Best Viewpoints in Tokyo: 12 Spots for Unforgettable City Views

Tokyo's skyline is a mesmerizing blend of futuristic architecture, historic temples, and the occasional glimpse of Mount Fuji on clear days. Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a romantic looking for the perfect sunset spot, or simply want to take in the sheer scale of this incredible metropolis, Tokyo offers viewpoints that will leave you breathless.

From world-famous observation decks to lesser-known rooftop gardens, here's your complete guide to the best places to see Tokyo from above.

1. Tokyo Skytree - The Tallest Tower

Height: 634 meters | Best for: Panoramic views, clear weather photography

Standing as Japan's tallest structure and the second-tallest in the world, Tokyo Skytree offers unparalleled views of the city. The tower features two observation decks:

Tembo Deck (350m): Features floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass floor section
Tembo Galleria (450m): A spiral ramp offering 360-degree views

Pro tip: Visit on a clear winter day when visibility is highest and Mount Fuji is most likely to be visible. The early morning slot (8 AM opening) has fewer crowds and softer light for photography.

Cost: ¥2,100 for Tembo Deck, ¥3,100 for both levels Hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM (last entry 9:00 PM)

2. Tokyo Tower - The Classic Icon

Height: 333 meters | Best for: Night photography, nostalgic vibes

While no longer Tokyo's tallest structure, Tokyo Tower remains an iconic landmark and offers excellent views from its two observation decks:

Main Deck (150m): Features a glass floor and café
Top Deck (250m): Premium experience with guided tours

The Main Deck is perfect for photographers - the lower height actually provides better detail shots of the surrounding Minato area, including views of Zojo-ji Temple and Shiba Park.

Pro tip: The night views from Tokyo Tower are arguably more impressive than daytime, with the entire city sparkling below. The red-lit tower itself becomes part of the experience.

Cost: ¥1,200 for Main Deck, ¥3,000 for Top Deck Tour Hours: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM

3. Shibuya Sky - The Modern Marvel

Height: 230 meters | Best for: Sunset views, Instagram photos, open-air experience

Opened in 2019, Shibuya Sky has quickly become one of Tokyo's most popular observation decks. What sets it apart is the completely open-air rooftop terrace with no glass barriers obstructing your view.

The 360-degree panorama includes:

Shibuya Crossing directly below
Shinjuku's skyscrapers to the northwest
Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Bay to the southeast
Mount Fuji on clear days

Pro tip: Book the sunset time slot for magical golden hour photos. The rooftop hammocks are perfect for relaxing while watching the city transform from day to night.

Cost: ¥2,200 (advance online booking recommended) Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM

4. Mori Tower Observation Deck - Art Meets Views

Height: 238 meters | Best for: Art lovers, Tokyo Tower views

Located in Roppongi Hills, the Tokyo City View observation deck at Mori Tower offers stunning perspectives of Tokyo Tower framed against the city. The deck wraps around the building, providing views in every direction.

For an additional fee, you can access the Sky Deck - an open-air rooftop platform at 270 meters that operates weather permitting.

Pro tip: Your ticket includes access to the Mori Art Museum, making this a great combo for art and views. The museum stays open until 10 PM on certain days.

Cost: ¥2,000 (includes museum), +¥500 for Sky Deck Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Sky Deck closes at 8:00 PM)

5. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building - The Free Option

Height: 202 meters | Best for: Budget travelers, Mount Fuji views

The twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku offer free observation decks on the 45th floor. Yes, completely free - one of the best deals in Tokyo.

Both North and South observatories provide excellent views:

North Observatory: More popular, has a café
South Observatory: Often less crowded, closes earlier

On clear days, you can see Mount Fuji perfectly framed between Shinjuku's skyscrapers.

Pro tip: The South Observatory is open until 11 PM on certain nights, making it perfect for free night photography.

Cost: Free Hours: North: 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM, South: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (varies)

6. World Trade Center Building - Tokyo Tower Up Close

Height: 152 meters | Best for: Tokyo Tower photography

The Seaside Top observation deck at the World Trade Center Building offers the closest elevated view of Tokyo Tower. This lesser-known spot is a favorite among photographers because you can capture Tokyo Tower without it being too distant or obscured.

