Researched guide · Checked on Oct 22, 2026
Tokyo has several observation decks, from the 634 m Tokyo Skytree to a free deck in Shinjuku. Here is how they compare on height, price and hours, and which one to choose for sunset, night views or Mt. Fuji.
Quick answer
Highest: Tokyo Skytree, with decks at 350 m and 450 m.
Free: the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku (45th floor, 202 m).
Open-air rooftop over Shibuya Crossing: SHIBUYA SKY.
Best view of Tokyo Tower: Tokyo City View in Roppongi Hills.
Tokyo observation decks compared
| Deck | Height | Adult price | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo Skytree | 350 m and 450 m | From ¥1,800 (Tembo Deck), from ¥3,000 (both decks), online | From 10:00; closes 22:00 on most days |
| Tokyo Tower | 150 m and 250 m | ¥1,500 (Main Deck); Top Deck Tour ¥3,300 online | 9:00–23:00 (last entry 22:30) |
| SHIBUYA SKY | Open-air rooftop | ¥2,700 until 2:59 pm, ¥3,400 from 3:00 pm (web) | 10:00–22:30 (last entry 21:20) |
| Tokyo City View | 52F, 250 m above sea level | ¥2,200 online, ¥2,400 at the counter (most dates) | Usually 10:00–22:00 (last entry 21:30) |
| Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building | 45F, 202 m | Free | South 9:30–21:30, North 9:30–17:00 (entry) |
Prices and hours are from each deck’s official site and change by date. Check our ticket guides for the details and closed days.
Which one should you choose?
- For the highest view and Mt. Fuji: Tokyo Skytree. Most visitors only need the Tembo Deck ticket. Buy online: tickets at the counter cost ¥500 more.
- For sunset over the city: SHIBUYA SKY, an open-air rooftop above Shibuya Crossing. Sunset slots sell out, so book early. The rooftop may close in strong wind or rain.
- For a free view: the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku. No ticket and no booking.
- For a classic tower: Tokyo Tower, opened in 1958. The Main Deck needs no reservation, and on weekends you can climb about 600 steps.
- For a view of Tokyo Tower: Tokyo City View on the 52nd floor of Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, with tall windows facing Tokyo Tower.
Book observation deck tickets
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Tips
- Check the weather. Clear days, especially in the colder months, give the best chance to see Mt. Fuji. Open-air and top decks may close in bad weather.
- Book sunset early. Timed tickets for sunset sell out first, especially on weekends.
- Buy online. Skytree, Tokyo Tower’s Top Deck Tour, SHIBUYA SKY and Tokyo City View are cheaper online.
- Plan your night. See our Tokyo at night guide for more evening ideas.
FAQ
Which is better, Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Tower?
Skytree is much higher (decks at 350 m and 450 m) and better for wide views and Mt. Fuji. Tokyo Tower (150 m and 250 m) is cheaper for the Main Deck, needs no reservation for it, and is the classic landmark.
Is there a free observation deck in Tokyo?
Yes. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku has free observatories on the 45th floor, 202 m up. No ticket or booking is needed.
Which observation deck is best for sunset?
SHIBUYA SKY is an open-air rooftop and very popular at sunset; book a slot that starts 30 to 60 minutes before sunset. Tokyo City View and Tokyo Skytree are also open after dark.
Can you see Mt. Fuji from Tokyo observation decks?
On clear days, yes: Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Tokyo City View and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building all list Mt. Fuji views. It is most often visible on clear mornings in the colder months.
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Sources
Heights, prices and hours come from each observation deck’s official site, as used in our ticket guides (checked October 22, 2026). Prices change by date, so please check before you book.
