Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
Home to Tokyo's famous free observation decks, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offers spectacular panoramic views across the city from the heart of Shinjuku.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (ๆฑไบฌ้ฝๅบ, Tลkyล Tochล) is one of Tokyo's most recognisable landmarks, serving as the headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Located in the skyscraper district of Shinjuku, the twin-towered building is best known for its free public observation decks, which offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Standing 243 metres tall, the building provides uninterrupted views across Tokyo's vast skyline. On clear days, visitors can see landmarks including Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and even Mount Fuji, making it one of Tokyo's most rewarding sightseeing experiencesโall without an admission fee.
๐ฏ Why Visit?
- ๐ One of Tokyo's best free attractions.
- ๐ Enjoy spectacular panoramic views from approximately 202 metres above the city.
- ๐ป See Mount Fuji on clear winter days.
- ๐ธ Fantastic photography opportunities during the day and after dark.
- ๐๏ธ Admire one of Japan's most iconic skyscrapers, designed by renowned architect Kenzo Tange.
- ๐ถ Conveniently located within walking distance of Shinjuku Station.
Observation Decks
The building features two public observation decks, located in the North and South Towers.
Both offer impressive 360-degree views across Tokyo, with large viewing windows providing excellent visibility throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy views of:
- ๐๏ธ Shinjuku and its surrounding skyscrapers.
- ๐ผ Tokyo Tower.
- ๐ Tokyo Skytree.
- ๐ณ Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
- ๐ Central Tokyo stretching towards Tokyo Bay.
- ๐ป Mount Fuji on exceptionally clear days.
The observation decks also feature cafรฉs and souvenir shops, making them an enjoyable place to relax while taking in the scenery.
๐ History
Completed in 1991, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building was designed by internationally acclaimed architect Kenzo Tange. Its distinctive twin-tower design was inspired by Gothic cathedrals while incorporating modern Japanese architecture.
When completed, it became Tokyo's tallest building, standing 243 metres high. Although several taller skyscrapers have since been constructed, it remains one of the city's most recognisable landmarks and continues to house the offices of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.
The free observation decks were created to give both residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo, and today they remain one of the city's most popular sightseeing attractions.
๐ Nearby Attractions
- ๐ Kabukichล
- ๐ฎ Shinjuku Golden Gai
- ๐ข Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)
- ๐ฑ Shinjuku 3D Cat
- ๐ฆ Godzilla Head
- ๐ณ Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
๐ก Tips
- ๐ Visit around sunset to experience both daylight and Tokyo's spectacular night skyline.
- ๐ท Bring a zoom lens if you enjoy cityscape photography.
- ๐ป Winter generally offers the clearest views of Mount Fuji.
- ๐ Admission is completely free, making it an excellent alternative to paid observation decks such as Shibuya Sky.
- ๐๏ธ Security screening is required before entering the observation decks.
๐ Location
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is located in West Shinjuku, approximately a 10-minute walk from the West Exit of Shinjuku Station.
๐ 2-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
๐บ๏ธ Open in Google Maps