Tokyo's Best Free Viewpoints
Tokyo's Best Free Viewpoints
Round Journal
Discover Tokyo from above with my free map guide to the city's best high viewpoints.
Updated ago
Save
Share
Whether you're seeking panoramic cityscapes or serene waterfront vistas, this guide offers a curated selection of spots where you can enjoy breathtaking views without breaking the bank. Perfect for both locals exploring their city anew and visitors looking to capture Tokyo's skyline from unique perspectives.
Don't forget to save this guide to your Thatch library for later!
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (Shinjuku)
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building North Observatory
@roundjournal
Head up to the 45th-floor observation decks at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku for breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo. It's free to enter, and on clear days, you can spot iconic landmarks like Tokyo Tower and even Mount Fuji in the distance.
Tips:
Arrive early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends.
Bring a camera for stunning panoramic shots.
– Neighbourhood Location: Shinjuku
– Open: 9.30am - 11pm
– Closed: First and third Tuesday of each month
Nearby Attractions:
1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
2. Omoide Yokocho (Memory Lane)
Add to
Details
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center
@roundjournal
Located near Senso-ji Temple, this modern building features a free observation deck on the 8th floor. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Asakusa's historic district, including Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree.
Tips:
Combine your visit with a trip to Senso-ji Temple for a full cultural experience.
Visit in the late afternoon for beautiful sunset views.
– Neighbourhood Location: Asakusa
– Open: 9am - 10am
– Closed: Open year-round
Nearby Attractions:
1. Senso-ji Temple
2.
3.
Add to
Details
Bunkyo Civic Center Observation Deck
Bunkyo Civic Center Observation Lounge
@roundjournal
Enjoy stunning views of Tokyo Skytree and the bustling cityscape from the free observation deck on the 25th floor of Bunkyo Civic Center. It's a great spot to take in the vibrant energy of Tokyo from above.
Tips:
Ideal for evening visits to see the city lights.
Less crowded than other observation points.
– Neighbourhood Location: Bunkyo
– Open: 9am - 8.30pm
– Closed: During year-end and New Year holidays
Nearby Attractions:
1. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
2. Tokyo Dome City
3. LaQua Spa
Add to
Details
Caretta Shiodome
Caretta Shiodome Sky View
@roundjournal
Worth the visit if you happen to be around the area! Upon entering the building, follow signs to the 'Sky Restaurants'. Take the elevator to the upper floors where, at the back of the 46th floor, you'll find a window offering stunning panoramic views of Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and Odaiba.
Tips:
Visit during the evening to see the stunning city lights.
Combine with a meal at one of the restaurants in the complex for a complete experience.
– Neighbourhood Location: Shiodome
– Open: 11am - 11pm
– Closed: Open year-round
Nearby Attractions:
1. Hamarikyu Gardens
2. Tsukiji Outer Market
3. Ginza Shopping District
Add to
Details
Shibuya Hikarie Sky Lobby
Shibuya Hikarie
@roundjournal
Head up to the free observation deck on the 11th floor of Hikarie for panoramic views of Shibuya Crossing, one of Tokyo's busiest intersections. From this elevated vantage point, you can also see Shibuya's iconic skyscrapers, bustling shopping streets, and the dynamic Shibuya skyline. It's a great spot to capture the energy and vibrancy of Shibuya from above.
Tips:
Best viewed during the evening rush hour to see the bustling crossing below.
Grab a coffee at the nearby cafes and enjoy the view.
– Neighbourhood Location: Shibuya
– Open: 9am - 11:pm
– Closed: Open year-round
Nearby Attractions:
1. Shibuya Scramble Crossing
2. Shibuya Center Gai
3. Miyistu Park
Add to
Details
Carrot Tower (Setagaya)
Carrot Tower
@roundjournal
For a unique perspective of western Tokyo, visit the 26th-floor observation deck at Carrot Tower in Sangenjaya. You'll get sweeping views of Shinjuku's skyscrapers and a glimpse of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Tips:
Less crowded, offering a peaceful viewing experience.
Visit on a clear day for the best visibility.
– Neighbourhood Location: Setagaya
– Open: 9.30am - 11pm
– Closed: Open year-round
Nearby Attractions:
1. Setagaya Art Museum
2. Sangenjaya Neighbourhood
3. Shoin Shrine
Add to
Details
Don't forget to save this guide to your Thatch library, so you can easily reference these places later!
* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Round Journal
Hey!
I'm Remi, a London-born content creator based in Tokyo, dedicated to unveiling Japan's cultural and design treasures.
As a content creator and solo explorer, I create detailed travel guides and itineraries catered to discerning travellers with an eye for aesthetics and a love for authentic experiences.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, my guides, itineraries and services provide a local point-of-view, insider tips that highlight:
* 🎨 The art & design scene : Contemporary galleries and museums to traditional crafts.
* 🍣 Food hotspots: Chill cafes, cool coffee shops, sushi spots, local izakayas, ramen and udon spots, street food, chic bars and more
* 🌸 Cultural experiences: Tea ceremonies, traditional festivals, local workshops and more.
* 🏯 Architecture: Ancient temples and shrines to modern structures.
* 🌳 Nature escapes: Thoughtfully designed urban gardens and hidden nature retreats
* 🛍️ Curated shopping experiences, from vintage boutiques to avant-garde concept stores
My content is tailored for curious explorers who appreciate the intersection of culture and design. Whether you're drawn to the minimalist elegance of a tea ceremony or the bold lines of modern Tokyo, my guides offer a nuanced perspective on Japan's visual and cultural landscape.
While Tokyo forms the core of my exploration, I'm gradually expanding to showcase Japan's diverse offerings across its regions.
For those who seek to experience Japan through a lens of design, culture, and visual sophistication, you're in the right place.
Send A Tip
Support Round Journal’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Explore related destinations
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Round Journal 2024 • Help • Privacy • Terms • Copyright • Become a Seller • Seller Academy • About • Careers • Blog • Explore Places