The Best Views of Tokyo That Are Free to Enjoy
- Published on : 16/10/2022
- by : Phoebe
- Youtube
Bunkyo Civic Center (Tokyo)
@Japan Experience
Want to admire Tokyo from above without breaking the bank? From dizzying skyscrapers to lesser-known buildings, the Japanese capital is full of free viewpoints. To treat your eyes to some amazing views without straining your budget, the Japan Experience team reveals its favorite observation decks!
1. The headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (Shinjuku)
Located in Shinjuku, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is one of the best places to admire the city for free! Standing 243 meters tall, this building has two towers, each with an observation deck located about 202 meters above ground level.
The view stretches from the skyscrapers of Shinjuku to much of Tokyo. On a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.
Our tip: Since this is one of the most popular spots on this list, we recommend arriving early to avoid waiting in line. The most popular time for visitors is late in the day, to watch the sunset.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 2-8-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-8001
HOURS: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Shinjuku)
@unsplash
Experience the exhilarating atmosphere of Shinjuku on our nighttime walking tour!
2. Bunkyo Civic Center (Korakuen)
This is the editorial team’s (not-so-well-kept) secret! The Bunkyo Civic Center is known for its panoramic view of the Tokyo Skytree, the Shinjuku district, and—on clear days—Mount Fuji. Its observation deck is located on the 25th floor, about 105 meters above ground.
It’s a great spot to take in the view of Tokyo without being bothered by the crowds and to enjoy the scenery for a little longer, since armchairs are provided for visitors.
Our tip: grab a coffee at the base of the building and sip it while taking in the view from above. If you’d like to extend your stroll, we recommend continuing your visit to Koishikawa Korakuen Garden or the Koishikawa Botanical Garden, just a stone’s throw from the observatory!
Please note: The observatory is currently closed for renovations. It is scheduled to reopen in early December 2026.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 1-16-21 Kasuga, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-8555
HOURS: Daily, from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Coffee break at the Bunkyo Civic Center (Tokyo)
Japan Experience
3. Carrot Tower (Setagaya)
The Carrot Tower is located in Sangenjaya, in the Setagaya ward. Its 26th floor features a free observation deck that offers an unobstructed view of Tokyo.
On a clear day, you can see Mount Fuji, among other sights. It’s also a great place to enjoy the late-afternoon light and watch the sunset.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 4-1-1 Taishido, Setagaya City, Tokyo 154-0004
HOURS: Daily, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Tokyo, from the Carrot Tower
Flick—Nemo's Great Uncle (2007)
4. Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center (Asakusa)
Across from the Kaminarimon Gate, this tourist information center is a great place to stop by during a visit to Asakusa !
From its 8th-floor terrace, you can admire Senso-ji Temple, the neighborhood streets, and the Tokyo Skytree.
Although it is not as tall as Tokyo’s major observation decks, it offers a close-up view of the neighborhood’s rooftops and traditional streets.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 111-0034 Tokyo, Taito City, Kaminarimon, 2-18-9 Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center
HOURS: Daily, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Asakusa Culture and Tourist Information Center (Tokyo)
@Guilhem Vellut on Flickr, CC BY 2.0
Want to experience Tokyo in a different way? Join our guided tour!
5. Caretta Shiodome (Shimbashi)
In the heart of the Shiodome district, Caretta Shiodome features a free observation deck called SKY VIEW on the 46th floor, about 200 meters above ground. The panoramic view is particularly impressive, offering a stunning view of Tokyo Bay, the Rainbow Bridge, and Odaiba.
In the evening, the city lights make the view even more spectacular. The building also houses panoramic restaurants, but their entrances are separate from those of the observation deck.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 1-8-2 Higashishinbashi, Minato City, Tokyo 105-7090
HOURS: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Night view from Caretta Shiodome (Tokyo)
Japan Experience
6. Tower Hall Funabori (Funabori)
Located in the Edogawa Ward in eastern Tokyo, Tower Hall Funabori is a lesser-known alternative to the downtown observation decks.
Its observation deck, at a height of about 103 meters, offers a 360-degree view of the capital. On a clear day, you can see the Tokyo Skytree, the Tokyo Tower, and sometimes even Mount Fuji.
Its location also allows you to explore a less touristy part of Tokyo, which is perfect for bike rides .
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 4-1-1 Funabori, Edogawa City, Tokyo 134-0091
HOURS: Daily, 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
From Tower Hall Funabori
@Manish Prabhune on Flickr, CC BY 2.0
7. Shinjuku Nomura Building (Shinjuku)
It’s the editorial team’s favorite! Located in the heart of Shinjuku’s business district, the Shinjuku Nomura Building features a free observation deck on the 50th floor, about 200 meters above ground. Significantly less crowded than Tokyo City Hall, it’s a great option for admiring the capital’s skyscrapers without spending a single yen.
You can also extend your visit by dining at one of the restaurants on the upper floors to enjoy the panoramic view while you eat.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 1-26-2 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 163-0590
HOURS: Daily, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Shinjuku Nomura Building
@Japan Experience
8. Yebisu Garden Place Tower (Ebisu)
This is one of our favorite viewpoints! Located in the Ebisu neighborhood, the Yebisu Garden Place Tower features a free observation deck on the 38th floor: the SKY LOUNGE. At a height of about 160 meters, this space offers views of several of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as Tokyo Tower and the Rainbow Bridge.
The view is especially beautiful in the evening, when the lights start to twinkle.
Our tip: grab a drink at one of the building’s cafés and enjoy it at the Sky Lounge!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ADDRESS: 4-20-3 Ebisu, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-6004
HOURS: Daily, 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Yebisu Garden Place Tower
@Japan Experience
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