Tokyo is a huge metropolis, and it doesn’t have a single iconic skyline view, it has thousands! And they’re all truly awe-inspiring. The skyscrapers, bridges, waterways, and islands create a breathtaking panorama that is instantly recognizable worldwide. While you can feel the greatness of these surroundings from anywhere in Tokyo, the grandeur of its cityscape is best viewed from above.
Below are the 5 best photography spots in Tokyo with the ultimate skyline views:
1) Tokyo Skytree
At 634 meters (or 2,080 feet), Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and has the two highest observation decks in Japan. The spacious 350 meters high lower deck features wide windows, a restaurant, cafe, and various shops, while the 450-meter high upper deck is notable for a glass-enclosed ramp that spirals around the building. Both offer stunning unobstructed views out over the city!
Opening Hours: Everyday, 8 am to 10 pm
Admission ticket: 2060 yen (first observatory), 3090 yen (both observatories)
Deck Height: 350 meters (first observatory), 450 meters (second observatory)
2) Tokyo Tower
At 333 meters (1092 feet), Tokyo Tower is one of the tallest structures in Tokyo. When completed in 1958, it symbolized the rebirth of Japan as a post-war economic power.
Although Skytree is almost twice as tall, Tokyo Tower is located in the city center and has a charm that is hard to resist. The tower has two observation decks, and both offer views as far away as the Tokyo Skytree and Mount Fuji on a good day, and down over Zojoji Temple below. The touristy lower floors of the tower house a wax museum, aquarium, arcade, and souvenir shops.
Opening Hours: Everyday 9:00 to 22:00
Admission ticket: 820 yen (main observatory only), 1420 yen (both observatories)
Deck Height: 150 meters (main observatory), 250 meters (special observatory)
3) Tokyo World Trade Center
One of Tokyo’s earliest skyscrapers, the 163 meters tall Tokyo World Trade Center was built in 1970 above Hamamatsucho Station. Its recently renovated observation deck is located on the top floor and gives a stunning 360-degree view of the city below. Thanks to its central location, the building offers a particularly vivid panorama that includes views of Kyu Shiba Rikyugarden, Tokyo Tower, and Tokyo Bay.
Opening Hours: Everyday, 10:00 to 20:30
Admission ticket: 620 yen (500 yen with online coupon)
Deck Height: 152 meters (40th floor)
4) Metropolitan Government Building
At 243 meters, The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is the 2nd tallest building within the city.
It has two observatories (one for each tower) which are open free of charge to the public. There’s even a cafe that changes into a bar in the evening in the North Tower.
Opening Hours: North Observation Deck: 9:30 to 23:00. South Observation Deck: 9:30 to 17:30
Admission ticket: Free
Deck Height: 202 meters (45th floor)
Tags: Tokyo skyline views; best Tokyo views