Shibuya Hikarie 11F Sky Lobby: Free Observation Deck, Sunset Views & Coin Lockers (2026)
Tokyo Mate
Looking for a free observation deck in Shibuya? Here's everything you need to know about the Shibuya Hikarie 11F Sky Lobby — no reservation required. Directions, operating hours, magic hour sunset views, 11F coin lockers, and how it compares to Shibuya Sky, all in one guide.
Today we're covering the Shibuya Hikarie 11F Sky Lobby — the most accessible free observation deck in Shibuya. Directions, operating hours, magic hour night views, and the 11F coin locker locations are all organized below based on official website information.
1. Where’s the Free Observation Deck in Shibuya? The Hikarie 11F Sky Lobby
If you want to enjoy stunning Shibuya night views for free during your Tokyo trip, the smartest and most practical choice is the Shibuya Hikarie 11F Sky Lobby.
Among free observation decks in Tokyo that require no reservation, this one has the best accessibility. With no waiting time, you can comfortably take in the cityscape at your own pace.
Is the Shibuya Hikarie Observation Deck Really Free?
Yes! There's no admission fee and no reservation required — anyone can walk in freely.
Unlike the paid Shibuya Sky, the biggest advantage here is that no timed reservation is needed. Even if your travel plans change on the fly, you can drop by without any hassle.
2. Exact Location & How to Enter the 11F Sky Lobby
Shibuya Hikarie is a mixed-use building with both a shopping mall (ShinQs) and offices, so you need to choose the right elevator bank.
- Quick navigation tip! Instead of using the mall elevators, enter through the 2F connecting walkway and take the office/observation deck shuttle elevator on your immediate left.
3. Shibuya Hikarie 11F Observation Deck: Hours & Visitor Info (2026 Latest)
Essential operating details before you visit the Shibuya free observation deck — confirmed via the official website to avoid any wasted trips.
| Category | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Official Name | Shibuya Hikarie Sky Lobby (渋谷ヒカリエ スカイロビー) | |
| Hours | 11:00 – 23:00 ※ May vary during year-end/New Year or maintenance | |
| Closed | January 1 (annual closure) | |
| Reservations | ❌ Not required (open entry) | |
| Location | Shibuya Hikarie 11F, 2-21 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 📍 View on Google Maps | |
| Access | 🚇 Direct connection from Shibuya Station B5 Exit (indoor walkway) | |
Rainy Day Travel Tip
The entire route from Shibuya Station to the Hikarie building is connected indoors. You can get there comfortably without an umbrella, making this a top recommendation for a free Tokyo observation deck on rainy days!
4. Hikarie 11F Night Views: Day vs Night Comparison
The Shibuya Hikarie 11F Sky Lobby offers excellent accessibility and views in equal measure. The unobstructed sightlines rival many paid observation decks, and the scenery changes completely depending on when you visit.
Daytime: Crisp Urban Panorama
During the day, the Shibuya skyline and sprawling cityscape unfold before you in sharp detail. The 11th-floor vantage point is the perfect height to feel the energy of the streets below while still getting a sweeping view.
Night & Magic Hour: The Real Reason to Visit Hikarie
Many people debate between this spot and the Scramble Square 12F nearby. The verdict: for sunset and magic hour views, the west-facing Hikarie 11F wins.
- Directional advantage: Unlike Scramble Square which faces north, Hikarie 11F faces west — directly toward the setting sun.
- Best timing: Arrive during magic hour (20–30 minutes before sunset) to catch the sky turning red as it blends with the city's neon lights — a truly spectacular sight.
Despite being a free space, leaning against the window and watching the crimson sunset will be one of the most moving moments of your Tokyo trip.
Scramble Crossing Photo Spot
A question many visitors have: Can you see the Scramble Crossing from Hikarie? The answer is YES.
- Where to stand: Head to the far-right side of the Sky Lobby windows.
- What you'll see: Crowds of pedestrians crossing in all directions and the endless flow of car headlights creating a mesmerizing scene from above.
- Recommendation: For dynamic footage, we highly recommend time-lapse recording.
Night photography tips:
- Press lens to glass: Hold your phone lens flush against the window to block indoor reflections for much sharper photos.
- Stabilize your arms: When using night mode, brace your elbows on the window ledge for shake-free shots.
After the View: Seamless Indoor Dining
One of the best perks of Shibuya Hikarie 11F is the efficient flow after your visit.
- Dinner after night views: Head to the restaurant floors on 6F–7F in the same building (open until 23:00) for a delicious meal.
- Weather-proof route: Night views → dinner → station — the entire journey stays indoors, so you can wrap up your evening regardless of weather.
5. Hikarie 11F Coin Lockers: Complete Guide
The coin lockers on Hikarie's 11th floor are a lifesaver for travelers carrying heavy bags. Instead of lugging shopping bags to the observation deck, stash your stuff and enjoy the view in comfort.
