Observe Tokyo from the center of the city
A short walk from Tochomae Station, visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government No. 1 Building, home to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Less famous than its cousins Tokyo Tower and TOKYO SKYTREE, the building's twin towers each have an observatory located at the whopping height of 202 meters. Better yet, they're completely free to visit.
Tips
- Stunning views of Tokyo, from Tokyo Bay to Mt. Fuji
- Enjoy the cafe and shop for Tokyo souvenirs in the observatories
- See the grand kumade, a decorative bamboo rake, on display in the middle of the 2nd floor
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government No. 1 Building's upper floors are split across two towers, a north tower and a south tower. Each has an observatory on the 45th floor. It's a good spot for nighttime views and can be entered until 21:30 (must be vacated by 22:00). There is also a cafe.
From the observatories, you can see Tokyo landmarks such as TOKYO SKYTREE, Tokyo Bay, and sometimes as far as Mt. Fuji. Around the edge of the observatories, photographic panels point out significant places that can be seen from there.
The best views can be had in the early morning in autumn and winter, as the air is cooler and less hazy.
In the observatories is a gift shop selling Tokyo souvenirs, making the towers the perfect destination if you've only got time to visit one place in Tokyo and need to prove you've been there.
On display in the center of the 2nd floor is a grand kumade—a decorative bamboo rake. Kumade have been sold at Tori-no-ichi festivals since the Edo period (1603-1867) and are known as charms that bring good fortune and business success. Check out one of these Tokyo specialties while touring the building.
On the 1st floor, you can find a Tokyo tourist information center, a shop selling local specialties, and an area promoting the appeal of various regions across Japan . Be sure to check it out.