Pro tip: Visit at blue hour (just after sunset) when Tokyo Tower is illuminated but the sky still has color. The combination is spectacular.

Cost: ¥620 Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM

7. Caretta Shiodome Sky Restaurant Floor

Height: 200+ meters | Best for: Dining with views, Rainbow Bridge

The 46th and 47th floors of Caretta Shiodome house several restaurants with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Tokyo Bay, Rainbow Bridge, and Odaiba. While you'll need to dine to enjoy the views, many restaurants offer reasonably priced lunch sets.

Pro tip: The free public spaces on these floors also offer glimpses of the view without requiring a restaurant reservation.

8. Bunkyo Civic Center - The Hidden Gem

Height: 105 meters | Best for: Tokyo Skytree views, locals' secret

This government building in Bunkyo Ward has a free observation deck on the 25th floor that most tourists never discover. The view toward Tokyo Skytree is exceptional, with the tower rising majestically above the older neighborhoods of eastern Tokyo.

Pro tip: The deck overlooks Koishikawa Korakuen Garden - try to visit during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season for an extra layer of beauty.

Cost: Free Hours: 9:00 AM - 8:30 PM

9. Telecom Center Observatory - Odaiba's Best Kept Secret

Height: 99 meters | Best for: Rainbow Bridge, city skyline

Located on Odaiba's artificial island, the Telecom Center offers panoramic views of Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower, and the entire Tokyo skyline reflected in the bay. The sunset views from here are legendary.

Pro tip: Combine with a visit to teamLab Borderless or teamLab Planets for a full day on Odaiba.

Cost: ¥500 Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

10. Sunshine 60 Observatory - Ikebukuro Views

Height: 226 meters | Best for: VR experiences, unique photo ops

Recently renovated, Sunshine 60's observation deck "Sunshine 60 Observatory TENBOU-PARK" combines traditional views with modern technology including VR experiences and creative photo opportunities.

Pro tip: The swing seats by the windows are perfect for photos and offer a playful take on the observation deck experience.

Cost: ¥700-1,200 (varies by time) Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

11. Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center - Free Senso-ji Views

Height: 8 floors | Best for: Senso-ji Temple, traditional Tokyo

This modern building across from Kaminarimon Gate has a free observation terrace on the top floor offering perfect views of Senso-ji Temple and Tokyo Skytree together. It's the ideal spot to photograph traditional Tokyo.

Pro tip: Best visited early morning when fewer tourists are around Senso-ji and the light is soft.

Cost: Free Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM

12. Mount Takao - Natural Viewpoint

Height: 599 meters above sea level | Best for: Hikers, natural setting

For a completely different perspective, take the cable car or hike up Mount Takao, just an hour from central Tokyo. On clear days, you can see all the way to Tokyo and Mount Fuji simultaneously.

Pro tip: Visit in autumn for spectacular fall colors, or in early morning for the best chance of seeing Mount Fuji.

Cost: Cable car ¥490 one-way, free for hikers Hours: Daylight hours

Best Times to Visit Tokyo Viewpoints

For Mount Fuji Views

Season: Winter (December-February) offers the clearest skies
Time: Early morning, before haze builds up
Tip: Check Fuji visibility forecasts online before planning

For Night Photography

Time: Blue hour (30 minutes after sunset) captures both artificial lights and sky color
Tip: Bring a small tripod for sharp images

For Avoiding Crowds

Weekdays: Always less crowded than weekends
Morning: First opening slot at paid observatories
Late night: Many decks stay open until 10-11 PM

Final Tips for Tokyo Viewpoint Hopping

Buy combination tickets: Some observatories offer discounts when booked together
Check weather: Use weather apps to find clear days, especially for Mount Fuji
Book Shibuya Sky in advance: It frequently sells out
Consider the Tokyo City Pass: Includes several observation decks
Don't skip the free options: The TMG Building and Bunkyo Civic Center rival paid observatories

Tokyo's vertical landscape offers countless ways to appreciate this magnificent city. Whether you choose the engineered perfection of Skytree, the nostalgic charm of Tokyo Tower, or the hidden gems known only to locals, each viewpoint reveals a different facet of one of the world's most dynamic cities.

The best view? That's the one that takes your breath away when you see it for yourself.