The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is an icon of the Tokyo Skyline. It serves as the headquarters of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, which governs the 23 special wards of Tokyo, as well as other cities, towns, and villages within the Tokyo Metropolis.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building was designed by the Japanese architect Kenzo Tange and completed in 1991. The design features two prominent towers, each 243 meters (798 feet) tall. At one point, it held the record for the tallest building in Tokyo, until it was eventually surpassed in 2007 by the Midtown Tower, and then subsequently pushed further down the list by more recent additions to the Tokyo Skyline.

One of the main attractions of the building is its observation decks found on each of the North and South Towers, which offer panoramic views of Tokyo and, on clear days, even Mount Fuji. The observation decks are located on the 45th floors of each tower and are accessible to the public free of charge.

With the late hours of the observation decks, and the central location near Shinjuku Station, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is a popular day and night time viewing area, and is good alternative to seeing the city skyline for those travelling Japan on a budget.

As this is a functioning government building, with offices and typical government functions, you are required to pass through a security checkpoint prior to entry into the elevators.

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Hours and Admission

Hours: 9:30am-10:00pm - Last entry at 9:30pm
Closed: December 29 - January 3. North observatory closed on 2nd & 4th Monday of each month, South observatory closed on 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month. If the closed date is a public holiday, then the following date will also be closed.
Free
Official Website
Average time spent: 30-60 minutes

Accessing the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest subway station is Tochomae Station on the Oedo Line.

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is also a short 10 minute walk from Shinjuku Station, allowing for easy access to the building from just about anywhere in Tokyo.

It can also be reached from Tokyo Station, on the Marunouchi Line, getting off at Nishi-Shinjuku Station, taking about 30 minutes, costing 210JPY.

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