Greater Tokyo has a population of around 38 million, all jam-packed into a relatively small area between Tokyo Bay on one side and mountains on the other. The views over this megapolis are impressive on a clear day, when you might be lucky enough to see the top of Mt Fuji.
Tokyo Sky Tree
The first time I visited Tokyo, the tallest building was the Eiffel-inspired Tokyo Tower, with a 150 m high observation deck. Now, it’s barely discernible amongst the truly sky-scraping towers dotting the landscape.
Today, it is the imposing form of Tokyo Skytree that dominates the skyline. This broadcasting tower tops out at a whopping 634 m and in 2011 was the tallest tower in the world!
The tower has two observation decks spaced 100 m apart from each other. The Tembo Deck is at 350 m and the Tembo Galleria is at 450 m. You can purchase a ticket for either floor or a combination ticket to access both. Regular adult ticket prices range from ¥1,000 to ¥3,400.
The popularity of Tokyo Skytree means that it can be very crowded, especially on weekends, and waiting times can exceed an hour. International visitors are eligible to purchase Fast Skytree Tickets that include express entry. These are either ¥3,200 for the single Floor 350 ticket or ¥4,200 for the combo ticket.
Best access: Subway Oshiage Station ‘Skytree’, Hanzōmon Line (purple). For more transport information, visit the Tokyo Skytree website.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Offices
If the price tag and crowds of Tokyo Sky Tree are not for you, the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Offices (Tōchō) offer a free, yet impressive view over the city. This deck is at 202 m on the 45th floor on Building. The day we visited, we arrived early and queued for about 20 mins before going up.
The observation deck’s facilities also include a cafe and observation deck.
Best access: Subway Tōchōmae Station, Oedo Line (dark pink), exit 4.
Cost: Free
Shinjuku Skyscraper District
After your visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Offices, take the opportunity to walk around, looking up at the soaring architectural wonders in the Shinjuku Skyscraper District. Many of Japan’s leading banks and commercial companies have built their headquarters, alongside several of Tokyo’s premier hotels, in this tidy neighbourhood on the western side of Shinjuku Station. (The eastern side is home to Tokyo’s famous Kabuki-cho nightlife district.)
Best access: JR Shinjuku Station, Yamanote Line (green), west exit.
Cost: Free
