Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building with New Surprises

Did you know there’s a government building in Tokyo that welcomes visitors to come and enjoy the view? While Tokyo has many famous observation spots like Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree, they often come with pricey tickets. But the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is different — it’s completely free! It’s one of the few places where you can see the whole city from way up high without spending a yen.

One of its two observatories recently reopened with exciting new things to see and do. Let’s take a closer look at this unique spot and find out what’s new and worth checking out!

What is the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building?

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, called Tocho, is an incredible giant skyscraper in Shinjuku, Tokyo. It’s where Tokyo’s leaders work, making big decisions for the city and all the nearby towns and villages. This fantastic place was designed by a famous architect named Kenzo Tange and opened in 1990. The shape of the building is fascinating! It looks like a futuristic robot or even a giant computer chip. 

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building includes three buildings, and the tallest one is split into two towers 48 stories high! It’s even built strong enough to stay safe during earthquakes. Each of its towers has a free observatory way up on the 45th floor. From there, you can see almost all of Tokyo, and on sunny days, you might even spot Mt. Fuji in the distance. 

Inside the observatories, you can look through huge windows, visit a little cafe, and shop for cute Tokyo souvenirs in the gift shop. There’s also a tourist center on the second floor to learn about other fun places in Japan. Sometimes, they have special fairs that show off cool local products, such as noodles, tea, or fresh apples from different parts of Japan.

Every year, many people visit this spot on New Year’s Day to watch the hatsuhinode (the first sunrise of the year). Furthermore, you can also watch magical light shows on the building at night! These are called “projection mappings”, and they turn the towers into giant screens full of colors and moving pictures. In 2024, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building broke a Guinness World Record with the world’s largest projection mapping show!

The Comeback of the South Observatory

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building has not one but two observatories from which you can see the whole city from above. The North Observatory is open most days until 11 PM, which is perfect if you want to see the sunset or watch Tokyo glow at night. When the North deck closes early, don’t worry—the South Observatory stays open late instead.

The South Observatory was closed for a little while in early 2025 for some fixing up, but guess what? It came back even better and reopened on April 23! Now, it’s ready again for everyone to enjoy those big, beautiful views.

Are you looking for great snacks to enjoy while getting great city views? Check out TokyoTreat! TokyoTreat delivers limited-edition Japanese noodles, drinks, snacks, and sweets right to your door so you can enjoy the latest Japanese treats directly from Japan!

What’s new in this grand return?

The South Observatory at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building is back; there’s so much new to discover! It features a brand-new souvenir shop called “TOKYO Mikke!”. Right in the heart of the observatory, this shop is the ideal spot to grab some Tokyo-themed goodies. You can find lovely things like lucky daruma dolls, stunning Edo Kiriko glassware, and many other exclusive souvenirs. 

But that’s not all! The South Observatory now has a cozy cafe where you can relax with coffee, a refreshing soft-serve ice cream, or even a traditional Japanese treat like taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes). For something truly unique, try sake served in traditional masu cups with designs of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and Mount Fuji.

Looking out from the observatory, you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view of Tokyo’s famous landmarks. See towering buildings like Tokyo Skytree and the National Stadium, or gaze at the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Plus, various free guide maps and magazines help you explore even more of Tokyo’s best spots. With so many new features, the South Observatory is even more exciting!

Why should I visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building at this time?

Now is a great time to visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building because it’s offering more than just a fantastic view. It’s a place where people come not only to look out over Tokyo for free, but also to relax, explore, and discover something new. With the South Observatory reopening, you can enjoy a peaceful cafe, pick up amazing souvenirs, and learn more about the city. 

Even though this is a government building, it welcomes everyone with open doors, friendly spaces, and fun experiences. So, have you ever visited any one-of-a-kind spot like this? Would you want to see the view, try the food, or just hang out with friends up high? Let us know in the comments!