Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory: Free Admission, Night Views & Projection Mapping Guide
🏙️ Tokyo's best free attraction!
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory with stunning 360° views,
Experience the spectacular TOKYO Night & Light projection mapping show,
Complete guide to one of Tokyo's must-visit spots!
Free Admission Observatory in the Heart of Tokyo
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory is one of Tokyo’s best-kept secrets - a completely free observation deck offering spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of the city. Located in the iconic twin towers of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, this observatory provides views rivaling those of paid attractions like Tokyo Skytree or Roppongi Hills.
- Admission: Completely FREE
- Height: 202 meters (45th floor)
- View: 360° panoramic views of Tokyo
- Special Feature: TOKYO Night & Light projection mapping show
- Location: 5-minute walk from Shinjuku Station
North Observatory vs South Observatory
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has two observatories in its twin towers. Both offer the same spectacular views, but there are some differences to note:
| Feature | North Observatory | South Observatory |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Hours | 9:30 AM - 11:00 PM (Last entry 10:30 PM) | 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Last entry 5:00 PM) |
| Regular Closure | 1st & 3rd Tuesday (Next day if holiday) | 1st Tuesday (Next day if holiday) |
| Views | Same panoramic views | Same panoramic views |
| Special Features | TOKYO Night & Light show Evening/night visits | Yayoi Kusama designed piano Daytime only |
| Cafe | Available | Available |
Recommendation: Visit the North Observatory for night views and the spectacular TOKYO Night & Light projection mapping show. The South Observatory is perfect for daytime visits and features a unique piano designed by renowned artist Yayoi Kusama.
360° Panoramic Views - What You Can See
On a clear day, the observatory offers breathtaking views of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks:
Daytime Views
- Mount Fuji: Visible on clear days, especially in winter (west direction)
- Tokyo Skytree: The world’s tallest tower at 634 meters (east direction)
- Tokyo Tower: Iconic red tower in the city center
- Shinjuku Skyscrapers: Surrounding high-rise buildings and business district
- Meiji Shrine Forest: Green oasis in the urban landscape
Night Views
- Tokyo Skytree: Beautifully illuminated tower
- Rainbow Bridge: Colorful bridge lighting
- Shinjuku Neon: Vibrant city lights
- Tokyo Bay: Waterfront area with city lights reflecting on water
- Endless City Lights: The sprawling metropolis lit up at night
Best Time for Mount Fuji: Winter months (December to February) offer the clearest views of Mount Fuji. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best visibility. The mountain is rarely visible during summer due to haze and clouds.
TOKYO Night & Light - Spectacular Projection Mapping Show
One of the highlights of visiting the North Observatory is the TOKYO Night & Light projection mapping show. This free light show transforms the observatory’s floor-to-ceiling windows into a stunning canvas featuring popular Japanese characters and Tokyo landmarks.
Featured Programs
The projection mapping show features several themed programs throughout the year:
1. Godzilla Program
Experience the iconic Japanese monster Godzilla stomping through Tokyo’s cityscape with dramatic sound effects and lighting.
2. Gundam Program
Watch the legendary Mobile Suit Gundam come to life with dynamic battle scenes projected onto the windows.
3. Pac-Man Program
Enjoy the nostalgic arcade game Pac-Man in a modern projection mapping interpretation.
4. Tokyo Landmarks
Tour Tokyo’s most famous landmarks through beautifully crafted projection art.
TOKYO Night & Light Show Schedule 2025
The projection mapping show runs year-round with different seasonal themes. Here’s the complete schedule:
| Period | Program Theme | Show Times |
|---|---|---|
| January - March | Winter Illumination × Godzilla | Every 30 minutes First show: 5:00 PM Last show: 10:30 PM |
| April - June | Spring Cherry Blossoms × Gundam | Every 30 minutes First show: 6:00 PM Last show: 10:30 PM |
| July - September | Summer Festivals × Pac-Man | Every 30 minutes First show: 6:30 PM Last show: 10:30 PM |
| October - December | Autumn Leaves × Tokyo Landmarks | Every 30 minutes First show: 5:00 PM Last show: 10:30 PM |
- Duration: Each show is approximately 5-7 minutes
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes
- Location: North Observatory only
- Admission: FREE (included with free observatory admission)
- Best Viewing: Arrive 10 minutes before show time to secure a good spot
Photography Tip: The projection mapping looks stunning in photos! Use a tripod or stabilize your camera for better night shots. The show creates beautiful reflections on the windows combined with the real Tokyo cityscape.
South Observatory - Yayoi Kusama Piano
While the South Observatory operates only during daytime hours, it features a unique attraction: a piano designed by world-renowned artist Yayoi Kusama.
The piano features Kusama’s signature polka dot design and is a popular photo spot. Occasionally, live piano performances are held at the South Observatory, creating a unique cultural experience combined with spectacular city views.
Access Information - How to Get There
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is conveniently located in Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s major transportation hubs.
