Top 17 observation deck in Tokyo, Tokyo Travel
※updated on July 27 2025
When you look down on a major city from above, you'll see rows of towering buildings and cars and people moving like tiny ants. From this vantage point, you can get a feel for the city’s atmosphere and perhaps discover a new charm you hadn't noticed before. The view of distant skyscrapers, mountains, and the sea—where manmade structures and nature blend seamlessly—offers a different side of the city that you can’t usually experience in daily life.
Visiting such places with family, friends, or a partner also allows you to share a special moment in an extraordinary setting—something that will stay in your memory for years to come.
Tokyo is one of the world’s leading economic hubs, filled with high-rise buildings and iconic towers. To the south lies Tokyo Bay, while to the west, Mount Fuji rises majestically against the sky—offering a stunning harmony between urban development and nature.
In this article, we’ll introduce 17 of the best observation spots in Tokyo, carefully selected from among the many scattered throughout the city.
1) Tokyo Skytree - Best Landmark of Tokyo
Opened in 2012, Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Japan and holds the title of the tallest freestanding broadcasting tower in the world. It is one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks, attracting over a million international visitors each year.
The Skytree features two observation decks: the Tembo Deck at 350 meters and the Tembo Galleria at 450 meters above ground. The Galleria is a gently sloped spiral walkway, offering visitors a unique “skywalk” experience with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of Tokyo.
The tower’s biggest appeal lies in its sheer height. Compared to the well-known Tokyo Tower, which stands at 333 meters, Tokyo Skytree far surpasses it in scale. The expansive views and the exhilaration of being that high above the city create an unforgettable experience.
If you want to take in the full panorama of Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree is the perfect place to start.
2) Tokyo Tower - Symbol of the Capital
Tokyo Tower is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a beloved symbol of the capital. At night, its warm illumination creates a magical and romantic atmosphere that draws countless visitors. During the day, the tower adds a striking touch of color to the otherwise uniform office skyline, standing tall with its elegant form as if from another world.
Completed in 1958, Tokyo Tower is a 333-meter-tall broadcasting and observation tower. For decades, it has been cherished as a defining feature of Tokyo’s cityscape.
The tower has two observation decks: one at 150 meters and another at 250 meters above ground. From there, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo, including landmarks such as Shiba Park, the Imperial Palace, and Tokyo Bay. On clear days, even Mount Fuji is visible in the distance, making Tokyo Tower a favorite viewing spot for both locals and tourists.
3) Tokyo Skytree East Tower - Hidden photo spot by the Skytree
Located adjacent to the Tokyo Skytree, the Skytree East Tower is a commercial and office building that also features a hidden gem: free observation spaces on the 30th and 31st floors. These floors offer one of the closest viewpoints of the Tokyo Skytree, making it an ideal spot to capture dramatic, up-close photos—though the tower is so near that fitting the entire structure in a single frame can be a challenge.
Since the observation areas are part of the commercial building, space is limited and not designed to accommodate large crowds. However, the sheer presence of the Skytree from this distance is overwhelming and memorable.
If you're visiting the Tokyo Skytree, this is a lesser-known yet highly recommended spot you shouldn’t miss. Admission is free, and after enjoying the view, you can dine or shop within the same complex.
4) Shibuya Sky - New Landmark of Shibuya
Shibuya Sky, one of Shibuya’s newest landmarks, is an open-air observation deck located on the rooftop of Shibuya Scramble Square. Standing approximately 230 meters above ground, it offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo. From here, you can see iconic sights such as Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and even Mount Fuji on clear days. Both daytime and nighttime views are breathtaking.
The rooftop deck is completely open-air with no obstructions, allowing for an incredible sense of openness. From this vantage point, you can look down on the bustling streets of Shibuya and gaze out toward Meiji Shrine, the Shinjuku skyline, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, and Mount Fuji. It truly feels like standing on the “top of Shibuya.”
It’s also a popular photo spot—so much so that people often line up just to take pictures with the Tokyo skyline as the perfect backdrop.
One of the unique features of Shibuya Sky is its relaxing atmosphere under the open sky. With green lawns, comfortable chairs, and sofas on the rooftop, you can unwind while soaking in the views.
Admission is ¥2,700 before 2:59 PM, and ¥3,400 after 3:00 PM.
5) Sunshine 60 Observatory Tenbou-Park - Popular spot in Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is a popular district in Tokyo known for its anime culture and gourmet scene. About an 8-minute walk from JR Ikebukuro Station, you'll find Sunshine City, a massive complex featuring shops, restaurants, and even an aquarium. Within this complex lies the Observation Park, a space offering panoramic views of Tokyo’s dazzling cityscape.
Located on the 60th floor, this open space is surrounded by greenery and sky. A small artificial grassy hill provides a cozy spot where couples can lie down and relax while enjoying the view. It’s a peaceful setting perfect for unwinding above the busy city below.
On weekends, the area tends to get crowded, and it may be difficult to find a place to sit. To truly enjoy the spectacular night view of Tokyo from Ikebukuro, it's best to visit on a weekday evening and spend a quiet, memorable moment with someone special.
6) Telecom Center - Beautiful photo spot for Tokyo Tower
A hidden gem in Odaiba, the Telecom Center Observation Deck offers sweeping views of Tokyo Bay and the Odaiba cityscape from 99 meters above ground. From here, you can see landmarks like Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Gate Bridge, Haneda Airport, Tokyo Tower, and even Tokyo Skytree.
One of its biggest charms is the lack of crowds, making it an ideal spot for peaceful sightseeing or a romantic evening date. The scenery from late afternoon into the night is especially stunning. Admission is just 500 yen for adults—a very affordable price for such a rewarding experience.
The observation room features comfortable chairs and even sofa beds, allowing you to relax and take in the beautiful views in style. Whether you’re alone or with someone special, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy Tokyo from a quieter perspective.
Kinshicho is an area with a large commercial complex right by the station, bustling especially at night. In addition, the Tokyo Skytree is seamlessly part of everyday life here. This combination makes it a very popular spot for photographers and tourists alike. With easy access from central Tokyo, it’s definitely worth visiting casually whenever you get the chance.
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