Best Tokyo Tower Views 2026: 4 Observation Decks Review

Words & Photos by Dochi_nunna

ⓒ 2026. dochi_nunna. All rights reserved

When you think of Tokyo, the ultimate landmark that immediately comes to mind is undoubtedly Tokyo Tower.

Because of this, adding at least one observation deck with a prime view of Tokyo Tower is an absolute must for any Tokyo itinerary.

Today, I'm sharing my honest comparison review of four popular observation decks in Tokyo, all offering different perspectives of the iconic tower.

Read through and pick the one that best fits your travel vibe!

1. Shibuya Sky

Thanks to that viral escalator shot all over social media, Shibuya Sky is incredibly famous, even among those who haven't visited Japan yet.

As a top-tier Tokyo travel course, sunset time slots often sell out nearly a month in advance.

It's arguably the most popular observation deck in the city right now.

If you want to enter at a specific time, I highly recommend booking your time slot online well in advance!

(Prime golden hour slots vanish incredibly fast ㅠ)

Booking online is also slightly cheaper than buying tickets at the door, so it's a win-win.

Book Shibuya Sky

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Located right in the Shibuya Scramble Square building, it's super easy to find as soon as you step out of the station.

Since the main viewing area is outdoors, please note that loose items like hats, scarves, and cameras without neck straps are strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

Also, the outdoor rooftop closes on rainy days. You can still enjoy the 360-degree view from the indoor 45th floor.

(But let's cross our fingers for clear skies!)

Here is the night view from Shibuya Sky.

To be completely honest, if your main goal is seeing Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Sky might leave you wanting a bit more.

While it's fantastic for taking in the sweeping, panoramic nightscape of the entire city, Tokyo Tower is quite far away.

So, purely from a "Tokyo Tower view" perspective, it's a little underwhelming.

Nevertheless, the unobstructed, open-air experience of looking down at the bustling metropolis makes Shibuya Sky an unmissable stop on any Tokyo itinerary.

Read my detailed Shibuya Sky review here

If you have the time to visit every observation deck, that's great! But if you're on a tight schedule and have to choose just one overall experience, Shibuya Sky is probably my top recommendation.🎶

2. Azabudai Hills

"Wait, I want to see Tokyo Tower up close!"

If this is you, then your best bet is undoubtedly Azabudai Hills.

This is a relatively new hotspot that fully opened in 2024. The best part? You essentially just pay for a coffee or drink at the cafe to access the viewing area, so there's no hefty admission fee.

Because of its prime location, you get an incredibly close, massive view of Tokyo Tower. In my book, it's the ultimate spot for tower lovers.

However... unlike other dedicated observation decks, the unpredictable operating hours are its biggest downside.

On days when they host private events or venue rentals, the cafe and viewing area might be entirely closed to the public or close much earlier than usual.

I didn't know this and just casually showed up...

I was denied entry twice and finally made it in on my third attempt.

(And even on that third try, they were running on shortened hours!)

I had grand plans for a relaxing night view, but honestly, I was just grateful they let me in at all! Haha.

Lately, it seems they have fewer private rentals, making it easier to visit during regular hours, but you should absolutely check their official website before you go!

For example, here were the closure dates for 05/2026:

I ordered a strawberry matcha drink, walked down the grand staircase, and took in this gorgeous view.

If you want Tokyo Tower to dominate your photos, there is simply no better place than this.

One slight bummer is the lack of an outdoor deck, and it doesn't offer a 360-degree panoramic view.

But honestly, just sitting on the grand staircase or grabbing a nearby seat to admire the tower was more than enough for me!

While the view alone is worth the trip, Azabudai Hills is also packed with trendy boutiques and fantastic restaurants.

It's a great place to spend a few hours, so definitely consider adding it to your Tokyo itinerary for a relaxed afternoon.

3. Roppongi Hills (Tokyo City View)

Next up is Roppongi Hills, located in the Mori Tower near Roppongi Station.

Built by the same developers behind Azabudai Hills, this was known as the closest place to view Tokyo Tower before Azabudai Hills opened.

A quick tip: The exact entrance isn't the main Mori Tower building, but rather the "Mori Art Museum" entrance.

It can be a bit confusing, so if you're directionally challenged like me, leave a little early!

You show your ticket on the 1st floor before heading up.

Again, booking online is usually cheaper, so grab a digital ticket beforehand and exchange it for a physical one when you arrive.

▶ROPPONGI HILLS◀

Located on the 52nd floor, Roppongi Hills is often cited as one of the most romantic spots in Tokyo thanks to its stunning night views.

I was so excited heading up!💖

BUT THEN...

???????

Where is Tokyo Tower, and what are these characters doing here??

If you guys are plastered all over the main central window, where is the night view I was promised???

Turns out, I visited during a special anime exhibition...

I mean, covering the main viewing window is just cruel!😭

I managed to squeeze to the side walls and somewhat catch a glimpse of the view,

but my disappointment was immeasurable.

Normally, however, the view is absolutely breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see Tokyo Skytree and even Mount Fuji from here!

So please, learn from my mistake and check the exhibition schedule before you book!

I definitely need to go back for a redo ㅠㅠ

4. Tokyo Skytree

The final observation deck on my list is the towering "Tokyo Skytree."

Unlike the other decks located more centrally, Skytree is over in the Asakusa area.

Because of the distance, some travelers end up skipping it when planning their routes, which is a shame.

Personally, I loved this observation deck and the whole experience.

If you're already planning to visit Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, you should absolutely bundle it with a trip up the Skytree.

(A great itinerary: Try an Asakusa kimono rental experience during the day, then head up the Skytree for night views!)

The building has clear English and international signage everywhere, making it very easy to navigate to the entrance.

Just exchange your pre-purchased voucher for a physical ticket and head on up!

Book Skytree Tickets

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Note that there are two types of Skytree tickets.

The standard ticket grants access to the Tembo Deck at 1,148 feet (350m).

The combo ticket includes access to the even higher Tembo Galleria at 1,476 feet (450m).

I bought the combo ticket, and since both levels offer unique charms, I highly recommend going for the combo if you're making the trip!

From the 1,148-foot Tembo Deck, you can see incredible distances—up to 43 miles away on a clear day.

Meanwhile, the Tembo Galleria features a unique spiral design, letting you walk along a sloping ramp while taking in the sprawling cityscape.

Skytree is also known for hosting fun seasonal events and pop-ups.

When I visited, there was a cute character exhibition going on, so I got to enjoy the event alongside the spectacular night views!

Like Azabudai Hills, Skytree doesn't have an outdoor deck, but the seamless 360-degree panoramic views and engaging events make up for it.

It's a landmark you shouldn't miss when traveling to Tokyo.

While it would be amazing to visit all of these spots, time is usually limited on a trip.

I hope this review helps you pick the perfect observation deck for your Tokyo itinerary!🎵