From Shinjuku Station
Walking Route (Recommended - 5-10 minutes)
- Exit from Shinjuku Station West Exit
- Walk through the underground passage towards the Metropolitan Government Building
- Follow signs for “Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building” (東京都庁)
- Surface at the building plaza
- Enter the main building and take the dedicated elevator to the observatory
Underground Route (Weather Protection)
- From Shinjuku Station, use the underground passage system
- Follow signs for “Tochomae” (都庁前)
- Completely sheltered from rain and heat
- Takes about 8-10 minutes
- From JR Shinjuku Station: West Exit → 8-10 minute walk
- From Shinjuku Station (Metro): Exit A4 → 5 minute walk
- From Tochomae Station: Direct underground connection
- From Shinjuku-Nishiguchi Station: Exit D5 → 4 minute walk
By Subway
Toei Oedo Line
- Get off at Tochomae Station (都庁前駅)
- Direct underground connection to the building
- Exit B2 leads directly to the observatory elevator lobby
- Walking time: 1-2 minutes
Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
- Get off at Nishi-Shinjuku Station (西新宿駅)
- Exit 2 → 8 minute walk
- Alternative route from Shinjuku area
Building Location
Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building
2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 163-8001
View on Google Maps
Practical Visitor Information
Observatory Details
- Address: 2-8-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 163-8001
- Observatory Floor: 45th Floor (both North and South towers)
- Height: 202 meters
- Admission: FREE
- Security: Bag check and metal detector screening required
- Facilities: Restrooms, cafe, souvenir shop
Opening Hours
North Observatory
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 11:00 PM (Last entry 10:30 PM)
- Closed: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month (or next day if Tuesday is a holiday)
- Best for: Night views, TOKYO Night & Light projection mapping
South Observatory
- Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Last entry 5:00 PM)
- Closed: 1st Tuesday of each month (or next day if Tuesday is a holiday)
- Best for: Daytime views, Yayoi Kusama piano
Holiday Closures: Both observatories close on December 29-31 and January 2-3 for New Year holidays. Always check the official website before visiting to confirm opening hours, as they may change for special events or maintenance.
What to Bring
Recommended Items:
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Light jacket (observatory can be air-conditioned)
- Binoculars for distant views (optional)
- Tripod for night photography (if allowed - check current policy)
Not Allowed:
- Large luggage (coin lockers available on lower floors)
- Tripods may be restricted during busy times
- Professional filming equipment requires permission
Souvenir Shop
The observatory features a small souvenir shop selling:
- Tokyo-themed merchandise
- Postcards and photo prints
- Character goods (Godzilla, Gundam, etc.)
- Traditional Japanese crafts
- Local snacks and sweets
Visiting Tips & Recommendations
Best Time to Visit
For Mount Fuji Views:
- Season: December to February (winter)
- Time: Early morning (9:30-11:00 AM) or late afternoon
- Weather: Clear, dry days after cold fronts pass through
For Night Views:
- Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (twilight to full darkness)
- Season: Year-round, but winter offers clearest air
- Bonus: Catch the TOKYO Night & Light projection mapping show
For Fewer Crowds:
- Weekday mornings: 9:30-11:00 AM
- Weekday afternoons: 2:00-4:00 PM
- Avoid: Weekends, holidays, and sunset time (5:00-7:00 PM)
Combining with Other Shinjuku Attractions
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory is perfectly located to combine with other Shinjuku area attractions:
Nearby Attractions (5-15 minute walk):
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (15 min walk) - Beautiful traditional Japanese garden
- Shinjuku Central Park (5 min walk) - Urban park with seasonal events
- Omoide Yokocho (10 min walk) - Traditional izakaya alley
- Kabukicho (12 min walk) - Entertainment district
- Isetan Department Store (15 min walk) - Luxury shopping
Photography Tips
Camera Settings for Night Views:
- Use manual mode or night mode
- ISO 800-3200 depending on light conditions
- Stabilize camera against window or use tripod (if allowed)
- Turn off flash (it reflects on windows)
- Shoot at an angle to minimize window reflections
- For projection mapping: video mode captures the show better than photos
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible throughout
- Dedicated elevators for observatory access
- Accessible restrooms available
- Staff assistance available upon request
- Barrier-free viewing areas
Why Visit Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory?
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory offers an unbeatable combination:
✅ Completely FREE admission - No tickets needed ✅ Same spectacular views as expensive observatories ✅ Unique projection mapping show - TOKYO Night & Light ✅ Convenient Shinjuku location - Easy access from major stations ✅ Open until 11:00 PM - Plenty of time for night views ✅ Cultural elements - Yayoi Kusama piano, character programs ✅ Less crowded than Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower ✅ Multiple visit options - Both day and night experiences
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Tokyo or a seasoned traveler, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observatory is a must-visit attraction that offers incredible value, stunning views, and unique experiences - all without spending a yen!
Official Information
Official Website: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatory
Contact:
- Phone: +81-3-5320-7890 (Observatory information)
- Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean information available
Latest Updates:
- Check official website for temporary closures
- Projection mapping schedule may vary seasonally
- Special events and programs announced on website