See for Free: Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck

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A trip to Tokyo wouldn’t be complete without a view from one of its many popular observation decks. It can be a difficult decision to narrow down, but the Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck might be head and shoulders above the rest.

All the Tokyo observation decks offer something different. The highest is the Skytree, which offers a birds-eye view of the city. Tokyo Tower is the most iconic tower in the middle of the city. Shibuya Sky offers stunning views from its sky-high escalator. But what if I told you that one of the best views of downtown Tokyo was from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck? And that it was completely free.

Located in the busy ward of Shinjuku, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is known locally as Tochō. It has two observation decks on the 45th floor of the North and South Towers, offering views of the downtown area from 202 meters. The observatories offer stunning panoramic views as well as views of popular landmarks such as Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Bay, and even Mt Fuji on a clear day.

In this article, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know about the Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck, from practical tips to insider advice. Plus, I’ll share my thoughts on whether this free experience deserves a spot on your Tokyo itinerary.

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The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, a towering skyscraper with a modern, geometric facade, stands against a clear blue sky. The structure features two distinct towers and intricate window patterns, with street-level greenery and traffic visible at its base.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building stands at 243 metres.

About the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building opened in 1991. It serves as the seat for the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Standing at 242.9 meters, it is the tallest city hall in the world. This structure was designed by famed architect Kenzo Tange, taking influence from gothic cathedrals and integrated circuits. It was the tallest building in Tokyo until 2007, when the Midtown Tower was completed. 

This impressive building is a twin-tower structure, with both towers hosting separate observation decks. The Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Decks offer similar views from the same height of 202 meters. The South Observatory is recommended for nighttime views and also has a small cafe, ideal for a quick break. Both observatories have a gift shop selling a range of unique Tokyo-themed souvenirs. 

Beginning on February 25th, 2024, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building now hosts a nighttime projection mapping show on its facade. Forty projectors display images on the building, which is 126 meters high and 110 meters wide. Guinness World Records recognised it as the “Largest Architectural Projection-Mapped Display (Permanent).”

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building illuminated at night with a massive projection of a Pac-Man game on its facade. The game's neon blue maze and bright yellow Pac-Man stand out against the dark skyscraper, while the building's upper sections glow with orange lights. Trees and a traffic signal with a red light are visible in the foreground, adding depth to the urban scene.
The massive projection mapping at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

This show runs every night after the sun sets and is completely free to watch. This projection show aims to promote and highlight Japanese culture. Performances focus on Godzilla, Ukiyoe, Pac-Man, and the popular J-Pop act Yoasobi.

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Observation Deck Visitor Experience

I visited the South Observatory, as the North Observatory was closed for two months. Check the official website before you visit, in case any of the towers are closed or have modified hours due to public holidays.

I arrived late afternoon to discover a short line to the elevator on the ground floor. There was a sign saying there was a 30-minute wait, but it was around 20 minutes in total. This was quite surprising, considering it was free, and only one of the towers was open.

A group of people waits in line to enter the South Observatory at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory Deck. The entrance is illuminated with blue neon lighting, and the sign above displays the name in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. A staff member wearing a mask stands near the entrance, checking visitors before allowing them inside, while an 'EXIT' sign is visible on the right.
The line to enter the South Observatory.

Something that surprised me was because this is an official government building, there are bag checks before you enter the tower. I was wearing my backpack filled with camera equipment, and it was a quick check that didn’t slow down the queue.

Entering the observatory, I realised that it was more relaxing than Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower. The observatory layout is simple but effective. It’s a large square shape, with windows on most of the walls offering views in each direction. The cafe and gift shops are placed in the middle of the room so that they don’t take up any of the viewing spaces.

Another thing I realised is that the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck is less crowded than its competitors. During the day, there was loads of space to move around, with free spots at every window. I also took my time taking photos and videos, as no lines formed at the windows.

In the evening, the lights dimmed, and only the cafe and shop were lit. This gave off vibes like being in a chilled jazz bar.

The views from the Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck are jaw-dropping. The observatory is 202 meters high, giving the city a great sense of scale without actually being too high.

A panoramic view of the Shinjuku cityscape in Tokyo, Japan, taken from a high vantage point. The skyline features modern skyscrapers, including the distinctively designed Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower with its lattice-like exterior. In the distance, the Tokyo Skytree rises above the urban landscape, standing against a clear blue sky as the city stretches toward the horizon.
The cityscape of Shinjuku with the Tokyo Skytree in the distance.

The observatory offers views of a variety of key landmarks, including Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Jingu, Shinjuku Park Tower, and Tokyo Dome. On clear days, you can spot Mt. Fuji, but it was covered by clouds on the day I visited. The city of Shinjuku also looks great from above. 

I could easily distinguish some of the buildings and areas. There are other skyscrapers in the area that you can admire, and if you look in the distance, you can see the sprawling metropolis stretching out to the horizon. 

