When one of the days listed above falls on a holiday, the observation decks will be open on the holiday but closed the following day.

We have all done it - selfies on Shibuya crossing, walking back and forth over and over again just to get that typical image of Tokyo that we all know so well. But how about experiencing Shibuya away from the overwhelming crowds and from above the roofs with a clear view on the masses of human ants?

Shibuya Hikarie’s Sky Lobby offer a free panorama of one of Tokyo’s most famous neighbourhoods and is a great spot to take a break from the city. We also recommend the food floor which has a variety of restaurants some of which boasting the same beautiful view as the Sky Lobby.  

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︎2-18-9 Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo
︎Google Maps
︎ 09:00-20:00

Architecture Photos by Takeshi Yamagishi

More terrace than garden, the rooftop of KITTE offers one of the best views of the historic Tokyo Station building and the newly renovated station square. From here, you can watch the iconic Shinkansen bullet trains glide into the station as busy salarymen and women flood the square during rush hour. For a truly stunning experience, visit just after sunset to catch the blue hour, when the station is beautifully illuminated against Tokyo’s iconic twilight sky.

Note: You are not allowed to bring food onto KITTE Garden.

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︎ 11:00-23:00
︎5th floor, KITTE, 2-7-2, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
︎Google Maps
︎Website

*sometimes closes due to weather

Perhaps our favourite rooftop garden in Tokyo, GINZA SIX Garden is not only enormous but also offers a 360 degree view over Ginza and central Tokyo. The seating areas between the trees and bushes make for a perfect picknick spot all year around but especially at night when the city is illuminated, revealing its full beauty. Don’t forget to stop by the beautiful Tsutaya bookstore on the 6th floor which has a wonderful selection of art books, magazines, creative souvenirs and travel books. The Starbucks (and magnificent bonsai) adjacent to the bookstore is also well worth a visit!

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︎ 7:00- 23:00
︎Top floor, Ginza Six, 6−10-1 Ginza,  Chuo-ku, Tokyo
︎Google Maps
︎Website

We know. You’re going to be wondering: “What? Restrooms?” But yes, that is exactly what we are asking you to do. Take up the elevator to the venerable Mandarien Oriental Hotel Tokyo and head straight to one of the restrooms and where you will not be disappointed. With some of the world’s best bathroom views, this lavatory is a place not to be missed for an outstanding (and free!) city view and should be on everyone’s bucket list,  especially for those of you who like that extra little bit of luxury.  

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︎Website
︎2-1-1 Nihonbashimuromachi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
︎Google Maps
︎ morning to evening