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Overlooking Tocho
Yury SaplinSilanovitskiyTokyo Metropolitan Government Building with free of charge observation decks.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings (東京都庁舎, Tōkyō Tochō) are comprised of the North and South and house many offices relating to the local city government. The building is best known for its free observatories, one in each tower, which offer stunning panoramas of the city and the surrounding prefectures.
The observation decks sit at 202 meters above the ground, giving visitors a true birds’ eye view of the Tokyo skyline. Iconic structures – such as Odaiba’s Rainbow Bridge, the Tokyo Dome, the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower – can usually be seen. On clear days, Mt Fuji is often visible on the horizon. Panels along the walls of both observatories detail the buildings that can be seen from each direction.
The North Observatory usually remains open until 11pm at night. It’s a great opportunity to see the sunset or catch the evening glow of the metropolis. On days when the North Observatory closes early, the South Observatory compensates by staying open late.
The building is designed by Kenzo Tange.
Each observatory boasts a café as well as a small souvenir outlet. On the 2nd floor of the building, there is also a large tourist information center that dispenses brochures and knowledge on all parts of Tokyo, as well as some of the surrounding cities and prefectures.
The government buildings often host local product fairs on the observation decks to highlight regional delicacies and goods. Past fairs have featured such items as Shizuoka’s tea and seafood products, apple-themed goods from Tohoku and soba noodles from the Nagano region.
Overview
Address
2 Chome-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001 (Map) (Directions)Hours
Closed todayOpening Hours
Monday
8:30 - 17:00
Tuesday
8:30 - 17:00
Wednesday
8:30 - 17:00
Thursday
8:30 - 17:00
Friday
8:30 - 17:00
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed
Holidays
Closed
Website
General Amenities
- Souvenir shop
- Restroom
- Free parking
- Information Counter
- Shops
Facilities
- Cafe
Access
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings can be reached in a ten-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station (signed along the underground passage) or in a minute’s walk from Tochome Station on the Oedo metro line.
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