If you’re planning your Tokyo itinerary, chances are you’ve come across skyline experiences like Shibuya Sky, Roppongi Hills or Tokyo Skytree. They’re super popular with tourists and all require admission fees. But did you know you can also get a 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo for absolutely free? That’s exactly what hubby and I did on our recent trip. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (known locally as Tocho or 都庁) is a functional government headquarters that just happens to host one of the best observation decks in the city on its 45th floor. And it costs ¥0 to enter.
Getting to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is located in Shinjuku.
By Train & Subway
- Tochomae Station (Toei Oedo Line) – Direct Access: The most direct option. Tochomae Station (E-28) is located directly beneath the Tokyo Metropolitan Government complex. Take Exit A4 for Building No. 1, which is where the observation decks are.
- Shinjuku Station (JR, Tokyo Metro, Toei, Keio, Odakyu Lines) – ~10-minute walk: From Shinjuku Station, head towards the West Exit. You can follow the underground passage directly toward the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building.
- Nishi-Shinjuku Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line) – ~10-minute walk: Take Exit 2 and walk south towards the high-rise district.
North or South Deck? Here’s the Difference
There are two observation decks — North and South.
North Observation Deck
- Hours of admission: 9:30am – 5:00pm
- Closed on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month (or the following weekday if the Monday is a national holiday)
- Open until 9:30pm on days when the South Observation Deck is closed
South Observation Deck
- Hours of admission: 9:30am – 9:30pm
- Closed on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month (or the following weekday if the day falls on a national holiday)
Both observation decks will be closed during the year-end and New Year holidays (December 29-31, January 2 and 3), and on the days when the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Buildings are inspected.
Honestly, unless you’re there early in the day or on days when the South Deck is closed, just head straight to the South Observation Deck (南). It’s the primary tourist access point and the better choice anyway — longer opening hours, plus you get to catch the evening panoramas and sunset views.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Queue & Security
Because it’s free, it’s popular. We arrived around 4:30pm on a Saturday, specifically aiming to catch the sunset transition. When we got into the queue on the 1st floor, the posted “Waiting time” sign said 30 minutes, but I think we only waited about 20 minutes or so. Not too bad at all.
The queue is actually quite organised. While you wait, keep an eye out for local posters. We spotted one for the “TOKYO Night & Light“ projection mapping show that takes place daily on the building’s exterior after sunset — another cool free event to add to your list!
I also spotted a Hello Kitty poster that reminded me of how thoughtful Japanese sightseeing culture is. The little tips like putting rubbish in the bin, keeping your voice down in public, and standing in line are small reminders that help keep incredible public resources like Tocho accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Once you reach the front of the line, you’ll go through a quick security bag check. Then you board the dedicated high-speed elevator, which takes you 202 metres up (to the 45th floor) in just about 55 seconds.
Free Views of Tokyo: The Experience
When the elevator doors open, you step out into a spacious circular viewing area. And the 360-degree views? Amazing.
The first thing that hits you is the sheer density of Tokyo. It’s a sea of skyscrapers that seems to stretch all the way to the horizon.
We got to see the sky begin its sunset transition. The day was a little hazy, but the colours in the sky — soft pinks and oranges over the cityscape — were beautiful. Those sunset shades contrasting with the urban landscape? Chef’s kiss.
It’s worth doing a full loop around the observation deck to appreciate the differing urban landscapes from each direction. There’s also a cafe where you can grab a drink and sit down to soak in the view, plus a gift shop with a wide array of souvenirs.
Final Thoughts: Is The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Worth It?
We spent about half an hour on the observation deck itself, which was more than enough to enjoy the views and take photos — unless you want to chill at the cafe. Taking into consideration that you may have to queue at least 30 minutes, make sure you set aside 1 hour to 1.5 hours for this experience.
One catch about this free experience: it can be tricky to capture pictures through the glass window because of glare and reflections. You basically have to press your phone against the glass to get a clean shot.
Was it worth it?
100%. While places like Shibuya Sky are architecturally beautiful and offer open-air roof decks (ideal for selfies), the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building offers views that are factually just as high and iconic — without costing a single yen. It’s easily one of the best budget travel wins in Tokyo.
