Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Room

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (東京都庁), often referred to simply as “Tocho” by locals, is a defining landmark of the Nishi-Shinjuku skyline. Designed by the legendary Pritzker Prize-winning architect Kenzo Tange, the building’s twin-tower design was inspired by the look of a Gothic cathedral, split into two 243-meter towers. While the complex serves as the administrative heart of the city, its primary draw for travelers is the pair of observation decks—offering a panoramic “lull” above the metropolis entirely free of charge.

Both observation rooms are located on the 45th floor, soaring 202 meters above the ground. The South Observation Room is particularly favored by daytime visitors, as it provides sweeping views toward the greenery of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden and Yoyogi Park. On clear, crisp mornings, this is one of the premier spots in central Tokyo to view the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji on the horizon. The South Tower also houses the “Tokyo Omoide” (Memories of Tokyo) piano—a vibrant, yellow-patterned instrument designed by artist Yayoi Kusama—where members of the public can often be heard performing for fellow tourists.

The North Observation Room is generally considered the superior choice for night views. As the sun sets, the city transforms into a shimmering circuit board of neon, with the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower visible in the distance. The North Tower features a dedicated gift shop and a cafe-bar where you can enjoy a drink while watching the city lights. Furthermore, the exterior of the building has recently become a canvas for “TOKYO Night & Light,” one of the world’s largest projection mapping displays, which can be viewed from the ground level before or after your ascent.

Accessing the decks is straightforward: visitors must pass through a brief security and baggage check on the first floor before boarding a dedicated high-speed elevator that reaches the 45th floor in just 55 seconds. Because these decks are operated by the city government, they remain one of the most cost-effective ways to get a sense of Tokyo’s staggering scale without the high price tag of the city’s private broadcasting towers.