To realise how massive Tokyo is, it's best to head up to one of the many observation decks in the city, where you can look out at our megalopolis, with views that stretch out to as far as the iconic Mt Fuji, Yokohama or Chichibu on a clear day.
The landmark Tokyo Tower is a popular option, especially since the opening of its 250m-high Top Deck in 2018. Tokyo Skytree attracts a fair share of visitors too; its Tembo Galleria, at a height of 450m, makes the concrete jungle below look like a miniature world − definitely not for those who are afraid of heights.
While a visit to some of these observation decks often comes with prices as lofty as the view, we have also included free options on our list. Here's our guide to the best vantage points in Tokyo, where you can expect to be dazzled by the sprawling cityspace and beautiful architecture.
Catch the best views of Tokyo at this 360-degree open-air observation deck at the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square. Shibuya Sky is approximately 230 metres above ground and is the highest point in the district of Shibuya.
The ‘Sky Edge’, a corner where you can look down at the cityscape below without any obstruction, is a particularly good photo spot that provides a panoramic view of the city. The rooftop also features hammocks for cloud watching and an observation compass to help you identify major landmarks in the distance such as Tokyo Tower, Japan National Stadium and even Mt Fuji (on a clear day). At night, you'll be able to see a light show called the 'Crossing Light' as 18 beams illuminate the city sky.
This Tokyo landmark celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2018 with the opening of its top deck, 100m above the existing 150m-high main observation deck, to the public. There’s more than just a good photo op here. The mirrored ceiling and wall create a kaleidoscopic effect of the city view, complemented by special light effects after dark. If you join the top deck tour (¥2,800 online, ¥3,000 at the ticket counter), you also get a souvenir photo and a multilingual audio guide explaining the major buildings and landmarks in the skyline.
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Located on the 52nd floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, this observatory provides an impressive 360-degree bird’s-eye view of Tokyo, including landmarks like Shinjuku Gyoen, the National Diet Building, Tokyo Tower and the Skytree. For an additional ¥500, you can also visit the excellent Mori Art Museum on the 53rd floor.
Advance tickets are available to purchase online.
The tallest freestanding tower in the world rises to a height of 634m over the Sumida skyline. While its main function is as a broadcasting tower, offering considerably improved television reception, Tokyo Skytree is also one of the capital's go-to tourist destinations. The two platforms, one at a height of 350m and the second one at 450m, provide superb views of the city. Check out the area around its base as well, which is home to Tokyo Skytree Town, a complex boasting 310 shops and restaurants.
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Formerly known as Sky Circus, this observation deck on the 60th floor of Ikebukuro’s Sunshine City underwent a major revamp and reopened in early 2023 as Tembo Park. It’s now a relaxing indoor park with artificial turf, comfortable seating and the same beautiful views out across the city.
The main area is Tembo no Oka, which means ‘observatory hill’ in Japanese. Here you can put down a picnic mat or take a seat on one of the couches while gazing out of the windows from 251 metres above ground.
Next to Tembo no Oka is a café where you can get the likes of curries, sandwiches and smoothies. It’s also okay to bring in lunch from outside during weekdays from 11.30am to 2pm.
The headquarters of the Fuji TV corporation, one of Japan’s biggest broadcasters, offers a host of attractions that are open to the public. There are exhibitions on popular programmes and character goods shops, but most people come here for the large orb-shaped observation deck. Called the Hachitama, the observation deck sets itself apart from other similar Tokyo facilities due to its direct view of Tokyo Bay and the Rainbow Bridge. The viewing deck, which is located on the 25th floor, offers a stunning 270-degree panorama of Tokyo’s skyline across the bay, including the iconic Tokyo Tower in the distance.
Kenzo Tange's domineering Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is worth visiting purely to have a good look at its spectacular edifice, but it's also home to a pair of free observation decks that have become a popular stop on many tourist itineraries. For good reason, too: the TMG's observatories are completely free of charge. Currently, only the South Observation Deck is open, but you can still get spectacular views of the city and, on clear days, even Mt Fuji. There's also a reasonably priced café in the South Observation Deck.
Resembling a giant spaceship, this free observation deck is located on the 25th floor of the Bunkyo Civic Center in central Tokyo. Thanks to its slanted windows designed to reduce light reflection, you can enjoy a close view over Shinjuku with Mt Fuji in the background on clear days. If you drop by in the evening, look out for the illuminated Tokyo Skytree towering over east Tokyo.
To see Mt Fuji in all its glory, take a day trip from Tokyo to these scenic spots in Yamanashi, Kanagawa and Shizuoka
Live your best life without spending a yen at Tokyo's best museums, attractions, tours, observation decks and more
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