The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, or “City Hall,” is an impressive structure of three buildings, covering three city blocks. The showpiece is the main building, soaring 48 stories tall, split into two towers connected by bridges, so that it looks very much like a modern cathedral. There are many symbolic details in the design, which was created by the famous Japanese architect Kenzo Tange. The buildings were completed in 1991.
The main building’s towers both have observatories that are open to the public for free. From the 45th floor, you have panoramic views of the Tokyo metropolitan area, which are beautiful in both the day and night. There are cafes and gift shops in both towers.
The observatories at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building can be reached by taking the “Observatory Elevator” on the first floor of the main building #1. The south tower is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm, but is closed on the first and third Tuesdays of every month. The north tower has a better night view, so it is open from 9:30 am until 11 pm, and is closed on the second and fourth Mondays of every month. Note that the south tower is open to 11 pm on the days that the north one is closed.
A view from Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation #3
Getting there:
From Shinjuku station, take the “Chuo West Ground Exit.” There is a cloverleaf of roads in front of the building, so though you basically want to go straight ahead until you reach the Tokyo Government Buildings, you need to first go around to the left until you get on to the correct road. Walk about ten minutes down “Chuo-dori east” until you come to the buildings.
The official website for the building has very little information in English: http://www.metro.tokyo.jp/ENGLISH/TMG/observat.htm
The Tokyo Metro (subway) website has a good description and map with directions from the subway system, but it can also be moved to show a view from JR Shinjuku: http://www.tokyometro.jp/en/attractions/metropolitan_govt_bldg/
photo by:
Takashi(aes256)