11F Locker Details
- Location: Near the 11F lobby elevators (paid service)
- Hours: 07:00 – 24:00
※ An additional day's fee will be charged after 24:00, so watch the time!
- Payment methods: Cash, credit cards, IC transit cards (Suica, PASMO), and PayPay — convenient for international visitors too.
Tip: The 11F lockers are limited in number. During peak times (around 30 minutes before sunset), they can fill up — so stash your bags early.
For a complete guide to all luggage storage options around Shibuya Station — including Mark City, the Hachiko statue area, and ecbo cloak reservations:
👉 Shibuya Station Luggage Storage Complete Guide: Coin Lockers, Mark City, Hachiko & ecbo cloak
Hikarie Building Coin Lockers by Floor
If the 11F lockers are full, don't worry! There are more lockers on other floors throughout the building.
| Floor | Locker Type | Hours (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| B3F | Standard + Refrigerated | Mon–Sat 11:00–21:00 / Sun & Holidays 11:00–20:00 |
| 1F | Standard coin lockers | 24 hours |
| 2F | Standard coin lockers | 07:00 – 24:00 |
| 11F | Standard coin lockers | 07:00 – 24:00 |
- Special note: B3F has refrigerated lockers — perfect for keeping fresh groceries cool after food shopping at the basement level!
6. Can Hikarie 11F Replace Shibuya Sky? Direct Comparison
This is the question most travelers looking for a free Shibuya observation deck ask. The short answer: Hikarie 11F is a fantastic, practical alternative to Shibuya Sky. That said, the two spots have distinctly different characteristics — check the comparison below.
| Category | Hikarie 11F (Free) | Shibuya Sky (Paid) |
|---|---|---|
| Admission | ¥0 (completely free) | ¥2,700–¥3,400 (surcharge after 3 PM) |
| Reservations | Not needed (open anytime) | Required (opens 2 weeks ahead) |
| Indoor / Outdoor | Indoor (weather & wind-proof) | Outdoor rooftop |
| View | Western sunset & Scramble Crossing | 360° panoramic view |
| Height | 11F (~60m) | 45F (229m) |
✔️ For breathtaking height and outdoor photos → Shibuya Sky
✔️ For no-wait, budget-friendly sunset views → Hikarie 11F
On rainy or windy days especially, the outdoor rooftop at Shibuya Sky may be restricted, making the comfortable indoor Hikarie 11F the far better choice.
7. Other Free Observation Decks in Tokyo
Beyond Hikarie, Tokyo has several other gem-like free observation spots that will save you money while delivering stunning views. Choose based on your itinerary and the vibe you're after.
1. Shinjuku — Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory
The tallest free observation deck in Tokyo. On clear days, you can even see Mt. Fuji, and the recent light show has made it even more popular.
👉 Tokyo Metropolitan Government Free Observatory: Light Show, Hours & Access Guide
2. Tokyo Station — Shin-Marunouchi Building House Terrace
The best free rooftop spot for viewing the iconic Tokyo Station plaza at night. A stunning nightscape where skyscrapers and illumination come together.
👉 Shin-Marunouchi Building Free Observation Terrace & Night View Guide
3. Ginza Six Rooftop Garden
A free rooftop garden in the heart of Ginza. The sophisticated atmosphere makes it a lovely strolling spot as well as a free observation point.
👉 Ginza Six Rooftop Garden: Free Observation Deck & Ice Rink
Who Should Visit Hikarie 11F?
If you're looking for things to do in Shibuya, the Hikarie 11F Sky Lobby is an easy, no-pressure addition to any itinerary. It's especially perfect if you:
- Missed your Shibuya Sky reservation: Walk right in with zero wait — the best backup plan.
- Are a budget traveler: Capture Scramble Crossing photos from a free observation deck!
- Are visiting on a rainy day: Station-connected indoor night views — no umbrella needed.
- Are traveling with family: Free stroller rental (B3F & 2F information counters) and convenient indoor-only routes make this a family-friendly choice.
Among Tokyo's free observation decks, Hikarie 11F stands out for its unmatched accessibility and practicality — and best of all, you can visit anytime regardless of reservations or weather.
During your Shibuya trip, time your visit to catch the magic hour sunset. The dazzling, unforgettable Shibuya night scene that awaits you will far exceed your expectations.
Related Shibuya Travel Guides
1. Want to compare more Tokyo observation decks?
👉 Tokyo Observation Deck Comparison: BEST 5 Side-by-Side
2. Planning a full Shibuya day trip?
👉 Shibuya One-Day Course: Night Views, Shopping & Restaurants
3. Next stop after Hikarie: Shibuya Parco floor guide
👉 Shibuya Parco Shopping Guide: Floor-by-Floor, Tax-Free & Restaurants
Editor's Note
This article is based on the author's actual experiences and original content from blog.naver.com/tokyomate. It has been translated and adapted to provide authentic travel information about Tokyo for global readers.