The Heart of Tokyo in Shinjuku: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, situated in Shinjuku, is the administrative center of Tokyo, designed by the famous architect Kenzo Tange. Its iconic twin towers enhance the city skyline. The free-access observation decks provide magnificent city views and a perfect spot to learn about Tokyo’s culture and shop for souvenirs. Easily accessible, it’s a ten-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station or directly from Tochomae Station on the Toei Oedo Line. On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji from the observation deck.
The Observation Deck at 202 Meters
The observation rooms of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, located on the 45th floor at a height of 202 meters, offer panoramic views of Tokyo. While there are both north and south observation rooms, currently only the south one is operational.
From the observation rooms, visitors can view landmarks such as the Tokyo Skytree, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Meiji Shrine, and even Mount Fuji. With clear visibility during the colder months from December to February, Mount Fuji is particularly visible, making it highly recommended.
An excellent recommendation for tourists is the “Tokyo Sky Guide,” a tool that provides information in various languages without the need for a dedicated app. Simply scanning QR codes on display panels automatically provides information on all 32 spots, allowing visitors to enjoy introductions and stories in their native language.
Feeling a bit tired? How about taking a break at the café “TOWNGATE CORE TOKYO SEEN”? Besides cakes and coffee, they also offer Tokyo craft beers. Since they operate until late at night, enjoying a beer while admiring the night view is an adult pleasure.
The gift shop on the observation floor sells Tokyo-exclusive goods and traditional Japanese items, offering a delightful shopping experience to cherish memories of your visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
<Observation Room>
Main Building 45th Floor (Dedicated elevator from the 1st floor)
Visiting hours: [South] 9:30 am to 10:00 pm / Last entry at 9:30 pm
Closed during year-end and New Year holidays (December 29th to 31st, January 2nd and 3rd), and on inspection days
※ For more details, please refer to the “Observation Room Usage Guide” page.
Enjoy Cultural Exhibitions
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building hosts a special exhibition on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Here, visitors can view Olympic medals and various memorabilia, offering a close-up experience of historic sporting moments. Additionally, there is a space dedicated to introducing Tokyo’s tourist information and exhibiting regional specialty products. Through these displays, visitors can deeply appreciate the diversity of Tokyo’s charm and culture. Such exhibitions provide valuable opportunities to introduce the history and contemporary allure of Tokyo.
<Olympic Exhibition>
North Side of the 2nd Floor of the Main Building
Opening hours: Weekdays 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, Weekends and holidays 11:00 am to 6:00 pm
Closed during year-end and New Year holidays and on inspection days
<Tokyo Tourist Information Center>
North Side of the 1st Floor of the Main Building
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm
Dining and Shopping
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offers a variety of dining options accessible to tourists. Of interest is the “Staff Cafeteria,” normally used by government employees but open to general visitors, offering reasonably priced Japanese and Western-style meals. They even have menus catering to vegetarians.
Furthermore, on the basement level, there is “TOKYO GIFTS 62,” a store selling traditional crafts from the 62 wards and municipalities of Tokyo, along with regional cultural products and food items. Visitors can purchase specialty products and souvenirs from different regions, providing an excellent opportunity to experience Tokyo’s diverse culture and flavors. These dining facilities and shops offer tourists a chance to enjoy a comfortable stay and explore the charms of the local area.
<Staff Cafeteria>
Located on the 32nd floor of the Main Building and the 4th floor of the Annex Building
Opening hours: On days when the Tokyo Metropolitan Government is open
Lunch: 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Café: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
※ The café on the 4th floor of the Annex Building operates from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Website
https://www.tokyo-jinzai.or.jp/dining/staff_dining.html
<TOKYO GIFTS 62>
North Side of the 1st Floor of the Main Building, Inside the Tokyo Tourist Information Center
Opening hours: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Closed during year-end and New Year holidays and on inspection days
Website
https://www.sangyo-rodo.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/tourism/tokyogifts62/
Consider Preparations in Advance
While no procedures are required for visiting the observation deck, obtaining a “Temporary Pass” is necessary when visiting facilities such as the staff cafeteria. It’s convenient to fill out the input form and apply in advance.
Website
https://visitorsignin.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/#/
Let’s Visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
A visit to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offers visitors a valuable opportunity to understand Tokyo’s deeper aspects through its modern facilities and cultural exhibitions. The magnificent views from the observation deck, Olympic exhibitions, and shops offering local specialties promise unforgettable experiences during your trip to Tokyo. These experiences provide an excellent opportunity for tourists to explore contemporary Tokyo and its cultural charm.
Access
JR Shinjuku Station (about a 10-minute walk from the west exit)
Directly connected to Tochomae Station on the Toei Oedo Line
Take a Toei Bus or Keio Bus (Tokyo Metropolitan Government Loop) from Shinjuku Station West Exit (Underground Bus Terminal) and get off at “Tokyo Metropolitan Government Main Building,” “Tokyo Metropolitan Government Annex Building,” or “Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly Hall.”
Take the Shinjuku WE Bus bound for “Nishi-Sando” from the JR Shinjuku Station West Exit ticket gate bus stop and get off at “Shinjuku Washington Hotel Mae.”
