Gaze upon the city center and Mount Fuji at the same time
Tokyo’s government administrative facilities, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building (243 meters high) boasts an observatory that is 202 meters above ground. From this observation deck, Tokyo Skytree can be seen towards the Northeast, while Tokyo Tower can be seen towards the Southeast. However, a sight not to be missed is Japan’s symbolic Mount Fuji (3776 meters high), which can be seen towards the West. With its peek covered in snow, except in the summer months, the dignified-looking mountain was registered on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2013. This observation deck where you can enjoy the contrasting landscapes of Shinjuku’s impressive modern skyscrapers and nature’s great Mount Fuji at the same time, is free for all visitors.
Mount Fuji seen from Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building observation deck’s western view (Photo courtesy of Tokyo Metropolitan Government)
A mystical “futuristic city”
On the northern side of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, near Ikebukuro Station, stands a 60-story skyscraper called “Sunshine 60” (240 meters high). This observatory is renowned for its “walk-up windows,” which allow you to look straight down the 221 meters right up against the windowpane. Though this observatory is also fun in the daytime, the night view is a must-see. You’ll witness a mystical “futuristic city” ablaze in colorful neon lights.
The view observed from right up against the windowpane at Sunshine 60’s “Walk-up Window” (Photo courtesy of the Sunshine 60 Observatory) |
The ‘futuristic city’or Tokyo nightscape seen from the Sunshine 60 observatory (Photo courtesy of the Sunshine 60 Observatory) |
Inside Sunshine 60’s “Shinning Elevator” with its fantastic floating painting (Photo courtesy of the Sunshine 60 Observatory)
Another highlight of this building is the “Shining Elevator” reserved for observatory visitors. This high-speed elevator proudly whisks visitors from the first basement floor to the 60th floor in only 35 seconds. Upon departure, lights are dimmed as a painting of a night sky with auroras is illuminated by a black light on the walls and ceiling. The planetarium-like atmosphere will get you hyped up as you head towards the observatory.
(January 2014)