When comparing this observatory to the Tokyo Skytree, I felt like the Skytree was a little too high, and I couldn’t admire what I was looking at, especially at night. The Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck offers a view and perspective similar to that of the Tokyo Tower.

The observation deck offers practically floor-to-ceiling windows for the viewpoints, giving you unrestricted views. It also offers almost 360-degree views. One side was partially covered, which I assumed was looking directly at the other tower. 

Taking pictures during the day was easy and relaxing. The windows are close enough that you can put your camera directly against them to reduce reflections. However, at night, it became more tricky. Some of the lights from the observatory reflect too much on the glass, making it more challenging.

There are a few benches and seats around the observatory and the cafe. After I had taken in the views and snapped all my photos and videos, I took a break at the cafe. I sat down to enjoy an iced cafe latte and a Belgian waffle while waiting for the nighttime views to begin.

A bustling observatory café filled with visitors enjoying refreshments and browsing souvenirs. The spacious area features large windows offering panoramic views of the city. The souvenir shop in the foreground displays colorful traditional Japanese fans, daruma dolls, and various gifts, while patrons relax at tables with drinks and snacks.
Visitors enjoying a rest at the Observatory Cafe.

Some viewing areas have signs at the bottom of the windows explaining the landmarks. These are a great guide and helped me identify some I was unsure of.

The views during the day and night are both incredible. During the day, you can admire the sheer scale of Tokyo and identify different city wards. At night, the sea of lights is gorgeous. However, you can’t quite see as far or make out some of the landmarks. There is no time limit at the Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck, so I stayed there for hours and checked out both.

A breathtaking night view of Shinjuku and the greater Tokyo area, illuminated by countless city lights. Skyscrapers with glowing windows and red aviation lights stand tall against the dark sky, while highways weave through the urban landscape with golden streams of traffic. The city's vast expanse stretches toward the horizon, showcasing Tokyo's vibrant nighttime energy.
Shinjuku and Greater Tokyo at night from above.

Practical Information

The North and South Towers at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory are free to enter. As this is an official government building, there is a security screening process before entering the observatory elevator. This includes a bag check to ensure no dangerous items are brought in. 

Opening Hours

Both observatories are open seven days a week. The South Observatory is open from 9:30 am to 10:00 pm, with the last entry at 9:30 pm. The North Observatory is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, with the last entry at 5:00 pm. On days when the South Observatory is closed, the North Observatory stays open later. 

The South Observatory is closed on the first and third Tuesdays of the month, and the North Observatory is closed on the second and fourth Mondays of the month.

Location and How to Get There

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Address: 2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001

The Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck has a few nearby stations, making it easy to access.

  • From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio Department Store Exit, which is a 13-minute walk away.
  • From Tochomae Station, take Exit A4, a six-minute walk away.
  • From Nishi-Shinjuku Station, take exit E2, which is a ten-minute walk.
  • From Shinjuku Station, it is a 13-minute walk to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
The exterior of Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, Japan, with its modern glass facade reflecting the blue sky and surrounding skyscrapers. The station's signage in both Japanese and English is prominently displayed above the entrance. In the foreground, several vehicles, including a silver van, are seen on the busy street, while pedestrians walk along the sidewalk.
From Shinjuku Station, it is a 13-minute walk to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Facilities and Accessibility

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has wheelchair ramps, elevators, multi-purpose toilets, ostomate restrooms, baby changing facilities, and breastfeeding rooms.

There are no lockers available at the Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck. I recommend leaving large bags and cases in a coin locker at a train station.

Food and Merchandise

There is a cafe in the South Tower that sells a variety of food and drinks. Drinks include hot or iced coffee and teas, soda, and juices. They also have some alcohol for sale, including beer, shochu, and sake. For those in need of food, they sell pork cutlet sandwiches and grilled rice balls, as well as some sweet treats, including soft-serve ice cream and cakes.

Both towers have a gift shop selling a range of Tokyo-themed souvenirs. They offer some of the regular souvenirs, such as keychains, magnets, and postcards. They also sell some stylish Tokyo baseball caps and tote bags. There are some more traditional Japanese items, like fans, chopsticks, and lucky cats, for sale. 

A display of souvenir caps and tote bags at a gift shop, featuring various designs with 'Tokyo' and 'Japan' embroidered on them. The hats come in different colors and styles, including baseball caps and snapbacks. Nearby shelves also hold postcards and other memorabilia, creating a well-stocked souvenir section.
The gift shop sells souvenirs from Tokyo and Japan.

Visiting Tips

Tokyo Metropolitan Building Observation Deck offers stunning city views no matter what time you visit.

It’s best to head up in the morning for the clearest views, giving you the best chance to see Mt Fuji and take in the city’s scale. During the sunset, you can admire the golden sky while the sun disappears behind the mountains. At night, you can admire the lights of Tokyo and see landmarks like Tokyo Skytree light up.

As this observatory is free to enter, you can leave and return later for different views. You can also grab something to eat and drink at the cafe, and wait for the sun to set.

If you want to beat the crowds, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory is quietest in the morning. It was most crowded during sunset. However, this observatory isn’t overly busy, and I didn’t feel crowds were an issue.

Silhouetted visitors stand by large windows, admiring a panoramic view of Shinjuku City at dusk. The skyline features modern skyscrapers with antennas, while the sky transitions from soft pink to deep blue. Reflections of the onlookers on the polished floor add depth to the serene atmosphere of this high-rise observation deck
Visitors admire the view of Shinjuku City.

The huge and spacious windows allow you to capture the perfect photos. Tripods are not allowed inside the observatory. During the day was the best time to capture photos as the interior lights were off. These lights can cause some reflections at night, so keep this in mind when shooting photos at night.

It’s always best to put your camera lens directly against the window to reduce light reflection as much as possible. Each side of the observatory offers a different view, so it’s best not to skip any windows.

Walking around the area lets you capture great photos of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Make sure to explore the area to find some nice photo spots. The best place might be the Citizens’ Plaza, a small open area near the bottom of the building. This area has some benches to sit on, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building can be used as the backdrop for any posed photos.

A person sits on a wooden bench in the Citizens’ Plaza, gazing up at the towering Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The modern high-rise features a symmetrical design with glass windows reflecting the surrounding cityscape. The bright blue sky and urban setting create a striking contrast against the building's intricate architecture.
The Citizens’ Plaza gives you a great view of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.

Nearby Attractions

If you are staying in Shinjuku after sunset, the TMG Building Projection Mapping, Tokyo Night and Light, is an absolute must-see. Night and Light is a new attraction for 2024, and it’s jaw-dropping, and unlike anything else you will see in Tokyo. It’s another free attraction, so it’s perfect for people on a budget to admire Japanese culture and innovative technology.

Nearby the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is the gorgeous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This highly rated park is one of the largest in Tokyo and offers a tranquil, relaxing experience compared to the bustling city.

It’s also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing if you are there during spring. The park has an entrance fee of 500 yen.

Two free information centres are at the bottom of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. One offers information and pamphlets about things to do in Tokyo, and the other focuses on Japan. These centres are great for discovering pop-ups and local events that might not make it to travel websites. They are located next to the observatory elevator.

A well-lit Tokyo Tourist Information Center entrance with a bright blue sign in Japanese and English. Inside, brochures, maps, and travel guides are neatly displayed, while colorful decorations, including a festive ornament, hang from the ceiling. Digital screens on either side provide additional tourist information, and a 'Godzilla: Attack on Tokyo' sign stands near the entrance, adding a touch of pop culture.
The Tokyo Tourist Information Center is great for free information about the city.

If you need some electronics, near Shinjuku Station West Exit, there are numerous stores specialising in electric goods and household appliances. The most popular of these Japanese stores are Yamada Denki Labi and Yodobashi Camera. Even if you aren’t shopping, this is a fun area to walk around, and at night, it becomes a photographer’s dream.

A short 15-minute walk will take you to Omoide Yokocho, a lively and nostalgic area of narrow alleys filled with food stalls, bars, and izakayas. This area specialises in yakitori, delicious grilled meat skewers. Smoke fills the alleys, and there are intoxicating smells of barbecued meat. Omoide Yokocho is popular with tourists and locals, and you will often see groups of salarymen unwinding here after work.

A vibrant entrance to Omoide Yokocho, a narrow alley in Shinjuku, Tokyo, lined with small restaurants and izakayas. The green neon sign with Japanese characters and 'OMOIDE YOKOCHO' in English glows above, surrounded by warm yellow lanterns and bright red autumn leaves. People walk through the bustling alley, passing by colorful posters, menus, and sticker-covered walls, adding to the lively atmosphere of this iconic dining street.
Omoide Yokocho needs to be explored when visiting Tokyo.

Final Thoughts

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck is a must-visit if you are visiting the capital. Not only are the views breathtaking, but they are also completely free, making it one of the best places to see panoramic views of Tokyo.

If you are travelling on a budget, the prices of the other observatories can start to pile up, making this a perfect budget-friendly activity. Pairing this observation deck with the TMG Building Projection Mapping makes for an extremely entertaining and completely free day out. 

A promotional collage highlighting the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck. The central banner reads, 'TOKYO METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT BUILDING OBSERVATION DECK - SEE FOR FREE!!' The top image showcases the illuminated skyscraper at night with a sprawling cityscape in the background. The bottom left image captures a daytime aerial view of the building surrounded by Tokyo’s urban expanse under a cloudy sky. The bottom right image features a nighttime shot from the building with its lights glowing against the bustling city below.

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